Death Valley is a land of contrasts. Harsh and beautiful, it's both easy and difficult for me to understand its popularity. At first glance it seemed nothing more than a desert wasteland: just part of the long, hot drive to Vegas. When I took the time to look closer, I discovered a treasure trove of fascinating geological and human stories. I've visited the valley quite a few times now, and each time I learn more and discover more to learn.
If you're visiting Death Valley, you will face two main challenges. The first is that the valley is huge, and the various "attractions" require a good bit of time in the car to get from one to the other. You may only fit in a few each day, which brings me to the second challenge. This place is not an easy place to live, even for a day. Spending any length of time there will take it out of you. Besides being very hot most of the year, it is also very dry and can be prone to sand-filled wind and flash floods. I would avoid visiting during rare occasions of heavy rain, and be prepared to withstand nasty conditions if camping. Bring and remember to drink lots of water, even in the winter, or you may find yourself experiencing the unpleasant effects of dehydration.
I've compiled a list of the places I've managed to visit in this park to the left, and there are plenty more. I recommend stopping by the Furnace Creek visitor center to get a better idea of all that Death Valley has to offer.