Things to Do in Southern Highlands Las Vegas

Southern Highlands, a luxurious oasis in Southwestern Las Vegas, marries Mojave Desert vistas with world-class amenities, offering residents an exclusive escape just minutes from the Strip’s pulsating energy. Known for its upscale amenities and luxurious homes, this master-planned community not only allows residents to indulge in a cozy suburban lifestyle but also provides a slew of fun activities for all ages.

From scenic parks and family-friendly attractions to unique dining spots and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in and around this Las Vegas neighborhood.

In this piece, we explore the top things to do in Southern Highlands that residents of the community and visitors are sure to enjoy.

OUTDOOR FUN IN LAS VEGAS

Southern Highlands is a premier destination for those who appreciate the perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. This master-planned community brings its residents within striking distance of various parks, trails, and recreational spaces that evoke one’s inner adventurer to come out and soak in the grandeur of the Mojave.

Several outdoor things to do in Southern Highlands involve finding a serene spot to unwind, a challenging trail to explore, or savoring a day of relaxed but intense competition on the fairways.

Here are some of the top spots in Southern Highlands for outdoor fun and relaxation.

Southern Highlands Community Park — This beautifully maintained park is a favorite among locals, featuring a variety of amenities perfect for a family day out. With multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, and open fields, there’s plenty of space for children to run around and explore.
The park also offers sports courts and walking trails, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and activity. The shaded areas and well-kept facilities ensure a comfortable and safe environment for everyone.
Exploration Peak Park — Located just a short drive from Southern Highlands, Exploration Peak Park is a must-visit for families who love adventure. The park features a range of hiking trails with scenic vistas. The summit of Exploration Peak rewards hikers who manage to reach it with stunning panoramic views of the Las Vegas Valley.
For younger explorers, the park has a themed playground, splash pad, and plenty of open spaces for running and playing. The interpretive displays throughout the park provide educational insights into the area’s history and natural environment.
Southern Highlands Golf Club — This private, world-class golf course offers a challenging yet rewarding experience set against the backdrop of the Las Vegas skyline and surrounding mountains.
The course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Jr., features lush fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and pristine greens, providing an exceptional golfing experience. The club also offers fine dining and a luxurious clubhouse, making it a perfect retreat to cap a day of golf.
Southern Highlands Trail System — This network of trails winds through the community, offering scenic views and a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The trails are suitable for all fitness levels, making them a great choice for a family-friendly outing. Plus, the trails are pet-friendly, so you can bring along your four-legged family members when you go walking, jogging, or biking.
These outdoor spots in Southern Highlands provide endless opportunities for fun, adventure, and indulgence under the Nevada sun Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely picnic or a challenging hike, Southern Highlands offers the perfect outdoor destinations for your family.

SHOPPING AND DINING

The Las Vegas Strip, with its multitude of world-class dining, retail, and entertainment establishments, may just be around 12 miles north via I-15 but Southern Highlands has its own set of dining and shopping options that are just a short walk or ride away. The area is home to a variety of eateries and boutiques, blending local charm with upscale offerings.

Here are some of the best places to eat and shop in Southern Highlands.

Southern Highlands Marketplace — This bustling shopping center is the heart of retail and dining in Southern Highlands. The Marketplace offers a mix of popular chain stores and local boutiques, making it a convenient destination for all your shopping needs.
Spaghetty Western — This family-friendly Italian restaurant offers a fun and relaxed dining experience with a twist. The menu features classic Italian dishes with a Southwestern flair, such as spaghetti with chili or pizza topped with jalapeños. The restaurant’s playful theme and hearty portions make it a hit among both adults and kids, providing a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Craft Kitchen — Located just a short drive from Southern Highlands, Craft Kitchen is a must-visit for brunch enthusiasts. Known for its creative menu and fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Craft Kitchen offers a wide range of dishes from decadent pancakes to savory breakfast bowls in a stylish yet casual setting.
The Local — This cozy and sophisticated spot is perfect for wine enthusiasts and casual sippers alike. It offers an extensive selection of carefully curated wines from around the world in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening with friends or a place to unwind after a long day, The Local Wine Bar combines exceptional wines with a welcoming ambiance, making it a go-to destination in the Southern Highlands community.
Mama Bird Southern Kitchen — This is a standout spot for those craving Southern comfort food with a modern twist. Known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant offers a menu brimming with hearty, homestyle dishes like fried chicken, smoked brisket, and shrimp and grits cooked using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The cozy interior, complete with rustic decor and a laid-back vibe, makes Mama Bird a perfect place to enjoy a casual meal with family and friends.

FUN FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Southern Highlands offers a variety of activities that cater to every member of the family. Enjoy a day outdoors, go on an educational tour, or simply visit a place where kids get to play and explore, Southern Highlands has plenty of options that are both engaging and enjoyable.

From splash pads to playgrounds, here are some of the top family-friendly activities in Southern Highlands:

Goett Family Park — Compared to Southern Highlands Community Park, this public space offers a more peaceful setting for families with younger children. The park has a cozy playground where kids may climb, slide, and swing. The walking paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll and the picnic spots offer a tranquil place for a snack or a relaxed afternoon.
Storytime at Windmill Library — This community library offers regular storytime sessions that are perfect for young children. These sessions, held in a comfortable and welcoming environment, are designed to engage children with fun and interactive stories. The library also offers other family-friendly programs, including arts and crafts, educational workshops, and special events.
Southern Highlands Prep School Playground — Open to the community after school hours, the playground at Southern Highlands Prep School features modern, safe equipment and a great venue for local kids to run and play.
Children’s Discovery Museum — An approximately 30-minute ride going north via I-15 will bring you to this remarkable family attraction in Downtown Las Vegas. This interactive museum is a treasure trove of exhibits where children learn through play, making it an ideal destination for a family day trip.

CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL ACTIVITIES

While known for its luxury and leisure, Southern Highlands in Las Vegas also offers enriching cultural experiences that allow residents and visitors to connect with the history, art, and heritage of the region.

Whether you’re interested in exploring museums, visiting cultural sites, or watching artists perform, Southern Highlands and its nearby areas provide opportunities to delve into the cultural fabric of Las Vegas.

Here are some cultural activities and sites to explore.

Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas — This museum located just a short drive from Southern Highlands offers an immersive journey into the history and culture of the Silver State, from its indigenous cultures to its development as a mining hub and beyond.
Springs Preserve — Located on the site of the original Las Vegas Springs, a critical water source for the city’s early inhabitants, Springs Preserve is a cultural and historical site that’s easily accessible and well worth the visit. Integral parts of the 180-acre Springs Preserve complex include the Origen Museum, which showcases exhibits on the Las Vegas Valley’s natural and cultural history, and the earlier-mentioned Nevada State Museum which focuses on a broader historical perspective of the entire state. Botanical gardens, walking trails, and live performances complete the experience at this site, making it a vibrant cultural hub where history, art, and nature converge.
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts — Just a short drive from Southern Highlands, this state-of-the-art facility hosts a wide range of world-class cultural performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, ballet, and opera, in a sophisticated setting.
The National Atomic Testing Museum — Commonly known as The Atomic Museum, this unique educational institution offers a unique glimpse into the history of nuclear testing in Nevada and its impact on the world through immersive displays and interactive exhibits. It’s situated in the Paradise area near the University of Nevada, Las Vegas campus.
Clark County Museum — Going east toward Henderson, you’ll find this museum complex which offers a comprehensive look at the history of Southern Nevada, from its early Native American inhabitants to the development of Las Vegas as a modern city. Part of it is Heritage Street which features restored historic buildings, including homes, a print shop, and a railroad depot, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Art shows and local galleries — Southern Highlands and its surrounding areas also host a variety of art shows and local galleries that showcase the work of Las Vegas artists. One of the most prominent art events in Las Vegas is the First Friday Art Walk, a monthly activity held in Downtown Las Vegas where local artists proudly display their artwork amid live music and food kiosks.
Other amazing museums and galleries that are easily accessible from Southern Highlands are
Cultural walks at Exploration Peak Park — While primarily known for its recreational offerings, Exploration Peak Park also provides an opportunity to engage with the history of the region through interpretive displays. As visitors hike the trails or explore the park, they also learn about the early settlers, Native American history, and the natural environment of Southern Nevada.

EXCITING COMMUNITY ENTERTAINMENT

Southern Highlands in Las Vegas is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, family fun seekers, and cultural explorers but also a vibrant hub for entertainment.

The community hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year that bring people together for music, celebration, and fun.

Here are some of the top entertainment activities and events in Southern Highlands:

Southern Highlands Fall Festival — One of the most anticipated annual events in the community, this family-friendly celebration features live music, food trucks, carnival games, and a variety of vendors offering local crafts and goods at the Southern Highlands Community Park. The event also includes activities for kids, such as face painting, pumpkin decorating, and a petting zoo, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.
Music in the Park Series — The warmer months form the perfect setting for the Music in the Park series in Southern Highlands, a popular event that invites locals to enjoy live music under the stars. Held at the Southern Highlands Community Park, these free concerts showcase local talent and touring performers sharing music from a range of genres including rock, pop, jazz, and classical tunes.
Southern Highlands Farmers Market — While primarily known as a destination for fresh produce and local goods, the Southern Highlands Farmers Market also serves as a vibrant community gathering place. Held regularly at the Southern Highlands Marketplace, the market features live music, food stalls, and activities for kids, creating a festive atmosphere. The market is a great place to shop for artisanal products, enjoy a meal from a food truck, and listen to local musicians perform, all while supporting local businesses and artisans.
Southern Highlands Winter Festival and Tree Lighting — This cherished community tradition marks the beginning of the Yuletide season. Held at the Southern Highlands Community Park, the event features the lighting of a beautifully decorated tree, live entertainment, and a visit from Santa Claus. Families may also enjoy holiday treats, hot cocoa, and festive music.
Movies at the Park — Goett Family Park becomes a sea of blankets and lawn chairs when Southern Highlands residents converge in the area for a night at the outdoor cinema. The event is free and open to the public, making it an accessible and enjoyable evening for moviegoers.

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS WITH LAS VEGAS’ TOP REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS

Southern Highlands, Las Vegas isn’t just a place to live—it’s a thriving community with a welcoming atmosphere and fun activities for everyone. Most importantly, it’s the perfect place to call home.

To help you find your home in Southern Highlands, trust in the guidance and expertise of FS Realty & Property Management. Our team ensures a stress-free and rewarding experience all throughout your home-buying journey. Call 702.754.5400, send us an email, or contact us here to start.

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