The best way to see America is by road trip.
And for Texans, there’s no better road trip than the classic Houston to Las Vegas Drive!
This iconic route takes in some of the country’s most varied and stunning scenery, from the flat plains of Texas through the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the deserts of Southwest USA.
Also Read:
Texas to California Road Trip
Texas to Colorado Road Trip
And of course, stop at the majestic Grand Canyon!
Along the way, you’ll pass through small towns and big cities, experiencing the unique culture of each place.
You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, whether it’s hiking in a national park or taking a dip in the hot springs.
So pack your bags and hit the open road – you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime.
Also Read: Houston to Austin Road trip
Houston to Las Vegas Distance
How far is Houston from Las Vegas?
The drive from Houston to Las Vegas is about 1,500 miles.
Houston to Las Vegas Drive time
How long does it take to drive from Houston to Las Vegas?
If you’re driving the speed limit on I-10, (around 70 mph for the most part), it would take about 22 hours to reach Las Vegas from Houston.
Of course, most people don’t drive non-stop, so you’ll probably want to factor in a few stops for gas, food, and bathroom breaks.
With that in mind, the drive from Houston to Las Vegas will probably take you two or three days.
Also Read: 28 Best Road Trips from Houston
How many days for the Houston Las Vegas Road trip?
There are plenty of great things to see and do on the Houston to Las Vegas drive including national parks, unique cities, monuments, and scenic destinations.
We recommend planning 5 to 7 days for this iconic road trip.
Houston Las Vegas Road trip Routes
There are two routes that you can take on the way.
I-10 and US-93
The most direct route from Houston to Las Vegas is on I-10 West all the way to Phoenix and then US-93 N to Sin City.
This route goes along the southern border with Mexico and has stunning desert scenery.
I-40
If you’re looking for a more scenic drive, you could take I-40 West through New Mexico and Arizona.
This route follows Route 66 and you can see many mother road attractions along the way.
Houston to Las Vegas Drive: Essential Stops on I-10
The trip from Houston to Las Vegas is a long one, but it can be a fun and interesting journey if you take the time to enjoy the scenery and make a few stops along the way.
The first thing you’ll notice as you leave Houston is the change in landscape.
Gone are the flat, grassy plains of eastern Texas, replaced by the rolling hills of central Texas.
As you continue west, the terrain becomes increasingly rugged, with steep canyons and towering mountains.
Eventually, you’ll reach the desert region of western Texas, where the landscape is dry and barren.
This may not sound like much fun, but it’s actually quite beautiful in its own way.
If you keep driving, you’ll eventually reach Las Vegas.
Houston
If you have never been, take some time to explore Houston!
Houston is a large city with plenty to see and do. From the Space Center to the Museum of Fine Arts, there are plenty of options for those looking for a cultural experience.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are also several parks, including Hermann Park and Memorial Park.
Houston also has a vibrant food scene, with options ranging from barbecue to Tex-Mex.
San Antonio
San Antonio is another great stop on the way to Las Vegas.
The city is home to the Alamo, as well as a number of other historical sites.
San Antonio also has a lively arts and culture scene, with many museums and galleries to explore.
Of course, no visit to San Antonio would be complete without visiting the famous San Antonio Riverwalk.
Fort Stockton
Fort Stockton is a small city in Texas with a lot to offer visitors.
Located in the Chihuahuan Desert, it’s a great place to go for a hike or bike ride and enjoy the desert scenery.
The Annie Riggs Memorial Museum contains exhibits on local history and culture.
Visitors can also take a tour of the historic Fort Stockton, which played an important role in the settlement of West Texas.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking and camping in Big Bend National Park, which is just a short drive from Fort Stockton.
Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is one of the most unique and beautiful places in the United States.
Nestled in the southwest corner of Texas, the park is home to a diverse array of landscapes, from soaring mountains to rugged desert canyons.
Visitors can explore this natural wonderland through a variety of activities, such as hiking, camping, and horseback riding.
No visit to Big Bend National Park would be complete without seeing the night sky.
The park has some of the darkest skies in the country, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.
El Paso
El Paso is the last major stop before leaving Texas.
Situated on the banks of the Rio Grande, El Paso is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Texas.
The city is also home to a variety of attractions, including the El Paso Zoo, the Mission Trail, and the El Paso Museum of Art.
For those who prefer to spend time outdoors, there are plenty of options as well, such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding in the Franklin Mountains State Park.
Also Read: Houston to South Padre Island Road trip
White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park is one of the most unique places in the country.
The park is home to the largest gypsum dunefield in the world, as well as a variety of plant and animal life.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in the park.
Tucson
Tucson is the final stop on I-10 on the way to Las Vegas.
This desert city is home to several interesting attractions, including the Pima Air and Space Museum, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, and Saguaro National Park.
Tucson is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of hiking, biking, and camping opportunities available.
Also Read: Arizona Road Trip Itinerary
Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tucson.
The park is home to the towering saguaro cacti, as well as a variety of other desert plants and animals.
Visitors can explore the park through a variety of activities, such as hiking, camping, and horseback riding.
Phoenix
Phoenix is a bustling city with plenty to see and do.
Visitors can enjoy the city’s rich heritage at the Heard Museum, tour the state capitol building, or take in the stunning views from Camelback Mountain.
Be sure to check out the Desert Botanical Garden.
This 140-acre oasis is home to more than 50,000 plants, including cacti, succulents, and wildflowers.
The garden also features several walking trails, making it the perfect place to get some exercise and take in the beauty of the desert landscape.
Enjoy the shopping malls, golf courses, and restaurants in the city on your trip.
Grand Canyon National Park – #1 Attraction on Houston to Las Vegas Drive!
Take the detour to see the beautiful Grand Canyon on your Houston to Las Vegas road trip.
The canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, and for good reason.
Visitors can admire the canyon’s stunning views from overlooks along the South Rim or take a hike down into the canyon itself.
For those who want to experience the canyon in a truly unique way, consider taking a mule ride or a rafting trip down the Colorado River.
Hoover Dam
Hoover Dam is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nevada.
Situated on the border between Arizona and Nevada, the dam is a feat of engineering and a popular spot for photos.
Visitors can take a tour of the dam, enjoy the views from the observation deck, or take a hike on one of the nearby trails.
Las Vegas
Welcome to Las Vegas!
You’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in Las Vegas.
For a true taste of the Vegas experience, head to the Strip where you can find world-famous casinos and resorts like Caesars Palace, Luxor, and The Venetian.
Be sure to check out the Bellagio Fountains, the Stratosphere Tower thrill rides, and the Neon Museum.
For something different, check out Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas.
Of course, no visit to Las Vegas would be complete without seeing a show.
Houston to Las Vegas Road Trip: Essential Stops on I-40
What are some of the best things to see and do on the Houston to Las Vegas drive on I-40?
This road trip follows the iconic Route 66, so you’ll definitely want to make some stops at some of the most famous landmarks along the way.
Here are a few of our favorites:
Houston
There are plenty of things to do in Houston, whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s food scene, checking out its many museums, or rooting for one of its sports teams.
The Space Center Houston is a must-see for anyone interested in space exploration.
It is home to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where you can take tours, meet astronauts, and learn about spaceflight history.
The Museum District is home to 19 museums, all within walking distance of each other.
Whether you’re interested in art, history, science, or nature, you’ll find a museum to suit your interests.
Dallas
Dallas is a city with a lot to offer, from its rich history to its lively food and nightlife scene.
Start your visit by exploring the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which chronicles the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
For a taste of the local flavor, head to Deep Ellum, a neighborhood known for its vibrant murals, hip restaurants, and lively nightlife.
Don’t forget to check out the Dallas Arts District, the largest arts district in the United States.
Fort Worth
Fort Worth is a city with a rich cowboy culture.
Start your visit at the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, where you can watch a cattle drive, learn about the city’s cowboy history, and shop for Western wear.
Be sure to check out the Kimbell Art Museum, which houses a world-renowned collection of art, as well as the Fort Worth Zoo, one of the best zoos in the country.
Amarillo
Amarillo is a city in the Texas Panhandle with a lot to offer visitors.
For a taste of the local flavor, head to the Route 66 Historic District, where you can find vintage stores, restaurants, and more.
Amarillo also has many museums including the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, which is the largest history museum in Texas.
Don’t forget to check out Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the country.
Cadillac Ranch
The Cadillac Ranch is one of the most popular tourist attractions along Route 66.
This public art installation features 10 abandoned Cadillacs that have been buried nose-first in the ground.
Visitors are welcome to spray-paint the cars, making for a colorful and fun photo opportunity.
Albuquerque
Albuquerque, New Mexico is a great place to stop on the Houston to Las Vegas drive.
See Old Town Albuquerque for a taste of the city’s history, visit the Albuquerque Biological Park to see animals from all over the world, and explore the Petroglyph National Monument, where you can see ancient rock carvings.
Don’t forget to try some of the local food while you’re in town – Albuquerque is known for its green chile dishes.
Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park is a must-see for any nature lover.
This national park is home to the largest concentration of petrified wood in the world, as well as numerous hiking trails and fossils.
Spend a day exploring the park and you’ll be sure to see some amazing sights.
Flagstaff
Flagstaff, Arizona is a great place to stop on your road trip.
This city is home to many popular attractions, including the Lowell Observatory, where you can gaze at the stars, and the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra, where you can enjoy a classical concert.
Visit the Arizona Snowbowl for some winter fun, or go hiking and camping in one of the many beautiful parks nearby.
Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it’s easy to see why.
This natural wonder is truly a sight to behold.
There are many ways to explore the canyon, from hiking and camping to taking a scenic drive or taking a helicopter tour.
No matter how you choose to see it, the Grand Canyon is an unforgettable experience.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV is the final stop on your road trip.
This city is known for its casinos, shows, and nightlife.
Spend a day exploring the Strip, where you can find some of the most famous casinos and hotels in the world.
See a show, go gambling, or just enjoy the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.
There’s plenty to see and do in Las Vegas, so you’re sure to have a great time on your vacation.
Red Rock State Park
Red Rock State Park is a great place to stop and explore on your road trip from Houston to Las Vegas.
This state park near Las Vegas is famous for its red rock formations and hiking trails.
There’s also a visitor center and gift shop where you can learn about the area’s history and geology.
We hope you liked our Houston to Las Vegas road trip planner.
What is your favorite stop on the drive? Let us know below.