A Guide to Summerlin’s Best Activities and Destinations

Nestled on the western edge of Las Vegas, Summerlin is a master-planned community offering an exceptional quality of life and a wealth of exciting attractions and activities to enjoy year-round. Here, sun-drenched days meet panoramic Red Rock Canyon vistas, creating a breathtaking backdrop for everyday adventures. From championship golf courses to miles of scenic trails, Summerlin offers an unparalleled blend of outdoor recreation and easy access to first-rate amenities.

A vibrant, walkable downtown district, top-tier recreational opportunities, and unforgettable cultural events solidify Summerlin’s position as a premier address for those seeking an unsurpassed lifestyle minutes away from the dazzling lights and iconic destinations of The Strip.

Looking for the best places to visit and things to do in Summerlin? On this page, we uncover some hidden gems and shine the spotlight on all of the best activities and destinations you can enjoy in this master-planned community.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Hiking

With a vast network of picturesque, well-maintained trails meandering throughout the area, hiking is one of the best things to do in Summerlin. Summerlin’s neighborhood villages are connected by over ten miles of trails linked to the I-215 Beltway Trail, with more on the horizon. Once complete, Summerlin’s regional trail system will be connected to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area’s vast network of trails.

Visit this page for maps and more information on Summerlin’s existing and planned trails.

The Hiking Trails of Red Rock Canyon

Summerlin is a quick 15-minute drive away from the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, a world-class haven for hiking with miles of trails providing endless opportunities to explore dramatic scenery and diverse ecosystems.

Red Rock Canyon visitors can enjoy a scenic trek through stunning desert landscapes with shady canyons and dramatic red sandstone cliffs, providing an unforgettable outdoor experience. Whether you’re looking forward to a relaxing hike with the family or a challenging yet fulfilling adventure, the trails at Red Rock Canyon offer a spectrum of experiences designed to cater to all levels of exploration.

Here are some of the best trails for you to explore:

• Calico Hills Trail (1.5 miles roundtrip). Ideal for both casual exploration and serious climbing, this short trail lets you wander the base of the colorful Calico Hills and provides access to many of the best rock climbing routes within Red Rock Canyon.
• Keystone Thrust (2.4 miles). This trail caters to both birdwatchers and trail runners, while simultaneously offering a fascinating glimpse into Red Rock Canyon’s past. Hikers get breathtaking views of exposed sections of the Pacific and North American continental plates lining Keystone Thrust. The collision of these plates resulted in the formation of the towering Sierra Nevada mountains and the very landscape of Red Rock Canyon itself.
• La Madre Spring (3.6 miles). The initial leg of the La Madre Spring Trail follows Rock Gap Road for a mile. Hikers then descend beneath a dramatic sandstone cliff band, ultimately reaching the spring itself. This perennial source of water sustains a diverse array of wildlife observable throughout the year. The canyon boasts a dense vegetation community, with scrub oaks dominating the landscape alongside cacti, juniper, and pinyon pine stands.
• Bridge Mountain (15.8 miles). If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding hike, look no further than the Bridge Mountain Trail, the crown jewel of Red Rock Canyon. This day hike is a bucket-list adventure for serious desert mountaineers. The trek starts in a vibrant pinyon-juniper forest, gradually ascending to a vast slick rock bench. From there, you’ll conquer a sandstone peak adorned with a weathered natural arch near its summit. While the journey can be strenuous, the Bridge Mountain Trail culminates in breathtaking 360-degree panoramas encompassing the entire Las Vegas Valley, making the effort worthwhile.

For trail maps and other information, visit Red Rock Canyon’s website.

Parks and Green Spaces

The master-planned community prioritizes extensive green space, with nearly a third of its area dedicated to open space, which means you’ll never run out of fun things to do outdoors in Summerlin! Each village is strategically centered around a major park or golf course, offering easy access to a wealth of recreational opportunities including everything from playgrounds and swimming pools to lighted sports fields and courts for basketball, tennis, volleyball, soccer, baseball, and football. With over 150 existing neighborhood and village parks, Summerlin’s dedication to outdoor recreation continues to grow alongside the community itself.

Here’s a look at some of the most popular parks you can visit in Summerlin.

• Arbors Tennis & Play Park. For tennis players and enthusiasts, Arbor Tennis and Play Park serves as the heart of Summerlin’s vibrant tennis scene. The park hosts Summerlin’s renowned youth and adult tennis programs and features five lighted outdoor courts and a fully stocked pro shop. Beyond the courts, Arbor Tennis and Play Park offers a variety of amenities for the whole family, including a unique custom-built tricycle track for toddlers in “Arborville,” a scenic picnic pavilion, a lighted basketball court, and open play areas for all to enjoy.
• Gardens Park. Spanning 18 acres, Gardens Park features well-maintained amenities catering to a variety of activities, including basketball, tennis, volleyball, bocce ball, horseshoes, and shuffleboard. Playgrounds keep younger visitors entertained, while expansive lawns provide space for picnics and outdoor gatherings. Convenient picnic pavilions offer shaded seating, and the adjoining Gardens Community Center hosts a diverse range of classes and programs for residents.
• Fox Hill Park. Always a popular hit with the kids, Fox Hill Park in Paseos Village spans 18 acres and is designed with an “adventure play” theme. The park boasts an impressive array of play structures including a daring 32-foot climbing tower, a zip line, and the Orange Beast, a giant climbing structure. The park also features a disc golf course, custom swings, and a spinning machine, guaranteeing hours of entertainment for children of all ages.
• Willows Park. Encompassing 4.6 acres, Willows Park caters to a variety of recreational needs. The park features a multi-sport facility featuring two lighted softball fields, a full-sized lighted basketball court, and a children’s play area. A scenic linear park winds through the village, offering a walking or jogging trail and another playground for residents to enjoy. Whimsical oversized sculptures depicting Aesop’s Fables like “The Lion and The Mouse” and “The Tortoise and The Hare” add a touch of charm along the walkways.

Golf

Avid golfers living in Summerlin enjoy easy access to several world-class courses designed by renowned golf course architects. No wonder golf is one of the most popular things to do in Summerlin! With its collection of acclaimed courses, Summerlin caters to golfers of all skill levels, offering a diverse range of experiences.

Below are several top-rated golf courses in Summerlin.

• Bear’s Best Las Vegas. Legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus handpicked 18 of his most captivating holes from his global portfolio of 270 designs to create Bear’s Best Las Vegas. This high-end daily fee course boasts meticulously manicured bent grass greens, challenging layouts, and pristine tee and fairway complexes, offering an unforgettable Las Vegas golf experience.
• Red Rock Country Club, The Arroyo Course. Nestled amidst the dramatic Red Rock Canyon, Arroyo Golf Course seamlessly winds through rugged desert landscapes. This acclaimed course caters to all skill levels, with its manicured fairways creating a stunning contrast against the raw desert beauty. Nevada’s year-round sunshine makes Arroyo the perfect golf destination any time.
• Palm Valley. The Palm Valley course features a classic layout over gently rolling terrain with meticulously maintained fairways, bunkers, and expansive, subtly contoured greens. The course is surrounded by panoramic mountain vistas, making it one of the most scenic courses in the region.
• Highland Falls. A favorite for countless golfers, the Highland Falls course boasts breathtaking panoramic views and is ideal for novice players and experts. A two-time winner of the Las Vegas Review-Journal’s Best of Las Vegas award, Highland Falls boasts panoramic vistas that have captivated national publications and graced major ad campaigns and television segments. Hole 14, in particular, offers a breathtaking Las Vegas panorama.
• Eagle Crest. For a quick and challenging round, Eagle Crest is an executive course perfect for players on a time-sensitive schedule. The par 60 course lets you play 18 holes in under three hours, with affordable rates and a mix of par 4s and 3s to test all your clubs.

For more information on Summerlin’s golf courses, head to this page.

ARTS AND CULTURE

While the bright lights of Las Vegas beckon nearby, Summerlin offers a quieter side of artistic expression. From renowned dance companies to exhibitions and workshops, there’s a vibrant assortment of cultural attractions and events to discover.

Summerlin Library and Performing Arts Center

Opened in 1993, the Summerlin Library and Performing Arts Center houses a massive collection of over 130,000 volumes and features an art gallery, meeting rooms, and a 291-seat performing arts center.

Part of the 40,000-plus-square foot facility is the Donald W. Reynolds Cultural Center home to Nevada Ballet Theatre’s professional company, academy, administrative staff, and costume and scenery departments. It features six dance studios with pianos and sprung floors, plus a dedicated tap studio for enhanced acoustics.

Summerlin Festival of Arts

Every October, the Summerlin Festival of Arts dazzles large crowds with the works of more than a hundred celebrated fine artists, chosen by a panel of renowned art experts. The three-day open-air festival transforms The Lawn at Downtown Summerlin into a celebration of artistic expression.

In addition to browsing the curated collection of fine art for sale, visitors can enjoy live art demonstrations, cultural presentations, a farmer’s market, artist meet and greets, children’s activities, a car show, and more.

Visit this page for more information about the festival.

SHOPPING AND DINING

Downtown Summerlin blends the excitement of retail therapy with the relaxed charm of a vibrant community hub. Here, sun-kissed walkways meander past a diverse collection of over 125 stores, catering to every taste and budget.

Anchored by renowned names like Macy’s and Dillard’s, Downtown Summerlin offers a treasure trove of possibilities. Whether you seek the latest designer trends at Anthropologie or the perfect score at the PGA Tour Superstore, you’ll find it all under the open Nevada sky.

Craving a post-shopping refuel? Downtown Summerlin boasts a delectable array of restaurants guaranteed to impress even foodies with the pickiest of palates. Some of the must-visit restaurants in Downtown Summerlin are:

• Harlo Steakhouse & Bar. Immerse yourself in timeless elegance at Harlo, one of the top steakhouses in Summerlin. Conceptualized in the 1960s, Harlo offers an elevated dining experience for discerning diners. Chef/Partner Gina Marinelli curates a menu featuring expertly sourced beef and beautifully crafted dishes, ensuring an unforgettable Las Vegas evening.
• Maggiano’s Little Italy. Craving a taste of Italy? Maggiano’s Little Italy in Summerlin brings the warmth of family gatherings to your plate. Savor generous portions of made-from-scratch Southern Italian specialties, from homemade pasta to fresh seafood and prime steaks. With a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that caters to all appetites, Maggiano’s is perfect for a casual night out or a special occasion.
• SkinnyFATS. Indulge in guilt-free indulgence at SkinnyFATS, a Las Vegas favorite known for its innovative “Healthy” and “Happy” menus. This vibrant restaurant offers a laid-back vibe and a flavor-forward casual gourmet experience. With a new location in the heart of Summerlin’s shopping and dining scene, SkinnyFATS boasts a dual indoor-outdoor space adorned with local art. Enjoy fresh cold-pressed juices, kombucha, or craft beers on tap alongside their delicious menu options.
• Trattoria Reggiano. Step into Trattoria Reggiano and be whisked away to a charming Italian streetside cafe. Their casual atmosphere, both indoors and on the patio, invites you to unwind with a glass of wine or beer. Savor chef-inspired Italian fare, with a mix of classic and contemporary dishes on their brunch, lunch, and dinner menus. Their signature “Filet Mignon” meatballs and homemade garlic rolls are a must-try. Live music Wednesdays through Saturdays adds to the vibrant ambiance, while their renowned Ladies’ Night makes Wednesdays even more special. Here, fresh, local ingredients are transformed into a delicious celebration of Italian food and family.
• La Neta Cocina Y Lounge. La Neta, meaning “The Truth” in Mexican slang, delivers a truly unique experience. Escape to their modern take on Mexican cuisine, featuring innovative dishes like the “WTF,” a four-pound braised short rib with Manchego polenta and crispy onions, and the “Lobsta” taco, a whole butter poached Maine lobster with fennel citrus slaw and roasted corn puree wrapped in a delectable cheese-stuffed tortilla. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere – a lush jungle-inspired dining room or a Tulum-esque lounge. La Neta caters to every mood, with happy hour bites, late-night DJs, and bottle service for an unforgettable evening in Downtown Summerlin.

EVENTS

There’s always something fun to look forward to when you’re living in Summerlin thanks to a stellar lineup of community events for all ages.

Stay healthy and active by getting a complimentary Fitness on The Lawn class. Choose from yoga, barre, or high-intensity interval training courtesy of TruFusion Summerlin, lululemon, and other local organizations. Unwind under the open sky and soak in the stunning Las Vegas sunsets as you find your center.

Celebrate cultural diversity at the Lei Day Parade, a lively celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage. Witness captivating performances by local dance companies, adorned in traditional attire, and experience the spirit of Aloha firsthand.

Join the New Vista Wine Walk and sample delectable wines at over 18 tasting stations, mingle with friends, and enjoy live entertainment – all while supporting a local charity dedicated to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Unwind and enjoy captivating performances at Summerlin Sounds, Downtown Summerlin’s summer concert series. The Lawn becomes a stage for spectacular performances by local artists and bands. Families can enjoy kids’ activities nearby, while refreshing cocktails are available for purchase if you need a respite from the summer heat.

For a taste of local bounty, explore the Las Vegas Farmers Market. Held at The Pavilion at Downtown Summerlin, this market overflows with fresh produce sourced directly from the Southwest. Find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisan breads, handcrafted sweets, and beautiful flowers – the perfect way to stock your pantry and support local vendors.

For more information on Summerlin’s community events, visit this page.

FIND YOUR DREAM HOME IN SUMMERLIN TODAY WITH FS Realty & Property Management

These are just some of the many incredible places to visit and things to do in Summerlin!

If you’re interested in investing in this coveted master-planned community, our elite team of Las Vegas real estate experts from FS Realty & Property Management is ready to go above and beyond to help you realize your goals.

As one of the top-rated full-service real estate brokerages and property management teams in the area, you can count on our wealth of experience, deep local expertise, and unparalleled service to achieve your real estate dreams in the Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada area.

Get in touch with us today by calling 702.754.5400 or sending an email. You can also leave us a message here. We’d love to hear from you.