Nevada’s Best-Kept Secrets: 5 Small Towns to Explore on a Weekend

Nearly everyone has heard of Lake Tahoe, Area 51,Hoover Dam, Death Valley, as well as Las Vegas from Nevada, the notoriously extravagant, semi-arid, and mountainous US state. 

But the famed Strip is not the only thing that makes this stunning location unique. 

The charming little towns and distinctive attractions that lie beyond the opulent hotels and neon-lit casinos are sure to leave an impression on guests.

The Top 5 Nevada Small Towns for Relaxation

Incline Village

These towns provide lots of chances to get a taste of the Old West in breathtaking landscapes. 

In relation to Lake Tahoe, Incline Village is without a doubt the greatest place in Nevada to immerse yourself in the subtle art of lake living.

Travelers from all over the country swarm to this largest alpine lake in the United States to take in the breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains as well as the lush green coniferous forests that border it.

Water sports are what make people laugh uncontrollably throughout the summer while sending shivers down the spine throughout the winter, when paddlers exchange their golf clubs and paddles for skis and direct fair-weather enthusiasts to the well-known casinos and spas. 

Ely 

Ely, a town of 3,924 residents, retains its historic charm from its mining and railroad roots, evolving into a quaint tourist destination. 

The 77,000-acre park, which is located just over an hour’s drive southeast of Ely, is home to attractions like the intricate and captivating Lehman Caves and the 13,063-foot Wheeler Peak, which is the second-highest peak in the state.

This entire region is renowned for its magnificent night sky in addition to being free of Las Vegas’ light pollution. 

Gardenville

The quiet town of Gardnerville, in Douglas County, is located on the extreme west side, 16 miles south of Carson City and immediately east of Lake Tahoe. Its charms are subtle.

Crafts and art are the main focus of this trendy area called Gardnerville. After seeing the local theater plays, galleries, and antique stores, unwind at a quaint bar or exciting restaurant. 

Caliente

Caliente has transformed into a haven for mountain bikers. This place offers a great combination of morning mountain biking and afternoon muscle soothers.

In your spare time, stroll around and admire the charming railroad infrastructure, which includes the Union Pacific depot designed in the Spanish Mission style and the historic cottages. 

In addition, Caliente bills itself as the “City of Roses,” given the abundance of beautiful rose gardens that line the streets.  

Virginia City

A visit to Virginia City’s Old West architecture along C Street is a great way to relax, explore the town’s wooden sidewalks, enjoy a drink at the saloon, snap a vintage cosplay photo, enjoy live music, take a steam engine ride, and go on a ghost tour to learn more about “one of the most haunted towns in America.”