Attractions and Places To See around Laughlin - Top 6

The Colorado River is central to outdoor recreation in Laughlin. You can enjoy scenic river cruises, high-speed jet boat tours, or water taxis for transport between resorts. Popular activities include swimming, boating, kayaking, jet skiing, and fishing. The Riverwalk Trail also offers a paved path for walking, jogging, or cycling along the riverfront, connecting major casinos and providing views of the river and city skyline.

Yes, Laughlin offers several sites with historical and cultural significance. The Grapevine Canyon Trail, located in the Spirit Mountains, features over 700 ancient Native American petroglyphs, some dating back to 1100 AD. You can also visit the Colorado River Historical Society Museum, which showcases the history of the Laughlin and Bullhead City area, including exhibits on steamboats, mining, and local Native American inhabitants. Additionally, the historic ghost town of Oatman, Arizona, is a popular day trip.

Laughlin provides several family-friendly options. The Riverwalk Trail is suitable for walks and offers views of the river. Davis Dam and the resulting Lake Mohave are popular for water activities like swimming and boating. Bullhead City Community Park offers a pleasant spot by the river with picnic areas. For a unique indoor experience, Don Laughlin’s Classic Car Museum displays a collection of antique and classic vehicles.

Beyond the Colorado River itself, you can explore several natural landscapes. The Grapevine Canyon Trail offers scenic hiking through a canyon with ancient petroglyphs. The Laughlin Labyrinths, situated on a hill above the city, provide unique outdoor art and photo opportunities. For expansive views of the Mojave Desert and Colorado River Valley, consider a drive through Christmas Tree Pass. Lake Mohave, formed by Davis Dam, also offers picturesque shorelines and water views.

Yes, the area boasts several parks and recreation areas. The Bullhead City Community Park is located directly on the Colorado River, offering picnic spots and river views. Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area, just south of Laughlin, features sandy beaches, fishing, birdwatching, and camping. The Colorado River Heritage Greenway Park and Trails provide over 12 miles of trails for walking, hiking, or horseback riding with views of Davis Dam.

The best time for outdoor activities in Laughlin is generally during the cooler months, from fall through spring (October to April). During this period, temperatures are mild and pleasant for hiking, exploring natural sites, and enjoying river activities. Summers can be extremely hot, making strenuous outdoor activities less comfortable.

Yes, you can visit Don Laughlin’s Classic Car Museum. Located within Don Laughlin's Riverside Resort Hotel and Casino, it features a collection of over 80 antique and unique classic cars, including vehicles from private collections and Hollywood films. Admission is typically $2 for adults.

Davis Dam is an impressive engineering feat on the Colorado River. Completed in 1951, its primary purpose is to regulate water flow to be delivered to Mexico, as required by the Mexican Treaty of 1944, and to generate hydroelectric power. The dam forms Lake Mohave, which is a popular year-round destination for various water activities due to its desert location.

Beyond typical river activities, you can explore the Laughlin Labyrinths, which are nine creative stone mazes on a hill offering a unique reflective experience. For a more rugged adventure, consider driving through Christmas Tree Pass, a 12-mile gravel road with expansive desert views and access to petroglyph sites. The Spirit Mountain Wilderness also offers a chance to connect with a landscape of significant spiritual importance to Native American tribes.

Laughlin offers a variety of trails. The Riverwalk Trail provides easy, paved walking along the Colorado River. For a more adventurous hike, the Grapevine Canyon Trail is an intermediate hike through a canyon featuring ancient petroglyphs and seasonal waterfalls. The Colorado River Heritage Greenway Park and Trails also offer over 12 miles of easy to moderate trails for walking, hiking, or horseback riding.

Yes, the Colorado River and Lake Mohave offer several spots for swimming and enjoying the water. Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area, located about 7 miles south of Laughlin, features 2 miles of sandy shoreline along the Colorado River, making it a popular spot for swimming and other water activities. Bullhead City Community Park also provides access to the river's edge.

Visitors appreciate the diverse offerings in Laughlin, from the scenic beauty of the Colorado River and surrounding desert landscapes to the unique historical sites. The ease of access to outdoor activities like walking the Riverwalk Trail and exploring the ancient petroglyphs at Grapevine Canyon are frequently highlighted. The blend of natural attractions with entertainment options and family-friendly venues like Don Laughlin’s Classic Car Museum also contributes to a well-rounded visitor experience.