Things You Can Only Experience in Nevada

What comes to mind when you think of Nevada? More than likely, Vegas, endless desert and sky, gambling, and Lake Tahoe top your list, but the Silver State offers much more. Recently, the Matador Network featured 13 experiences you can only have in Nevada, and we agree: this state is unique in the best ways possible.

If you’re looking for additional things to do in Nevada, don’t miss our Las Vegas honorable mentions listed at the bottom!

Art in the Middle of Nowhere

It’s common knowledge that Nevada is predominately covered in desert. Luckily, some enterprising artists decided to put art in some of these vast and beautiful spaces. One of our favorites is the International Car Forest of the Last Church just outside of Goldfield, NV. Two clever artists came together to bury abandoned car parts in the sand, and the result is actually quite beautiful.

We also suggest taking a trek to the Goldwell Open Air Museum. Similar to the aforementioned car forest, it’s located just outside of a ghost town that thrived during the gold rush of the 1800’s—and this 15-acre outdoor sculpture park has been inspiring photographers and travelers alike for over 30 years.

Hot Springs, Aliens, & Sand Dunes, Oh My!

The options for outdoor activities in Nevada are seemingly endless. Deep canyons, rolling sand dunes, and never ending highways offer a large variety of areas to explore—and according to some, if you look up to the night sky at the right moment, you may even see a UFO!

If you’re wanting to truly experience mother nature at her finest, head to one of Nevada’s many hot spring locations. However, you must be prepared—the hike in is typically difficult, but well worth it once you get there. If you’re not in the mood to get a workout and would prefer a scenic drive instead, head to the Extraterrestrial Highway off Nevada State Route 375; you just might spot some wildlife (from a different planet), or simply enjoy spectacular night skies.

Wild, Weird, and Wonderful Entertainment

Las Vegas alone offers an array of options when it comes to entertainment. One of the best is the Burlesque Hall of Fame. If you’re wanting to learn the history and see a little shimmy dance while you’re at it, this is where you should go.

Speaking of entertainment, Nevada is the host of one of the most psychedelic and popular festivals in the world: Burning Man. Each year, thousands of free-spirited and artsy folks head to the middle of the desert to build a temporary village of sorts and experience life, music, and art on the edge. Tickets sell fast, so be sure to get yours well in advance.

Our Honorable Mentions

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

If you prefer staying close to the comforts of Vegas but want to experience the lay of the land at its finest, head to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Literally minutes outside of the city, this outdoor area is absolutely breathtaking. Plus, it can be nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for an afternoon.

The Bellagio

Want to get a taste of Sin City but feeling a little overwhelmed by the Strip? Make sure to stop by the Bellagio. Not only does it host some of the best shows in the area, such as Cirque du Soleil, it also boasts its own Botanical Gardens that are spectacularly decorated to celebrate the seasons. Plus, it is home to one of the most iconic landmarks in Las Vegas:  the Fountains, with shows happening every 15 minutes for free.

Are you still looking for more things to do in Nevada? Check out the full list featured here.