If you’ve ever been to another city in the United States, don’t expect Las Vegas, Nevada to be anything like that. One of the most unique and mind-blowing cities in the world, Las Vegas will amaze you, startle you, and keep you entertained for the entire duration of your stay there. Of course, Las Vegas is known for gambling and partying, hence why it’s called “Sin City,” but there are also plenty of other, more holy activities that one can participate in around the city.
Las Vegas is the county seat of Clark County, Nevada, and is currently the 25th most populated city in the United States. And it’s incredible that a city was even built on the site at all considering that the metropolitan area is surrounded by large expanses of the Mojave Desert. From dining to gambling to over-the-top performances and nightlife, Las Vegas will keep you constantly entertained for however long you choose to stay there. And with so much to do in this fabulous city, the best way to make the most of your time is to hire a motorcycle and cruise around the streets.
Here is everything you need to know about hiring a motorcycle in Las Vegas. Most things here can also be applied if you are renting a motor scooter. This guide includes:
- Whether you can drive in Nevada with a foreign license
- Whether it’s safe to drive a motorcycle in Las Vegas
- The cost of motorcycle rental in Las Vegas
- Where to find motorbike hire in Las Vegas
- The best motorcycle routes around Las Vegas
Can You Drive in Nevada With a Foreign License?
When it comes to driving in the United States with a foreign license, the laws differ in every state. In Nevada, if you plan to drive with a foreign license, you will need an accompanying international driving permit (IDP) to present to law enforcement if you’re pulled over. If you want to drive in Las Vegas or anywhere in Nevada, you should make sure to have your driver’s license from your home country, an IDP, and your passport on you at all times.
If you want to apply for an international driving permit, you can do so online here. There is a $20 application fee and you should make sure that you apply at least two weeks before leaving your home country because that’s how long it usually takes to come in the mail. Once you have an IDP, it is valid for one full year.
Is It Safe to Drive a Motorcycle in Las Vegas?
In general, the roads in Las Vegas are maintained very well and there is ample signage that will tell you where to go. However, driving in Las Vegas is more dangerous than most other places in the United States due to reckless drivers. Drivers in Las Vegas are far more likely to be involved in a motor vehicle accident than most other places in the country. A lot of this has to do with drunk driving and the party atmosphere of the city. When you’re driving in Las Vegas, it’s best to be aware of your surroundings at all times and drive very cautiously.
In terms of violent crime in Las Vegas, you shouldn’t have too much to worry about as long as you don’t wander too far from the Vegas Strip at night. The side streets around the Strip are not very well-lit at night and can be dangerous. So, if you’re driving around Las Vegas at night, it’s best to stick to the Strip. However, it’s probably better to just avoid driving at night at all.
Where Can You Rent a Motorbike in Las Vegas?
If you plan on flying into Las Vegas, you’ll probably arrive at McCarran International Airport, which is located in Paradise, Nevada but is the closest airport to Las Vegas. You won’t’ be able to find motorcycle hire at the actual airport; however, there are several rental shops just a short distance away.
Once you’re in the city, just like everything else you might want to find, the best place to look for motorcycle rental is on the Strip. You can walk down the Strip and probably find motorcycle hire in a matter of minutes as long as you don’t get distracted by a casino or a burlesque show. Also, hotel employees in Las Vegas are typically extremely accommodating, so asking them where to find motorbike rental is probably a good move.
Where Are the Best Places to Ride a Motorcycle Around Las Vegas?
Now that you’re fully prepared to find your perfect rental motorbike in Las Vegas, here are some of the best places in the area to go for a ride:
Red Rock Canyon
Drive 15 minutes out of Las Vegas and visit Red Rock Canyon State Park. The park offers 13 miles of cliffside roads with incredible views of the canyon. Just make sure to take it slow because the roads can get pretty windy at times. If you want to hop off your motorcycle for a bit, the park is also home to some outstanding hiking trails.
Lake Mead to Valley of Fire
If you have a few hours to dedicate to one of the most amazing scenic drives you’ll see in your life, drive 20 minutes out of Las Vegas to Lake Mead North Shore. From there, you can drive the 100-mile route that ends at the spectacular Valley of Fire State Park. Both of these locations are extremely impressive, and the drive between them is nothing short of breathtaking. You’ll pass by Lake Mead, some massive cliffs, and vistas that make for incredible photos.
Mount Charleston
Most people don’t think of Nevada for its mountains, but Mount Charleston is an impressive natural landmark with some amazing peaks. It sits about 35 miles outside of the city of Las Vegas, but it’s well worth the journey. The road winds up Mount Charleston and you can see the surrounding landscape from all sides of the mountain. Plus, it’s a great place to escape the heat of the desert.
Hoover Dam
Located about 37 miles outside of Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam, one of the most impressive landmarks in the United States. The sheer size of the dam is rather impressive, and the looping road that leads around its perimeter gives you the opportunity to see this marvel of engineering from all angles.
Drive Through the Desert in Las Vegas
While most people spend most of their time in Las Vegas gambling and partying, which is definitely worth experiencing, you’d be missing out if you didn’t rent a motorcycle and explore the city and all of the amazing locations around it. If you want to make the most of your stay in Las Vegas, hop on a rental motorcycle and take a cruise through the desert.