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 Willow Beach. Venture out of the city with trips to Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge (in Alamo), Don Laughlin's Classic Car Collection (in Laughlin) and Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge (in Amargosa Valley). There's much more to do: explore the stunning scenery at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, wander the streets of The LINQ Promenade, look for all kinds of wild species at Lake Mead National Recreation Area, and see the interesting displays at Wayne Newton's Casa de Shenandoah.

To see more things to do, ratings, maps, and more tourist information, read our Las Vegas tour builder site.

Charlotte to Las Vegas is an approximately 7-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a bus. The time zone difference moving from Eastern Standard Time to Pacific Standard Time is minus 3 hours. In October, Las Vegas is somewhat warmer than Charlotte - with highs of 82°F and lows of 60°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 17th (Sat) to allow enough time 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.