When planning what to see in Nevada , visiting Las Vegas is probably the first thing that comes to mind. However, the state of Nevada, United States, has much more to offer: interesting museums, dreamlike landscapes, historical sites and more. Luckily, we travel to this state every so often and it never ceases to surprise us with everything it has. In fact, it is one of my favorite destinations in the United States.
1. LAS VEGAS, THE MOST POPULAR PLACE TO VISIT IN NEVADA
On your way through the state of Nevada , one of the essential places you should visit is Las Vegas . Particularly, The Las Vegas Strip is the most famous place to see in Nevada and an iconic place that everyone should visit at least once in their life.
There are many things to do on the Las Vegas Strip , from watching shows and visiting the best Las Vegas hotels , to venturing out to the Fremont Street Experience , gambling at Las Vegas’ most popular casinos , and exploring the Neon Museum .
Plus, the Mob Museum is worth it. Here you will learn more about mafias in the United States. Also remember to ride the High Roller Ferris Wheel and enjoy the panoramic views of the city, another thing you can’t miss during your time in Las Vegas.
No visit to this city is complete without witnessing the incredible spectacle of the Bellagio fountains , where the lights and water jets are synchronized with the music. Another popular option is to take a helicopter tour of Las Vegas , which will allow you to appreciate this vibrant city from above.
On the other hand, Las Vegas also offers places for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center. Springs Preserve is a charming nature preserve with a botanical garden and butterfly habitat. It is located less than 8 kilometers from the strip, so you can find the tranquility you were looking for without much effort.
2. HOOVER DAM, ONE OF THE BEST PLACES IN THE STATE OF NEVADA
One of the best things to do in Nevada , and for good reason, is visit the Hoover Dam . This National Historic Landmark is a masterpiece of modern civil engineering, and a stunning sight to behold. Keep in mind that it is a very popular tourist attraction, so it is extremely worth planning your visit to the Hoover Dam in advance.
This immense dam was built during the Great Depression to control flooding of the Colorado River, and thus generate hydroelectric power and irrigation water. Today, the dam provides power to the states of Nevada, Arizona, and California, making it an incredibly important structure.
3. LAKE MEAD, ONE OF THE BEST THINGS TO SEE IN NEVADA
Lake Mead is the first and largest recreational area in the United States. This Nevada attraction is located near the Hoover Dam. If you are wondering how to get from one place to another then you can easily book Greyhound bus at an affordable price and visit the places with ease.
In fact, Lake Mead is a reservoir that was formed when the Hoover Dam was built, so it would not exist without the dam. I recommend making a first stop at the Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the local fauna, pick up a map and ask the rangers some questions before continuing with your visit.
4. VALLEY OF FIRE STATE PARK, ONE OF THE MOST SURPRISING PLACES TO VISIT IN NEVADA
One of the most visited attractions in Nevada is Valley of Fire State Park , located in Overton. This park is home to impressive Aztec sandstone formations, as well as sand dunes, petrified trees, and petroglyphs that remain from the time of the ancient Puebloans.
Exploring Valley of Fire is one of the best things to do in Nevada . Visit Rainbow Vista to see the stunning shades of orange, red, yellow and gray in the rock formations, or head to Pink Canyon to admire the pink mountains. Another great stop is Arch Rock, where you can marvel at a sandstone arch created by millions of years of erosion.
5. SWIMMING IN LAKE TAHOE, ONE OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN NEVADA OUTDOORS
Summers can be hot, so going for a dip in Lake Tahoe is one of the best things to do in Nevada in the summer. In fact, it is a visit to make throughout the year. Sand Harbor Beach is one of the best beaches for swimming as it has crystal clear, calm waters with no waves.
Another fantastic beach next to Lake Tahoe is Nevada Beach , a fabulous place for those who, in addition to swimming, want to kayak or have an outdoor picnic. If you like hiking, I advise you to hike all or part of the Tahoe Rim Trail. This 165-mile trail takes in the wonderful surroundings of the lake and is one of the best things to do in Nevada. Alternatively, an easier hiking option is Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake Trail. The hike to Eagle Lake is only 2 kilometers, making this a popular trail for families and hikers.
6. VISIT RED ROCK CANYON NATIONAL CONSERVATION AREA, A FUN THING TO DO IN NEVADA
If you are thinking about renting a car in Las Vegas , this site is one of the best places to visit in Nevada. Drive to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and discover everything from incredible Native American petroglyphs to stunning red rocks and wild burros.
Once there, I recommend hiking the Calico Tanks Trail to Petroglyph Wall, where you can see ancient rock art up close, one of the best things to do in Red Rock Canyon . If you’re braver, you can even climb some rocks.
