National Geographic
The Essential Guide to Visiting Nevada
November 11, 2024
Ninety-five percent of Nevada’s residents live in Reno or Las Vegas; however, these cities occupy only two percent of the state. While most of the land is public, the state also has one of the largest top-secret restricted areas like Area 51, located 120 miles northwest of Las Vegas. Because of rumors that the government studies alien bodies here, State Route 375 was renamed Extraterrestrial Highway. Visitors go out of their way to get a selfie with an enormous metal alien statue guarding the entrance to a gift shop called the Alien Research Center.
Don’t miss visiting dark-sky towns. They are easy to miss because there are few streetlights and they are well camouflaged in the desert landscape. Tonopah is known for UFO sightings, ghost-hunting, and other paranormal activity. The Clown Motel, known as America’s scariest hotel, is located next to the Old Tonopah Cemetery. Before booking a room, the hotel provides a disclaimer to guests, stating that they are not liable for bodily injury, death, or other related health issues caused by unexplained phenomena.
Know before you go
Cultural History: The indigenous Numu (Northern Paiute), Nuwuvi (Southern Paiute), Newe (Western Shoshone), Pipa Aha Macav (Fort Mojave), and Waší∙šiw (Washoe) people lived in Nevada before the Spanish conquistadors arrived. These communities now represent 28 federally recognized tribes in Nevada.
Before planning your trip, research Indigenous-owned businesses you can support during your visit. Golf or dine at Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort. Camp, boat, or fly fish at Pyramid Lake with Paiute fly fishing guides––Autumn Harry (Numu and Diné) and Marvin Racine (Numu)––who grew up on the reservation caring for the fish, land, and waters.
