The weather is warming up and flowers are blooming, making Las Vegas gardens, parks, and trails alive and lush. From the end of March to the end of June, summer in Las Vegas is one of the most beautiful times to visit the city and enjoy the weather as the days become longer and warmer. Las Vegas has no shortage of parks, gardens and hiking trails for residents and visitors to enjoy. If you want a peaceful ambiance, then a garden might be more suitable. If you are looking to take in the picturesque scenery and get some exercise, then a hiking trail is the way to go.
Not sure where to start? Read on to explore some of these spaces to enjoy the nice summer weather and beautiful sights of nature around the city!
A little bit of a shopping center, a little bit of a park, a whole lot of a great time. The Downtown Container Park is a great place to socialize, shop, dine, enjoy some art, and relax in the park. The Lawn is a beautiful green space in Downtown Las Vegas, offering things like yoga in the park, live entertainment, and fun activities like giant checkers. Keep your eye out for their regular activities that let you connect with the local culture.
Located just outside of Downtown Las Vegas is Lorenzi Park, an extremely popular spot for locals and visitors alike when the good weather arises. The park offers play areas with a water play feature, picnic and shade structures, sports areas, a band shell, fishing, and more. This Las Vegas park is one of the best places to have a summertime picnic with friends – especially when you get some picnic sandwiches from Saginaw’s Delicatessen.
If you move a little closer to the mountains surrounding Las Vegas, you’ll be delighted to discover one of the most beautiful natural spaces in the area. Floyd Lamb Park is a stunning oasis nestled amongst the rugged landscapes that the region is well-known for. This 680-acre park provides ample outdoor space to explore, including walking paths, fishing ponds, horse trails, picnic areas, grills, historic areas, mountain bike trails, and much more!
Here’s a pairing you might not have considered before: chocolate and cactus. No, not paired for eating together, but Ethel M Chocolate has perfectly paired their chocolate experience with the impressive Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden. This Las Vegas garden features over 300 species of plants from across the globe. After walking up an appetite, you’ll want to stop by to try one of their many chocolates for a real summertime treat!
You’ll find some of the best flowers right in the heart of Vegas! Though these gardens are indoors, they still present a stunning showcase of vibrant flowers that attract numerous flower enthusiasts. At the Bellagio Conservatory, visitors can immerse themselves in a tranquil environment that celebrates seasonal florals paired with some seriously impressive art installations. Stop by for one of the best photo opportunities in the city.
Another popular destination is the Springs Preserve, a 180-acre park that features botanical gardens, museums, and walking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the desert. This Las Vegas garden is great for visitors who want to explore the natural side of Vegas, including a Mojave garden, constructed wetland, and more. Check out their special events to get a glimpse into the vibrant culture and diverse wildlife the area has to offer.
If you’re looking for some great hiking with even better sights, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, located just 17 miles west of the Strip, is a spot you need to put on your list this summer. Hikers and rock climbers alike can enjoy the towering red sandstone formations and breathtaking views of the Mojave Desert. With more than 25 miles of trails to explore, you’ll never run out of places to discover.
Another great spot for Las Vegas trails is the Valley of Fire. Located 50 miles northeast of the Strip, Valley of Fire State Park is home to some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring trails in Nevada. With its fiery red sandstone formations, vibrant petroglyphs, plenty of trails to choose from, there is plenty to see and do. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep an eye out for the park’s desert tortoises and bighorn sheep!
The great thing about Lake Mead in the summer is that you have the choice between land and water for those warmer summer days. Whether you choose to explore the wildlife-filled shoreline or rent a boat and cruise around Lake Mead National Recreation Area, you’re sure to make some great memories. For a truly special experience, do a sunset kayak paddle, complete with roasting marshmallows around the campfire.
Las Vegas may be known for its casinos and nightlife, but it is also home to some of the most stunning parks, gardens, and trails in the Southwest. From hiking in Red Rock Canyon to picnicking at Floyd Lamb Park, there are endless ways to immerse yourself in the stunning desert landscapes of the area. No matter what activity you choose, getting outside and connecting with nature is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the strip and discover a different side of Las Vegas this summer. Don’t forget to book your room at the D to rest after your outdoor adventures!
