Pack your charger—Laughlin, Nevada, is calling, and it’s every bit as photogenic as you’d hope. Here, the shimmering Colorado River slices through the Mojave Desert, framed by rugged mountains that shift hues with the changing light. This dramatic landscape isn’t just a backdrop—it’s an adventure waiting to be captured. Whether you’re jet skiing across sunlit waters or uncovering ancient petroglyphs every moment is primed for your feed. Get ready to explore, snap and turn your followers into Laughlin fans.
Captivating, On-the-Water Snapshots and Experiences
The Colorado River is the lifeblood of Laughlin, providing endless ways to make a splash—both in the water and on your feed. More than just a resource, this legendary river sustains 40 million people and creates breathtaking escapes, making it a must-see, must-post destination in the Southwest. Stretching over 1,400 miles from the Rocky Mountains to the Gulf of California, it fuels adventure—whether you're rafting rapids, casting a line or capturing a serene sunset.
Just beyond the resorts, Lake Mohave’s 200 miles of shoreline hide secluded coves and scenic inlets, perfect for capturing that dreamy, off-the-grid vibe. Access to Lake Mohave is easiest through Katherine Landing Marina, located on Arizona side of the lake. With its vibrant marina, boat rentals and pristine campgrounds, Katherine Landing is a great base, whether you’re wakeboarding at sunrise, diving into clear waters or fishing against a golden desert backdrop. From ancient petroglyphs in the nearby Spirit Mountain Wilderness to a quiet retreat on the lake’s edge, it’s an unforgettable experience that’s as Instagrammable as it is peaceful.
About 45 miles north, Cottonwood Cove offers a resort-style escape with boat rentals, picnic spots and RV-friendly amenities—so you can stay, play and snap the ultimate lake-life content.
Whether you’re chasing high-speed thrills or a peaceful shoreline escape, Laughlin’s waterways offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Capture every moment aboard Laughlin River Tours’ Grand Celebration, a yacht offering scenic daytime cruises and elegant sunset dinner experiences. Snap selfies with a custom cocktail in hand inside the climate-controlled cabin, or head to the open-air top deck for panoramic views. As the riverfront resorts light shimmers on the water and the colorful sunset reflects off the lake, the dramatic mountain range in the distance creates a picture-perfect backdrop for your feed.
Jet through history at over 40 mph! Take a London Bridge Jet Boat Tour through Topock Gorge, where you’ll speed past volcanic rock faces, emerald waters, ancient petroglyphs and desert wildlife—all leading up to the legendary London Bridge. Back in 1968, in an extraordinarily bold tourism move, a portion of the original London Bridge was shipped piece by piece to the Arizona desert and rebuilt over Lake Havasu. What started as a wild idea is now an iconic bucket-list destination—and a fun piece of history to share with your followers!
Breathtaking Near-the-Water Spots
If you prefer to stay dry while still taking in Laughlin’s scenic views, stroll along the Laughlin Riverwalk for serene waters and mountain backdrops or venture to Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area, where golden sands meet turquoise waters in a secluded riverside paradise.
The beach at Harrah's Laughlin Beach Resort & Casino is an oasis in the desert that’s open through sunset, featuring a tropical blend of palm trees, blue waters and golden sands. Grab a beachside beverage or hop on a personal watercraft and strike a pose for your feed!
For stunning photo ops, you can’t beat the iconic Davis Dam, nestled between Arizona and Nevada, offers breathtaking views of Lake Mohave and the surrounding desert, making it a perfect spot for wide-angle shots, sunset photos and wildlife captures. You’ll find endless opportunities for stunning, Instagram-worthy shots, especially during golden hour.
Davis Dam’s view from the Colorado River Heritage Greenway Park and Trails offers several prime vantage points for photos. Head to the north end of the park for stunning views of the dam framed by the surrounding desert landscape. In addition to the iconic dam views, the park provides scenic trails and a wealth of historical landmarks, including remnants of worker camps from the dam’s construction.
Ancient Art, Classic Cars & Wild West Charm
Beyond the river and casinos are some surprising things to do in Laughlin that make for a lot of fun for your feed. Step back in time at Grapevine Canyon Petroglyphs, where centuries-old rock carvings created by indigenous peoples adorn the rugged canyon walls. If you visit after a winter thaw or an early spring rain, you might even catch a rare, seasonal waterfall cascading down the rocks.
Just a short ride from Laughlin’s resort hub, the Laughlin Labyrinths are an ideal spot for capturing enchanting desert content. With nine unique stone mazes set against the Mojave Desert, you’ll have endless opportunities to snap artistic shots of the intricate labyrinth designs and the expansive, serene landscape.
Hit your viewers with a dose of nostalgia at Don Laughlin’s Classic Car Museums inside Don Laughlin Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, displaying over 80 vintage and exotic cars in a retro setting that’s a dream for auto enthusiasts and content creators alike. Take some artistic pictures of gleaming chrome and neon casino reflections on polished hoods or pose beside rare luxury rides.
For even more incredible Americana content, visit a genuine ghost town, Oatman, on the historic Route 66. The town’s most famous locals are ready to delight your followers – free-roaming burros who make for adorable photo shoot subjects. You can even capture a reenactment of a Wild West heist in this incredible blast from the past.
Fun Spots for Stunning Shots Along the Laughlin Strip
Laughlin’s skyline—a strip of neon-lit resorts along the crystal-blue Colorado River—offers plenty of fun, photogenic spots for capturing memorable moments.
The River Rick Marquee at The New Pioneer is a nod to Laughlin’s retro charm and Instagram-worthy homage to the Wild West. This cowboy figure is a significant part of Laughlin's legacy and a prime subject for that nostalgic, neon-lit shot.
If you like chronicling a beautiful meal, make a reservation at The Gourmet Room in Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino. The spellbinding view of the Colorado River provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing mouthwatering dishes like oysters on the half shell, roasted rack of lamb for two and crème brûlée—all paired with a glass from the extensive wine list (record that toast to a great meal, of course!), featuring selections from around the world as well as top American labels.
At Aquarius Casino Resort, the mesmerizing underwater-themed ceiling in the lobby provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop, perfect for photos and videos that transport your followers beneath the waves.
Over at Golden Nugget Laughlin, the atrium offers a serene escape, with lush greenery, soothing water features and natural light—ideal for capturing a peaceful, refreshing moment.
Add a pop of color to your posts with a visit to Pinkbox Doughnuts at Edgewater Casino Resort, and brighten your grid with bright pink walls, neon signage and quirky decor—including giant sprinkles on the ceiling and a backdrop that reads, “Donut Lick the Wall.”
And don’t miss out on the statue honoring the destination's visionary founder, Don Laughlin. Located at the intersection of Casino Drive and the Laughlin Bridge, this landmark is a must-stop for selfies with Laughlin’s namesake.
No matter what fills your albums—from refreshing river adventures to exciting desert escapes, to slices of Laughlin’s unique history and culture—your Laughlin trip will be unforgettable. Once you’re done capturing the beauty of the destination, fuel up for more fun with an all-you-can-eat feast at one of Laughlin’s incredible buffets. Continue exploring the outdoor beauty of this remarkable destination by camping beneath the desert sky at Laughlin’s scenic campgrounds or RV parks.
