Historic Retreats
BY MICHELLE ROBERTS-GARCIA
As a Las Vegas resident, there’s a common question that comes up whenever I tell people I call this place home: Where do the locals get away from it all? For me, the surrounding countryside is a treasure trove of historical hideaways, where the past combines with the present to create a truly unique experience. And fortunately, a car and some good road trip snacks are all you need to get a taste of how special this place really is.
Goodsprings
About 40 minutes south of Las Vegas, the casinos and suburban sprawl give way to desert. This is where the turn off for Goodsprings appears. A sign for the town is the only indication that any life exists further down the trail.
As I drove into the tiny town with my husband (and our mini husky), I couldn’t help but breathe in the quiet calm of the sandy hills and buildings that have seen decades of progress come and go.
Our first stop was the famous Pioneer Saloon, built in 1913. With its wooden bar and tin roof, this historic watering hole’s warm interior feels like walking into a time capsule. The first thing we did was sit at one of the original poker tables and touch the bullet holes in the wall that have been there since 1915—allegedly left after a game of cards ended in tragedy.
As we sipped beer, I couldn’t help but wonder if spirits of the past were among us, watching the world go on as each new generation comes to enjoy the wiles of the saloon.
I’m not the only one thinking about the other side. The staff here is happy to share stories of resident ghosts who cause harmless trouble like slamming doors or messing with the power. Later, after a bag from the gift shop flew out of my hand with the force of someone pushing it, I felt the shivers of something akin to fear work their way through me. While I always greet the paranormal with curiosity and a little trepidation, I now wholeheartedly believe the stories. After all, how can a place that old not have a few phantoms hanging around?
After our wander around Goodsprings, we decided to stop at Seven Magic Mountains. This free art installation is unique, easily accessible, and a great spot for taking photos. The towering limestone rocks are painted in dazzlingly bright colors, adding whimsy to a day out exploring.
However, the day doesn’t end there for us. One of my all-time favorite destinations was just up the road: Blue Diamond. This small community is home to Cottonwood Station—a well-known cafe and restaurant often filled with diners stopping in before or after a hike in the surrounding Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
Supper Time
We made it to Cottonwood just in time for an early dinner, choosing from its large menu of treats, dishes, and boozy beverages. Whether you’re looking for paninis, pizzas, huge salads, or brunch toasts, this is the perfect stop to fuel up between adventures.
Afterward, we sat outside on the dog-friendly patio and enjoyed the nice weather and quiet respite. The unique setting of Cottonwood Station makes this a must do while cruising around Las Vegas. While it may not pop up on the average list of tourist to-do’s, that’s what makes it so special.
After we ate and took in the late afternoon sun, we hopped in the car and took the scenic route to the interstate. The colors of the mountains are beyond anything you can imagine, and there are plenty of pull-offs for photos. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for wild donkeys (found throughout Red Rock) that have become the mascot of Cottonwood Station.
If it’s good food, good people, and some epic photo backdrops you’re looking for, these destinations will leave you with more than just a hole in your wallet from the slots. Who knows: If you take a page out of Gordy’s book and keep your eyes peeled, you might even find your own chunk of gold to take home with you.
Great Views
The scenic drive to Blue Diamond is a great way to indulge in Las Vegas’ natural wonders. I recommend taking the full length of Nevada State Route 159, which runs parallel to Red Rock and offers breathtaking scenery without the need to pay for parking.
