7 Most Memorable Small Towns in Nevada
Nevada is an adventure-packed destination, from the iconic metropolis of Las Vegas to its vast Mojave Desert and the Great Basin National Park. The state itself is one of the most memorable destinations in the United States, chock full of events, landscapes, and locations that appeal to adventurists, cowboys, and star-gazers alike. Ghost towns, historic sites, and open-air all characterize the state, with an abundance of memorable small towns home to must-see hot springs, towering rock formations, and storied histories. A visit to Nevada promises nothing short of adventure, and its charming small towns are one of the best places to experience a memorable vacation.
Gardnerville
Gardnerville sits within the depth of the Carson Valley, backdropped by the Sierra Nevada mountainscape, just under half an hour from the state's capital, Carson City. It is one of the oldest founded towns in Nevada, dating back to the 1800s. Historic buildings line the town's main street, as well as the Carson Valley Museum & Cultural Center, detailing the town's history of Basque and Danish immigrants who developed the area. Visitors may also enjoy a treasure hunt of sorts along the Carson Valley Arts & Antiques Trail, which includes a list of antique shops, museums, and art galleries in the area. There is plenty in terms of outdoor adventure, including waterways like the Carson River, Walker River, and Topaz Lake, as well as nearby hiking destinations such as Freel, Jobs, and Jobs Sister peaks, which reach 10,000 feet in elevation and overlook the town.
Stateline
Stateline is one of the most welcoming towns in Nevada, and it is right on the border between Nevada and California. The town also sits on the shoreline of the picturesque Lake Tahoe, known for its bright blue waters and sandy beaches, such as the nearby Nevada Beach. Visitors may enjoy a cruise on Lake Tahoe, with plenty of options ranging from sunset views to wine tasting and sightseeing tours with Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave Cruises. Aside from crystal clear waters and an abundance of water sports, the townhouses have plenty of casinos, including Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino. Just over the border in California, travelers may enjoy a skiing trip or gondola ride at the Heavenly Mountain Resort in South Lake Tahoe.
Elko
Elko is well known for its Western flair and history rooted in its Basque immigrants and is considered one of the coziest small towns in Nevada. Visitors may learn all about the town's heritage with a trip to the Cowboy Arts & Gear Museum or the Western Folklife Center, which hosts the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering. Nevada's Ruby Mountains are just a half-hour southeast of Elko, accessible via car, foot, snowmobile, or helicopter. The mountains resemble the Swiss Alps and are home to garnets, as well as the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. There are also several alpine lakes in the area, ideal for fishing and winter sports. Road trippers may also enjoy a visit to the area as the Lamoille Canyon National Scenic Byway runs all the way to the Ruby Crest Trailhead, which offers access to the Ruby Dome, an 11,387-foot glaciated peak.
Mesquite
Mesquite is situated 80 miles northeast of Las Vegas and within the Mojave Desert. Visitors find plenty of excitement at the Camel Safari, where they may get up close with exotic animals. Another unique location in the desert is the Gold Butte National Monument, which features chiseled red sandstone and covers an area of 2,000 by 400 feet. The town is home to several golf courses, including CasaBlanca Golf Club and The Coyote Springs Golf Club. The area is also known for its nightlife, featuring popular destinations such as Envy Nightclub & Lounge and Eureka Casino Resort. Travelers may enjoy a visit to the Hillside Arboretum, a tree-lined oasis perfect for an afternoon stroll or picnic.
Fallon
Fallon is recognized for its diverse landscape, which is perfect for outdoor adventurists. The town is near the wetlands of Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge, an internationally-recognized bird area, and the sand dunes of Sand Mountain Recreation Area, ideal for off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding, sandboarding, and hiking. Grimes Point Archaeological Area is another nearby destination, just 11 miles east of the town, home to hand engravings left behind by ancient civilizations. Aside from plenty to do in the great outdoors, travelers may delve into the town's history with a trip to Robert L. Douglass House or the Churchill County Courthouse.
Ely
Along the eastern edge of the “Loneliest Road in America” is the town of Ely. The mountain town bursts with history, founded in the 1870s and once one of the country’s major copper mining regions, and home to the Nevada Northern Railway in 1906. Discover the town's heritage and history with a trip to the East Ely Railroad Depot Museum or the Renaissance Village. Great Basin National Park is an hour's drive east of town, with plenty of unique outdoor activities, such as Cave Lake State Park, Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park, and Ward Mountain Recreation Area.
Boulder City
Boulder City is close in proximity to Las Vegas, Lake Mead, and the Hoover Dam. The town's history is discoverable at the Boulder City / Hoover Dam Museum, with interactive exhibits that detail the lives of those who once lived in the area. Travelers may enjoy a trip to Lake Mead National Recreation Area, featuring views of slot canyons and a shimmering lake fed by the Colorado River, where visitors are able to swim, boat, hike, bike, fish, camp, and more. Trails around the area include the Historic Railroad Trail and River Mountains Loop Trail.
Enjoy a Memorable Trip to Nevada!
Nevada truly has so many memorable events and destinations, but its small towns host unique histories, beautiful sights, and local festivals and events that are not to be missed. From the mountainous backdrop in the town of Ely to the horseback rodeo in Fallon and the breathtaking view of Lake Tahoe from the town of Stateline, excitement abounds in the most memorable small towns of the beautiful state of Nevada.
