8 days in Las Vegas & Raleigh, Durham & The Triangle Itinerary

Nicknamed the "Entertainment Capital of the World," Las Vegas sits in the middle of a desert in the southern section of Nevada.

The Strip and Counts Kustoms are good opportunities to explore the local culture. You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at Shelby American Inc and Zak Bagans' The Haunted Museum. Venture out of the city with trips to Don Laughlin's Classic Car Collection (in Laughlin), Willow Beach (in Fort Mohave) and Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge (in Amargosa Valley). There's lots more to do: explore the stunning scenery at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, see the interesting displays at Pinball Hall of Fame, get curious at Bodies The Exhibition, and ponder the design of Fountains of Bellagio.

To find more things to do, where to stay, maps, and tourist information, read our Las Vegas trip itinerary site.

Charlotte to Las Vegas is an approximately 7-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a bus. The time zone difference when traveling from Charlotte to Las Vegas is minus 3 hours. Traveling from Charlotte in October, things will get a bit warmer in Las Vegas: highs are around 82°F and lows about 60°F. Cap off your sightseeing on the 17th (Sat) early enough to travel to Durham.

Once the seat of a thriving tobacco industry, Durham has seen some significant moments in American history.

On the 18th (Sun), look for all kinds of wild species at Duke Lemur Center, take in the spiritual surroundings of Duke University Chapel, then explore the world behind art at Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, then look for all kinds of wild species at Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, and finally get to know the fascinating history of Brightleaf Square. Keep things going the next day: contemplate the long history of Duke Homestead, examine the collection at The Carolina Basketball Museum, then look for all kinds of wild species at Carolina Tiger Rescue, and finally take in the architecture and atmosphere at The Chapel of the Cross.

To see maps, traveler tips, and tourist information, refer to the Durham travel planner.

Fly from Las Vegas to Durham in 8 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a bus. The time zone difference moving from Pacific Standard Time to Eastern Standard Time is 3 hours. Plan for a bit cooler temperatures traveling from Las Vegas in October, with highs in Durham at 74°F and lows at 52°F. Cap off your sightseeing on the 19th (Mon) early enough to go by car back home.