The Most Underrated Towns In Nevada

The bright lights, bustling gambling scene, and electric nightlife in Las Vegas overshadow the rest of Nevada's destinations, so it is little wonder that almost 80% of the approximately 52 million visitors to the state in 2024 chose Sin City as their destination of choice. Despite this, Nevada offers a bevy of options for tourists seeking to escape the endless chaos and have a quieter, more laid-back experience.

Hidden in the countryside, small towns like Tonopah, with its preserved mining-era architecture and dramatic desert vistas, and Virginia City, known for its captivating Wild West history, beckon travelers to slow down, explore deeply, and discover Nevada’s soul beyond the Strip. The following is a list of the most underrated towns in Nevada for 2025.

Ely

Ely is a remote town in east-central Nevada with a rich railroad and mining heritage. It began as a stagecoach station along the Pony Express before experiencing a mining boom when copper was discovered in the area. These stories are available to explore at the Nevada Northern Railway Museum, which offers guided tours of the living museum and rides on a vintage locomotive. Furthermore, the Ely Renaissance Village features a complex of historic buildings that showcase Ely's multicultural flair from its pioneer and settler days.

Beyond its history, the town offers a mini Vegas experience at the Jailhouse Motel & Casino. This entertainment spot offers guests the opportunity to try their luck on the slots or tables, with a chance to win big. Elsewhere, golf enthusiasts can play 18 holes at the high-altitude White Pine County Golf Course, recognized as America's most isolated.

Tonopah

Tonopah experienced its own mining boom at the turn of the 20th century, bringing a barrage of speculators to the town. Today, most tourists spend much of their time exploring its captivating history by visiting the Tonopah Historic Mining Park. This defunct mining site spans over 110 acres and currently serves as a museum, featuring old buildings, mine shafts, a tunnel, and other relics. Meanwhile, the Central Nevada Museum provides a comprehensive view of the region's history, with exhibits that focus on mining, ranching, and frontier life in Ely.

After the immersive history lesson, you can find an alternative point of interest at Tonopah Station Resort. This is a nice spot to relax and unwind with a drink at the bar, gamble at the casino, book a stay in one of their room or RV sites. Finally, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the open spaces by picnicking at Clair Blackburn Memorial Stargazing Park during the day and taking advantage of the lack of light pollution at night for an unparalleled peek at the cosmos.

Virginia City

This well-preserved 19th-century mining boomtown offers a rare glimpse into the Wild West of Nevada. It boasts an elaborate Victorian downtown district with historic buildings that transport you back in time, including the Mackay Mansion Museum. Built in 1859, visitors can tour the home's period furnishings and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the paranormal, as the mansion is reported to be haunted. The Historic Fourth Ward School Museum is another unique place to learn about the town's early days, through interactive exhibits and extensive archives.

Apart from discovering history, locals and tourists alike can experience a bit of culture at Piper's Opera House. This premier performing arts venue hosts a lineup of engaging concerts and musicals in a beautifully restored space. Alternatively, you can relive the Wild West by watching a realistic reenactment by costumed performers from the Virginia City Outlaws at the Western Amphitheater downtown.

Genoa

Genoa is the oldest community in the state and an excellent destination for historians seeking to explore Nevada's humble beginnings. Founded in 1851, it boasts a rich and captivating history, which is shared at the Genoa Courthouse Museum. The venue stores a diverse collection of archives, focusing on different aspects of local history. However, you can take an even deeper dive and check out where it all began by visiting the Mormon Station State Historic Park. This is where pioneers established the first permanent settlement in Genoa, and the site includes a replica of the original trading post.

Another interesting point of interest to visit is the Genoa Bar & Saloon. This rustic tavern is the state's oldest running bar and serves delicious cocktails in a rustic setting with Old West memorabilia. For a change of scenery, pack a picnic and take a walk in the serene, natural environment of Genoa Town Park.

Elko

Elko is another overlooked destination in northeast Nevada, renowned for its intriguing Western heritage. The first settlers came to the town in the mid-1800s, marking the beginning of a long history that is partly highlighted at the Northeastern Nevada Museum. This delightful venue showcases a mix of exhibits touching on the region's flora, fauna, and human history. Elsewhere, the Cowboy Arts and Gear Museum features a whimsical collection of items that reflect Elko's Western heritage, including vintage saddles, cowboy boots, and hats.

Besides history, Elko entertains guests with screenings of the latest Hollywood films at UEC Cinema 6. This is a nice spot to watch a film with friends or family, and on Tuesdays, all movie tickets are sold at a discounted rate. Alternatively, you can hunt for a vintage treasure to add to your personal collection at Route 40 Village & Antique Co.

Fallon

Fallon's charm lies in the breadth of attractions it offers, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. It is a pleasant getaway for outdoor adventurers thanks to spots like the Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge. This isolated natural space is home to a diverse array of shorebird species, inviting hikers and birdwatchers to spend time strolling with binoculars in hand. Meanwhile, historians can find something interesting at the Churchill County Museum. The venue has exhibits that include antique vehicles and farm equipment, artifacts from the Victorian era, and Native American history.

Fallon is also known for its vibrant annual festivals, which draw enthusiasts from across the state and beyond. One of the highlights is the Fallon Cantaloupe Festival & County Fair. Thousands descend upon the town to honor the community's rich farming heritage and enjoy a variety of food, drinks, and live music.

Lovelock

This small town in the Humboldt River Basin welcomes travelers to explore its impressive variety of local attractions, catering to historians, outdoor lovers, and wine enthusiasts alike. Lovelock is home to the Marzen House Museum, which takes visitors back to the 1800s with an engaging tour that explores a fine selection of period relics, furnishings, and memorabilia.

Lovelock is also a welcoming destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. This is thanks to the 2,400-acre playground at the Rye Patch State Recreation Area, where people go to camp, fish, picnic, hike, and bike. Wine lovers can look forward to delicious samplings at Kruze Rd Winery, which crafts a wide selection of reds and whites and offers tastings and tours of their vineyard.

Despite flying under the radar, these underrated towns in Nevada enchant travelers who seek genuine American experiences. Thanks to their sparse crowds and wide-open landscapes, tourists have more than ample room to explore at a comfortable pace, both indoors and out. Whether you're uncovering Ely’s copper-mining heritage and riding its historic steam train, or escaping into the peaceful, secluded wilderness around Fallon, each place promises a truly rewarding adventure.