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Scenic Drives for the Spring in Nevada

a couple sitting in the front seats of a car while drivingHere in Nevada, the time to get out and enjoy the weather is now. It won’t be long until the temperatures will begin to soar, and you’ll be forced to stay indoors away from the heat and heavy winds. One way to enjoy this time of year is to get out and explore by going for a drive. Your cruise doesn’t have to take you too far off the beaten path and some are right in your own backyard! We’ve compiled a list of fun Nevada scenic drives that are just as interesting as the points of interest to explore. Get your vehicle ready for the drive then pack up your car with some road trip essentials along with your favorite playlist or podcast and head out!

You’ll Be Bowled Over

While a bit of a drive, Reno is a great place to begin your exploration. About 7 hours to the northwest, lies “The Biggest Little City in the World” and this little city has a lot of big things to see. Take, for example, the National Bowling Stadium, across from the Reno Events Center. It’s a 65,000 square foot bowling facility featuring the longest video screen in the world that projects videos and scores over 440 feet. This massive bowling alley may look familiar to some, as the hit movie “Kingpin” was filmed here. At five stories high, the building features a large bronze sculpture on the roof reminiscent of a giant bowling ball. It’s no wonder this stadium has been nicknamed the “Taj Mahal of Ten Pins” as its dedicated to bowling and features 78 championship lanes, a pro shop, and theater. While you and your friends won’t be able to play a casual game, you can watch tournaments take place or host your next big event here. The building is able to accommodate large parties for up to 2,000 people but is also available for smaller private parties in the Kingpin Club complete with 10 lanes, full bar, and flat-screen TVs. The stadium is also home to a derivative of the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame (the original is in Arlington, TX), and features bowling artifacts and famed-bowling stars.

On the Edge of Your Seat

Looking to take a drive while staying close to home? Take a drive out to see The Big Edge, a giant open-air sculpture made of 200 full-size boats consisting of canoes, rowboats, sailboats, and kayaks created by artist Nancy Rubins. You’ll find this unique sculpture just off the strip at the Las Vegas City Center near the Vdara Tower at the Aria Hotel & Casino. The cluster of boats is about 75 feet long, with boats that weigh between 60 and 125 pounds each and are arranged to resemble a floral arrangement of color. Situated in the center of a roundabout, the monument isn’t easy to get to, but is best viewed while driving around.

Get High

Las Vegas is home to many high rollers, especially the High Roller Ferris Wheel. At 550 feet tall, this Ferris wheel is not your average carnival ride. In fact, this ride takes about 30 minutes to complete one full revolution. Each pod is climate controlled and comfortably holds about 40 people. Beverages are available for purchase while you ride. Weddings and private parties can be hosted in the pods, complete with a bar and bartender. Rides are available both day and night. A daytime ride will allow you to see for miles while a night ride gives you a chance to experience the dazzling lights of Vegas as they light up the strip. While you ride, voice-over audio narrates the journey with the history of Las Vegas and landmarks throughout the rotation. After your ride, be sure to visit the Sky Shop for your commemorative photo and other souvenirs or stop at one of the many eateries at the LINQ. Operating hours vary by season and ticket prices will vary depending on the day or time you choose. Children 6 and under ride for free when accompanied by an adult. It’s recommended you purchase your ride tickets in advance to ensure you get a spot for the day and time you desire.

Mingle with the Mob

Las Vegas was developed largely in part by the Mafia, so why wouldn’t there be a Mob Museum to commemorate its history? Located near Freemont Street in Las Vegas, this 14,000 square foot museum on four floors provides an astonishing look into organized crime and its impact. Visitors will learn about the events and people on both sides of the law. Real stories are featured with multi-sensory exhibits and other artifacts. The museum opened its doors on February 12th, 2012 corresponding with the 83rd anniversary of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre in Chicago. The infamous massacre lured several members of Bugs Moran’s posse to a warehouse and fooled them into lining up against a brick wall and executed by Al Capone’s gang. The brick wall of the warehouse, still riddled with bullets, is on display. Special interactive exhibits are also featured including The Speakeasy highlighting the prohibition era and the Police Training and Crime Lab experiences featuring methods used to apprehend and prosecute criminals as well as the analyzation of forensic evidence. Guided tours, audio tours, and specialized group activities are offered. The museum is open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM. The Underground Speakeasy and Distillery is open from 9 AM to Midnight. General admission tickets start at $26. Children 10 and under are free. Purchase advance tickets on their website.

Going for scenic drives near Las Vegas, Nevada is a snap when you have Sun Auto Service on your side. Whether you choose to head out of town to Reno or go for a drive in your own backyard, before you head out, be sure your car is equipped to handle the ride. Any of our Valley Sun Auto Service locations can help you prepare with a simple inspection, oil change, or any other maintenance your vehicle needs before your trip. As the dealership alternative, we perform regular maintenance, major repairs, and everything in between. Our technicians are certified and educated in all areas related to automobiles. Stop by any of our many locations before you begin your journey. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your car is prepared for the journey, allowing you to enjoy yourself and take in the scenery as you drive.

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