For Day 4 of our adventure, we traded the Ocean breeze for the open desert road. We were sad to be leaving LA behind but we were excited for more adventures in Las Vegas. We packed the car, checked out of our family suite at the Sea Sprite Hotel (check out our review!), and hit the open road. Our destination? The dazzling lights of Vegas, and the main event: the rugby!
If you are planning a family road trip from LA to Vegas, here is our tried and tested itinerary, featuring the best diners, art installations, and tips for staying off the Strip with kids.
Leaving LA: The Route and the Reality
We checked out of our family suite at the Sea Sprite Hotel (you can read our full review here) and set off on our road trip at around 8am. While Google Maps estimated a 4.5 hour journey, the reality of California traffic and sight seeing stops meant our trip took about 6.5 hours.
Top Tip: If you're traveling for a major event, like we were for the Rugby League takeover, expect the I-15 to be busier than usual.
We'd been told that the drive from LA to Las Vegas was long and boring, but for us first timers, we found it to be a highlight of our trip. It was exciting, the landscape was a constantly shifting canvas, with a panoramic views of breathtaking snow capped mountains and vast, sun-baked deserts. The sheer scale and diversity of the scenery was amazing.
Pit Stop 1: Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner
About three hours into our drive, just past Barstow, we found the ultimate roadside gem: Peggy Sue's 50's Diner. The place was buzzing with fellow rugby fans from Australia and New Zealand, all making the pilgrimage to Vegas, but we managed to snag a cozy booth. The burgers, fries, and onion rings that followed were nothing short of legendary, enormous portions bursting with flavour. It was a true slice of America, and a delicious one at that, read our full review of Peggy Sue's 50's Diner here.
Pit Stop 2: Seven Magic Mountains
Another hour on the road brought us to the vibrant Seven Magic Mountains. This art installation features towering, neon-coloured rock formations stacked against the muted tones of the desert. It’s a captivating pit stop and the perfect spot for those unique Instagram photos before hitting the city.
Arriving in Vegas: Staying at The Rio Hotel
Finally, we crossed the threshold into Las Vegas, and the sight of the magnificent Allegiant Stadium ignited our excitement for the upcoming rugby matches. For this leg of the trip, we chose to stay at The Rio Hotel.
Why the Rio?
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Off-Strip Location: We wanted somewhere a little quieter since we were travelling with children.
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Renovations: The hotel has recently undergone extensive upgrades.
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Value: We snagged a bargain by booking through British Airways.
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Perks: Parking was free (a rarity in Vegas!), check-in was seamless, and our family suite on the 7th floor offered a fantastic view of the Strip.
Fremont Street: Rugby League Fan Fest
Eager to plunge into the Vegas atmosphere, we dropped our bags and we headed straight to Fremont Street for the official Rugby League Fan Fest where Rugby League was taking over Fremont Street for the evening.
Top Tip: We were in a rush and found secure parking near Fremont but were hit with a $25 fee. Learn from our mistake, shop around for better deals, use parking apps or even an Uber (I wish we had on this occasion.)
We made our way out into the sea of rugby fans that were descending onto Fremont Street. We met up with friends who had also travelled to Las Vegas and the energy was electric, especially as the Super League and NRL teams were introduced on the main stage.
The highlight for the kids was meeting the players and our rugby team, the Warrington Wolves. As they came off the stage and out through the crowd we headed down to the bus that they were due to board. Louie gave out high fives, Charlie snagged some selfies, and Mark and Charlie even got snapped by the official team photographer!
Downtown Container Park
After the fan fest had ended, we made our way to the huge fire breathing Praying Mantis and ventured into the Downtown Container Park hoping to find a sport for dinner. However, despite its inviting appearance with a large playground, most of the eateries were either closed or 21+ only. We let the kids burn off some energy on the play area and then headed back to the Rio Hotel and grabbed something to eat at the hotels food court.
As the lights of the Strip twinkled outside our window, we collapsed into bed, exhausted but buzzing. Vegas has already captivated us, and we couldn't wait for tomorrow!
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