Nevada is a state in Western United States that borders Oregon and Idaho to the northwest, California to the west and Arizona to the southeast. The state has a total area of 634,969 square miles and is the 7th-largest and 32nd-most populous, but the population density is among the lowest in the country. Its terrain consists of a variety of mountain ranges, deserts, lakes and rivers.
Nevada is home to a number of unusual and quirky attractions. For example, the Fly Ranch Geyser was formed by a test well dug by a power company. The geyser’s unique shape and colors are stunning. However, you must reserve a tour to visit the geyser, as it’s on private property.
For those who love train history, Nevada is the perfect place to visit. The state’s famous red rocks make for a striking landscape. Train enthusiasts will love the Nevada State Railroad Museum, which includes a 40-minute excursion in the cab with an engineer and head brakeman. Visitors can also view model railroads and learn about the history of the Nevada Southern Railway.
Reno is another fascinating place to visit in Nevada. Reno, often referred to as the ‘biggest little megacity in the world‘, is a city surrounded by Lake Tahoe, the Carson River, and the Sierra Nevada mountains. The city boasts several historic sites and is home to the state capitol complex. It is also home to several art centers and sports facilities.
Las Vegas
Whether you are looking for a thrill or a place to spend the day, Las Vegas has something for everyone. From incredible public art to world-class retail, you can find it all here. But there is more to Las Vegas than dazzling lights and bright neon signs. For more unique experiences, consider visiting the Seven Magic Mountains, a 10 mile drive from the Strip. Here, you will find the creations of Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone.
The Mob Museum, located in downtown Las Vegas, is one of the city’s most intriguing museums. The museum features interactive exhibits and a look into the history of gangsters in the city. This attraction is a must for history buffs and those looking to learn more about the history of Las Vegas.
You’ll also find a variety of world-class entertainment in Las Vegas. The T-Mobile Arena, a 20,000-seat arena, is an excellent place to enjoy a night out, especially if you’re into sports. The arena hosts many concerts and other events throughout the year, including big-name shows.
The Boulder City Historic District is full of art, antiques, and museums. The district was built to support the construction of the Hoover Dam in the 1930s and early ’40s, so it is rich in history. You can even take a self-guided tour to explore the buildings and explore the area. You can also take a dip in the water or try stand-up paddle board yoga on the shores of Lake Mead.
Reno
Reno is a big city that is both fun and entertainment-packed. With over 50 golf courses, and many breweries and nightclubs, this city has plenty to offer. For dining, Reno offers a wide variety of award-winning restaurants as well as many less-known spots. The city is also known for its entertainment options, including a variety of outdoor attractions and world-class casinos.
The city is surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, including the iconic Peavine Peak. The name of the mountain range comes from the pea vines that once covered the area. The area is also home to numerous archaeological sites, which include sites from the Northern Paiute and Washo tribes. These sites offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the city.
A visit to the city’s museums is another way to experience the city’s history. The second oldest museum in Nevada, the W. M. Keck Museum, is worth a visit. Reno is home to a variety of art, including murals and street art. Visitors can also visit the city’s famous aquarium.
The National Automobile Museum is another must-see in Reno. This museum features over 200 vintage cars, including the famous Mercury Series 9CM from 1949.
Black Rock Desert
Black Rock Desert is several hundred miles from major population centers. Traveling through the desert by car requires high-clearance vehicles and off-road tires. Motorized vehicles are permitted only on designated routes and are prohibited from driving on unvegetated areas of the playa. Visitors can get updates on road conditions from the Black Rock Field Office and Nevada Fire Info.
Travelers can enjoy a scenic drive on the Highland Ridge Wilderness Area and explore the ruins of the high rock. The area also contains many ancient trees, including bristlecone pines nearly 5,000 years old. Developed campsites are available at the Highland Ridge State Park, which is located next to the wilderness area. The Highland Ridge Wilderness Area offers hiking, biking, and backpacking opportunities.
The Black Rock Desert playa is the former bed of Lake Lahontan, which covered much of northwestern Nevada 15,000 years ago. It is a popular site for off-roading and amateur rocketry groups, and offers dramatic backdrops for outdoor activities. It is made up of limestone and volcanic rocks.
Travelers who are into art will be able to enjoy Burning Man in the area. The annual event attracts about 60,000 people each year. Visitors can take in the art and music scene, as well as the unique clothing worn by the participants. The festival is not for everyone, however, and there are other events and attractions to enjoy.
Lake Mead
There are a number of activities that visitors to Lake Mead can take part in. The area is home to many different kinds of fish, and visitors can enjoy fishing and boating on the water. Children can also participate in the scuba diving activities that are available on the lake. Visitors can make reservations to participate in these activities, and it is a good idea to do so ahead of time. You can also rent a houseboat on the lake.
For those interested in diving, there are numerous sandbars and ledges in the water around Lake Mead. Divers can also see a B-29 bomber that crashed into the lake in 1948. The aircraft, a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, was testing a prototype missile guidance system and crashed into the lake’s Overton Arm. It makes for an interesting photo opportunity.
Nearby attractions include Hoover Dam, which sits atop the lake. The area is known for its warm climate, with mild winters. This 1.5 million-acre lake serves as a reservoir for the Colorado River. During floods, Lake Mead can flood upstream, affecting Grand Wash Bay, Pearce Ferry Bay, and the Pearce Ferry launch ramp.
Whether you want to visit Lake Mead to view its rising waters, or hike the Colorado River, you will have plenty to choose from. Lake Mead is located near the historic Hoover Dam, which was completed in 1936. There are many guided tours at the dam, including helicopter, trike, and walking tours. The whole family will enjoy a tour of the dam.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a beautiful desert oasis located about 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. It features some of the Southwest’s most distinctive formations and is a popular tourist destination. The area is home to several hiking and rock climbing trails and offers breathtaking views of the area’s red sandstone walls.
The canyon’s natural features attract geologists. Its red rock formations are notable for their oxidized iron content. More than 190 million years old, these formations were formed when a dune was lithified during the Jurassic Era. Despite their age, they still retain their red color today due to the oxidation process that takes place within the rocks.
To visit the area, you’ll need to make reservations. The Scenic Loop Drive requires a $15 fee. The fee is waived if you have an America the Beautiful Parks Pass. Otherwise, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket for this ride. It’s a good idea to download a map before you go, as you’ll need it while driving around. Download the map from the BLM website, which also offers an interactive Google map.
The 13-mile scenic drive takes you around the park’s landscape. It’s a great place to enjoy the views, but remember to drive the right way. If you’re driving yourself, make sure to leave enough time to take photos and stop frequently to take in the scenery. You can also hike through the park’s many hiking trails.
Valley of Fire State Park
A crisscrossing network of trails leads through the red rock landscape to some of the state park’s most impressive vistas. Highlights include the Fire Wave and the Pink Canyon. The park is also home to the White Domes, a formation of sedimentary rock draped in red, pink, and white. Visiting Valley of Fire State Park doesn’t require a lottery, so you can just show up and enjoy the scenery.
In summer, you can cool off at the Crystal Clear Pool. It’s home to a variety of small fish, many of which like to nibble at your toes. You can also catch fish with a net, which can be very exciting for young kids. The clear water is a great place to cool off and take a break after exploring the state park’s other attractions.
The Seven Sisters are another popular sight at Valley of Fire State Park. These seven rock formations are left standing by millions of years of erosion. Visitors are sure to be fascinated by their strange and otherworldly appearance. You can even enjoy a picnic in this area, which is popular for its wildlife.
When visiting Valley of Fire State Park, make sure to bring plenty of water. You can refill your water bottles at the visitor center if you run out. You’ll need more water if you plan to hike or explore the park’s trails. It’s a good idea to bring at least half a gallon of water per person per day if you’re planning on hiking around the area.
Great Basin National Park
Great Basin National Park is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. You can enjoy hiking on the trails and viewing the firmament. The trail itself has varying lengths and is best suited for people with some experience of high altitude hiking. In addition to hiking, the park is also known for its night sky. The area is considered an International Dark Sky Park, and because of its low light pollution and high elevation, you can see the five planets with your naked eye.
Visiting the Great Basin National Park is best during the late fall or early winter season, when temperatures are cool and precipitation is minimal. Evening thunderstorms can be unpredictable, but you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the scenery in a relatively uncrowded environment. You’ll also be able to enjoy stargazing here, as it offers the best view of the Milky Way in the continental U.S. The park is also a popular winter destination, as it can be chilly enough to snow.
The Great Basin is a vast area that covers much of Nevada and parts of four neighboring states. It features basin and range topography, with wide open valleys between tall mountains and swathes of high desert cut by meandering streams. The park is dedicated to protecting this ecosystem.
Virginia City
The historic town of Virginia City is home to many interesting attractions. The city is a National Historic Landmark and features 17 museums. In addition, the town is home to one of the largest cemeteries in the West. It is divided by race and social class and features elaborate headstones and exotic plants. While visiting Virginia City, you can enjoy a concert at Piper’s Opera House or view a gallery exhibit.
The Way It Was Museum features artifacts and photos pertaining to the history of the town. There are also period costumes and a historical reconstruction of mines. This museum is a great place to begin learning about the history of Virginia City. Admission to the museum is free, but donations are appreciated. The museum is located on C Street.
Virginia City is home to a number of unique saloons and restaurants. If you’re looking for a local meal, try Cafe Del Rio, Red Dog Saloon, and Grandma’s Fudge Factory. You can also enjoy a nightcap at the Bucket of Blood Saloon, where Cemetery Gin is substituted for vodka.
The town is home to the Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, which was built in 1870. It was the first Catholic church to be consecrated in the state. The church remains in operation today, although the original stained glass windows were removed. The church also features a free museum that tells the history of Virginia City.
