The 16 Best Full-Day Tours in Las Vegas
Las Vegas isn’t just about glittering casinos and flashy shows. The city’s location makes it a perfect hub for full-day trips that explore incredible natural wonders, historic sites, and quirky secrets just a short drive away. Whether you want to uncover UFO lore at Area 51, marvel at the Grand Canyon, or paddle along the Colorado River, there’s a tour that’s just right. With so many options, it’s easy to find something that suits your curiosity, fitness level, and budget.
From small-group adventures to private luxury options, Las Vegas offers a variety of immersive experiences. Planning ahead is key—these tours tend to sell out, especially during peak seasons. Below, we’ve rounded up the best full-day tours, highlighting what makes each special and helping you decide which one fits your travel style.
1. From Las Vegas: Area 51 Full-Day Tour
Experience the mystery and intrigue surrounding one of the world’s most secretive military bases with this full-day trip to Area 51. Starting from Las Vegas, the tour takes you along the Extraterrestrial Highway, past the infamous Black Mailbox UFO meeting spot, and to the gates of the perimeter. You’ll also visit the mysterious “Janet Airlines,” which flies non-stop to the base, and enjoy a lunch at the Little Ale’ Inn—a favorite among UFO enthusiasts.
The tour is highly rated at 4.7/5 with 177 reviews, and guides like Captain Kirk and Mike make the day informative and fun. Expect to spend about 10 hours exploring the desert’s secrets, with plenty of time for photos and stories. This experience is perfect for UFO enthusiasts, conspiracy buffs, or anyone curious about the unknown.
Bottom Line: A unique, well-reviewed tour that offers a peek behind the curtain of one of the world’s most top-secret sites, with plenty of fascinating side stories.
2. Death Valley NP Full-Day Small Groups Tour from Las Vegas
For those wanting to experience one of North America’s hottest and lowest places, this small-group Death Valley tour ranks high with a 4.8/5 rating from 129 reviews. The tour captures the essence of Death Valley, including Badwater—the lowest point in North America—and the stunning Artists Palette. Your guide will share tales about the area’s geology, climate, and history.
The trip includes stops at Dantes Point for sweeping views, Zabriskie Point, and the salt flats. It’s a full-day adventure that balances scenic drives with enough time for photos. Many travelers appreciated the comfortable vehicle and knowledgeable guide who made the long day engaging.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those interested in geology and extreme environments, offering a comprehensive look at Death Valley’s iconic landscapes.
3. From Las Vegas: Full Day Death Valley Group Tour
This 8-hour tour offers a well-rounded visit to Death Valley’s highlights. You’ll explore Rhyolite, the abandoned mining town, then see the Mesquite Flat Dunes and Artist’s Drive. The tour’s moderate price point ($259) makes it accessible, and reviews highlight the expert guide and well-paced itinerary.
Traveling with a small group, you’ll enjoy the scenic dunes and colorful canyon with plenty of time for photos and short hikes. The tour also includes stops at the lowest point in North America and iconic sites like Devils Golf Course.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a full but manageable day exploring Death Valley’s diverse terrain without sacrificing comfort or deep insight.
4. Full Day Colorado River Kayak Tour from Las Vegas
For a water-based escape, this kayaking adventure along the Colorado River offers an active, scenic experience for about $199. Launching from Hoover Dam, you paddle 12 miles through gorgeous canyon scenery, stopping at hot springs, Emerald Cave, and beaches where you can swim and relax.
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 with 37 reviews, guests say guides are knowledgeable and fun, and the trip balances adventure with comfort—equipment, lunch, snacks, and hotel pickup are included. Along the way, you’ll observe wildlife like bald eagles and big horn sheep.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure seekers who want a full day on the water, combining scenery, activity, and wildlife spotting.
5. Grand Canyon Private Tour: 3-in-1 Grand Circle Full Day Tour from Las Vegas
This luxurious private tour takes you to three major sights: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon. For $1,135 per person, you get a personalized experience with a private guide and a custom itinerary. The trip includes lunch and entrance fees, making planning easier.
You’ll hike to the Horseshoe Bend overlook, walk through Antelope Canyon’s stunning curves, and enjoy spectacular views at the Grand Canyon’s West Rim, including the Skywalk (optional). Reviewers like Rigo praise the personalized service.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, privacy, and a tailored experience to see multiple iconic sights in one day.
6. Las Vegas: Old West Adventure ATV/RZR Full-Day Tour
Looking for thrills and dusty trails? This ATV/RZR tour in Eldorado Canyon offers a 5-7 hour off-road experience for $278. It includes lunch, pickup, and drop-off, and takes you through rich history and rugged scenery.
Guides explain the Eldorado Gold Mine’s past, and you’ll ride through red sand and rock formations. The tour has earned a 4.7/5 from 30 reviews, with many mentioning the exhilaration of driving and the scenic views.
Bottom Line: An ideal pick for adventure lovers seeking high-energy outdoor fun that combines history and scenic desert landscapes.
7. Private Tour: Grand Canyon Skywalk Full-Day Tour
This private luxury tour offers an 10-11 hour trip to the Grand Canyon West, with stops at Guano Point, Eagle Point, and the Skywalk. You travel in a Mercedes Sprinter, with amenities like Wi-Fi and USB ports.
For $2,899 per group (up to 13), this tour is suited for families or special occasions. It includes lunch, snacks, and hotel pickup. Reviewers like Marvin highlight the personalized service and unmatched views.
Bottom Line: A top-tier experience for those who want private luxury and the flexibility to customize their day at the Canyon.
8. From Las Vegas: Grand Canyon National Park Day Tour by Bus
This budget-friendly 15-hour bus tour combines comfort with convenience. For only $69, you visit the South Rim, enjoy a lunch, and can opt for optional activities like the IMAX movie or a helicopter ride.
Rated 4/5 from 138 reviews, travelers appreciate the value and scenic stops, though some note the long bus ride—about 7 hours of travel time. It’s a solid option if you want a taste of the Canyon without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting a full-day experience with plenty of photo opportunities and optional upgrades.
9. Grand Canyon Full-Day Whitewater Rafting from Las Vegas
For the adrenaline junkies, this whitewater rafting trip is a 15-hour day of thrilling river adventures. Starting from Las Vegas, you raft along rushing sections of the Colorado River, with stops for lunch by a waterfall.
Rated 4.8/5 based on 10 reviews, guests rave about the well-organized trip and stunning views. Guides share insights about the Hualapai Nation, and you’ll experience exhilarating rapids and peaceful canyon scenery.
Bottom Line: Best suited for experienced paddlers or those seeking a full-day of adventure and spectacular river views.
10. Combo Tour: Valley of Fire & Hoover Dam Full-Day Tour
This combo trip combines Nevada’s oldest state park with the engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam. For $199, the 9-hour tour includes stops at Valley of Fire’s petroglyphs and red rocks, plus a visit to Hoover Dam.
Rated perfect at 5/5, visitors love the personalized service and beautiful scenery. The tour includes lunch and easy transportation.
Bottom Line: Great for history and geology fans, offering a diverse and value-packed day trip from Vegas.
11. UTV Valley Of Fire Exploration Full Day Tour
For off-road speed and style, this small-group UTV adventure is a 6.5-hour trip for $432.50. You’ll ride through red sand and rock formations, with wildlife sightings like Big Horn Sheep.
Rated 5/5, guests appreciate the intimate experience and expert guiding. The trip includes lunch and water, and the trails are in Logandale—about an hour from Vegas.
Bottom Line: Perfect for off-road enthusiasts looking for a personalized, adrenaline-fueled day.
12. Full Day Emerald and Echo Cave Kayak Adventure
This kayaking tour offers a 4- to 5-hour paddle in Black Canyon, exploring Emerald Cave, Echo Cave, and remnants of the Hoover Dam era. The small-group experience (max 12) ensures personal attention, and snacks and equipment are included for $159.
Rated 5/5, participants love the glowing green waters of Emerald Cave and the chance to swim and relax at a remote beach.
Bottom Line: Ideal for water lovers and nature explorers wanting a mix of adventure and scenic beauty.
13. All Day GoCar Ultimate Las Vegas Day Tour
Explore Las Vegas in a unique way with this self-guided GPS tour in a GoCar. For $164, you can customize your route, visiting landmarks like the Stratosphere, Circus Circus, and The Sphere.
Rated 5/5, travelers appreciate the flexibility and personalized pace. It’s perfect for families or friends wanting to see Vegas their way while having fun on four wheels.
Bottom Line: Best suited for independent explorers who want control over their day and a quirky experience.
14. Full-Day Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour from Las Vegas
This 12-hour small-group tour offers a comprehensive day visiting Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend. For $707, it includes admission fees, breakfast, and lunch.
Rated 5/5, travelers love the personalized guide and the unmatched scenery of the Colorado River views. It’s a long day but packed with iconic sights.
Bottom Line: Excellent for nature lovers who want an all-in-one day trip to some of the Southwest’s most famous landscapes.
15. Full Day Sedona Highlights from Las Vegas
This 15-hour tour takes you from Vegas to Sedona’s red rocks, including Bell Rock, the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and Uptown shopping. For $298, you experience an energizing landscape and local culture.
Rated 5/5, reviews mention the beautiful scenery and a guide who keeps things seamless despite traffic and time constraints.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a scenic, spiritually uplifting day with easy transportation from Vegas.
16. Full-Day Zion National Park Tour from Las Vegas
Zion offers towering cliffs and winding canyons. This 12-hour group tour, costing $189, includes breakfast, lunch, and park entry. Rated 4.0/5, travelers highlight the scenic drive and short hikes.
It’s perfect if you want to see Zion’s famous formations without the hassle of planning, although some mention the long bus ride.
Bottom Line: Suitable for outdoor lovers on a budget who’re happy with short walks and spectacular vistas.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and fitness level. If you’re fascinated by UFOs and secretive sites, the Area 51 tour offers a memorable side of Nevada’s desert mystery. For natural beauty and photography, the Grand Canyon West private tour provides a VIP experience with unmatched views.
Budget travelers or those seeking a classic experience might prefer the Grand Canyon by bus, while adventure lovers should consider the ATV tour or the whitewater rafting. For a more personalized experience, private tours like the Grand Canyon Skywalk are ideal, but they come at a higher price.
When booking, consider the time of year—summer trips can get very hot, especially in Death Valley or Valley of Fire. Early booking is recommended, especially for popular tours like Antelope Canyon or the Skywalk.
Final Thoughts
Las Vegas offers an impressive range of full-day adventures—from mystery and geology to spectacular vistas and wild river days. For those seeking a thrilling off-road ride, the ATV or UTV tours are perfect. If natural beauty tops your list, the Grand Canyon and Sedona trips will leave you awe-inspired. Meanwhile, the Area 51 tour offers a twist of sci-fi intrigue.
No matter what kind of experience you’re after, planning early and picking a tour suited to your interests will ensure a memorable day outside the neon glow of Vegas. With so many options, you’re sure to find an adventure that makes your trip truly unforgettable.