Day One - Los Angeles, California to Las Vegas, Nevada

A rainy day in Los Angeles was our signal that 'it was time to leave town'. We had hired a car in Los Angeles and drove over the mountains on Interstate 15 through Victorville, Barstow, and Baker. The weather soon cleared on the way. It was mid May and unbelievably there had been snow on the mountains which was beautiful. (Note: There is an opportunity to drive along a little of Route 66 which runs along side the freeway. We have done it in the past when the freeway was jammed.)

Los Angeles to Las Vegas

The drive is about 5 hours, including a quick lunch break, and the plan is to arrive in Las Vegas after 3pm, check-in time.

We stayed at centrally located Harrah's this trip. After checking in it was time to go to the casino bar and have our traditional 'Shirley Temple' and then look for a 5 cent video poker machine.

Tomorrow - In and around Las Vegas

Tip:

1. Stop for lunch at Barstow. There is a factory outlet on the west side of town. There are a number of restaurants or fast food places. We ate at Bob's Big Boy.

2. You will need a comfortable car.

3. When you get to Las Vegas and if you are staying at a hotel, use the valet services on your first night. Cost a few dollars and there is less hassle.

Websites: Route 66 - Barstow website for things to do, places to see and restaurants on Historic Route 66 - Click the link -  About Barstow & Route 66