Despite popular belief, you can’t do Las Vegas in a weekend. That’s true, at least, if you want to see it through the lens of a local. For the Las Vegas natives who tire of the same old must-see destinations touted on the Travel Channel, try these can’t-miss suburban highlights. They include nature spots, historical neighborhoods, parks, and libraries that are worth checking out.

Here’s your bucket list for the Las Vegas suburbs.

Centennial Hills — Visit an Orchard and a Nature Sanctuary

Located in the northwest corner of the Valley, Centennial Hills is a world away from The Strip. With rapidly-selling master-planned communities like Skye Canyon, a diverse range of single-family and multi-family homes (most of which are new construction), and family-friendly activities, Centennial Hills is a great neighborhood for Las Vegas newbies.

While in Centennial Hills, you can’t miss Gilcrease Orchard. This Las Vegas staple has been around for over 90 years. It’s a full-service orchard that allows locals to pick their own fresh produce like apples, peaches, butternut squash, and eggplant as well as pumpkins during the fall season. And while the orchard is closed during the winter, it opens for a few weeks in December for its annual Christmas celebration. During the event, children can visit Santa and Mrs. Claus; have some apple cider, donuts, or chili; and enjoy fun wagon rides.

Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary is also nearby. You can bring the kids to interact with tortoises, parrots, ducks, and other animals native to this nature haven.

Whitney — Hike Through the Nature Preserve

While Las Vegas may not be known for its nature spots, Clark County Wetlands Park in Whitney is among the most memorable. A trip to this park is a must when you want to escape the city and explore nature. The 210-acre park includes miles of paved and unpaved trails as well as a nature preserve that features three distinct desert habitats.

While hiking through the nature preserve, you’ll want to check out the Upper Diversion Weir Bridge that overlooks the Valley’s urban river and the Fremont cottonwood groves. In the fall, this is the place to watch the leaves change color.

Summerlin — Wander Through Sahara West Library

Without a doubt, Summerlin is the hottest master-planned community in Las Vegas, hitting top spots in national lists almost every year thanks to its resort-style amenities, home styles, and prime location. 

Just minutes away from Downtown Summerlin is Sahara West Library. Though the library has a sizable collection of children, youth, and adult books, Sahara West is really known for its gallery called The Studio. It hosts three to four exhibits a year right next door to the library’s used bookstore. Although there are many innovative local libraries in the Las Vegas area, this one really stands out because it used to be an art museum.

Mountain’s Edge — Experience the Wild West at Exploration Park

Located in Enterprise and part of the larger community, Mountain’s Edge is a master-planned community in the southwest that’s known for its community spirit and laid-back vibe. 

If you can’t make it to the desert attractions at Bonnie Springs Ranch, then your next best bet is checking out Exploration Park. This is a neighborhood must-see that the whole family will enjoy during your stay in Mountain’s Edge . Exploration Park is an 80-acre, western-themed park nestled at the base of the mountains. Although there are many parks in Las Vegas, this one is different not only for its numerous bike and walking trails that let explorers journey to the top of Exploration Peak for scenic views of the Valley, but also for its amenities and recreational facilities such as playgrounds and replicas of old western towns and Indian villages.

The park also has an archaeology dig site, an outdoor amphitheater, and water play areas. No matter what season, Exploration Park is a great place for a fun and educational outdoor family adventure.

Green Valley Ranch — Spend the Day at The District or Green Valley Ranch Resort

Green Valley Ranch is a centrally-located neighborhood in Henderson that’s known for its fun vibe, multiple recreational facilities, and numerous shopping options. One place you must visit in Green Valley Ranch is at the intersection of South Green Valley Parkway and Paseo Verde Parkway, where The District at Green Valley Ranch, Henderson Pavilion, Paseo Verde Library, and Henderson Multigenerational Center are all conveniently located.

Locals and visitors alike can enjoy a full day of shopping and dining at The District thanks to its walkable layout. Also, the Green Valley Ranch Resort Spa and Casino features gaming, dining, and salon and spa services, as well as a wide selection of entertainment options from concerts and live events to lounges, bars, and kids activities.

You also won’t want to miss the amazing Paseo Verde Library, with its modern design and unique facilities like a glass walled reading room, a staffed genealogy room, and a local coffee shop at its entrance.