LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The pandemic put the brakes on summer plans for a lot of locals. But you don't have to go far to make memories with your family and friends. 13 Action News anchor Tricia Kean continues our look at some of the great getaways you can visit on a tank of gas.
PAHRUMP VALLEY WINERY
"We pick the grapes. We process the grapes. We ferment the grapes. Put them in the tanks and we bottle them. All in house," said Vanessa Ruiz, general manager at Pahrump Valley Winery.
Just over an hour west of Las Vegas is the Pahrump Valley Winery. It's Nevada's first winery with a red grape vineyard that produces nearly 100 tons of Nevada wine grapes.
Wine tastings have moved from the bar to tableside, in order to practice social distancing. The winery is also asking guests to make reservations for the upscale casual "symphony's restaurant" or to grab a seat outside.
"You can order a bottle of wine and charcuterie board. We have picnic tables outside in our vineyard. So you and your family can go out there and enjoy that," Ruiz said.
LAUGHLIN
If you're not interested in wine, head south about an hour-and-a-half from Vegas and check out Laughlin, where the motto is recreation and relaxation along the Colorado River. You can enjoy boating, water skiing, jet skiing and fishing. There's no shortage of places to rent watercraft or try a dinner cruise.
LAKE HAVASU
Another great spot for fun out on the water is Lake Havasu, Arizona, which is 2-1/2 hours outside Las Vegas. There are 60 miles of waterways for boats and kayaks and on land, there is plenty of hiking, biking, and off-roading trails.
Lake Havasu also has a brick-by-brick restoration of the famous London Bridge. Plus it's home to more lighthouses than any other city in the country. The waterfront is decorated with actual working small-scale replicas of historic U.S. lighthouses.
ZION NATIONAL PARK
If you're looking for something a little more awe-inspiring, try Zion National Park in Utah. Two-and-a-half hours northeast of Vegas, Zion Canyon offers beautiful red cliffs and a scenic drive leading to forest and waterfalls along the Virgin River.
Just keep in mind, not all areas are open, due to the pandemic. So there's limited lodging and camping by reservation only.
