Pheonix to Grand Canyon to Las Vegas

Question

Looking for things to do that are not hiking related to do from Phoenix to Las Vegas with visit to Grand Canyon. Mom is 73 (who can't do hiking) with son 22 so would like things they would both enjoy.

Answer

Traveling from Phoenix to Las Vegas via the Grand Canyon offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities that don’t involve hiking, which is perfect for your mom and teen son. There are scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and unique attractions along the way that can make the trip enjoyable for all ages.

Here are some recommended stops and activities:

Grand Canyon South Rim: Even without hiking, there are numerous easily accessible viewpoints along Desert View Drive and the Rim Trail that are wheelchair and senior-friendly. Popular stops include Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View Watchtower, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views and take photos.
Grand Canyon Visitor Centers & Museums: The Grand Canyon Visitor Center and Yavapai Geology Museum offer engaging exhibits about the canyon’s geology and history without requiring physical exertion.
Route 66 towns (Seligman, Kingman, Williams): These historic towns along old Route 66 offer quirky shops, diners, and photo opportunities that appeal to both teens and adults. Seligman is particularly famous for retro Americana charm.
Hoover Dam: Located near Boulder City on the way to Las Vegas, the dam has easy-to-access observation areas, visitor center exhibits, and guided tours that don’t require hiking.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area: You can enjoy scenic drives, picnic areas, and short strolls along the shoreline. Some areas even offer boat tours for a different perspective of the lake.

Additional tips for the drive:

Consider spreading the trip over 2 days to avoid a long, exhausting day for your mom. Overnighting near the Grand Canyon or in a Route 66 town can make the journey more relaxed.
Bring water, snacks, and comfortable seating in the car, as summer temperatures in Arizona can be high.
Check for shuttle services or scenic drives in the Grand Canyon to minimize walking and make it easier for seniors to enjoy multiple viewpoints.
Plan for photo stops and short detours to make the drive engaging for a teen, such as quirky Route 66 shops or scenic pullouts.

In summary, the trip from Phoenix to Las Vegas can be full of sightseeing, history, and iconic views without hiking. Focusing on scenic drives, visitor centers, Route 66 towns, Hoover Dam, and Lake Mead ensures that both a 73-year-old and a 22-year-old will enjoy the journey.

Pheonix to Grand Canyon to Las Vegas

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