Las Vegas has so much for tourists to enjoy, but when you start to feel restless, there are fantastic places to explore in your campervan. To help you navigate your trip, we have created the best road trip that takes you from Las Vegas to Phoenix, allowing you to explore new sites and make the most out of your trip.
Our road trip to Phoenix should take three to four days, depending on how long you decide to stop for. As you travel over 300 miles, you can make some fantastic stops, which we have outlined below for you.
Stop 1 – Hoover Dam
You can pull over and enjoy the Hoover Dam just thirty-five miles outside of Las Vegas. The huge structure holds back the Colorado River, powering much of the Southwest. You can marvel at its wonder and also enjoy the fantastic views from the top. Guided tours are available, too, where you can learn more about the dam and how it works. There are also viewpoints across the walking route that allow you to explore Hoover Dam at your own pace.
Stop 2 – Boulder City
A few minutes after leaving Hoover Dam, pull over and enjoy the small-town vibe of Boulder City. It will feel completely different to the buzz of Las Vegas. Boulder City was originally built for Hoover Dam workers, and although its purpose has changed, you can still enjoy its vintage feel. There is a Boulder City Museum you can visit too, where you can learn about the town’s history.
Stop 3 – Willow Beach
Willow Beach is just twenty-five miles away and is the perfect spot for swimming, paddle boarding, and kayaking. You can sit back and enjoy the stunning surrounding area, too. You can rent kayaks and canoes here, too, so don’t panic if you haven’t packed your own equipment.
It is the perfect place to stop for a picnic and to spend the day relaxing in the sunshine.
Stop 4 – Chloride Ghost Town
Chloride Ghost Town is a must-stop for anyone who wants to experience some of the Old West’s atmosphere. You can walk through the wooden buildings and see the Chloride Murals painted onto rocks by local artists. These add a splash of colour to the landscape and make it a worthwhile place to stop. It’s a good place to grab some photographs, too and slow down on your road trip.
Stop 5 – Kingman
Kingman is a twenty-three-mile drive and has plenty of Route 66 nostalgia for you to soak up! The retro diners, neon signs, and landmarks will send you back in time, so make sure you allow plenty of time to explore the area. We loved the Route 66 Museum, where you can learn about the famous highway and its impact on the American West.
There are a few places to eat here, too, and hiking trails that provide you with fantastic views.
Stop 6 – Hackberry General Store
Hackberry General Store is an iconic Route 66 stop that has become a mini-museum. You don’t need to stop here for long, but it’s a good place to grab a souvenir, take some pictures, and enjoy a short driving break.
Stop 7 – Grand Canyon Caverns
The Grand Canyon Caverns are 200 feet below the surface and are a wonderful place to explore. You can take guided tours that walk you through these beautiful rock formations. If you want to see geological wonders up close, this is the palace for you!
Stop 8 – Seligman
Twenty-five miles away, you can enter Seligman for some quirky roadside charm. There are lots of Route 66 memorabilia to enjoy, and it’s the perfect spot for families, as the town was the inspiration for Radiator Springs in Disney’s ‘Cars’. You can enjoy food in one of the many cafes and make the most of the stunning photo opportunities here.
Stop 9 – Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
A more lengthy 159-mile drive brings you to the world’s largest natural travertine bridge. It is the perfect place to explore, with several hiking trails, waterfalls, viewpoints, and even picnic areas to enjoy. Make sure you allow plenty of time to explore this stunning area.
Stop 10 – Prescott National Forest
Prescott National Forest provides relief after the miles of desert, making it the perfect place to step out of your car and explore. The beautiful lakes, cold mountain areas, and pine trees make it a good point to rest and recuperate. Lynx Lake is one of the most popular spots here, where you can spend your afternoon relaxing, paddle boarding, or fishing.
Stop 11 – Jerome
A short drive from the forest brings you to Jerome. The former mining town is now an artist’s haven that is worth a visit! You can explore the old streets lined with historic buildings, check out art galleries, and learn about its haunted history.
Stop 12 – Montezuma Castle National Monument
As your journey draws to a close, stop at the Montezuma Castle National Monument to see one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America. These ancient structures have lasted over 800 years and allow you to learn about the life and culture of the Southwest’s early inhabitants.
Stop 13 – Phoenix
Finally, you have made it to Phoenix! There is lots to explore here, like the Desert Botanical Gardens or the Musical Instrument Museum. You can find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and spots to sit back and relax after your long drive.
Start Your Road Trip Planning Today
You have a route planned; now you need to bring the rest of your trip together! Make sure that you find deals on campervan rental in Las Vegas to get the best price, and write a list of all the essentials you need to take. Your adventure starts today!