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8 Wonderful Cities to Visit in Nevada

Nevada, a state often associated with gambling capitals like Las Vegas and vast deserts like the Mojave, is also home to a collection of small towns. Each with their own unique stories and landscapes, these towns have a diverse heritage and environment that defines the Silver State. From the carefully planned community of Boulder City to the historic mining town of Virginia City, these eight cities are the best to visit.

Boulder City

Cafe and restaurant center of Boulder City, Nevada.
Cafe and restaurant in Boulder City, Nevada. Image credit gg-foto via Shutterstock

Boulder City was founded in 1931 as a base for the workers who Hoover Dam, a project that played a major role in the economic development of the American Southwest during the Great Depression. This city was carefully planned and built by the federal government to house the dam’s construction workers and their families. Its construction brought an influx of workers and their families, resulting in a community that thrived amidst the desert landscape. Today, Boulder City remains one of the few places in Nevada where gambling is prohibited, preserving its original character.

Visitors can explore the impressive Hoover Dam, a feat of engineering that offers guided tours and panoramic views of the Colorado River. Nearby Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers boating, fishing, and hiking amid diverse desert landscapes. Hemenway Park is another must-see, where guests can enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and often see bighorn sheep grazing nearby.

Elko

Chilton Centennial Tower in Elko, Nevada.
Chilton Centennial Tower in Elko, Nevada. Image courtesy of E Fehrenbacher via Shutterstock

Elko, founded in 1868, is a major city in Nevada’s northeastern region, rooted in the mining and railroad industries. The city flourished during the westward expansion as a major stop along the Central Pacific Railroad. Elko is also known for its rich cowboy culture and annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, which celebrates the region’s western heritage and art. The nearby Ruby Mountains, often called the “Swiss Alps of Nevada,” contribute to the city’s natural setting – a contrast to the desert that surrounds it.

Guests can drive the Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway to enjoy views and numerous hiking trails in the Ruby Mountains. The Northeastern Nevada Museum features exhibits on local history, wildlife, and art. It’s a comprehensive look at the region’s past and present. The California Trail Interpretive Center features interactive exhibits and trails that highlight the historic journey of pioneers heading west.

Fernley

A 70-ton turtle made of boulders in Fernley, Nevada.
A 70-ton turtle made of boulders in Fernley, Nevada. Image courtesy of EWY Media via Shutterstock

Founded in the early 20th century as a farming and ranching community, Fernley has grown into a city at the crossroads of major highways. The construction of the Truckee Canal in 1905 was instrumental in Fernley’s development, allowing for irrigation and transforming the area into fertile agricultural land. Despite its growth, Fernley retains a small-town feel and has access to several natural attractions that highlight Nevada’s landscapes.

Visitors can explore the Fernley Wildlife Management Area, which features bird watching and nature trails in a marshy setting. Pyramid Lake, a large desert lake known for its fishing and tufa formations, is another notable destination.

Gardnerville

A beautiful photo of a road through a lush park near the mountains in Gardnerville, Nevada.
A beautiful photo of a road through a lush park near the mountains in Gardnerville, Nevada.

Gardnerville, founded in 1879, is located in the Carson Valley. Originally settled by Danish immigrants, the town quickly grew into a center for farming and ranching, taking advantage of its fertile land and location along the Emigrant Trail.

Visitors can explore the Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park to learn more about pioneer life through tours and exhibits. Lampe Park, a community park, has walking trails, sports facilities and a pond; it is an ideal place for relaxation and recreation. A little further away, Genoa Bar, known as Nevada’s oldest thirst quench, looks into the area’s historical past and is a different experience for visitors.

Elly

Route 50 and Main St. in Ely, Nevada.
Route 50 and Main St. in Ely, Nevada. Image courtesy of Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

Founded in the late 1800s as a stagecoach stop and later as a mining town, Ely experienced significant growth with the discovery of copper. The arrival of the Nevada Northern Railway in 1906 further stimulated development, making Ely a bustling hub for mining activity.

Guests can visit the Nevada Northern Railway Museum for historic train rides and exhibits on the city’s railroad history. Garnet Hill, a popular garnet prospecting spot, offers scenic views and a unique opportunity to collect garnets. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park features preserved beehive-shaped charcoal ovens from the late 1800s, providing insight into the region’s mining history.

Virginia City

The historic center of Virginia City, Nevada.
Historic downtown Virginia City, Nevada. Image: Pandora Pictures via Shutterstock

Founded in 1859 after the discovery of the Comstock Lode, Virginia City became one of Nevada’s most important mining towns. The immense wealth generated by the silver mines led to rapid development, with Virginia City becoming a center of commerce and culture in the 19th century. The city’s historic buildings and landmarks reflect its rich mining past and the thriving town atmosphere that characterized its early years.

Visitors can explore the Comstock Gold Mill, the historic silver mine that played a crucial role in the city’s development. The Virginia & Truckee Railroad offers historic train rides with scenic views for those who want a glimpse into the past. The Silver Terrace Cemeteries, with their gravestones and stories of early settlers, are a poignant reminder of the city’s history.

Pahrump

Historic Saloon Building and Casino in Pahrump Nevada
Historic saloon building and casino in Pahrump, Nevada. Image credit 4kclips via Shutterstock

Originally a farming community, Pahrump is located in the Mojave Desert and has grown significantly in recent decades. The city’s development was influenced by its proximity to Las Vegas and its location for agriculture, particularly alfalfa and cotton. Today, Pahrump is known for its vineyards and laid-back desert lifestyle.

Visitors can tour the Pahrump Valley Winery, which offers tastings and vineyard views. Spring Mountain Motor Resort and Country Club offers motorsports enthusiasts racing experiences and events. At Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, guests can observe desert wildlife and rare plants while exploring the diverse ecosystems of the Mojave Desert.

Laugh

Casino in Laughlin, Nevada, on the Colorado River.
Casino in Laughlin, Nevada, on the Colorado River. Image credit Andrew Zarivny via Shutterstock

Laughlin, located on the Colorado River, was founded in the 1940s and developed into a vacation destination in the 1960s. The city’s growth was largely driven by its casinos and entertainment venues, which attracted visitors seeking relaxation and recreation. Laughlin’s riverfront location also provides a scenic backdrop and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities.

Guests can enjoy a stroll along the Laughlin Riverwalk, which offers views of the casinos and the Colorado River. The Colorado River Heritage Greenway Park and Trails offers hiking, biking and horseback riding trails along the river. Grapevine Canyon, known for its petroglyphs, is a unique opportunity to explore ancient rock art and the surrounding desert landscape.

As you explore Nevada’s beautiful small towns, you’ll discover a tapestry of history and natural beauty often overshadowed by the state’s more famous destinations. Boulder City’s connection to the Hoover Dam, Elko’s cowboy culture and scenic Ruby Mountains, and Fernley’s agricultural roots all offer unique perspectives on the state’s development. Meanwhile, Gardnerville, Ely, Virginia City, Pahrump, and Laughlin each present their own mix of historical significance and natural beauty, from historic parks and museums to wildlife refuges and scenic drives. These eight beautiful cities not only highlight Nevada’s rich past, but also offer a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, making the state’s lesser-known locations both educational and engaging.