We are going to a convention in Las Vegas mid-May and are staying a couple of extra days. We would like to explore the areas around Las Vegas since we have never spent time in the desert. Please advise what you consider to be the best day trips.

If, as you say, you have a couple of days...I would try to squeeze in Zion (about 2 1/2 hours away from LV) and Bryce (another 1 1/2 hours). Both canyons are spectacular and you will get a great feel for the landscape in southern Utah and Nevada. You could day trip to Bryce from Zion if you wanted to stay in the same hotel.

Zion would be on the top of my list too. Especially if you could spend the night.

Valley of Fire State Park is about 70 miles from Vegas.

Red Rock National Conservation Area is just outside of Las Vegas.

Death Valley, but that is a large area for a day trip.

Utahtea

Ooops, make that 50 miles from Vegas to Valley of Fire (One way)

Utahtea

I just returned from a similar situation. After 4 days of a large, noisy convention in Las Vegas, a friend and I headed for Zion for a few days of quiet and beauty. It turned out to be a great decision. The drive took about 3 hours (we left Las Vegas at rush hour). The drive was beautiful, especially the piece through Arizona.
We stayed at Flanigan's, with a very friendly staff and comfortable and nicely appointed lodgings. If you have time and are so inclined, do not miss their spa services. I had a great massage (welcome after a day of hiking). There is free shuttle service to the park right outside the door. The free shuttle service in the park is terrific -- shuttles every 7 minutes. Jump on and off as the scenery and mood strike you. Trailheads are well-marked and the drivers announce each hike at each stop. There are hikes for every level of ability. And what you experience is exquisite -- the beauty, quiet, colors. The river was quite high and the Narrows and lower Emerald pools were not open for hiking because of that. But that will change throughout the season.
The second day we drove to the east entrance of the park, via the Zion-Mt Carmel highway. There are numerous switchbacks at the the beginning, then a mile-long tunnel through the mountains and then open road to the east entrance, about 13 miles each way. There are numerous pull-offs along the way. Park and hike down to the river or creeks that feed the Virgin River. The slickrock formations here are very different from the other part of Zion, but also beautiful. Don't miss the Canyon Overlook hike on this side.

We ate dinner at the Bit and Spur the first night and the Spotted Dog Cafe at Flanigan's the 2nd. Both were wonderful, with very good beer selection at the first (try the Polygamy Porter) and a good wine list at the Dog. Food was excellent at both places.
If you want to decompress from Las Vegas noise and smoke, I can't think of a better experience than Zion.

cherlyj,

Great trip report!

Utahtea

Saving to read later!