Parks and Gardens in Las Vegas

Take some time out from the glitz and glamour of the Strip and discover the greener side to Sin City.

Think Vegas and you probably think desert landscape, glittering casinos and 24/7 partying. You probably don't think lush green parks, exotic gardens and relaxing lakes. But when you need a little bit of nature to balance out the non-stop buzz of the city, we know exactly where to go.

Within the city itself, you'll find peaceful oases from landscaped gardens to family-friendly urban parks to escape to. Chill out under a shady tree or burn off those all-you-can-eat buffets with some sports.

Head off on a desert adventure and explore the canyons and mountains that surround Las Vegas. They may not be green, but they have an otherworldly beauty that's not to be missed. Alternatively, cool off from the desert heat with a day by the water.

Parks

  • Meet the resident peacocks at the beautiful Floyd Lamb Park. This natural stunner covers over 2,000 acres.
  • You won't get bored in Sunset Park. This lively patch of greenery is a hit with families thanks to its playgrounds, sports courts and hiking trails.
  • Relax in Symphony Park, just a stone's throw from the Strip. It's a funky place with palm trees, contemporary art installations and the DISCOVERY Children's Museum.

Lakes & Wetlands

  • Around five kilometres west of downtown Vegas, you'll find the gorgeous botanic gardens, hiking trails and science exhibits of Springs Preserve.
  • Drive half an hour out of the city to the mighty Lake Mead, home to the famous Hoover Dam. The Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a great place to swim, kayak, fish or hike.
  • Clark County Wetlands Park may be easy to reach, but it has a beautiful remote feel. Look out for turtles as you explore this unique wetland habitat just 20 minutes from the Strip.

Desert Trips

  • Hire a car or get your hike on to discover the breathtaking scenery of Red Rock Canyon in the heart of the Mojave Desert.
  • Head to Nevada's oldest state park, Valley of Fire State Park, with its stunning red sandstone outcrops. Stay for sunset, when the rocks take on a magical glow.
  • Snowboarding in the desert? Powder hounds take note - Mount Charleston, less than an hour out of Vegas, is a popular ski spot during winter.

Created in partnership with Visit Las Vegas