Exploring Nevada? Discover nature's beauty and must-visit stops across the state

8 essential Nevada destinations including the Las Vegas Strip, Reno, national parks and more

Embark on a thrilling journey through Nevada's diverse landscapes and attractions, exploring must-see destinations and activities. 

From the iconic Las Vegas Strip to the natural wonders of Lake Tahoe, delve into the experiences this vibrant state has to offer.

  1. The Las Vegas Strip
  2. Lake Tahoe
  3. Virginia City
  4. Great Basin National Park
  5. The Extraterrestrial Highway and Area 51
  6. Reno's arts and culture scene
  7. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
  8. Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

10 TOP REASONS TO VISIT LAS VEGAS RIGHT NOW

1. The Las Vegas Strip

Aerial view of Las Vegas strip

The Las Vegas Strip, renowned worldwide, is a dazzling stretch of South Las Vegas Boulevard featuring an array of iconic resorts, hotels and entertainment venues. (iStock)

The Las Vegas Strip, located along Las Vegas Boulevard South, is renowned for its concentration of iconic hotels, casinos and landmarks. Lit up by vibrant neon lights, the Strip is a vibrant hub of entertainment, dining and nightlife. 

The strip boasts world-famous establishments like the Bellagio, Caesars Palace and The Venetian. The area exudes a lively ambiance with themed architecture, captivating shows and diverse attractions, making it a global hotspot for tourists. 

2. Lake Tahoe

Heavenly Ski Resort Gondola in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, situated in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, is a stunning alpine lake renowned for its clarity, scenic beauty, and outdoor recreational opportunities. (Photo by George Rose/Getty Images)

Visiting Lake Tahoe offers a breathtaking experience with its stunning alpine scenery and pristine waters. Straddling the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. The region is a year-round destination, offering diverse activities.

In the winter, world-class ski resorts like Heavenly, Northstar and Squaw Valley provide excellent skiing and snowboarding. The surrounding snow-covered landscapes are ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.

TWO BEARS SEEN STROLLING THROUGH SOUTH LAKE TAHOE TOWN

During the warmer months, Lake Tahoe transforms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The crystal-clear lake invites boating, kayaking and paddleboarding. Hiking and mountain biking trails showcase the picturesque views and camping opportunities abound.

3. Virginia City

C Street in Virginia City, Nevada

An individual walks on C Street in the snow on Nov. 27, 2015 in Virginia City, Nevada. (Santi Visalli/Getty Images)

Step back in time as you wander through the streets of historic Virginia City, a preserved 19th-century mining town. Here, the Old West comes to life with its iconic saloons, museums and historical landmarks, each narrating tales of Nevada's prosperous mining history.

Stroll along C Street and delve into the rich heritage of the Comstock Lode at museums like the Comstock History Center, and marvel at the well-preserved Mackay Mansion.

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The town's authenticity extends to its vintage steam rail transport, offering scenic rides on the historic Virginia & Truckee Railroad. 

4. Great Basin National Park

Peaks of the Great Basin Mountain Range

Behold the majestic peaks of the Great Basin Mountain Range, captured in the scenic vista of Warm Springs, Nevada, along the iconic Tonopah Highway 95. (Visions of America/Joe Sohm/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Travel through the terrains of Great Basin National Park, anchored by the majestic Wheeler Peak. This natural haven has grand landscapes, ranging from arid valleys to enchanting alpine woodlands. 

Visitors can wander along picturesque routes that unveil rugged mountains and time-honored bristlecone pines, creating an immersive experience for individuals seeking the wonders of nature.

5. The Extraterrestrial Highway and Area 51

Area 51

A replica of the U.S. Air Force installation signs that surround Area 51. These replicas are at the Alien Research Center on Nevada State Rt. 375. (iStock)

Embark on a unique adventure along the Extraterrestrial Highway, leading to the mysterious Area 51, where visitors can experience the intrigue of UFO lore, visit the quirky town of Rachel and witness the landscapes that have fueled extraterrestrial legends.

Area 51 is a highly secretive U.S. Air Force facility located in the Nevada desert. It gained notoriety due to its classified nature and the intense secrecy surrounding its operations. Situated within the Nevada Test and Training Range, the base has been historically associated with the testing of advanced military aircraft.

SECRETS OF AREA 51: WHAT COULD THE US GOVERNMENT REALLY BE HIDING

The government officially acknowledged Area 51's existence in 2013, but the specifics of its activities remain classified. Over the years, conspiracy theories have linked the facility to UFO sightings and alleged extraterrestrial technology, contributing to its mysterious reputation.

6. Reno's arts and culture scene

Artwork on a roof in Reno, Nevada

Colorful art covers a roof cover over the Union Pacific railroad tracks through downtown as viewed on April 2, 2022, in Reno, Nevada. (George Rose/Getty Images)

Discover the artistic side of Nevada in Reno, where vibrant murals, galleries and cultural events showcase the city's creative spirit. 

Attend festivals, explore the Riverwalk District and appreciate the growing arts and culture scene in "The Biggest Little City in the World." Reno stands as a vibrant city where creativity thrives, providing a genuine and immersive cultural experience for visitors.

7. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

A person riding a bike through Red Rock National Conservation Area

Brian Lee bikes on the Scenic Loop Drive path, which was closed to visitors due to impending storms from Tropical Storm Hilary, in an area at the Red Rock National Conservation Area on Aug. 20, 2023, in Las Vegas. (Madeline Carter/Las Vegas Review-Journal/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

Escape to the natural wonders of Red Rock Canyon, a short drive from Las Vegas, known for its stunning red sandstone formations. 

Visitors can embark on scenic drives, such as the 13-mile loop, to marvel at the vivid hues of the rock formations and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert. 

The area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing numerous hiking trails that cater to varying levels of expertise.

8. Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

Recreationists at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area

A visitor rides a personal watercraft as people swim near their boat in Boulder Basin on July 28, 2022, in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada. (Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

The Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, located on the border of Arizona and Nevada, stand as iconic symbols of natural beauty.

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Built during the Great Depression, the Hoover Dam is a marvel of modern engineering. Completed in 1936, it spans the Colorado River, forming Lake Mead behind it. 

Visitors to the Hoover Dam can marvel at its towering structure, learn about its history and construction in the visitor center, and even take guided tours to explore the inner workings of the dam.

Boating, fishing, and swimming are popular on Lake Mead. The shoreline provides opportunities for picnicking and camping, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surrounding nature.

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Authored by Maeghan Dolph via FoxNews January 18th 2024