8 Off-the-Map Towns In Nevada
There is more to Nevada than just the glitz and glamor of Las Vegas. Venture a bit off the map in Nevada to discover some of the state’s lesser-known gems. With hundreds of abandoned towns, an intriguing mining history, ghostly lore and legends, as well as a surprisingly diverse landscape, Nevada is a top-tier choice for adventure. Catch a UFO or two in the skies above Rachel, or bring the whole family for captivating all-ages fun in Fallon. From corner to corner, there is something for everyone in this wondrous state.
Ely
Tucked near the Utah border and set along the famed Loneliest Road in America, Ely is a secluded mountain town in Nevada, rich in rugged terrain and stillness. Due to its high elevation, Ely also takes the crown for the coldest town in Nevada. Just an hour’s drive away, bask in the beauty of Great Basin National Park. Cruise through the park by auto touring, gallop through the diverse scenery on horseback, or trek the trails, which vary in difficulty. Stay awhile and pitch a tent to sleep under the starry night sky. From majestic mountains to alpine forests, caves, and even desert landscapes, the eclectic landscapes are breathtaking.
Once a thriving mining hub and a vital stagecoach stop on the Pony Express, Ely carries a rich and enduring legacy. Take a step back and feel what life was like back in the day at the Ely Renaissance Village. From painted murals to vintage artifacts, peek inside these intriguing early-1900s homes. Discover antique stoves, furniture, typewriters, bathtubs, and an old miner’s cabin. Continue the Ely historical journey at the White Pine Public Museum. Featuring indoor and outdoor exhibits, dive into Native American roots, mining history, Nevada ranching, a railroad depot, and a prehistoric giant bear. The museum’s extensive range of exhibits makes it engaging for people of all interests.
Rachel
Rachel is everything you could want in an eccentric Nevada town in the middle of nowhere. The town earned its spot on the map due to its UFO lore and is a key spot along the legendary Extraterrestrial Highway. As the closest town to Area 51, Rachel is a magnet for alien hunters and inquisitive minds. Tiny but mighty, the town is home to the quirky Little A'Le'Inn, a perfect blend of motel, restaurant, and UFO-themed gift shop. Book a room, dig into the World Famous Alien Burger, and stock up on whimsical merch to forever remember this offbeat Nevada town. For those just passing through, the Alien Cowpoke offers fuel, snacks, and an enchanting selection of alien-themed souvenirs. It is the perfect one-stop shop before embarking on a mysterious and galactic adventure.
Rachel’s isolation in the desert and absence of light pollution make the town a prime location for stargazing. According to littlealeinn.com, the surrounding area is notorious for meteor showers. Various “night shows” can be seen typically between July and December. Drive along the Extraterrestrial Highway, or stay awhile in Rachel to be in awe at these scattering trails of light that dance across the midnight skies.
Austin
Deep in central Nevada, Austin is a quiet, out-of-the-way town backed by the vast Toiyabe Mountains. Small in size but rich in character, Austin is often a forgotten stop on the famed Loneliest Road in America. Begin a fascinating journey in Austin by visiting the Hickison Petroglyph Recreation Area, a place where Nevada’s wild terrain and alluring history intertwine. Casually hike along the trails featuring petroglyph panels and discover compelling views of the Big Smoky Valley. Equally as enchanting, the Toquima Cave is another must-see in the area. Formerly a shelter for Native Americans, the grounds are adorned with prehistoric pictographs.
Take time to relax and unwind at Spencer Hot Springs. Grab a few friends and soak in these healing waters. With only three to four spots available, the experience is extremely exclusive. Since it is accessible day and night, an evening dip is otherworldly. Bask in the surrounding desert while marveling at the starlit Nevada sky.
Caliente
Surrounded by desert canyons and rugged terrain, Caliente is a historic railroad town located less than an hour's drive from the Utah border. Dive into the town’s bewitching heritage at the Box Car Museum. Caliente's prime location along the Union Pacific Railroad makes it a natural halfway point between Los Angeles and Salt Lake City, adding to its vitality. The museum offers a beautiful glimpse into the region's history, featuring restored boxcars and highlighting the railroad's significance to the community.
Equally eerie and fascinating, the Delamar Ghost Town is sure to capture the attention of visitors. Once a thriving mining town, Delamar earned the nickname “Widowmaker” due to the deadly effects of silica dust on miners. Today, the ruins stand tall and proud in the Nevada sun, but they exude an uncanny vibe. Some visitors say it feels as though unseen eyes are watching.
Typically held in September, join the locals for the annual Caliente Mountain Bike Fest, a three-day extravaganza. Bring a set of wheels and get shuttled to various trailheads for a day of riding. Refuel at one of the vendors, or bring your own BBQ necessities for on-site cooking. The weekend is jam-packed with live music, raffles, contests, and even a movie night.
Tonopah
A little more than an hour from the California border, Tonopah embodies the spirit of Nevada’s high desert. The secluded town is surrounded by an endless desert landscape and boasts a bevy of quirky attractions. Commonly coined as the “World’s Scariest Motel,” The Clown Motel is an intriguing Tonopah oddity with a prime location right next door to the Old Cemetery. With a massive collection of clowns on top of the endless stories of paranormal happenings, do you dare stay at this eccentric accommodation? Those brave enough to further explore the unexplained may wish to book a Tonopah Haunted History Tour. Begin the journey at the Tonopah Historic Mining Park, where stories of the town’s restless spirits and haunted past come to life.
Remote towns such as Tonopah are perfectly positioned for stargazing, far from the glow of city lights. Head to the Clair Blackburn Memorial Stargazing Park for phenomenal views of the Milky Way and thousands of twinkling beauties. For the ultimate experience, plan to visit on moonless nights. Celestial magic is truly one of a kind when exploring Nevada once the sun has gone down.
Fallon
About one hour from Reno, Fallon captures the quietness of Nevada’s desert, remote enough to feel removed from city life, yet still offering modern amenities. The state is renowned for places where history and the natural landscape intertwine effortlessly, and Grimes Point Archaeological Area is a fantastic example. From prehistoric petroglyphs on giant boulders to a Paiute-Shoshone storage site, hike around this timeless region and explore the state’s ancient past up close. The Robert L. Douglass House is another enticing look at Fallon’s past. Built in the early 1900s, the residence is a well-preserved Victorian home and was previously used as a hospital and a bed and breakfast.
Bring the kids along for good old-fashioned family fun at Lattin Farms. Despite the stereotype of Nevada’s infinite sands, get your hands on farm-fresh produce straight from the source. Bring home blackberries, squash, watermelon, zucchini, grapes, green beans, and bell peppers for a farm-to-table meal. Satisfy sweet tooths with the on-site baked goods and try seasonal favourites like butter pecan cookies and pumpkin bread. During the year, say hello to the animals and give them a snack, or join the locals for one of the events. The much-anticipated Fall Festival is kid-approved, featuring a pumpkin patch, corn maze, wagon rides, a cow train, and other family activities.
Beatty
Adventure awaits at every turn in Beatty. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the town and its surrounding areas for a wide range of activities. With close proximity to Desert National Wildlife Range, Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, and just a two-hour drive away from Las Vegas, Beatty’s location is one of the best. Right by the town, take a moment to explore the iconic Death Valley National Park. Grab a sturdy pair of shoes and get ready to hike along the sand dunes and desert peaks. Cover more ground quickly at this legendary national masterpiece by biking or driving through the landscape. Film buffs will go nuts seeing the Star Wars filming locations.
Get a taste of nostalgia in Beatty. With its classic checkerboard floor, gingham‐print tablecloths, and walls lined with vintage photos, Mel’s Diner feels like stepping into a simpler time. Bask in that cozy, just‑like‑home vibe while digging into classic favorites like sandwiches, burgers, sliders, and thick milkshakes. Magical for kids and kids at heart, stock up on goodies at Death Valley Nut & Candy Co. After all, the best road trip and vacation snacks are handfuls of saltwater taffy, popcorn, nuts, and gummies.
Virginia City
Mount Davidson rises prominently beside Virginia City, a historic mining town snuggled in the Virginia Range. From a movie-worthy downtown to haunted sites and well-preserved 1800s architecture, Virginia City exudes character. No visit to this Wild West town is complete without seeing the Virginia City Outlaws show. The rowdiness is entertaining, hilarious, and family-friendly, making it a phenomenal experience for all. Before or after the show, satisfy even the heartiest of appetites at the beloved Red Dog Saloon. Inside and out, the eatery stays true to its cowboy heritage. Savor classic saloon fare, including beef sandwiches, chicken tenders, and mozzarella sticks. Wash it all down with one of the draft beers for a well-spent day in Virginia City.
Steeped in history, Nevada's old mining towns are often hotspots for paranormal activity. Eerie and uncanny, visit the museum at The Old Washoe Museum and Saloon. Featured on Ghost Adventures, this famously haunted site invites you on a 40-minute tour to explore its chilling and mysterious floors. Fearless leaders may choose to book an overnight investigation for a memorable dive into the darker side of Nevada. Stay a while longer in Virginia City by booking a stay at the haunted Silver Queen Hotel. For an epic spooky adventure, book Room 11 or 13, which visitors claim boasts the most unexplained happenings. Before heading off to a possibly restless slumber, enjoy a meal at the on-site Old West Saloon. The restaurant beautifully captures the essence of vintage Virginia City with its Wild West ambiance and authentic charm.
Venture Off-the-Beaten-Path in Nevada
Take the road less traveled to Nevada’s hidden surprises. From the unique beauty of Death Valley National Park to Tonopah’s quirky clown motel, the state boasts a bucket list like no other. Observe the galaxy and beyond in Rachel’s top stargazing spots or be spooked at Caliente’s Delamar Ghost Town. Start the car and embark on a road trip down to the Loneliest Road in America, and take in Nevada’s endless landscape. Be sure to stop in Austin and take time to unwind in the hot springs. It truly pays to explore beyond.
