Nevada is a vast and beautiful state filled with a variety of unique natural and manmade landscapes, so it seems a shame that many tourists tend to visit just one place instead of exploring the state’s numerous distinctive areas.
This is the perfect state for a city break, hiking in beautiful national parks or doing a road trip and taking in all the main tourist attractions.
Now let's explore some of the best locations Nevada has to offer.
1. Las Vegas
How could we possibly discuss the best of Nevada State without mentioning the famous world famous city of Las Vegas.
Around 40 million visitors travel to Las Vegas every year, many of whom visit the iconic Strip, a two and a half mile long avenue at the heart of the city packed with resorts, a rollercoaster, hotels, theatres, restaurants, gardens and much more.
If it is your first time visting Vegas, this is a party destination, a city to gamble, or enjoy some of the best shows in the world with famous singers performing here every month. If gambling is your thing, view this guide to the best casinos in Las Vegas.
2. The Valley of Fire
A one hour drive away from the city of Las Vegas sits the oldest state park in the entirety of Nevada, and one of the lesser known/visited places in the region.
The Valley of Fire consists of over 42,000 acres packed full of sandstone structures and enormous sand dunes that have existed since the age of the dinosaurs almost 150 million years ago.
This is particularly impressive when you consider the fact that humans have only inhabited the area for 3,000 years.
The drive here is incredible and easily one of the most scenic roads in the world.
If you want to do something more than just sightseeing and snapping photos of the unusual sculptures you can go hiking or even on a wildlife safari - though we recommend you avoid this in the summer months as temperatures can reach over 125 degrees.
3. Lake Tahoe
Above Nevada and California, high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is Lake Tahoe.
Encompassed by mountains, this 22-mile-long azure lake is the second deepest lake in the United States and yet has some of the clearest waters to offer on Earth.
Many centuries ago, the lake was inhabited by the Washoe people, however now you can visit a variety of ski resorts, many of which also offer boating, fishing, mountain biking and hiking to their customers.
Lots of USA tour operators offer trips here all year round and this really is one of the top places to see on any Nevada/California travel itinerary.
4. Austin: The Ghost Town
For something totally different travel along Highway 50 to the mysterious, eerie mining town of Austin.
Back in 1862 when the silver rush was taking place, Austin became a hot spot for miners. In fact, over 10,000 individuals moved to the town to take advantage of its location and access to the silver mines.
However, just 50 years later, the boom came to an end and left only 340 people in the town. In addition to Austin, there are also several surrounding ghost towns including Berlin where churches, Stokes Castle and many other buildings stand vacant.
5. Great Basin National Park
Nevada is home to some of the most beautiful National Parks in the United States, and if you love the outdoors and wilderness none are much better than the Great Basin National Park.
With huge mountains and lush green landscapes there are Instagram photos everywhere you look.
You can visit for just a day, but 2/3 days is perfect to experience the highlights and walking trails. Expect to see animals, wildflower, caves and also amazing hiking and drives here.
6. Lake Mead & Hoover Dam
Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the USA in terms of water capacity and provides water to the states of Arizona, California, and Nevada.
The Hoover Dam is a popular photo stop off for tourists and it really is impressive when you see this huge architectural structure up close.
If you are planning an overland road trip in Nevada be sure to stop here even if just for a few hours.
7. Death Valley National Park
If you love the US national parks, you really need to see the Death Valley National Park. This is one of the most extreme places on the planet with dramatic baron scenery.
Death Valley set the highest temperature ever recorded anywhere in the world (134 degrees in July 1936) and it is the driest place in North America with little rain.
8. Black Rock City (Burning Man)
Black Rock City is definately one of the most unusual places featured on our list, but also one of the most unique.
This location is where the famous Burning Man festival is held every year, usually in August. This is a week-long event focused on community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance.
You've probably seen pictures of this festival which usually go viral every year, due to the desert setting and fire shows. It really is one of the most bizarre and fun festivals you can attend in the world.
Burning Man usually takes place at the end of August into September, and tickets cost around $400. Getting tickets can be a challenge due to the popularity of the festival.
9. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area lies in Nevada’s Mojave Desert. Here you can see some amazing rocks, monuments and mountains with their distinct red colour.
There is a popular Red Rock Canyon Loop you can drive which takes around 30 minutes with the some of the most spectacular scenery.
Most visitors drive but you can book a Red Rock Canyon guided tour.
10. Reno
What, there are other cities in Nevada other than Las Vegas? Yes!
Reno is a city in Nevada nicknamed 'The Biggest Little City in the World', and it really is a special place to see on any Nevada itinerary.
Historically Reno is known for its gambling but in recent years the city has been transformed into a popular destination for arts, culture and food.
This is definitely one of the hidden gems to visit in north America, a must visit US city that is really enjoyable to explore with so many cultural highlights from cafes to galleries.
Other
Our list of the 10 unmissable attractions in Nevada was difficult to narrow down as there are so many more places to see in this state. If you have more time try to also add these places to your itinerary:
- Black Rock Desert
- Carson City
- Virginia City
- Eldorado Canyon & Gold Mine
- Mount Charleston
- Black Rock Desert
- Ruby Mountains
- Pyramid Lake
- Sloan Canyon
- Area 51 and State Route 375 (the extraterrestrial highway)
Plan a Trip to Nevada
Whether you want a dream trip or are interested in taking a gap year in the United States, you really need to see Nevada.
This state is perfect for a city break, visiting a ghost town or seeing some of the world’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Make sure you take the time to truly experience all of the different elements that come together to create this one-of-a-kind state.
View options for working in the USA if you fancy moving to this state from abroad.
