This Is The Most Welcoming Town In Nevada

Cowboy culture. Basque heritage. The oldest rodeo in Nevada. Elko hands all three to anyone who shows up, and that is what makes it the most welcoming town in the state. The town took shape along the Central Pacific Railroad in 1868 and still runs on ranching. Basque sheepherders arrived later from France and Spain, and their descendants still pour the Picon Punch. The cowboy poets fill the Western Folklife Center in January, and the Basque parade comes down Idaho Street in July.

Cowboy Culture

Each January, thousands of poets, musicians, and artists attend the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, a week-long celebration of the West. What started as a small group in 1985 has turned into an annual tradition. Six days of poetry, music, dancing, workshops, exhibits, and food attract people from the West and beyond.

January is not the only time in Elko to experience cowboy culture. The Western Folklife Center in downtown Elko, which hosts the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, has year-round exhibits on contemporary cowboy craftsmanship, ranch life, and American Indian art. Together, they narrate northeast Nevada's Western cultural heritage.

The center also took ownership of the Pioneer Saloon and Hotel in 1992. The saloon first opened in a tent in December 1868, making it one of the oldest saloons in town. It features a 40-foot-long 1890 Brunswick back bar made of mahogany and cherry. The bar is open sporadically throughout the year, including during the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering.

Machi's Saloon and Grill, on the other hand, is open year-round, serving hand-cut steaks and daily specials Monday through Friday, such as baby back ribs. They also have a full bar and a large selection of wines.

Basque Heritage

The National Basque Festival is an annual event held in Elko around Independence Day weekend. The origins of the festival date back to the early 1960s, in honor of those who traveled from France and Spain to settle in the New World. The festival features dancing to traditional music, songs from the Old Country, family-style meals, and Picon Punch, a traditional Basque cocktail. Other festivities include a wood-chopping and stone-lifting competition, a golf tournament, and a fun run.

Several local restaurants serve Basque food year-round, including the Star Hotel Basque Dining. It has been around for over 100 years, making it one of the oldest traditional Basque boardinghouses in Nevada. The neon sign outside acts almost like a beacon, inviting in locals and visitors alike. Traditionally, there was no menu, and all meals were served family-style in boardinghouses. While there is a menu today, the heaping portions and atmosphere have remained much the same.

The Oldest Rodeo in Nevada

The Silver State Stampede started in 1912 and, since then, has brought rodeo action to the Elko County Fairgrounds as the oldest rodeo in Nevada. It is held each year in mid-July. Events held during the Stampede include barrel racing, mutton busting, mini-bulls, a trade show, and the Ring of Fear, a crowd favorite. Attendees of the Stampede can browse cowboy attire, western-themed art, quilts, clothing, and jewelry.

More in-ring action takes place later in the year at the Elko County Fair. The fair is held annually over Labor Day weekend. Horse racing is a highlight of the fair. Nine to ten races are held each day, for six days, featuring both thoroughbred and quarter horses. The races attract trainers from as far as Washington and Arizona. The hot iron branding contest, in particular, brings people together as they race against the clock to brand six yearlings, coordinating both on the ground and on horseback.

Shopping and Dining in Elko

Boyd's Mercantile is curated with a collection of souvenirs that exude authentic Nevada culture. Visitors can browse a collection of boutique clothing, western-themed gifts, jewelry, local art, antique consignments, and more. A large window display catches visitors' eyes, inviting them to browse the selection of products.

Nearby, Odeh's Mediterranean Restaurant highlights the diversity of local cuisine. Although Western-themed saloons and traditional Basque dining options are present, there are also different culinary flavors. Odeh's is an award-winning, family-operated Mediterranean restaurant. They serve an array of vegetable and meat dishes seasoned with spices from the Middle East, while offering personalized service to diners.

Nearby Towns

Other notable northeastern Nevada towns are nearby, such as Wells, which is about 50 miles east of Elko. Rather than Western scenery, Wells is a gateway to Angel Lake, an alpine lake at an elevation of 8,400 feet in the East Humboldt Range. It is only 12 miles from Wells and has opportunities to canoe, fish, and hike.

Jackpot is farther on, north of Wells on US 93 and less than a mile from the Idaho line. The town is represented by the Barton's Club 93 Hotel and Casino. It first opened as a motel in 1957, but quickly adopted a gambling theme. Its retro style is reminiscent of Old Nevada, distinguishing it from modern casinos, and is a big part of its appeal.

A Warm Welcome in the West

Elko's cowboy culture, Basque heritage, and long-running rodeo traditions remain an active part of the community. Festivals, local businesses, and longstanding restaurants allow visitors to experience what makes Elko unique. Rather than luring people to town with a collection of attractions, Elko invites visitors to join the community, even if only for a short time.