How to Have the Best Time in Nevada: 10 Top Spots to Visit
Nevada is a state full of interesting places to visit and things to do. Whether you're looking for excitement or relaxation, you'll find it here.
In this blog post, we'll share with you our top 10 picks for the best places to see and things to do in Nevada.
Reno.
The Reno Arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in Nevada. The arch was built in 1926 to commemorate the completion of the transcontinental railroad.
The Reno Arch is located in downtown Reno and is a popular spot for photo opportunities.
The National Automobile Museum
The National Automobile Museum is located in downtown Reno and features over 200 classic and antique cars.
The museum also has a collection of automotive memorabilia, including signs, gas pumps, and license plates.
The Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center
The Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center is located on the campus of the University of Nevada, Reno.
The planetarium offers public shows and educational programs about astronomy and space science. The science center has exhibits about dinosaurs, fossils, minerals, and other topics.
Lake Tahoe.
Emerald Bay State Park
Emerald Bay is a must-see when visiting Lake Tahoe. This state park is home to Eagle Falls, Vikingsholm Castle, and Fannette Island - the only island in Lake Tahoe. Emerald Bay is also a great place for hiking, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Sand Harbor
Sand Harbor is one of the most popular beaches on Lake Tahoe. This beach is known for its crystal clear water and stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
There are also plenty of things to do at Sand Harbor, including swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and kayaking.
Tahoe City
Tahoe City is the largest town on Lake Tahoe's west shore. This town is known for its boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, and live music scene.
Tahoe City is also a great place to start your adventure on Lake Tahoe - there are plenty of boat rentals and charter companies located here.
Valley of Fire State Park.
The Fire Wave
The Fire Wave is a popular sandstone formation in the Valley of Fire State Park. It is composed of white and red sandstone stripes that have been eroded over time by wind and water.
The stripey appearance is due to different rates of erosion of the two types of sandstone. The Fire Wave is located in the White Domes area of the park and can be reached via a short hike from the parking lot.
The Beehives
The Beehives are another popular rock formation in the Valley of Fire State Park. They are honeycomb-shaped sandstone formations that were created by wind and water erosion over time.
The Beehives are located in the Mouse's Tank area of the park and can be reached via a short hike from the parking lot.
Arch Rock
Arch Rock is a natural archway formed by erosion over time. It is located in the Arch Rock area of the Valley of Fire State Park and can be reached via a short hike from the parking lot.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
The Scenic Drive
The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located just a few miles from the Las Vegas Strip. The 13-mile Scenic Drive takes you through the heart of the park and past some of its most popular attractions.
Be sure to stop at the Visitor Center before entering the drive to get a map and learn about the area's history and geology.
The Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center
The Visitor Center is a great place to start your exploration of Red Rock Canyon. Here you can pick up a map, learn about the area's history and geology, and see exhibits on the plants and animals that call the canyon home.
The center also has a gift shop and an information desk where park Rangers are happy to answer any questions you may have.
The Calico Tanks Trail
One of the most popular trails in Red Rock Canyon is the Calico Tanks Trail. This moderate hike takes you through a stunning landscape of red rock formations, desert plants, and wildlife. The trailhead is located just off of the Scenic Drive, making it easy to add to your itinerary.
Great Basin National Park.
The Lehman Caves Visitor Center
The Lehman Caves Visitor Center is the perfect place to start your exploration of Great Basin National Park. Here you can learn about the geology and history of the caves, pick up a map, and purchase tickets for the guided tours.
The Alpine Lakes Loop Trail
The Alpine Lakes Loop Trail is a 3-mile loop that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the park. Along the way, you'll pass by several alpine lakes, as well as through meadows and forests.
The Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive
The Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is a must-do while you're in Great Basin National Park. This 16-mile road takes you to the top of Wheeler Peak, the highest point in Nevada. Along the way, you'll have stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Hoover Dam.
The Hoover Dam Visitor Center
The Hoover Dam Visitor Center is the perfect place to start your visit to the Hoover Dam. Here you can learn all about the history of the dam, how it was built, and how it works. You can also see a model of the dam and take a virtual tour. There are also exhibits on the wildlife and plants that live in the area.
The Powerplant Tour
The Powerplant Tour is a must-do for anyone interested in engineering or renewable energy. On this tour, you'll see how the dam generates electricity and learn about the different types of turbines that are used. You'll also get an up-close look at the control room, where the dam's operators work 24/7 to keep everything running smoothly.
The Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge
The Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge is one of the most impressive feats of engineering at the Hoover Dam. This bridge spans 1,900 feet (579 meters) across the Black Canyon and is 890 feet (271 meters) above the Colorado River. It's named after two men who played key roles in its construction: former Nevada governor Mike O'Callaghan and NFL player Pat Tillman, who was killed in Afghanistan shortly after 9/11.
The Neon Museum.
The Neon Boneyard
The Neon Boneyard is the heart of the Neon Museum. It's here that you'll find over 200 signs, all of which have been donated by businesses and individuals from across the state. The signs are arranged into a number of different displays, each of which tells a different story about Nevada's history.
The Neon Boneyard Park
The Neon Boneyard Park is a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the Strip. The park is home to a number of different sculptures, all of which are made from recycled neon signs. The park also has a number of picnic tables, making it the perfect place to enjoy a bite to eat while taking in the sights.
The Neon Museum Gallery
The Neon Museum Gallery is home to a rotating selection of exhibits, all of which showcase different aspects of Nevada's history and culture. The gallery is also home to a gift shop, where you can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia related to the museum's collection.
The Mob Museum.
The Museum Exhibits
The Mob Museum in Las Vegas is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of organized crime in America. The museum's exhibits tell the story of the rise of the mob in the early 20th century, and its eventual fall from power. Visitors can see artifacts from famous mobsters such as Al Capone and Lucky Luciano, as well as learn about the inner workings of the Mafia.
The Crime Lab
The Crime Lab at the Mob Museum is a hands-on exhibit that allows visitors to experience what it was like to be a detective investigating a crime scene in the 1920s. Guests can use authentic tools and techniques to analyze fingerprints, identify weapons, and solve crimes.
The Speakeasy
The Speakeasy at the Mob Museum is a replica of an actual speakeasy from the Prohibition era. Guests can enjoy live music, dance to swing tunes, and sample prohibition-era cocktails while learning about this fascinating period in American history.
The Pinball Hall of Fame.
The Pinball Machines
The Pinball Hall of Fame is home to the world's largest collection of pinball machines. There are more than 200 machines on display, ranging from the early 1900s to the present day. The collection includes classic games such as "Pin-Bot" and "The Addams Family," as well as modern favorites like "Lord of the Rings" and "The Simpsons."
The Video Games
In addition to pinball machines, the Pinball Hall of Fame also has a large collection of vintage video games. Visitors can play classics like "Pac-Man" and " Donkey Kong," as well as more recent hits like "Halo" and "Guitar Hero." There is also a selection of arcade-style games, including air hockey and basketball.
The Jukebox
No trip to the Pinball Hall of Fame would be complete without a visit to the onsite jukebox. This massive machine contains more than 1,000 songs, ranging from oldies to contemporary hits. Visitors can choose to listen to their favorite tunes while they play pinball or simply enjoy the music on its own.
The National Cowboy Museum.
The Cowboyabilia
The National Cowboy Museum is home to the largest collection of cowboy memorabilia in the world. From saddles and spurs to guns and guitars, the museum has it all. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience what it was like to be a cowboy.
The Western Art
The Western Art collection at the National Cowboy Museum includes paintings, sculptures, and photographs that depict the American West. There are works by famous artists such as Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, as well as lesser-known artists who capture the spirit of the West in their work.
The American Indian Art
The American Indian Art collection at the National Cowboy Museum features artwork from more than 100 tribes across North America. The collection includes pottery, jewelry, baskets, and beadwork, as well as paintings and sculptures. There are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the cultures of various tribes.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a place to have the time of your life, Nevada is the place for you. With so many incredible places to visit, you'll never be bored.
From Reno to Lake Tahoe to Valley of Fire State Park, there's something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!