Nevada Travel Guide

Deserted semi-arid plains, extensive deserts, stunning mountain ranges, scenic highways, thrilling ski resorts and devilish gambling meccas: welcome to Nevada.

Think of this state and most likely it’s the neon lights and notorious debauchery of Las Vegas that comes to mind. The world’s premier gambling hotspot, Las Vegas isn’t nicknamed ‘Sin City’ for nothing. Recklessly gamble away those dollars in one of the many super casinos on the Strip, get married on a whim, or saunter off to a strip club, safe in the knowledge that what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.

Las Vegas isn’t the only city you should visit in Nevada. Another major city to explore is Reno, affectionately known as ‘the Biggest Little City in the World’. A fascinating metropolis, it has all the gambling attractions of Vegas plus a thrilling whitewater park and quick access to a host of outdoor pursuits amid blockbuster scenery.

The state capital Carson City is an authentic, small-town stopover, boasting interesting museums, unique antique shopping and an impressive Capitol Building with silver-painted cupola.

Jump aboard the V&T Railroad in Virginia City for a trip back to the 1800s. And don’t miss the spectacular beauty of nearby Lake Tahoe, an expansive, glistening lake along the border with California. It’s heaven on earth for kayakers, hikers, windsurfers and swimmers, not to mention skiers, who have more than a dozen ski resorts to choose from in the winter.

If you fancy hitting the highway, go on a 4,800 km (3,000 miles) journey down US Route 50, known as the 'Loneliest Road in America’, which offers one of the last opportunities to experience the Old West. Head south of Route 50 and you can trace the story of Nevada's rich gold and silver mining heritage. Head even further south and you’ll witness the dramatic forms and vivid hues of Red Rock Canyon, just a 30 minute drive of the Strip.