Aussie driving from LAX to Vegas

Question

Hi, We are 2 adults travelling to Vegas for Wrestlemania in April.

We are hiring a car and driving from LAX Airport. I know flying is cheaper but wanting something different for the way there. I'm looking at leaving LAX around 9 or 10am and wanting to know how is the drive for someone who hasn't done this route before. We would like to see what's on the way there, anywhere recommended to stop, I've heard of places such as Peggy Sue's Diner in Yermo, would like to see if there is a route 66 sign for photos. Any tips would be great. Thanks

Answer

Driving from LAX to Las Vegas can be a fun and scenic road trip, especially if you're taking the time to enjoy the journey. It's about a 4 to 5-hour drive (depending on traffic) along I-15, and you’ll pass through a variety of landscapes and interesting stops. Here's a breakdown of the drive and some recommended stops:

Route Overview:

After leaving LAX, you’ll head east on I-10 for a bit, then take the I-15 North towards Las Vegas. The first part of the drive will take you through the urban sprawl of LA, and then you’ll quickly enter more open desert landscapes as you get closer to the Mojave Desert.

Peggy Sue's 50s Diner (Yermo, CA): A classic stop for Route 66 nostalgia, Peggy Sue's is famous for its retro vibe and old-school diner food. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and take some photos with the old Route 66 signs.
Route 66 Sign (near the California-Nevada Border): There are a few spots along the route where you can take pictures with iconic Route 66 signs. If you're driving through Yermo, there's a famous "Route 66" sign near Peggy Sue's that’s perfect for a photo op.
Calico Ghost Town (Yermo, CA): Just a short detour from the main highway, Calico Ghost Town is an old mining town that has been restored as a tourist attraction. You can wander through historic buildings, check out exhibits, or just enjoy the western vibe.
Baker, CA (The World's Tallest Thermometer): Baker is a small town located on your route where you'll find the famous "World's Tallest Thermometer" – a fun photo opportunity and a great way to mark your arrival in the Mojave Desert. It’s a nice little stop to take a break and grab some snacks.
Barstow, CA: If you want to stretch your legs a bit more, Barstow offers some quick stops like the Route 66 Mother Road Museum and some good restaurants or fast food joints to grab a bite before hitting the road again.

Additional Tips:

Fuel Up: Make sure to keep an eye on your fuel gauge. There are stretches of the drive, particularly in the desert, where gas stations can be sparse. It's always a good idea to fill up when you can, especially in smaller towns.
Stay Hydrated: The desert heat can be intense, even in April. Keep plenty of water with you, and make sure your car's air conditioning is working well.
Time Consideration: The drive from LAX to Vegas is about 270 miles, so if you plan to stop a few times, expect it to take 5 to 6 hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop. If you leave around 9-10 AM, you should arrive in Vegas by late afternoon or early evening.

Conclusion: The drive from LAX to Las Vegas is scenic and full of fun pit stops, especially if you're a fan of Route 66. Make sure to take some time to enjoy the journey, take photos at the iconic spots, and explore a few of the quirky attractions along the way. It’s a great way to see a different side of the California desert before arriving in the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas!