LA β Vegas: An Epic West Coast Journey of Contrasts π
Driving from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is a classic American West road trip β covering around 270 miles of ever-changing landscapes: from sprawling cities to rolling hills, vast deserts, rugged mountains, and the occasional Joshua tree π΅. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel π₯, we hit the road toward the legendary "Sin City" π°. We set off around 9 AM, made two scenic stops, and arrived in Las Vegas by 4 PM. This wasnβt just a change in location β it was a powerful sensory and emotional journey. The contrast was breathtaking: Las Vegas, with its dazzling lights and surreal energy, feels even more extraordinary rising from the surrounding barren desert ποΈπ«. π Stops Along the Way π² Bottle Tree Ranch π 24266 National Trail Hwy A free, whimsical art installation on the left side of the road π¨. We were among the only visitors that day. The creator turned trash into treasure β a beautiful, eco-conscious art project thatβs totally worth a visit β»οΈβ€οΈ. π» Calico Ghost Town π 36600 Ghost Town Rd, Yermo, CA 92398 ποΈ Ticket: $10 | π ΏοΈ Free parking Step back into the Wild West era π€ ! Explore historic buildings, enjoy live performances, and browse unique shops and jewelry stores π. We ended up spending quite a while shopping here! πͺ¨ Seven Magic Mountains We passed by this colorful art installation but didnβt stop for photos πΈ. Located just 30 minutes from Vegas, itβs a popular quick photo spot! ποΈ Arrival in Las Vegas π¨ Trump International Hotel Las Vegas We stayed here for 2 nights. At check-in, we placed a $20 tip under our passports β the front desk agent gave us a high floor with a fantastic view of the Sphere ππ! After settling in, we returned our rental car ππ¨. The counter was closed, so we just filled out the form and dropped the keys in the slot. π½οΈ Dinner at a Vibe-y Bar-Style Restaurant We stumbled upon a cool spot with great food, atmosphere, and views β a perfect welcome to Vegas! π»π π Wynn & Palazzo Skybridge π The Sphere Vista Point We walked here to see the Sphere and the glittering Vegas skyline at night β absolutely mesmerizing! Ended the night strolling back to the hotel under the neon glow β¨. β οΈ Travel Tips π£οΈ Stay Alert: Long, straight roads and monotonous scenery can cause fatigue β take breaks! π¬οΈ Desert Winds: Strong crosswinds are common β keep a firm grip on the wheel π. π Avoid Peak Traffic: Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings are the busiest β plan around them! β½ Plan Your Stops: Gas stations are sparse in the desert β fill up in advance! #RoadTripUSA #LAtoVegas #DesertLights #BottleTreeRanch #CalicoGhostTown #VegasVibes #TravelTips #WestCoastJourney