Things to do in Nevada | Top 20 Places + Itineraries + Map |

Best places to see in Nevada: Top 20

1. Las Vegas

We couldn't start this list of must-see places to visit in Nevada with anything other than Las Vegas 😊. Sin City is world-famous for its party atmosphere, its 24-hour casinos, its themed hotels that transport you to various places around the globe, its attractions, and its extravagance in every sense of the word. They say you either love it or hate it—we’ve been there several times and still don’t know which side we’re on!

Located in the southern part of the state, it’s practically a must-see stop on any USA West Coast road trip, and it’s also ideal as a destination in its own right, thanks to its incredible surroundings.

We have tons of articles about Las Vegas packed with information—don't miss them! Here are a few:

• 🥳 Things to do in Las Vegas | 23 Must-Sees + Map |
• 🏨 Where to stay in Las Vegas | Areas + Hotels + Map |
• 🥪 Where to eat in Las Vegas | Best Restaurants |
• ℹ️ How to visit Fremont Street | Complete Guide |

2. Hoover Dam

One of the most interesting places to visit near Las Vegas —and less than an hour's drive away—is the Hoover Dam, one of the most impressive engineering feats in the United States. It is actually located on the border between Nevada and Arizona, where the Colorado River flows.

Hoover Dam is worth visiting for many reasons: to see this massive structure—which took five years to build—and its Art Deco architecture, to learn about its historical significance and the risks faced by its workers, to enjoy its panoramic viewpoints, and even to explore the inner workings of the hydroelectric power plant. Check out our in-depth posts:

• ➡️ How to visit Hoover Dam | Complete Guide + Tips + Map |
• ➡️ The 7 Best tours to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas

3. Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is our favorite spot in Nevada, both because of its proximity to Las Vegas and its otherworldly landscape. It’s one of those places that blows your mind the moment you set foot there, as its red canyons, multicolored hills, natural arches, uniquely shaped rocks, petroglyphs, and petrified trees create a stunning contrast.

💡 In our guide to visiting Valley of Fire, you'll find everything you need to know about this place, including all the sights to see, hiking trails, tips, and itineraries so you can tailor your visit to the time you have available.

If you have a rental car in Las Vegas, you’ll likely visit Valley of Fire on your own, although if you’d prefer a guided tour, you can book this tour to Valley of Fire from Las Vegas or this tour that combines Valley of Fire and Hoover Dam for an even more comprehensive experience.

4. Red Rock Canyon

In southern Nevada, just 30 minutes from Las Vegas, lies one of the state’s most interesting sites. It’s true that its name can be misleading, and you might expect to find a red canyon similar to Valley of Fire, but the red rock formations make up only a small part of it. For this reason, it isn’t as visually striking, but it’s still worth a visit if you have the time.

Red Rock Canyon is traversed by a 21-kilometer (13 mi) scenic highway that allows you to enjoy a landscape of red sandstone canyons and mountains, along with flora and fauna typical of the Mojave Desert. There are plenty of hiking options here, including trails to overlooks and hidden waterfalls.

ℹ️ Admission is $20 per vehicle and is included with the America the Beautiful Annual Pass. Remember that reservations are required from October 1 through May 30 via recreation.gov. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can book this tour to Red Rock Canyon from Las Vegas or this other tour that combines Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire.

5. Seven Magic Mountains

This artwork, located in the heart of the Nevada desert, is one of the closest attractions to Las Vegas and can be visited very quickly, making it an ideal stop if you don’t have much time. Created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, it consists of seven towers made of large rocks stacked on top of one another, all in fluorescent colors. The contrast between these vivid colors and the arid landscape surrounding them is truly striking!

ℹ️ The Seven Magic Mountains are a very popular attraction in Nevada, so to avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can book this tour to Seven Magic Mountains from Las Vegas.

6. Ghost Towns in Nevada

If you love ghost towns, Nevada offers plenty of opportunities to explore old mining settlements. In fact, it’s the state with the most ghost towns (over 600), though it’s true that in many of them, little remains standing.

If you're looking for ghost towns near Las Vegas, our favorite is Nelson Ghost Town (also known as Eldorado) because it's so well-preserved and features classic cars. You can also visit part of the old Techatticup Mine here, and if you don't have a car, you can get there by booking this Route 66 tour from Las Vegas. Rhyolite, near Death Valley, and Gold Point are also popular destinations.

If you prefer ghost towns near Reno, then Fort Churchill is a good choice. A bit further away are Seven Troughs and Unionville.

7. Area 51 and ET Highway

If you're the type who unique destinations, then you have to visit Area 51 in Nevada. It's a military base in the middle of the desert that has become famous for conspiracy theories involving UFOs and aliens.

Whether they're true or not, you can't actually enter the military base itself, but you can drive along the iconic Extraterrestrial Highway (ET Highway or Route 375), which is a fun thing to do in Nevada. This 160-kilometer (100 mi) road is full of alien-themed references, featuring unique signs and themed businesses.

Among the most famous stops are the Black Mailbox (where people leave offerings for aliens), the Alien Research Center, and the Little Ale'Inn (a very unique motel-restaurant-souvenir shop). And if you'd like to go with a guide, this tour to Area 51 from Las Vegas is perfect for you!

8. Lunar Crater

The Lunar Crater National Natural Landmark is one of Nevada’s most intriguing and little-known landscapes. Located in a remote area in the center of the state along the scenic Lunar Crater Backcountry Byway, you can drive through a landscape surrounded by as many as 20 extinct volcanoes, one of which is the state’s largest natural crater.

This place was formed thousands of years ago following a powerful explosion of steam and gas beneath the Earth's surface, creating a lunar landscape with vast fields of black lava, volcanic cones, and an arid environment. For this reason, it was used by NASA for training during the Apollo missions.

Visiting Lunar Crater is a unique experience for those looking for off-the-beaten-path spots near the route between Las Vegas and Reno. The area features several overlooks and trails that let you explore at your leisure, but keep in mind that there are no paved roads.

Tonopah is the nearest town, located 135 km (84 mi) to the east. To the west lies Ely, 158 km (98 mi) away. As you can see, it’s an ideal place to enjoy the silence, and at night the starry sky is a marvel!

9. Cathedral Gorge State Park

Another surprising and little-visited spot in Nevada is Cathedral Gorge State Park, where the main attraction is the clay and volcanic ash formations that have been eroded by wind, rain, and melting snow over thousands of years.

Although it’s small, getting here takes some time, so we recommend setting aside a full day to stroll leisurely through the narrow canyons and enjoy the panoramic viewpoints. The most highly recommended trails are Miller Point, Eagle Point, and Bench Overlook, but if you have time to explore more, all the better.

ℹ️ Please note that the entrance fee is $10 for non-Nevada residents and $5 for residents, and that the America the Beautiful annual pass is not valid. There aren’t many accommodations in this area, so if you’re looking for a place to stay, the closest option is the Pine Tree Inn in Panaca, and a bit further away is the Shady Motel.

10. Great Basin National Park

Welcome to the only national park in Nevada! When you think of this state, desert landscapes usually come to mind, but it’s actually home to high mountains and alpine lakes as well. The ultimate expression of this landscape can be found in Great Basin National Park, which is much less visited than the parks in the neighboring states of Utah and California.

Here you'll find Wheeler Peak (Nevada's second-highest peak at 3,982 meters or 13,170 ft), alpine lakes such as Johnson Lake, Teresa Lake, and Baker Lake, streams, the only surviving glacier in Nevada, the ancient bristlecone pines, and the state's largest cave system. Plus, at night, the starry sky in this park is a true wonder!

🏨 You can camp inside the national park, but the best place to stay is The Whispering Elms Motel in Baker.

11. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park

Not far from Great Basin lies this state park, which is of great historical significance and tells the story of mining in the nearby town of Ely.

The park features six beehive-shaped charcoal ovens, each 9 meters (30 ft) tall, which were used between 1876 and 1879 to process silver discovered in the area. Once mining operations in the area came to an end, they served as shelters for travelers.

ℹ️ Admission is $10 per vehicle for non-Nevada residents and $5 for residents.

12. Reno

Reno, known as the Biggest Little City in the World and through which the Truckee River flows, is the third most populous city in Nevada. It is located in the northern part of the state, near the California border, and boasts some fascinating surroundings, which we'll tell you about below.

Some people compare Reno to Las Vegas, since this city also has casinos and historic hotels. Still, in our view, comparisons are unfair, and if you go with that mindset, Reno will likely disappoint you.

It’s true that there are also themed hotels like Circus Circus and Eldorado, and there are casinos and neon lights, but everything is on a smaller scale, and the nightlife isn’t quite as wild. When it comes to dining, the two cities are also incomparable, as the selection of restaurants in Las Vegas is much larger and of higher quality.

Even so, it’s worth stopping in Reno to stroll down The ROW (similar to the Strip in Las Vegas), have a few drinks at night and take in the neon lights, listen to live music, and snap a photo with the famous Virginia Street Arch, where Reno proudly proclaims itself The Biggest Little City in the World.

🏨 Looking for a hotel in Reno? The Whitney Peak Hotel is right in the heart of the city, and the Plaza Resort Club Reno is centrally located but away from the hustle and bustle.

13. Virginia City

Just 40 minutes from Reno, you go from a bustling city to one of Nevada’s most famous historic towns. This is Virginia City, a town surrounded by mountains that sprang up during the 19th-century silver rush following the discovery of the lode Comstock Lode.

Strolling through the streets of Virginia City means walking through a place that has preserved its Wild West atmosphere 100%. Here you’ll find historic wooden houses with classic signs, saloons that you’ll inevitably want to step into for a drink, antique shops, museums, and the chance to tour one of the old silver mines with a guide, such as the Ponderosa Mine or the Chollar Mine.

14. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is one of the most pristine, crystal-clear, and blue lakes you can imagine. If it weren't for the temperature of its waters, the mountains that surround it, and its elevation of 1,897 meters (6,230 ft), it might just look like the Caribbean!

Known as "Big Blue," it is located between California and Nevada and is the largest alpine lake in North America, as well as the second deepest in the country after Crater Lake in Oregon.

Its location, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountain range, makes it an ideal destination for both summer and winter: during the colder months, you can ski at some of its resorts, and in the summer, you can enjoy water sports and its beaches—for example, by taking this kayaking tour on Lake Tahoe. Scenic cruises on Lake Tahoe are also popular, offering a broader view of its vastness.

The eastern side of Lake Tahoe, which faces Nevada, has four state parks: Sand Harbor (home to the largest beaches), Spooner Lake & Backcountry (a perfect area for hiking and camping), Van Sickle (a hiking area in the southern part), and Cave Rock (natural caves ideal for snorkeling or scuba diving). For each of them (except Van Sickle, which is free), you must pay an entrance fee ($10 for residents and $15 for non-residents).

🏨 If you're looking for a place to stay in Lake Tahoe, there are usually more hotels available at better prices on the California side than on the Nevada side. For example, in the northern part, the Firelite Lodge is a good option, and in the southern part, the Hotel Becket and The Coachman Hotel.

15. Pyramid Lake

Although the color of its waters isn't as striking as that of Lake Tahoe, Pyramid Lake is also one of Nevada's most photogenic lakes. Located in the heart of the desert northeast of Reno, this enormous lake is notable for its unique rock formations and the arid landscape that surrounds it. Its name comes from a large pyramid-shaped rock that rises near the shore, creating one of the state’s most unique natural settings.

It is considered a sacred site by the Paiute tribe and is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, photography, and stargazing. In addition to its desert beaches and calm waters, the lake offers some of the most spectacular sunsets in Nevada.

16. Fly Geyser

One of the most surreal and photogenic places in Nevada is undoubtedly Fly Geyser, a geyser that stands out for its striking orange, yellow, and green colors. In this case, it is a geothermal wonder accidentally created by humans in the 20th century, following drilling operations in the area. Over the years, the minerals expelled by the hot water gradually formed this unique structure that looks like something from another planet.

Fly Geyser is located on private property, so to visit it, you must join a guided tour organized by Friends of Black Rock-High Rock. The tour lasts 3 hours and covers two areas: the southern section (where you can see Burning Man art installations) and the northern section (which features wetlands, wildlife, and three geysers).

These tours are only available on Saturdays from mid-April to mid-November. The cost is $52 for adults and $26.50 for children under 12 (yes, it’s expensive). You can make a reservation through their website.

17. Black Rock City & Burning Man

Black Rock City is a temporary city that is built each year in the Nevada desert during the famous Burning Man festival. For one week, usually between late August and early September, thousands of people gather on the vast plains of the Black Rock Desert to build a temporary city dedicated to art, creativity, and self-expression.

Giant installations, futuristic sculptures, and impossible vehicles transform this remote corner of Nevada into one of the world’s most astonishing cultural events. The festival culminates with the burning of the Man, a giant wooden statue in the shape of a human figure that serves as the centerpiece of the celebration.

Although Burning Man only takes place for a few days, the Black Rock Desert attracts visitors year-round thanks to its desert landscapes. Plus, since it’s so close to Fly Geyser, the guided tours we mentioned earlier take you through part of this area, where you’ll see several art installations from past festivals.

18. Lamoille Canyon

Nevada never ceases to amaze, and another example is Lamoille Canyon, also known as the Swiss Alps of Nevada. We also find it hard to imagine a Swiss landscape in Nevada, but this is a state of contrasts! This stunning glacial canyon, located in the Ruby Mountains, is a feast for the eyes (and very little-visited). Here you’ll find endless hiking options among alpine lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and forests, and in winter it becomes a skier’s paradise.

We highly recommend driving along the Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway, a paved scenic route that offers postcard-perfect views along its 20 km (13 mi). You won’t be able to stop taking pictures! Keep in mind that it’s only open from May to October (depending on snow conditions).

Elko is a great place to stay and explore Lamoille Canyon, as it has all the amenities you need. The most highly recommended options are the Elkotel and the Days Inn by Wyndham.

19. Massacre Rim

There are several places on the USA West Coast that have been certified as Dark Sky sites due to their low light pollution and stunning night skies, such as Joshua Tree and Death Valley. But if we mention Massacre Rim in Nevada, it’s probably the first time you’ve heard of this place.

Located on the northwestern tip of the state, the Massacre Rim Wilderness Study Area is as remote as it gets. Here, you have to drive at least 30 km (19 mi) to find any sign of civilization—and we’re talking about just four houses and a ranch. If you’re looking for something larger, you’ll have to spend at least three hours behind the wheel.

For some reason, this place is one of the darkest spots on the planet —its sky is covered with a blanket of stars even on nights when the moon is full! As you can imagine, there’s no infrastructure here, so if you want to stay and enjoy one of its nights, you’ll have to camp in the wild and bring everything you need.

20. Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge

If you decide to visit northwestern Nevada, it’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge. This remote natural area was established to protect the habitat of the pronghorn, which is notable for being the second-fastest land animal in the world after the cheetah.

But that’s not all—here you can go on a real safari and spot other fascinating species, such as bighorn sheep, mule deer, wild horses, sage grouse, and pygmy rabbits, as well as unique plants. In terms of scenery, you’ll find a mix of arid plains, plateaus, cliffs, natural hot springs, and small streams.

Due to its remote location, the nearest town, Denio, is a 2-hour drive away. For this reason, it is an ideal destination for travelers seeking unspoiled nature and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Map of the best places to visit in Nevada

On this map, we've marked all the places we've recommended throughout this post so you can easily find them:

Things to see in Nevada based on the type of trip

• ⛰️ Top nature destinations in Nevada: Valley of Fire State Park, Lake Tahoe, Great Basin National Park, Cathedral Gorge State Park, and Lamoille Canyon.
• 📸 Top spots in Nevada for photographers: Cathedral Gorge State Park, Valley of Fire, Fly Geyser, and Massacre Rim.
• ❓ Best hidden gems in Nevada: Lunar Crater, Cathedral Gorge, Ward Charcoal, Lamoille Canyon, Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, and Massacre Rim.
• 👦🏼 Best places in Nevada to visit with kids: Nelson Ghost Town, ET Highway, Lake Tahoe, and Virginia City.
• 🦌 Best places to see wildlife in Nevada: Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge.

When to visit Nevada

Nevada is a huge state with very different climates depending on the region, so the best time to visit will depend largely on the route you plan to take. While the southern part of the state—where Las Vegas is located—has an extremely hot desert climate in the summer, the north and the mountainous areas have much milder temperatures, even dropping below freezing in the winter.

If you're planning a comprehensive road trip through the state, spring and fall are the ideal times to do so, as you can explore desert regions, cities, and mountainous areas while enjoying fairly mild temperatures.

If you plan to visit only Las Vegas and its surrounding areas, then avoid the summer. We’d recommend going between October and April, so you can enjoy the city and its surrounding attractions without the discomfort of extreme temperatures. If, on the other hand, you’re planning to visit the Reno area and its surroundings—such as the fantastic Lake Tahoe—then summer is the best time to fully enjoy the region.

Best road trip itineraries in Nevada

If you want to take a road trip through Nevada but are looking for some inspiration, we have several itinerary ideas for you:

7-Day Road Trip from Las Vegas to Reno

Fancy a road trip between Las Vegas and Reno? Driving between the two most famous cities will give you the chance to explore some of the must-see sights in Nevada. We suggest spending the first few days in Las Vegas and the surrounding area, using Sin City as your base (if you have more time, you could even add another day in this area).

To make your trip more enjoyable, instead of taking Route 95 to Tonopah, we think it’s worth driving a few extra miles along the ET Highway and taking advantage of the nearby location to visit the vast landscape of Lunar Crater. Finally, explore the area around Reno and end your itinerary in this city.

• Days 1 and 2: Las Vegas. If you're looking for a themed hotel, Paris Las Vegas and New York-New York are among the best. Otherwise, Sahara Las Vegas offers good value for money.
• Day 3: Valley of Fire State Park. Overnight in Las Vegas.
• Day 4: Hoover Dam and Nelson Ghost Town. Overnight in Las Vegas.
• Day 5: ET Highway and Lunar Crater (only if your vehicle is suitable). Overnight stay in Tonopah at Best Western Hi-Desert or the spooky Clown Motel.
• Day 6: Virginia City and Lake Tahoe. Overnight stay on the north side of the lake, such as at the Firelite Lodge.
• Day 7: Reno. Spend the night at Whitney Peak Hotel or Plaza Resort Club Reno.

10-Day Nevada Road Trip for nature lovers

This road trip through Nevada that we’re suggesting takes you through Las Vegas, Reno, and the areas surrounding both cities. Plus, to really immerse yourself in nature, we recommend visiting the state’s only national park and a few other natural wonders.

• Days 1 and 2: Las Vegas. If you're looking for a themed hotel, Paris Las Vegas and New York-New York are among the best. Otherwise, Sahara Las Vegas offers good value for money.
• Day 3: Hoover Dam and Nelson Ghost Town. Overnight in Las Vegas.
• Day 4: Valley of Fire State Park. Overnight stay at the North Shore Inn at Lake Mead, near the park.
• Day 5: Cathedral Gorge State Park. Overnight stay at the Pine Tree Inn in Panaca.
• Day 6: Great Basin National Park. If you’re not camping inside the park, the best place to stay is The Whispering Elms Motel in Baker.
• Day 7: Ward Charcoal and Lunar Crater (if your vehicle allows it). Overnight in Tonopah, at the Best Western Hi-Desert or the spooky Clown Motel.
• Day 8: Fort Churchill and Virginia City. Overnight at Sugarloaf Motel or Virginia City Inn.
• Day 9: Lake Tahoe. Spend the night on the north side of the lake, such as at Firelite Lodge.
• Day 10: Reno. Overnight stay at Whitney Peak Hotel or Plaza Resort Club Reno.

FAQs about places to see in Nevada

What are the must-see places in Nevada?

Some of Nevada's must-see destinations include Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park, Great Basin National Park, and Lake Tahoe, though there are many other interesting places to visit.

How many days does it take to travel through Nevada?

Ideally, you should set aside 7 to 15 days to take a comprehensive tour of Nevada, combining cities, natural areas, and charming towns.

What are the things to do in Nevada besides Las Vegas?

Beyond Las Vegas, Nevada offers a variety of state parks, ghost towns, mountain trails, and alpine lakes, as well as desert landscapes, volcanoes, and stargazing spots.

When is the best time to visit Nevada?

The best time to visit Nevada is between fall and spring, when temperatures are more pleasant for exploring desert regions and the mountain areas are easily accessible.

Do you need a car to travel around Nevada?

Yes, renting a car is practically a must for exploring Nevada, especially if you want to visit national parks and places far from the major cities.

Can you visit Area 51 in Nevada?

You can't actually enter Area 51 itself, since it's a restricted military base, but you can freely drive along the Extraterrestrial Highway.

What historic towns should I visit in Nevada?

Although Nevada is the state with the most ghost towns, the most interesting and best-preserved ones are Nelson Ghost Town and Virginia City.

We hope this post has been helpful in planning your itinerary through Nevada and all your visits!

Cathedral Gorge: Ronnie Macdonald; Red Rock Canyon: Sixflashphoto; Nelson Ghost Town: Agnieszka Kwiecień; Great Basin: Roller Coaster Philosophy; Ward Charcoal y Lamoille Canyon: Famartin; Lake Tahoe: Blake Everett Carroll; Virginia City: Chris M Morris; Fly Geyser: Jeremy C. Munns; Lunar Crater: Jrmichae; via Wikimedia Commons