Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from South Orange County through the Mojave Desert via Highway 127. Along the way, enjoy a quick break in Baker to marvel at the World's Tallest Thermometer before continuing north. By late morning, you will arrive at the eastern gates of Death Valley National Park, ready for a day of desert exploration.
After arriving, explore the expansive salt flats of Badwater Basin and the colorful geological wonders along Artists Drive and Artists Palette. Conclude your park visit at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, allowing the kids to climb and play in the sand before heading towards the bright lights of the Las Vegas Strip for your stay at the Vdara Hotel & Spa.
After settling into your suite, take a short walk to experience the mesmerizing water display at the Bellagio Fountains, perfectly timed to music for an enchanting family moment. Treat everyone to a casual yet delicious dinner at the Block 16 Urban Food Hall inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas to cap off an incredible first day of travel.
Start your morning with a relaxed breakfast at Mon Ami Gabi, where you can enjoy views of the Strip from the charming outdoor patio. Afterward, head over to the [Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo](https://www.caesars.com/flamingo-las-vegas/things-to-do/wildlife-habitat) to admire the tropical birds and exotic fish in a peaceful, garden-like setting that the kids will love.
Spend your afternoon exploring the four floors of candy-filled fun at M&M's World before heading next door to the Coca-Cola Store for a unique around-the-world soda tasting experience. Afterward, take a leisurely ride on the [High Roller Observation Wheel](https://www.caesars.com/linq/things-to-do/attractions/high-roller) at The LINQ Promenade to enjoy panoramic views of the city from 550 feet in the air.
Head over to The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace to witness the fire and water effects of the Fall of Atlantis animatronic show followed by a hearty family-style Italian dinner at Carmine's. Wrap up your night exploring the cobblestone walkways of the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort, where you can enjoy the Streetmosphere performers and grab a famous dessert at [Carlo's Bakery](https://www.carlosbakery.com/).
Enjoy a quick and energizing breakfast at Eggslut inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, conveniently located just steps from your suite at the Vdara Hotel & Spa. After fueling up, head over to the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino to check in and find the perfect viewing spot before the gymnastics meet officially begins at 10:30 AM.
Following the gymnastics competition, celebrate the team's hard work with a massive, farm-style lunch at Hash House A Go Go located inside the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. On your way out of town, make a final stop at the striking [Seven Magic Mountains](https://sevenmagicmountains.com/) art installation to let the kids stretch their legs among the colorful, towering limestone totems before the drive back to Southern California.
As you continue your journey home, make a nostalgic pit stop at [Peggy Sue's 50's Diner](https://www.peggysuesdiner.com/) in Yermo to enjoy some famous milkshakes and explore the wacky roadside memorabilia. Reflect on your desert and strip adventures while descending through the Cajon Pass, eventually arriving back in South Orange County just in time to prepare for the week ahead.