Uncommon Overnighters: Unique Places to Stay in Nevada

Shady Lady Bed & Breakfast

Maybe it’s the fact that this pet-friendly B&B used to be a brothel. Maybe it’s the wild peacocks that wander the property. Or maybe it’s the heart-shaped tub in the Paradise Room, the red-on-red silk decor in the Asian Room, or the swimming pool behind the Willow Tree Cabin. Located just outside Beatty, the Shady Lady Bed & Breakfast is one of the most unique places to stay outside of Las Vegas.

Ruby the Red Caboose

Climb aboard for Wild West history in Virginia City, home of the famous Comstock Lode discovery, Mark Twain, and Ruby the Red Caboose.

This 1950s caboose is perfect for train enthusiasts or anyone with a wickedly fun sense of adventure. Beautifully decorated with modern and historical touches, Ruby is a romantic getaway you won’t soon forget. There’s AC for summer visits and a fireplace for cool weather, plus a kitchen and Wi-Fi. You won’t find a TV, but with 100-mile views available from the private patio, why would you want one? Watch the V&T Railroad as it chugs by or scan the hills for wild horses.

Hard Luck Castle & Mine

Looming over the desert near Goldfield since the 1990s, Hard Luck Castle beckons weary travelers seeking larger-than-life accommodations—four stories, to be exact. 

Located on more than 40 acres at the more-than-100-year-old Hard Luck gold mine, this spherical fortress houses a 1920s pipe organ, wraparound sundeck, and a rooftop solarium. With room for eight, it’s the perfect size for a group getaway in any season. Advanced notice can even get you a tour of the Hard Luck Mine.

The Clown Motel

What will you find when you walk into this only-in-Nevada stay? If you guessed clowns, you’ve hit the answer right on the big, red nose.

It’s clowns all the way down at The Clown Motel, starting with the flashing sign welcoming you off the road in Tonopah. A giant, wooden clown points you inside to behold one of the world’s largest private collections of clown figurines covering every inch of the lobby. And we haven’t even mentioned the clown-themed art, including paintings of famous rock and roll icons like Janis Joplin and Prince (done up in full clown face, of course) adorning the walls in all 31 hotel rooms.

If that’s not spooky enough, The Clown Motel is located right next door to the Old Tonopah Cemetery, which is mostly occupied by victims of a mining disaster—some of whom are rumored to prefer the motel to their own graves. If you’re into an oddball overnight experience or simply love clowns, don’t be a bozo—just book yourself a stay.

Silver Queen Hotel

Stay like royalty at this famously haunted hotel in historic Virginia City. The Silver Queen bore witness to one of the most action-packed (and sometimes terrifying) periods in Nevada history: the Comstock Lode era, when one of the world’s largest silver veins was uncovered.

Mining incidents, murders, and the occasional structure fire filled out the Silver Queen’s unlucky collection of undead characters. The most famous is Rosie, a lady of the night who allegedly took her own life in Room 11 and haunts the premises to this day. But just because she kicked the bucket doesn’t mean you should leave this colorful and cozy stay off your bucket list.

Little A’Le’Inn

If ghosts aren’t enough to get your sense of adventure pumping, may we suggest a walk (or UFO flight) on the paranormal side? Hop in and ride the Extraterrestrial Highway all the way to the Little A’Le’Inn in Rachel, the town closest to the mysterious Area 51.

You probably won’t run into little green guys at the Little A’Le’Inn, but you just might pick up a few out-of-this-world stories from the locals if you ask around. Grab a bite (and a signature Alien Amber Ale), take a peek at their UFO photo collection, and don’t forget to add a dollar to the bar ceiling. Overnight guests get to raid the VHS closet, too.

Paradise Ranch Castle Bed & Breakfast

A giant, castle-like bed and breakfast in central Nevada may seem like a fairytale. It was, in fact, the dream of a couple deeply in love. The hero of our story promised his bride a castle, making this one of our most unique places to stay for couples.

At Paradise Ranch Castle, two rooms await your noble visit: the quaint Blue Room or the regal, lavender-hued King & Queen’s Quarters. If staying in the suite, be prepared: The bathroom is the size of some studio apartments. Eclectic décor runs the gambit from suits of armor to baseball memorabilia. Like any good castle, there is a dungeon. This one, however, begs to be enjoyed with a saloon-style bar, billiards, poker tables, and a player piano. Round out the evening with a cocktail on the porch and watch the sunset while awaiting some truly spectacular stargazing near Austin.

Overland Hotel & Saloon

Nestled in the heart of historic Pioche, the Overland Hotel & Saloon is more than just a place to stay—it’s a trip back in time. This charming, 1940s lodging offers an authentic Old West experience with vintage decor, cozy accommodations, and the kind of local hospitality that makes you feel like a regular from the moment you walk in. But don’t be surprised if you feel an extra “presence” during your visit—the Overland is rumored to be haunted, with guests reporting strange sounds and unexplained happenings.

Maybe that has something to do with the local history. The Overland is your gateway to Pioche’s rich backstory and rugged surroundings. Step outside and walk the same streets where miners once sought their fortunes, and visit local landmarks like Boot Hill Cemetery—the original resting place of any extra guests you might see floating around your room.