Discover Your Nevada

Most Renoites have visited Virginia City. But have you really experienced the place? While you may have attended some wild annual events, until you’ve hunted barroom ghosts, danced a jig with locals clad in Victorian get-ups, or explored an underground mine or two.

Ready for a welcome change of scenery? Look just down the highway from Reno. Hardly just a haven for school-kid field trips, your very own capital city calls with culture, cuisine, and outdoor action. From Old West history to spankin’-new pedal-powered railway tours, craft brew-paired bistro bites to hot spring soaks, and kid-approved activities galore, you’ll wonder why you haven’t headed down for a slightly-south sleepover sooner.

This sunny city packs a splashy punch, boasting endless opportunities to get your kicks on the Colorado River. With boating, fishing, jet skiing, kayaking, and cruising at your fingertips (plus a lively riverwalk scene featuring almost a dozen amenity-packed resorts), it won’t take you long to learn why this family-friendly outdoor destination is one of our favorites to escape to for a night or two.

Just over an hour from Las Vegas awaits a little slice of desert paradise. Mesquite marries the best of small-town life with resort getaway vibes, offering up five-star art, culture, eats, and recreation. Pack up the family and escape to the scenic Virgin River Valley for a southern Nevada staycation you won’t soon forget. This town is about to become your favorite hidden gem in the Silver State. Sorry not sorry for bogarting all your future vacation days.

The next time you’re rarin’ to get out of town and cool off—whether it’s with a refreshing dip or a frosty mug in a history-drenched tavern—check out this roundup of trip-worthy watering holes within easy reach of Las Vegas.

An hour and change east of Reno “The Oasis of Nevada” awaits. The friendly farm town of Fallon invites fans of fresh food and outdoor action with great restaurants, a singing sand dune playground, an abundance of wildlife, plenty of comfy places to stay, and more.

Goodsprings, Nelson, St. Thomas, and Rhyolite are a few of the famous ghost towns near Las Vegas. Saddle up and venture out—these Wild West towns are just a short drive from Las Vegas.

These dark sky destinations often feel light years away from Las Vegas. But if you’re really shooting for the stars, you’re gonna want to get these gaze-worthy waypoints firmly on your radar.