Taking a road trip through the heart of America is always bound to be a good time. But doing a New Orleans to Las Vegas road trip is a whole other matter. Both of these marvelous cities are emblematic of good times to be had. In the Big Easy, images of live jazz music and a party on Bourbon Street are like a siren call for those seeking a huge party – and that’s even when Mardi Gras isn’t happening!
As for Vegas, the name itself is synonymous with entertainment. From casinos and live shows to poolside drinks and celebrity chefs, fun is the name of the game. The New Orleans to Las Vegas drive can be just as much fun, with plenty of excellent stopovers to make the journey as enticing as the destination.
Pack your bags, rally the troops, and fill the tank, because we have all the road trip recommendations to have the best New Orleans to Las Vegas drive.
For your New Orleans to Vegas trip, taking a straightforward route would get you there in about 25 hours. To see a lot at a leisurely pace, think longer, maybe six to eight days of exploration along the way. Using the I-10 West for a short while, you’ll switch to Highway 190 West and find your way along several switches until you hit I-40 West in Amarillo, Texas. The I-40 will take you the rest of the way to Vegas. All in all, it’s 1,734 miles that will bring you through everything from swamps and forests to deserts and mountain ranges.
Your best bet is to avoid driving through the bigger cities on your journey on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays since traffic will be at its worst then. Arriving in Las Vegas during the week means it’s less likely you’ll get stuck in jams, especially if big Las Vegas events are happening. Choose Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday to avoid heavy traffic getting into Las Vegas. No matter where you’re driving from or which day of the week, the traffic is sure to pick up closer to the city.
Seek out this corner of the French District for a truly arcane experience. This small space is packed with authentic voodoo artifacts and an on-site voodoo priest who will give you a reading – if you dare.
Whether you’re into ziplining, fishing, camping, or hiking, this natural treasure just a couple of hours outside of New Orleans is your ticket. Keep an eye open for the elusive Louisiana black bear!
Louisiana is loaded with spooky Victorian mansions, but this stop is probably the most iconic. Featured on shows like True Blood, explore the 20-plus rooms inside and just wait for the creepy collection of 2,000 ceramic dolls.
Nothing quite says the Old West like this perfectly preserved slice of Texas! Experience everything from cattle runs to an authentic saloon and, of course, the best steak this side of the Rocky Mountains.
If you thought Utah owned the best colorful canyons, this stopover just outside of Amarillo will blow your mind. Known as “The Grand Canyon of Texas,” behold towering structures on foot or by horseback and be ready to take a lot of pictures.
If you’re willing to veer from your straight line to Vegas, make a galactic stop in the UFO capital of America. The Spacewalk attraction in Roswell might be the coolest place, with black light spaces that are out of this world!
Among the loveliest theaters in the American Southwest, the KiMo in Albuquerque warrants a break in your ride to take in a show. Take in all of the Pueblo and Adobe-inspired designs of the architecture and interior aesthetics, then enjoy music for a night you won’t soon forget.
Run by a conservation-minded collective of cattle ranchers, the quality of the beef at Diablo in Flagstaff, Arizona is unsurpassed. Unique options like Hatch chili mayo and sautéed cremini mushrooms make for a memorable meal.
When you’re this close to the Grand Canyon, you might not want to miss it. There may be no more fun way to see it than on an authentic old-timey train ride! Embark in Williams, Arizona, just off the I-40, then enjoy the scenery.
Those seeking a devilishly good time before arriving in Vegas should visit this perfectly kitschy collection of movie monsters. From Dracula to Frankenstein, classic horror fans will be glad they braved venturing into this attraction.
Some say life isn’t only about the destination, it’s about the journey. If you’re planning your next trip to Vegas from New Orleans, consider hitting the road and making an adventure out of it. While you’re planning all your Las Vegas road trip pit stops, be sure to book your room at Golden Gate Las Vegas to have a place to call home after your drive. On top of comfortable rooms and suites (or penthouses for added luxury), you’ll be in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas to walk around town and stretch your legs after your New Orleans to Las Vegas drive. Drive safely, and see you soon!
