Driving Time between Amarillo, Texas and Las Vegas, Nevada

A picture depicting driving

Road-tripping from Amarillo to Las Vegas: The Ultimate Guide

Are you planning a road trip from Amarillo, Texas to Las Vegas, Nevada? This drive can take you through some stunning landscapes of the southwestern United States. And the best part, it doesn't have to be a long and tiring journey. The time it takes to get from Amarillo to Las Vegas totally depends on the route you take and the traffic patterns you encounter.

Fastest and slowest routes

The two most popular routes for driving from Amarillo to Las Vegas are:

  • Route 66 and I-40 W: This 900-mile route is the fastest, taking roughly 14 hours with minimal stops. It is a straight line from Amarillo to Las Vegas, passing through Tucumcari, Albuquerque, and Gallup.
  • I-40 W and US-93 N: This route is slightly longer than Route 66, at approximately 940 miles. It takes roughly 15 hours and is the most popular route for truckers as it is the safest and has the most rest stops. The route passes through Kingman and Boulder City before reaching Las Vegas.

So, If you're in a hurry and want to shave off some time, go for Route 66. For those who want to break up the journey and take time to enjoy the stunning national parks and landscapes, I-40 W and US-93 N is the way to go.

Driving time based on traffic patterns

To give you a better idea of how long it will take to travel from Amarillo to Las Vegas, driving at peak time, expect to add roughly two to four hours to your journey. Meanwhile, traffic is lightest mid-morning and late at night, which can cut your journey time down by a couple of hours. During holidays and local events, expect traffic to be busier than usual.

Final thoughts

When driving from Amarillo, take into account not only the distance but also the varying landscapes and weather conditions. There is no doubt that both routes have plenty to offer, from breathtaking national parks to small Route 66 towns. So, depending on your preferences, you can choose which route works best. Just don't forget to pack snacks, entertainment, and plenty of water. Safe travels!