8 Often Overlooked Nevada Towns To Visit

8 Most Underrated Towns In Nevada To Take A Trip To

1. Elko

If you’re somewhat interested in cowboy culture and wide, open spaces, then the vibrant city of Elko should be on your list. Nestled in the northeast corner of Nevada, Elko is much more than just another small town. Blessed with a rich history centered on the Western cowboy lifestyle and mining industry, it serves as a quiet escape from hectic city life.

The National Cowboy Poetry Gathering is held in Elko annually, drawing cowboy entertainer and enthusiast from all corners of the country. But even if that’s not quite your thing, you’ll definitely appreciate the region’s natural beauty – picturesque rolling hills, diverse wildlife, and clear blue skies.

Now imagine this: You, immersing yourself in the local culture by attending an old-fashioned cowboy poetry gathering. And after a fun-filled day, you unwind by retiring to one of the charming B&Bs downtown. Imagine waking up to a hearty western breakfast before setting off on a trail ride into the vast Nevada wilderness.

• Exploring the Northeastern Nevada Museum which has exhibits about area history.
• Fishing at Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge
• Visiting the California Trail Interpretive Center.
• Taking a trip to Lamoille Canyon.
• Dining at local restaurants like Star Hotel Basque Family Style Restaurant and JR’s Bar & Grill.
• Trying out your luck at Gold Country Inn and Casino.

2. Eureka

In terms of architectural beauty, the town of Eureka does not disappoint. Locateed in the southern part of Nevada, Eureka gives visitors a rare chance to travel back in time. Restored Victorian buildings are testament to its prosperous past as it thrived during the 19th-century mining boom.

Of course, the town’s charm isn’t limited to its historical significance. Eureka also offers a taste of the great outdoors with its meetup-friendly parks and camping spots. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a nice place for relaxing strolls or picnics with loved ones.

Here, history comes to life as you stroll through well-preserved buildings along meticulously manicured streets. Your footsteps echo an era gone by as you explore the Eureka Opera House from 1880. And before the day is done, you unwind amidst scenic views at the local park while immersing in rich natural beauty.

• Attending events hosted at Eureka Opera House.
• Seeing the mine workings at the Eureka Tunnel.
• Walking around Raine’s Market and Wildlife Museum.
• Taking photos of St Brendan’s Roman Catholic Church.
• Visiting the old-timey Eureka Courthouse.
• Dining at Owl Club Bar & Steakhouse.

3. Pioche

Much like Eureka, Pioche was once a thriving mining town. But what sets this town apart is its captivating history intertwined with tales of outlaws and vigilantes during the heyday of the Wild West. Situated 180 miles northeast of Las Vegas, it’s that type of off-the-beaten path destination that you wouldn’t want to miss when touring Nevada.

Today, Pioche caters to those who enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, hunting, fishing, and hiking amidst a backdrop of panoramic mountain vistas. Add to that its many historical landmarks, and you have the perfect destination whether you enjoy history or nature.

Let yourself be transported back to the days of the Wild West as your eyes sweep over the old boot hill cemetery and historic buildings like the Million Dollar Courthouse and the Thompson Opera House from the 19th century. After a day of immersing in history, you retreat to a serene landscape where crystal clear lakes are surrounded by majestic mountain ranges for a camping adventure under the starlit Nevada sky.

• Exploring the Pioche Historic District.
• Fishing on Echo Canyon State Park.
• Hiking at Spring Valley State Park.
• Touring the Boot Hill Cemetery.
• Learning history at Lincoln County Museum.
• Camping at Eagle Valley Resort.

4. Wells

Sitting along Interstate 80 near the eastern edge of Nevada, the small town of Wells could be easily overlooked. But with its irresistible charm hinged largely on its history, natural scenery, and outdoor activities, travelers would do well not to bypass it.

Founded during the construction of the first transcontinental railroad, Wells now presents itself as an inviting base camp for exploring nature attractions around Northeastern Nevada. It is perfect for adventurers who enjoy backpacking, ATV riding, bird watching, fishing, and hunting.

As a daydream, imagine witnessing beautiful sunsets while riding ATVs in Angel Lake Scenic Drive. In the cool evening, you get cozy with loved ones around a bonfire and gaze at the stars against the night sky. And later, you wake up early to catch that breathtaking sunrise view by the lake before embarking on a fishing adventure.

• Backpacking in Humboldt National Forest.
• Wildlife viewing at Ruby Mountains Scenic Area.
• Fishing in Angel Lake.
• ATV riding on Chimney Rock Golf Course.
• Dining at Bella’s Espresso House.
• Visiting the Wells Depot Museum & Train for history buffs.

5. Tonopah

An intriguing mix of fascinating history and stunning night skies gives the town of Tonopah a unique charm that is hard to resist. Located halfway between Las Vegas and Reno, Tonopah allows visitors to escape the neon and hustle for clear starry nights and the state’s rich mining history.

Once dubbed the “Queen of the Silver Camps,” Tonopah now lets you retrace its mining past through museums and old mining parks. After sunset, you will not want to miss out on one of the best stargazing spots in the country.

Imagine finding yourself in this scenario – after learning about Nevada’s mining history in Central Nevada Museum, you find a quiet spot under a blanket of shimmering stars and watch as constellations reveal themselves. It’s not just any stargazing experience, but one that has been accredited by USA Today as among the best in America.

• Touring the Tonopah Historic Mining Park.
• Stargazing at Clair Blackburn Memorial Stargazing Park.
• Visiting the Central Nevada Museum.
• Trying out local brews at Tonopah Brewing Company.
• Getting spooked at the allegedly haunted Clown Motel.
• Taking photos inside the Old Nye County Courthouse.

6. Panaca

As Nevada’s oldest permanent settlement, established in 1864, Panaca harbors a multitude of historic sites ready to captivate any history buff. It provides a different kind of experience, straying away from Nevada’s casino-dominated image.

Agriculture is still a common way of life, giving visitors a taste of rural living amidst the scenic landscape characterized by towering red sandstone cliffs. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy biking, hiking, and camping at nearby parks.

Picture spending your morning exploring the town’s antique structures reminiscent of its Mormon pioneers, then later seeing the red sandstone cliffs dramatically morph in color as the sun sets low on the horizon. This culminates with a home-style dinner in a local diner that leaves you yearning for another day of adventure in Panaca.

• Fishing and camping at Echo Canyon State Park.
• Exploring Cathedral Gorge State Park.
• Finding natural wonders in Kershaw-Ryan State Park.
• Taking a biking trip around the picturesque town.
• Catching shows at the Thompson’s Opera House.
• Strolling down the historic Main Street.

7. Winnemucca

Strategically located on Interstate 80 between Reno and Salt Lake City, Winnemucca serves as the go-to stopover for many travellers in Northern Nevada. It may not appear too glamorous at first look, but it packs quite a punch when it comes to cultural history and outdoor delights.

With Basque and local American culture heavily influencing the town, you can expect to experience one-of-a-kind festivals like the annual Run-A-Mucca Motorcycle Rally and Basque Festival. The beautiful Humboldt River running through town also offers fishing opportunities.

Walking along the historical Water Canyon Recreational Area, you might run into a group of lovable Winnemucca locals proudly celebrating their heritage during their famous Run-A-Mucca Motorcycle Rally. After joining them, end your day by going on a peaceful night fishing escapade at the Humboldt River.

• Go hiking or camping in Water Canyon Recreation Area.
• Attending the Run-A-Mucca Motorcycle Rally.
• Fishing along the Humboldt River.
• Checking out Buckaroo Hall of Fame & Heritage Museum.
• Joining the Basque Festival.
• Exploring local nature trails.

8. Ely

Nestled in eastern Nevada, Ely is another hidden gem that often gets overshadowed by its flashier counterparts like Las Vegas and Reno. But for those who have taken the time to get acquainted with it, they discovered an unassuming town brimming with miner’s history, interesting attractions, and outdoor recreational activities.

Being home to Nevada’s first national park – the Great Basin National Park, visiting Ely is like hitting a nature lover’s jackpot. The beautiful landscapes, clear night skies, and picturesque train rides contribute to the overall allure of Ely.

Imagine getting on a century-old steam engine for a trip back to Nevada’s mining past, then spending the rest of the day delighting your eyes with an amazing view of the countryside. As night falls, you set up camp in the Great Basin National Park, witnessing the stunning display of a star-studded night sky before you drift off to sleep.

• Riding the Nevada Northern Railway.
• Visiting the historic Renaissance Village.
• Camping at Great Basin National Park.
• Exploring the Ely Renaissance Society.
• Touring the White Pine Public Museum.
• Spelunking in Lehman Caves.

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