by Christa Joyce

Created on: January 23, 2007   Last Updated: April 17, 2007

Five places to visit that won't break the bank.

Red Rock Canyon:

Beautiful natural reserves about a thirty minute drive from the Strip. With a $5 dollar entry fee per car per day it is an absolute bargain. Breathtaking scenery for miles with desert landscape surrounded by amazing red rock formations are on offer here. The Visitors centre is staffed by knowledgeable and helpful guides and the gift shop has reasonably priced souvenirs the kind you won't be ashamed to give to your friends and family. There are viewpoints throughout the park and plenty of places to park and enjoy the scenery and numerous trails for the more adventurous.

Bonnie Springs:

Not far from Red Rock Canyon Reserve Park Bonnie Springs is a real old fashioned family day out. Bonnie Springs is a reconstruction of an old Western Town complete with Saloon, Jail house and graveyard. Throughout the day there are themed shows, a cowboy shoot out and a trial followed by a hanging. There are replica stores with staff in costume handwriting receipts for everything from Native Indian souvenirs to Cowboy hats and candy. With restaurants and a small western petting zoo there is something for everyone and at just $10 per car and up to 5 passengers for the day it is a real bargain family day out.

Lake Mead:

Go South from the strip to Lake Mead which claims to be the largest man made lake in the world. With beaches and water sports a plenty it is a great day out for all the family. There are shops and restaurants, boat tours and helicopter ridessomething to suit all pockets.

Hoover Dam:

A few miles on from Lake Mead the Hoover Dam straddles the line between Nevada and Arizona and is breathtakingly beautiful. Tours of the dam are available at a price but even without you get a real sense of the beauty and magnificence of the structure.You can pick up cheap helicopter rides over the dam and lake Mead from just north of the dam.

Grand Canyon:

The Western Grand Canyon is about a three hour drive from Vegas, passing by Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam along the way. Reached by mile after mile of desert flanked highway it is well worth the visit. Once there you have the option to choose from several packages and at the end of your visit you get a certificate. The Skywalk, a glass bridge suspended over the rim of the Canyon is opening in March 2007. The ranch tour is worth the extra money and the ride in the wagon was bumpy but exhilarating. All the guides are friendly and knowledgeable and add to the experience.

Travellers note:
The Canyon is reached via an unmade road which is rocky and can be blocked by rainfall and wildlife.
The Canyon Ranch is worth a stop off on the way but the canyon itself is simply indescribable. You have to see it to believe and appreciate the beauty of this natural wonder.
Arrive early and take your time
Take a jacket as it can get cold up there, especially early morning or late afternoon.
Wear sensible shoes the canyon edge has loose shingle and there are no guard rails on the Canyon.
If you are driving from Vegas make sure you have enough Gas to make the return journeythere are no gas stations once you pass the casino about 4 miles north of the dam.

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