Discover Your Nevada

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.

Nevada really lights up at night—and we’re not just talking about neon signs and dazzling marquees. Go beyond the urban glow and you’ll find the brightest stars in the darkest skies in the Lower 48. Scope out this lineup of stellar spots to spy constellations, the Milky Way, and thousands of stars with your naked eye—all within easy road trip range of Reno.

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.

Ready to get out of town? Head south to Carson Valley, where a close-to-home adventure awaits. This charming community, with its mountain-studded backdrop, brims with hands-on Nevada history, amazing eats (grown a fork’s throw from your plate), and some of the Silver State’s most prized antique shopping, but also plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities, outdoor action, and sunset soaks to ensure there’s something for the whole fam—even for just one night.

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.

From the Biggest Little City to the “Friendliest Town in Nevada” – give a big ol’ howdy to Winnemucca, just over two hours northeast of Reno. Smack dab in the heart of cowboy country, you’ll find rich buckaroo history, big Basque dinners, endless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, and warm hospitality waiting to welcome you. Pack an appetite for adventure, and your favorite Stetson.

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.

If you’re willing (and eager) to get a little out there, Las Vegas and its surrounding cities have a wide variety of curiously uncommon sights to see. From only-found-here history to larger-than-life landmarks, discover an anything-but-ordinary side of the Silver State.