When taking a road trip to Vegas, the drive is part of the fun. If your journey starts in Minneapolis, be prepared for a long drive and many unique sights throughout Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, a little bit of Arizona, and finally Nevada. The cherry on top? Your Minneapolis to Las Vegas drive ends up with plenty of excitement in the city to make up for the drive!
Pack your bags, rally the troops, and fill the tank, because we have all the road trip recommendations to embark on the best Minneapolis to Las Vegas drive.
Taking a Minneapolis to Las Vegas road trip can be a long trek in one day or divided between two or three days – depending on if you decide to take your time at road trip stops along the way or not. The Minneapolis to Las Vegas distance is approximately 1,585 miles through Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and finally Nevada via the I-70 W. With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the road trip takes approximately 24 hours to complete.
If possible, avoid starting the Minneapolis to Las Vegas drive on Thursday through Sunday, the most popular driving days. Instead, leave on less-popular driving days such as Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday when traffic tends to be lighter than the hustle and bustle of weekend driving. Allow for longer drive times if you plan on traveling to the city for Las Vegas events or during the holidays. No matter where you’re driving from or which day of the week, the traffic is sure to pick up closer to the city.
To start off your Minneapolis to Las Vegas drive on the right foot, why not fuel up with some candy? This store carries hard-to-find sweets, fresh baked goods, the world’s largest selection of soda, and even some savory options.
Explore the home of famed showman scout William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody at this historical park. If you have time, check out their guided trail rides to get a one-of-a-kind look into the life of Buffalo Bill.
From 1875 to 1885, Ogallala was the end of the Texas Cattle trail, and is now the designated “Cowboy Capital” of Nebraska. Stop by for a peek into cowboy life with a museum, general store, and steakhouse.
Perfect for anyone, whether you’re solo or with kids, the Museum of Discovery in Fort Collins is the perfect midway road trip stop to help keep your mind stimulated. Check out awesome exhibits like the Music & Sound Lab.
Boasting trains, mines, and adventures, this Minneapolis to Vegas road trip stop is an exciting way to break up your drive. If you want to hit the jackpot before reaching Vegas, try your hand at gold panning right in Georgetown!
Though the coaster doesn’t run year-round, it is certainly worth the stop if you visit during the winter season. As one of North America’s longest alpine coasters, you’ll make your way down on 5,800 feet of track going up to 25 miles per hour.
Located in the Rocky Mountains in Vail, Colorado at 8,200 feet altitude, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are the world’s highest botanical garden. This year-round garden offers tours, or you can just explore the beauty yourself.
The Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is an adventure park located above Glenwood Springs, Colorado with an altitude of 7,100 feet. Cave tours, thrill rides, and a 4D theater are just a few things available for you when you stop by.
The Salt Wash View Area is consistently reported as a favorite road trip stop, as it offers beautiful views and a chance to stretch your legs. During the final miles of your road trip to Vegas, enjoy this time to appreciate the desert’s beauty.
Located on the Southern Utah University campus, this beautiful museum is a great twist on conventional road trip stops and is free to enjoy. Get a bit of culture and enjoy exhibits filled with local work, Dalí, and Renoir prints.
Some say life isn’t only about the destination, it’s about the journey. If you’re planning your next trip to Las Vegas, consider hitting the road and making an adventure out of it.
