Bloomington, IL to Grand Canyon & Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Start the Journey

Morning: Depart from Bloomington, IL and begin your drive heading southwest. Enjoy scenic stops as needed for breaks.

Afternoon: Continue driving approximately 4-5 hours toward your overnight stop near St. Louis, MO or its vicinity for rest and refreshment.

Evening: Explore the downtown area or enjoy a relaxed dinner near your hotel. Consider visiting Gateway Arch National Park if time permits.

Day 2: Long Haul Drive

Morning: Early start from your hotel to cover a long stretch toward the southwest, driving about 12 hours today.

Afternoon: Brief stops for meals and refueling; make sure to stretch legs and enjoy quick sightseeing whenever possible.

Evening: Arrive near Flagstaff, AZ or a surrounding town to rest and prepare for the Grand Canyon visit the next day.

Day 3: Arrival & Exploring Grand Canyon

Morning: Depart early for the Grand Canyon National Park, entering from the South Rim for breathtaking views.

Afternoon: Spend time hiking iconic viewpoints such as Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station.

Evening: Enjoy sunset at Hopi Point or relax at your lodge inside or near the park.

Day 4: Grand Canyon Exploration Continues

Morning: Full morning hike or guided tour to places like Bright Angel Trail or a helicopter tour option.

Afternoon: Visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and explore cultural exhibits or mule ride experiences.

Evening: Another spectacular sunset or stargazing opportunity to immerse in the canyon’s beauty.

Day 5: Head to Las Vegas

Morning: Depart the Grand Canyon and drive approximately 4-5 hours toward Las Vegas, NV.

Afternoon: Arrival in Las Vegas. Check into your hotel and begin exploring the Las Vegas Strip or nearby attractions.

Evening: Enjoy world-class entertainment, dining, and nightlife at iconic venues like Bellagio Fountains or Fremont Street Experience.

Day 6: Las Vegas Leisure & Return Journey Begins

Morning: Leisurely morning in Vegas with optional spa visits or a visit to the Neon Museum.

Afternoon: Begin driving back northeast heading toward Arches National Park, UT. Overnight near Moab if possible.

Evening: Relax at your hotel or enjoy a quiet evening dining locally in Moab or a nearby town.

Day 7: Explore Arches National Park & Continue Home

Morning: Spend the morning exploring Arches National Park, visiting highlights like Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch.

Afternoon: Start the drive back toward Bloomington, IL. This will be a multi-day drive; plan stops as preferred.

Evening: Overnight stop en route based on distance covered, perhaps near Denver or Kansas City.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Day 1 Drive & Gateway Arch Visit: ~5 hours driving, 1-2 hours sightseeing; Cost: $30 (Arch tram ticket)
• Day 2 Long Drive: ~12 hours driving; Cost: Fuel approx. $100
• Grand Canyon National Park (2 days): ~16 hours activities; Cost: $35 entrance fee + optional tours $100-$300
• Las Vegas Stay (2 days): Entertainment, dining, hotel; Cost: $300-$600 depending on preferences
• Arches National Park Visit: ~4 hours exploration; Cost: $30 entrance fee
• Additional Fuel & Meals for return drive: Estimated $150

Total Estimated Cost: $645 - $1,215 (varies by lodging and activity choices)

Tips

To extend the trip, consider adding a full day at Las Vegas to enjoy nearby attractions like Red Rock Canyon or a day trip to Hoover Dam. Alternatively, add more hiking or a rafting experience at the Grand Canyon.

To reduce the duration, consider skipping the overnight near St. Louis and pushing for a longer initial drive on Day 1, or shorten your Grand Canyon stay to a single day before heading to Vegas. Also, you can bypass Arches National Park, saving 1-2 days.