Beyond the Casinos: Discovering the Best of Nevada’s Outdoor Adventures, Gaming, and Culture
Nestled between California, Arizona, Utah, and Idaho lies the state of Nevada. Known for its casinos, nightlife and glitz of Las Vegas, Nevada is a destination that attracts millions of tourists each year.
But there’s more to this western state than just the bright lights and glamour of Sin City. Nevada is the seventh-largest state in the United States with a total area of 110,577 square miles.
Carson City is its capital while Las Vegas serves as its most populous city. The state also hosts Lake Tahoe which ranks as one of America’s largest freshwater lakes by volume.
Importance of Tourism in Nevada
Tourism is one of the biggest industries in Nevada and has been a key driver for economic growth in the state for decades. In 2019 alone, tourism brought in over $65 billion to the economy and supported over 450,000 jobs across various industries including hospitality, retail and transportation. Nevada’s tourism industry offers a wide range of experiences from exploring outdoor activities such as hiking trails and hot springs to indulging in gaming and entertainment at some world-renowned casinos on the Las Vegas Strip or watching shows at T-Mobile Arena.
Visitors can also engage with history and culture by visiting Hoover Dam or sampling Basque cuisine in Elko. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or an adventure-packed getaway with friends, Nevada has something to offer everyone – making it no surprise that it remains one of America’s top tourist destinations year after year.
Exploring the Outdoors
Hiking Trails in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
If you’re looking for a breathtaking hiking experience with stunning views, then the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is perfect for you. Located just a few miles west of Las Vegas, this area has over 30 miles of hiking trails that lead through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Nevada.
The trails vary in length and difficulty, so there’s something for everyone. The Calico Tanks Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the area, and it’s easy to see why.
This trail takes you on a scenic journey through red sandstone formations that look like works of art. The view from the top is absolutely stunning – trust us, it’s worth every step.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Lake Tahoe
If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, kayaking and paddleboarding on Lake Tahoe is perfect for you. Known as one of the clearest lakes in North America, Lake Tahoe is surrounded by beautiful scenery and offers calm waters perfect for exploring by boat. There are many places along the lake where you can rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore at your own pace.
Emerald Bay State Park is one of our favorite spots – here you can paddle around Fannette Island or explore Eagle Falls. If you’re feeling adventurous, try doing a sunrise or sunset tour where you’ll get to witness some truly beautiful scenery.
Hot Springs in the Black Rock Desert
The Black Rock Desert is home to several hot springs that are perfect for soaking your worries away after a long day exploring Nevada’s outdoors. One such hot spring is Trego Hot Springs – located near Gerlach, this natural geothermal pool offers warm water temperatures year-round.
The surrounding landscape is also absolutely beautiful, making it a prime spot for stargazing at night. If you’re looking for something a bit more secluded, try Soldier Meadows Hot Springs.
This hot spring is off the beaten path and requires a bit of effort to get to, but the payoff is worth it. You’ll be rewarded with crystal clear water and stunning views of the Black Rock Desert.
Gaming and Entertainment
Casinos on the Las Vegas Strip
When people think of Nevada, they often think of Las Vegas first. And for good reason! The Las Vegas Strip is home to some of the best casinos in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year.
From Caesars Palace to the Bellagio, there’s no shortage of places to try your luck at slots or table games like blackjack and roulette. But gambling isn’t the only thing that draws people to these casinos.
The hotels themselves are attractions, with lavish decor and entertainment options like Cirque du Soleil shows or celebrity chef restaurants. Walking along the Strip is an experience in itself, with street performers and vendors selling everything from souvenirs to frozen cocktails.
Shows and Concerts at T-Mobile Arena
For those who want a break from gambling (or just need something to do during the day), T-Mobile Arena offers a variety of shows and concerts throughout the year. This state-of-the-art venue opened in 2016 and quickly became a popular destination for music lovers. The arena has hosted big names like Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, and Ariana Grande.
In addition to concerts, it’s also been home to boxing matches and other sporting events. For those who want a more intimate concert experience, The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is another great option.
Nightlife in Downtown Reno
While Las Vegas may get most of the attention when it comes to Nevada’s nightlife scene, downtown Reno has plenty to offer as well. This city may be smaller than its southern counterpart but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in entertainment options! One popular spot is The Eldorado Resort Casino which features seven bars with different themes including Brew Brothers – an onsite brewery where you can grab a pint while watching live music performances by local bands.
If dancing is more your thing, head to The Bluebird which has a dance floor and offers bottle service. And if you’re looking for a unique experience, check out The Loving Cup – a bar that specializes in craft cocktails served in mason jars.
Whatever your taste in nightlife, Nevada has something for everyone. Whether you want to hit the slots or dance the night away, there’s always something going on in this energetic state.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
If you’re in Nevada, you can’t miss the chance to learn about the state’s rich history. Here are three cultural attractions that should be on your list:
Hoover Dam tours
The Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel that has been standing strong since 1936. Take a tour of the dam and learn about its impressive construction, which was completed in just five years. You’ll also get a chance to see the massive turbines that generate power for millions of people in Arizona, California, and Nevada.
The best part? The breathtaking view from atop the dam itself, which spans 726 feet across the Black Canyon.
Neon Museum in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is known for its flashing neon lights, and you can learn all about their history at the Neon Museum. Located in downtown Las Vegas, this museum is home to more than 200 vintage neon signs dating back to the 1930s. Take a guided tour through this outdoor museum and learn about how these iconic signs came to be synonymous with Sin City.
Basque cuisine in Elko
Elko may not be as well-known as some of Nevada’s bigger cities, but it has something that sets it apart: Basque cuisine. This unique style of cooking comes from the Basque region between Spain and France and has become a staple of Elko’s food scene thanks to its mining history.
Head to The Star Hotel Restaurant for a family-style meal featuring traditional dishes like lamb chops, oxtail stew, and chorizo sausage. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a Picon Punch – a cocktail made with Amer Picon (a bitter orange liqueur), grenadine syrup, club soda, and brandy – which has become an Elko classic over time!
Unique Experiences
Visiting Area 51 (from a distance)
If you’re into aliens and government conspiracies, then you’ve likely heard of Area 51. This mysterious facility located in the middle of the Nevada desert has been the center of countless rumors and theories for decades.
While it’s not possible to get up close and personal with the base, it’s still worth a visit just to see it from a distance. The best place to see Area 51 is from the top of Tikaboo Peak, which is about 26 miles away from the base.
It’s a challenging hike that takes several hours, but once you reach the summit, you’ll have an unobstructed view of the facility. Just be sure to bring a pair of binoculars or a telescope so you can get a closer look.
Driving on the Extraterrestrial Highway
If you’re driving between Las Vegas and Reno, take a detour on State Route 375 – also known as the Extraterrestrial Highway. This road gets its name from its proximity to Area 51 and its reputation for sightings of UFOs and other strange phenomena. The drive itself is stunning, with vast stretches of open desert scenery.
Along the way, you’ll pass by quirky attractions like Little A’Le’Inn – a motel that fully embraces its extraterrestrial theme. And if you’re lucky (or unlucky depending on your perspective), you might even spot some strange lights in the sky.
Stargazing at Great Basin National Park
Nevada is known for its bright lights and flashy entertainment options, but one thing that often goes overlooked is its incredible night sky. One of the best places to experience this natural wonder is at Great Basin National Park. Located in eastern Nevada near Utah border, this park boasts some of the darkest skies in the country.
You can take a guided tour with a ranger or go on your own to see the Milky Way, shooting stars, and even the Andromeda Galaxy on a clear night. Be sure to bring warm clothes, as it can get chilly at high elevations, and a blanket or chair to sit on while you stargaze.
Conclusion
Nevada is undoubtedly a state that has something for everybody. From the beautiful outdoor destinations to the world-renowned casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, there is never a dull moment in Nevada.
So, let’s recap some of the top things to do in Nevada. For those who love the great outdoors, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a must-visit.
With its stunning hiking trails and breathtaking views, you can spend hours exploring this natural wonder. Lake Tahoe also offers an array of outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding and skiing in winter.
If you’re looking for some entertainment, then look no further than Las Vegas Strip – home to some of the world’s best casinos and shows like Cirque du Soleil. Reno also has a bustling nightlife scene that caters to all sorts of tastes.
To experience Nevada’s rich history and culture, Hoover Dam tours offer an insight into one of America’s biggest engineering projects while The Neon Museum showcases Las Vegas’ unique neon heritage. And if you want to try out something different with your taste buds, Elko offers visitors Basque cuisine -a blend of Spanish and Mexican flavors.
Exploring Nevada is an experience like no other with its diverse range of attractions that cater to every traveler’s needs. So pack your bags and head over to this desert state for an unforgettable adventure!