Nevada, United States: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Nevada is in the American West, known for its diverse landscapes. From Las Vegas's bright lights to its natural wonders, it's a place that grabs your attention. As you explore this state, you might wonder: what are the top attractions and activities to make my trip unforgettable? Get ready to discover the hidden treasures and famous spots that will amaze you.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the iconic Las Vegas Strip, a neon-lit playground of entertainment and excitement.
• Explore the majestic Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel that impounds the largest reservoir in the United States.
• Experience the natural beauty of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, with its stunning landscapes and diverse water activities.
• Immerse yourself in the geological wonder of Valley of Fire State Park, with its vibrant red rock formations and ancient petroglyphs.
• Uncover the fascinating history and charm of Rhyolite Ghost Town, a remnant of Nevada's mining past.

Las Vegas: The Iconic Entertainment Capital

Welcome to Las Vegas, the "Entertainment Capital of the World"! This vibrant city in Nevada is a top destination for travelers. It offers unparalleled entertainment, world-class casinos, and unforgettable experiences. From the dazzling Las Vegas Strip to the captivating Fremont Street Experience and the iconic Neon Museum, the city has something for everyone.

The Las Vegas Strip

The Las Vegas Strip is the heart of the city. It's famous for its hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues. You can explore grand lobbies, enjoy high-end dining, and see amazing light shows. The Strip offers endless opportunities for gambling, shopping, and nightlife.

Fremont Street Experience

Visit the Fremont Street Experience for a taste of the city's history and neon charm. Walk under the stunning Viva Vision light show, which lights up the street with color and sound. You'll find unique shops, lively street performers, and vintage casinos that make this area special.

The Neon Museum

Explore the Neon Museum to see the city's iconic past. It's an outdoor exhibition that preserves the legendary neon signs of Las Vegas. You can see vintage signs, learn about the city's neon heritage, and take amazing photos.

"Las Vegas is the most extraordinary place in the entire world." - Unknown

Las Vegas is full of entertainment options. You can enjoy world-class shows, concerts, thrilling gambling, and fine dining. Whether you're drawn to the Strip's bright lights or the city's historic districts, Las Vegas will leave a lasting impression.

Marvel at the Engineering Wonder: Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam is a marvel of engineering and a top spot in Nevada. It was built during the Great Depression. It controls the Colorado River's flooding and makes hydroelectric power.

It creates Lake Mead, the biggest reservoir in the U.S. when full. The Visitor Center tells its history. It gets 7 million visitors a year, making it a favorite from Las Vegas.

The dam was finished 2 years early and $15 million under budget. This shows its amazing engineering.

The dam is 726 feet tall, like a 60-story building. You can see it from the Hoover Dam Bridge and other spots. It's a sight to see, showing its power and size.

Lake Mead, the dam's reservoir, faces challenges. In 2010, it was at 39% capacity. It hit a record low in 2019.

Experts say Lake Mead might dry up by 2021. This is due to drought, global warming, and more water use.

Hoover Dam is a must-see for engineering, hydroelectric power, or natural wonders. It has a rich history, impressive size, and a stunning location. It shows human ingenuity and nature's power.

Explore the Natural Beauty of Lake Mead National Recreation Area

In the Mojave Desert's heart, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area shines as a top spot for outdoor fans. It's the first and biggest recreation area in the U.S. Here, you'll find endless activities and stunning views.

Water Sports and Recreation

The Lake Mead is at the area's core. It was made when the Hoover Dam was built in 1936. Now, it's a hotspot for water fun, like swimming, kayaking, and boating. Its warm, clear waters and blue colors are perfect for cooling off.

For a calm day, try pontoon boat rides or guided kayak tours. They let you see the lake and its views peacefully. The area has many piers, marinas, and launch ramps for renting gear and getting into the water.

Hiking Trails and Scenic Drives

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area has many trails and drives to explore. The Northshore Drive is a 50-mile path along the lake. It shows off the Mojave Desert's beauty and rock formations.

• The Redstone Hiking Trail is a short loop. It lets you see the area's red rock formations, some 200 million years old.
• The River Mountains Loop Bike Trail is 34 miles. It links Lake Mead with Hoover Dam, Henderson, Boulder City, and the Las Vegas Valley.
• The Historic Railroad Trail near Lake Mead is a walk along old railroad tracks. They once connected Boulder City to Hoover Dam.

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a gem for anyone visiting Nevada's natural wonders. It offers lots of fun and beautiful sights.

Valley of Fire State Park: A Geological Masterpiece

Just a short drive from Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park awaits. It's a 150-million-year-old wonder known for its red sandstone formations and ancient petroglyphs. These were left by the Ancestral Puebloans.

Hiking Trails and Rock Formations

Discover the park's secrets on its diverse hiking trails. The Elephant Rock viewpoint offers a short hike with amazing views. The Mouse's Tank Trail is a 0.4-mile walk past stunning rock walls.

For a tougher hike, try the Rainbow Vista Trail. It's a short roundtrip that shows off the park's colorful rocks.

Petroglyphs and Ancient Puebloan History

Explore the Valley of Fire's rich cultural history. Hike the Petroglyph Canyon via Mouse Tank's Trail to see ancient rock art. This art, over 4,000 years old, gives a peek into the lives of the region's first people.

The Valley of Fire State Park is a must-see for its natural beauty and history. It has trails for all, stunning rock formations, and a deep cultural significance. It's a place where history meets nature, offering an adventure for everyone.

Nevada, United States: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Nevada is a state full of entertainment, natural beauty, and history. It has everything from Las Vegas's glamour to the desert's calm. Discover the best things to do in Nevada and see what it has to offer.

In Las Vegas, walk the famous Strip. You'll see huge hotels, casinos, and shows. Don't miss Fremont Street Experience for its lights and performers. Visit the Neon Museum to see old Las Vegas signs.

Leave Las Vegas to see the Hoover Dam. It's a huge engineering wonder that powers three states. Near the dam, Lake Mead offers water sports, hiking, and desert views.

Keep exploring Nevada's natural wonders. Valley of Fire State Park has amazing red rocks and petroglyphs. Lake Tahoe offers water sports and outdoor fun. Nevada's mix of bright lights and desert beauty is unforgettable.

Swim and Relax at Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe sits between Nevada and California, a natural wonder that draws visitors all year. In warmer months, its clear waters invite swimmers, boaters, and beach lovers. It's the second-deepest lake in the U.S., with depths up to 1,645 feet.

The water is cool, ranging from 45°F in winter to 65°F in summer. This makes it perfect for swimming without a wetsuit from July to October. You can relax on sandy beaches, try water sports, or hike scenic trails along the lake.

Beaches and Water Activities

• Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe
• Relax on the sandy beaches and soak up the sun
• Rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other water toys to explore the lake
• Hike the scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings
• Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding at the region's renowned resorts in the winter

Lake Tahoe is a must-see in Nevada and the area. It offers stunning beauty and lots of outdoor fun. Whether you want a calm beach vacation or an exciting adventure, Lake Tahoe has it all.

Rhyolite Ghost Town: A Glimpse into the Past

Near Death Valley in Nevada, the Rhyolite Ghost Town offers a peek into the state's history. It was a booming gold-mining town in the early 1900s. Now, its streets and buildings remind us of its prosperous days.

In 1905, Rhyolite started growing fast, reaching 6,000 people by 1907. It had 53 saloons, a hospital, school, stock exchange, and a three-story bank. But, the gold rush faded, and by 1916, Rhyolite was almost empty.

Today, you can see the ghost town's old buildings. The Bottle House, made from 30,000 beer bottles, is a highlight. The Cosmopolitan Saloon, once bustling, now lies in the desert, showing Nevada's past.

"Rhyolite, a Nevada ghost town near Beatty, was active from 1905 to 1916 and features remnants of its gold-mining boomtown era."

At Rhyolite Ghost Town, you can wander and imagine the town's past. It's close to Death Valley National Park, making it a key stop for those exploring.

For history lovers or those seeking a unique adventure, Rhyolite Ghost Town is a must-see. It's a chance to step back in time and experience the legacy of this booming town.

Journey Along the Loneliest Road in America: Highway 50

Explore the heart of Nevada on Highway 50, known as the "Loneliest Road in America." This 287-mile road is steeped in history, dating back to the Pony Express era. It promises a unique travel experience.

Historic Towns and Attractions

Traveling on Highway 50, you'll find historic towns with their own charm. Baker, Ely, Eureka, and Austin are just a few. Each town invites you to explore its past and attractions.

• Learn about Ely's mining history at the Northern Nevada Railway.
• See the Ely Renaissance Village to understand the town's cultural mix.
• Walk the historic streets of Eureka and Austin, where time seems frozen.

Natural Wonders and Recreation Areas

Highway 50 also leads to natural wonders and places for outdoor fun. Get ready to see stunning desert views and enjoy various activities.

Highway 50, the "Loneliest Road in America," is a must-see. It offers a journey through Nevada's history and natural wonders.

Great Basin National Park: Explore the Desert Mountains

Great Basin National Park is a hidden gem in Nevada's desert mountains. It offers stunning landscapes, from the Lehman Caves to the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive. This park is full of natural wonders waiting to be explored.

Lehman Caves

Discover the Lehman Caves, a network of underground chambers. They feature beautiful formations and a rich history. Since 1885, visitors have been able to explore these caves, which are among the largest in the U.S.

Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive

The Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive takes you up 12 miles of paved road. It climbs over 4,000 feet, passing through different landscapes. It leads to hiking trails and the Bristlecone Pine Grove, home to ancient trees.

Bristlecone Pine Grove and Glaciers

See the Bristlecone Pines, some over 4,000 years old. They are among the oldest living things on Earth. The park also has the Rock Glacier, a rare glacier in Nevada.

Stargazing and Astronomy Programs

The park is perfect for stargazing and astronomy. It hosts events where you can see the night sky and learn about the stars.

Great Basin National Park offers adventures underground, scenic drives, ancient forests, and stargazing. It's a desert mountain gem that promises an unforgettable visit.

Ely: A Multicultural Mining Town

Ely, in Northern Nevada, is known for its rich history as a mining boomtown. It was once home to over 100 nationalities. Today, visitors can explore attractions that celebrate Ely's diverse past.

Ely Renaissance Village

The Ely Renaissance Village is a key spot to visit. It features homes from different cultures that once lived in Ely. You'll see Victorian and adobe houses, each telling a story of Ely's past.

Northern Nevada Railway

The Northern Nevada Railway is another gem in Ely. It's a historic steam train that takes you through beautiful landscapes. Riding this 114-year-old train lets you imagine Ely's mining days.

Ely Mural Walk

Don't miss the Ely Mural Walk. It's a self-guided tour of vibrant murals around town. These murals highlight Ely's history and culture, making it a unique Nevada spot.

Ely is perfect for those who love history, art, or just want to see a real Nevada mining town. It's full of opportunities to dive into Nevada's cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Nevada is a state full of variety, from Las Vegas's bright lights to its natural beauty. This article has shown you the best things to do in Nevada. It's a guide to the top attractions and activities that make it special.

Looking for adventure, history, or beautiful views? Nevada has it all. Reno's casinos and the state's arts and culture are just the start. It's a place that truly shines.

When you visit Nevada, make sure to see it all. From the Hoover Dam to Lake Tahoe, there's so much to explore. With its history, attractions, and stunning views, Nevada will stay with you forever.