A road trip from Phoenix to Las Vegas offers travelers an exhilarating sense of adventure, allowing them to explore famous landmarks, varied landscapes, and thrilling activities. This journey through the captivating landscapes of the American Southwest takes them through the vast Mojave Desert, stunning scenery, and dramatic rock formations.

Road trippers may enhance the adventure factor of their journey from Phoenix to Las Vegas by taking side trips to Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, or the Valley of Fire State Park before ending it in Las Vegas, which is known for its exciting nightlife and entertainment. All in all, a road trip from Phoenix to Las Vegas is full of anticipation and excitement, and these ten stops along the way promise exciting new experiences and endless possibilities.

The accommodations recommended in this article are based on extensive research done for various stops on a road trip from Phoenix to Las Vegas. All selected accommodations have a Kayak rating of 7.7 or higher, as well as competitive rates and the best amenities when compared to similarly rated accommodations.

Related: 10 Day Trips From Las Vegas To Get You Out Of The City

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a popular stop on a drive from Phoenix to Las Vegas for adventure seekers, with plenty of scenic hiking trails and other exciting experiences. Visitors can drive the 13-mile, one-way scenic loop through the park or go for a hike to experience the beauty of the Mojave Desert, towering red rock formations, and dramatic canyons. The Red Rock Canyon region offers opportunities for adrenaline-pumping rock climbing, wildlife viewing, horseback rides, and relaxing picnics amidst the untamed natural beauty, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

• Things to do in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: Scenic Drive, Hiking Trails, Rock Climbing, Picnicking, Wildlife Viewing, Photography, Cycling, Horseback Riding

Valley Of Fire State Park, Nevada

Valley of Fire State Park is a prime example of a lovely, protected area in the US, well-known for its magnificent red rock formations and historic petroglyphs. The area offers visitors a variety of activities, including hiking, learning about the region's history at the visitor center, watching the mesmerizing sunset, and camping out for an unforgettable night, providing an outdoor experience unlike any other. The park is also an excellent location for a quick meal or picnic. Visitors can stay for a few hours or the entire weekend, depending on what they want to do.

• Things to do in Valley of Fire State Park: Hiking Trails, Photography, Picnicking, Camping, Watching the Sunset

Hoover Dam, Arizona/Nevada

Hoover Dam, a feat of engineering on the border of Nevada and Arizona, is a worthwhile stop, offering a breathtaking view and an insight into human creativity. The massive concrete arch spans the mighty Colorado River, creating the stunning Lake Mead reservoir. Visitors driving from Phoenix to Las Vegas must make a stop here, either to stroll across the bridge and take in the breathtaking views of the Colorado River and surroundings or to take guided tours of the Hoover Dam to learn about its history and explore its power plants and historic tunnels.

• Things to do at Hoover Dam: Picnicking, Photography, Guided tours, Enjoying stunning surroundings

Related: 10 Best Hotels In Las Vegas To Ignite Your Sin City Adventure

Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Arizona/Nevada

With spectacular surreal scenery of imposing craggy mountains, deep canyons, and stunning desert basins, this recreational area near Lake Mead and Lake Mohave is a haven for boaters, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Whether one wants to hike or bike, there’s plenty to see and do in this gorgeous area, and for those who want to spend a memorable night under the stars, there are also camping options. Visitors can stay here for several hours if they simply want to take in the scenery or for several days to engage in as much tourist activity as possible, making Lake Mead Recreational Area a great place to stop on a road trip through the southwest.

• Things to do in Lake Mead Recreational Area: Hiking Trails, Boating, Water sports, Camping, Rock Climbing, Picnicking, Photography, Cycling

Kingman, Arizona

Kingman, AZ, located on the historic Route 66, is a charming stopover and an opportunity to experience a variety of historical attractions, a town vibe, and thrilling outdoor activities. It offers a nostalgic atmosphere, allowing travelers to discover the region's rich heritage and culture. Also, the Locomotive Park, the downtown, the Powerhouse Visitors Center, the Mohave Museum of History and Arts, and the iconic Route 66 Kingman sign are some of the spots that one should not miss in Kingman.

• Things to do in Kingman: Sightseeing, Photography, Cycling, Dining

Williams, Arizona

Williams, situated along historic Route 66, is yet another fantastic stop for a charming and nostalgic experience. This town, famous for the Grand Canyon Railway, is a great place to soak in the atmosphere of the historic downtown, eat some local specialties, shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, and experience some adrenaline on the Route 66 Zipline. Bearizona Wildlife Park is also a must-see destination, allowing travelers to see wild animals in their natural habitats, including black bears, wolves, bighorn sheep, bison, and burros. Williams is certainly a fun detour that adds a touch of delight and adventure to this road trip.

• Things to do in Williams: Sightseeing, Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Railway trip, Dining, Shopping, Cycling

The Grand Canyon, Arizona

Awe-inspiring natural beauty and breathtaking scenery make the drive from Sedona to the Grand Canyon one of the most scenic in the Southwest. The canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven natural wonders of the world astounds visitors with its grandeur and elegance, as well as the vast and rugged landscape. From witnessing the spectacular views, hiking along scenic trails, and taking cherishable photographs, a stop at the Grand Canyon offers lifetime experiences and a sense of wonder, making it an absolutely thrilling detour on the road trip.

• Things to do at Grand Canyon: Hiking Trails, Picnicking, Photography

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff offers a pleasant contrast to Sedona's natural beauty with its pine forests, towering mountains, and clean mountain air. Travelers will find plenty of exciting activities, like they can explore historical exhibits at the Museum of Northern Arizona, check out the charming stores, eateries, and art galleries in the historic downtown area, and, of course, Route 66 should not be missed. During the spring and fall, travelers can enjoy boating, hiking, and rock climbing, while skiing and snowboarding are popular in Flagstaff during the winter. Furthermore, travelers on longer trips can stay in Flagstaff for two to three days, while those on a quick trip can take short hikes.

• Things to do in Flagstaff: Explore the downtown area, museums, and galleries; visit Arizona Snowbowl; check out Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course; see Lava River Cave, Hike Humphreys Peak Trail

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, one of the most beautiful Arizona towns one should visit, captivates visitors with its breathtaking red rock formations and desert scenery. In addition, it offers a variety of exciting experiences for thrill-seekers, including biking and hiking, as well as numerous exquisite galleries and shops that appeal to art lovers. Many fantastic restaurants in Sedona serve delectable food amid breathtaking views of the red rocks, making a stop there on a Phoenix to Las Vegas road trip truly worthwhile for those seeking a break to relax or have lunch or dinner.

• Things to do in Sedona: Hiking Trails, Biking, Exploring Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, Slide Rock State Park, and Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village

Related: 10 Dallas To Las Vegas Road Trip Stops That Show The Charm Of The Southwest

Montezuma’s Castle, Arizona

Montezuma's Castle is a great place to stop during a Phoenix to Las Vegas drive, offering a glimpse into ancient Native American history and architecture. Located about 90 miles north of Phoenix, this cliff dwelling is a well-preserved National Monument built by the Sinagua people. Self-guided tours of the castle are available to visitors who want to learn more about the local indigenous cultures and admire their engineering prowess. It's a worthwhile stop that adds a historical and cultural touch to the road trip experience.

• Things to do at Montezuma's Castle: Hiking Trails, Picnicking, Photography, Guided tours, Enjoying scenic vistas, Attending cultural and educational programs at the visitor center, Discovering the history and culture of the Sinagua people