This state is packed with some seriously amazing places to explore. From historic small towns to eerie ghost towns and everything in between, there’s so much to see.

I’ve traveled to Nevada multiple times, and every visit brings a new surprise. It’s easy to overlook the state beyond Vegas, but that’s a big mistake!

Some of these towns feel like a journey back in time, while others are surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Did I miss any of your favorite small towns in Nevada? Drop a comment and let me know!

Most Visited Small Towns in The Nevada

If you’re planning a 2025 Nevada road trip, these ten beautiful destinations should be on your list. Each one adds a touch of history, adventure, or pure scenic beauty to the drive, making your trip unforgettable.

1. Virginia City

Virginia City is one of the best-preserved Old West towns in the U.S. Once a booming mining town during the Comstock Lode silver rush, it’s now a living museum filled with historic saloons, wooden boardwalks, and vintage steam trains. Walking down C Street, you’ll find old-fashioned shops, museums, and maybe even a ghost tour or two!

One of the highlights is the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, which takes visitors on a scenic ride through the rugged hills. For a bit of the paranormal, visit the Washoe Club, one of the most haunted places in Nevada.

Trip Highlights:

• Step back in time with historic saloons and boardwalks.
• Ride the Virginia & Truckee Railroad for scenic views.
• Explore the town’s haunted history with ghost tours.

Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:

• Hotels: Silverland Inn & Suites, Virginia City Inn.
• Food & Drinks: Red Dog Saloon, Cafe Del Rio.

2. Tonopah

Tonopah is famous for stargazing, haunted hotels, and its old mining history. This small town sits in one of the darkest areas in the U.S., making it a top destination for astronomy lovers. The Tonopah Stargazing Park offers incredible views of the night sky without any city light pollution.

The town is also known for the Mizpah Hotel, which is rumored to be one of the most haunted hotels in the country. For those interested in Nevada’s mining past, the Tonopah Historic Mining Park provides an in-depth look at the town’s silver mining roots.

Trip Highlights:

• Visit the Mizpah Hotel, one of the most haunted in Nevada.
• Stargaze at one of the best dark sky locations in the U.S.
• Explore old mining equipment at the Historic Mining Park.

Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:

• Hotels: The Mizpah Hotel, Tonopah Station Hotel.
• Food & Drinks: Pittman Cafe, Tonopah Brewing Company.

3. Ely

Ely is a small town packed with railroad history, outdoor adventure, and incredible murals. The Nevada Northern Railway Museum is a must-visit, where you can ride a century old steam train through the scenic desert. The train even offers themed rides, including ghost trains and stargazing trips.

Downtown Ely is known for its massive outdoor murals, telling the town’s history through beautiful street art. Just outside of town, Great Basin National Park offers hiking trails, cave tours, and some of the best stargazing in the state.

Trip Highlights:

• Ride a historic steam train at the Nevada Northern Railway.
• See large, colorful murals throughout downtown Ely.
• Explore Great Basin National Park for hiking and caves.

Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:

• Hotels: Hotel Nevada & Gambling Hall, Prospector Hotel & Casino.
• Food & Drinks: Economy Drug & Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain, Racks Bar & Grill.

4. Genoa

Genoa is the oldest settlement in Nevada, filled with charming buildings, beautiful nature, and rich history. The town’s biggest claim to fame is the Genoa Bar, the oldest saloon in the state, where famous figures like Mark Twain and Johnny Cash once drank.

Just outside of town, the Sierra Nevada Mountains provide plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. If you visit in fall, the town hosts the Genoa Candy Dance, a popular festival that brings in thousands of visitors.

Trip Highlights:

• Visit Nevada’s oldest saloon, the historic Genoa Bar.
• Explore the beautiful trails around the Sierra Nevada foothills.
• Attend the annual Genoa Candy Dance festival in the fall.

Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:

• Hotels: David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort.
• Food & Drinks: Genoa Station Bar & Grill, Pink House.

5. Winnemucca

Winnemucca is a lively cowboy town known for its rodeos, Basque heritage, and outdoor recreation. The Winnemucca Sand Dunes offer fun off-roading adventures, while the Humboldt Museum provides a fascinating look into the town’s Native American and pioneer history.

One of the best cultural experiences here is eating at a Basque restaurant, where meals are served family-style. The Martin Hotel is a local favorite, offering traditional Basque dishes that reflect the town’s unique heritage.

Trip Highlights:

• Explore the Winnemucca Sand Dunes for off-roading.
• Learn about local history at the Humboldt Museum.
• Try authentic Basque cuisine at the Martin Hotel.

Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:

• Hotels: Winnemucca Inn, Candlewood Suites.
• Food & Drinks: The Martin Hotel, Bella’s Espresso House.

6. Rachel

Rachel is one of the most famous UFO hotspots in the world, located along Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway (State Route 375). This tiny town is the closest civilization to the mysterious Area 51, and it’s a must visit for anyone interested in alien conspiracy theories. The town embraces its extraterrestrial theme, with quirky attractions like the Little A’Le’Inn, a UFO-themed motel and restaurant.

The surrounding desert landscape adds to the mystery, with wide-open spaces, endless skies, and an eerie, isolated atmosphere. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can drive to the Black Mailbox, a famous landmark where UFO enthusiasts gather to watch the skies for unusual activity.

Trip Highlights:

• Drive the famous Extraterrestrial Highway.
• Visit the Little A’Le’Inn for alien-themed food and souvenirs.
• Stop at the Black Mailbox for UFO-watching.

Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:

• Hotels: Little A’Le’Inn (basic lodging).
• Food & Drinks: Little A’Le’Inn Restaurant.

7. Goldfield

Goldfield was once Nevada’s largest and richest city during the gold rush boom of the early 1900s. Today, it’s a fascinating ghost town filled with old buildings, abandoned mines, and a few quirky residents who keep its history alive. The most famous landmark is the Goldfield Hotel, an elegant yet eerie building that is rumored to be one of the most haunted places in Nevada.

For those who love offbeat roadside attractions, Goldfield is home to the International Car Forest of the Last Church, a bizarre outdoor art installation featuring old cars buried in the ground and covered in graffiti.

Trip Highlights:

• Explore the haunted Goldfield Hotel.
• Visit the International Car Forest, a strange and creative roadside stop.
• Walk through a well-preserved ghost town with old Wild West charm.

Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:

• Hotels: Santa Fe Motel & Saloon.
• Food & Drinks: Dinky Diner, The Hoist House.

8. Pioche

Pioche is a historic mining town with a wild and violent past, known for being one of the most lawless places in the Old West. Unlike other mining towns, Pioche was never controlled by lawmen gunfights and murders were a regular part of daily life. Today, visitors can explore its rich history by visiting the Boot Hill Cemetery, where many of the town’s most notorious outlaws were buried.

One of the most unique sights in Pioche is the Aerial Tramway, an old mining transport system with rusted ore buckets still hanging high above the town. For history lovers, the Million Dollar Courthouse tells fascinating stories of corruption and greed during the town’s mining boom.

Trip Highlights:

• Visit Boot Hill Cemetery, the final resting place of outlaws.
• See the abandoned Aerial Tramway still hanging in place.
• Tour the Million Dollar Courthouse for Old West history.

Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:

• Hotels: Overland Hotel & Saloon.
• Food & Drinks: Gunslingers Restaurant.

9. Caliente

Caliente is known for its beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and relaxing hot springs. The town’s name, which means “hot” in Spanish, comes from the natural hot springs found in the area. Visitors can soak in the warm mineral water at Caliente Hot Springs Motel & Spa, a perfect stop to unwind after a long drive.

For outdoor lovers, Kershaw-Ryan State Park offers lush greenery, stunning rock formations, and scenic hiking trails. The town also has a picturesque old train depot, which is now a museum showcasing Caliente’s railroad history.

Trip Highlights:

• Relax in the natural hot springs at Caliente Hot Springs Motel.
• Hike through the beautiful Kershaw-Ryan State Park.
• Visit the historic Caliente Train Depot Museum.

Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:

• Hotels: Shady Motel, Caliente Hot Springs Motel.
• Food & Drinks: Side Track Restaurant, Knotty Pine.

10. Austin

Austin is one of Nevada’s best-kept secrets, a charming mountain town with history, adventure, and stunning views. Located along the Loneliest Road in America (Highway 50), it’s a must-stop for road trippers looking for something off the beaten path. The town was once a booming silver mining town, and many of its historic buildings still stand today.

A major highlight is Stokes Castle, a three-story stone tower built in 1897 that overlooks the vast Nevada desert. The town is also known for its outdoor recreation, with endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the rugged landscape surrounding the area.

Trip Highlights:

• See the mysterious and scenic Stokes Castle.
• Drive along the Loneliest Road in America.
• Explore a well-preserved Old West mining town.

Nearby Accommodations & Facilities:

• Hotels: Union Street Lodging, Cozy Mountain Motel.
• Food & Drinks: Toiyabe Cafe, International Café.

Final Thoughts

Nevada is full of hidden gems, historic towns, and scenic landscapes that make it one of the most underrated road trip destinations in the U.S. From the Wild West charm of Virginia City to the otherworldly UFO culture in Rachel, every stop offers something unique and unforgettable.

If you’re planning a 2025 Nevada road trip, be sure to explore these ten destinations. Whether you’re soaking in hot springs, visiting abandoned ghost towns, or driving along the Extraterrestrial Highway, these places will add adventure and excitement to your journey. Safe travels