What's Hot in Nevada - January 2026 Discover Nevada beyond the Stadium this February

6 January 2026: As rugby league fans from around the world converge on the “Entertainment Capital of the World” Las Vegas, for the 2026 NRL showcase, visitors to the Silver State are encouraged to extend their stay and explore the unforgettable adventures that lie just beyond the city’s bright neon lights.

With day trips from Las Vegas in every direction, Nevada offers a diverse mix of outdoor escapes, cultural landmarks, and iconic southwest scenery perfect for pre-game excitement or post-match unwinding. 

Here are just a few ways football enthusiasts can make the most of their fan-cation by getting a little out there Nevada style: 

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – 25 minutes from the Strip: Just a short drive west of Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon delivers some of the region’s most stunning desert landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the 21km scenic loop, world-class hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply take in the dramatic sandstone formations - an ideal half-day escape from the urban energy.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Hoover Dam & Lake Mead National Recreation Area – 45 minutes east: A marvel of modern engineering, the Hoover Dam remains one of Nevada’s most visited attractions. Visitors can tour the dam, learn about its history, before continuing onto Lake Mead for boating, kayaking, scenic overlooks, lakeside picnics, or hiking in the surrounding national recreation area.

Colorado River

Valley of Fire State Park – one hour northeast: Known for its fiery red rock formations and ancient petroglyphs, Valley of Fire is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, and one of its most breathtaking. February’s mild temperatures make it an excellent time for hiking, photography, or simply exploring the park’s surreal landscapes.

Valley of Fire State Park

Boulder City – 30 minutes from Las Vegas: This charming town offers a relaxed, small-town atmosphere with boutique shops, cafés, historic buildings, and easy access to outdoor activities. Visitors can bike along the Historic Railroad Trail or enjoy water-based recreation around Lake Mead.

Pahrump & the Wineries of Southern Nevada – one hour west: For visitors seeking a slower pace, Pahrump offers Nevada’s emerging wine scene, desert golf, and stargazing opportunities. 

Mount Charleston / Spring Mountains National Recreation Area – 45 minutes northwest: NRL fans looking for cool mountain air can venture into the Spring Mountains. February often brings snowy conditions to Mount Charleston, making it ideal for winter hiking, scenic drives, or enjoying a lodge-side meal surrounded by alpine scenery.

Seven Magic Mountains – 25 minutes south: This internationally recognised art installation by Ugo Rondinone, featuring seven towering, vibrant stone totems, provides a striking desert photo opportunity and a quick cultural stop just outside the city. Visitors can also make a quick detour to Goodsprings Ghost Town and the historic Pioneer Saloon for a memorable step back in time.

Seve Sisters Mountains

Mesquite - one hour+ northeast or Laughlin - one hour+ south: For even more variety, consider a trip to Mesquite, where championship golf, spa escapes and warm desert landscapes create a relaxed getaway. Alternatively, head to Laughlin, a laid-back riverfront destination offering water sports, casino resorts and scenic cruises along the Colorado River.

Casablanca Resort - Mesquite

For those seeking outdoor adventure, natural wonder, cultural encounters or simply a peaceful desert escape, Nevada’s surrounding landscapes offer something memorable for every superfan. These easy day trips are the ideal way to turn a sports getaway into a full Southwest experience.

Travel Nevada also provides a range of curated road trip itineraries at travelnevada.com. Whether visitors are seeking a quick day escape via the Neon to Nature, an overnight adventure via the Free-Range Art Highway, Extraterrestrial Highway and Death Valley Rally, or a longer journey across the state via the Loneliest Road in America, there is a route to suit every pace and style. 

So go on, make the most of it and Get a Little Out There in Nevada this February.