Looking for an easy escape from Las Vegas or a quirky pit stop on I-15? Head to Primm! This small desert resort town offers casino thrills, outlet shopping, family fun, and Wild West vibes—all just steps from the California border. Whether you're into roller coasters, live shows, or budget-friendly indulgence, Primm is a surprising slice of roadside fun.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Primm is during the fall and spring (March–May and September–November). These seasons offer milder desert temperatures, making it more pleasant to explore attractions or hit the road without the scorching summer heat.
My tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Primm is right off I-15, about 40 minutes south of Las Vegas and just over the California-Nevada state line.
- By Shuttle: Some Las Vegas resorts and tour companies offer shuttle services or tours with Primm stops.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas. From there, rent a car or take a shuttle to Primm.
Where I like to stay
- Primm Valley Resort & Casino – If you want a classic Vegas-style experience with a casino, pool, and easy access to shopping.
- Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino – Stay here for Wild West-themed fun, roller coasters, and a family-friendly vibe.
- Whiskey Pete’s Hotel & Casino – A budget-friendly option with an old-school charm and convenient gas station next door.
Top Attractions
1. Primm Mall
"Shop for outlet deals and enjoy a variety of retail options." - VI
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- What is Primm Mall?
- Primm Mall, formerly known as the Fashion Outlets of Las Vegas, is a shopping destination offering designer fashion items at unbeatable prices.
- What makes shopping at Primm Mall enjoyable?
- The mall features wide walkways and an easy-to-navigate circular layout, bringing shoppers back to their starting point.
- What designer outlets can be found at Primm Mall?
- Shoppers will find a great selection of designer brands, including:
- Kate Spade
- Hollister
- Where can shoppers find sneakers?
- Primm Mall has popular sneaker stores such as:
- Nike
- Converse
- Are there dining options available at Primm Mall?
- Yes! Shoppers can take a break and enjoy a meal or coffee at the Food Court, which offers options for all tastes.
Primm Mall, 32100 S. Las Vegas Blvd, Primm, NV 89019, Phone: 702 874 1400
2. Primm Valley Golf Club - Desert Course
"Play a challenging round surrounded by scenic desert landscapes." - VI
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- What is Primm Valley Golf Club - Desert Course?
- Primm Valley Golf Club - Desert Course is a challenging and scenic golf course designed by the renowned Tom Fazio.
- Who designed the Desert Course at Primm Valley Golf Club?
- The course was designed by Tom Fazio, one of the most talented golf course designers in the world.
- What makes the Desert Course unique?
- The course emerges as an oasis in the desert, featuring lush fairways and greens surrounded by the stark beauty of the desert.
- Players experience the natural challenges imposed by the desert landscape.
- When did the Desert Course open?
- The course officially opened in 1998.
- Is the course open year-round?
- Yes! The Desert Course offers year-round golfing.
- What facilities are available at Primm Valley Golf Club?
- The club offers:
- Golf tuition
- 22 acres of practice facilities
- Rental clubs
- Golf carts
Primm Valley Golf Club - Desert Course , 1 Yates Wells Rd, Primm, NV 92364, Phone: 702-679-5509
Romantic Ideas:
3. Whiskey Pete’s Rooms
I like:
"Stay in comfortable accommodations with easy access to nearby casinos." - VI
© Tomasz Zajda/stock.adobe.com
- What is Whiskey Pete’s?
- Whiskey Pete's is a casino and hotel located on the California/Nevada border, named after a legendary bootlegging gas station owner.
- When did Whiskey Pete’s open?
- The hotel originally opened in 1977.
- Has Whiskey Pete’s been renovated?
- Yes! The hotel has undergone a complete renovation, offering modern amenities.
- How many rooms does Whiskey Pete’s have?
- The hotel features 777 comfortable rooms and suites.
- What amenities does Whiskey Pete’s offer?
- Guests can enjoy:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Entertainment
- 4 dining venues
- How is Whiskey Pete’s connected to other resorts?
- The hotel is linked to Primm Valley Resort by a monorail over Interstate 15.
- There are also free shuttle buses connecting Whiskey Pete’s to other Primm resorts.
- What unique attraction is displayed in the hotel?
- Visitors can see the actual Bonnie and Clyde death car, which is displayed in the resort lobby.
Whiskey Pete's, 31900 S Las Vegas Blvd, Primm, NV 89019, Phone: 702-386-7867
4. Ivanpah Dry Lake
"Explore vast desert plains and enjoy thrilling land sailing adventures." - VI
© stock.adobe.com
- What is Ivanpah Dry Lake?
- Ivanpah Dry Lake is a 13-square-mile dry lake bed located in the Mojave Desert.
- Where is Ivanpah Dry Lake located?
- Although most of the lake lies in California, it is easily accessed from Primm, Nevada.
- What outdoor activities can be enjoyed at Ivanpah Dry Lake?
- The lake is a popular spot for kite-buggying and land-sailing, offering perfect wind conditions.
- What notable record was set at Ivanpah Dry Lake?
- In 2009, the World Land Speed Record for a wind-powered vehicle was set here.
- The Greenbird reached an incredible speed of 121.6 mph.
- Are there other recreational activities available?
- Visitors can enjoy limited hiking and picnicking.
- Are there any restrictions due to the climate?
- Due to high desert temperatures, hiking and picnicking are somewhat limited and temperature-dependent.
Ivanpah Dry Lake 89019
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Mojave National Preserve – Just a short drive away, explore dramatic desert landscapes, dunes, and Joshua trees.
Where to Eat
- Denny’s at Whiskey Pete’s – Classic comfort food and breakfast all day inside the hotel casino.
- Primm & Proper – Upscale casual dining at Primm Valley Resort with steaks, seafood, and hearty sides.
- La Salsa – Grab quick and tasty Mexican fare inside the Fashion Outlets food court.
If you are interested in local events:
- Star of the Desert Concerts – Major music acts and tribute bands perform throughout the year.
- Holiday Outlet Sales – Big savings and special promotions around Black Friday and holiday weekends.
- Car Meetups & Motorcycle Rallies – Occasional gearhead gatherings take place at Primm’s spacious parking lots.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Primm, Nevada:
- Seven Magic Mountains (25–30 min) – Marvel at large, brightly colored boulders stacked in the desert.
- Jean Dry Lake Bed (20–25 min) – Explore vast desert scenery popular for off-roading and photography.
- Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area (30 min) – Hike past ancient petroglyphs and scenic volcanic rock formations.
- Goodsprings (25–30 min) – Visit this historic mining town and grab a drink at the Pioneer Saloon, open since 1913.
- Ivanpah Dry Lake (5–10 min) – Watch land sailors glide across this massive dry lakebed used for wind-powered sports.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Primm located?
- Primm is located right on the border between Nevada and California, straddling the Interstate 15 just 44 miles south-west of Las Vegas.
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How does Primm compare to Las Vegas?
- Although there are four casino resorts at the heart of the town, Primm has a completely different atmosphere from Las Vegas and offers more outdoor activities to enjoy.
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Where can you go shopping in Primm?
- If you need to revamp your wardrobe, you can spend a few hours at the Fashion Outlets of Las Vegas, where big-name brands cost a lot less.
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What outdoor activities are available in Primm?
- There are two interesting golf courses to enjoy at the Primm Valley Resort, and a fun equestrian adventure awaits you at the Sandy Valley Ranch.
- Various exciting ATV and dirt-bike tours are available in the area.
At a Glance:
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the desert and nearby attractions. | Primm Valley Resort & Casino – Affordable stay with gaming and dining options. | Visit the Bonnie and Clyde Death Car Exhibit – See the infamous vehicle at Whiskey Pete’s. |
| Summer (June-August) – Hot temperatures, best for indoor attractions and shopping. | Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino – Budget-friendly accommodations with entertainment options. | Shop at Prizm Outlets – Find great deals at designer and name-brand stores. |
| Fall (September-November) – Cooler weather, perfect for outdoor activities and road trips. | Whiskey Pete’s Hotel & Casino – A classic stay with a historic Old West theme. | Take a day trip to Mojave National Preserve – Explore sand dunes, Joshua trees, and volcanic cinder cones. |
| Winter (December-February) – Mild temperatures, great for casino entertainment and nearby attractions. | Terrible’s Hotel & Casino – Simple accommodations for budget travelers. | Ride the Desperado Roller Coaster – Experience one of the tallest coasters in the U.S. |
Map:
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