15 Must-Visit Small Towns in Nevada

Nevada is home to some of the biggest, most bustling cities in the United States. The state is known for Las Vegas, a bright and busy city in the southern tip of Nevada.

However, Nevada boasts a lot more than Vegas. The state has access to some of the most incredible natural beauty in the country. Not only that, but Nevada contains some of the most adorable small towns in America.

Check out this list of 15 of the best small towns in the state of Nevada. Many of these are snuggled in alongside mountains, lakes, or other natural attractions. Read about the populations and opportunities for fun housed in each of these small towns.

1. Elko, Nevada

Elko, Nevada is one of the most adorable small cities in the state. It has a population of just over 20,000 residents and the city is in great proximity to some beautiful natural amenities. It’s also got a reputation as one of the best True Western Towns remaining in the United States. Put on your cowboy boots and come visit!

2. Pahrump, Nevada

Pahrump is another fantastic small town located in Nevada. The unincorporated town borders California, and boasts a population of just over 44,000 residents. There are quite a few fun things to do in Pahrump, including grabbing a drink at the Sanders Family Winery or learning about the area at the Pahrump Valley Museum.

3. Virginia City, Nevada

One of the tiniest towns on our list is Virginia City, Nevada. Virginia City has a population of under 700 residents and has a rich and spooky history. The town is southeast of Reno and boasts a broad range of Victorian buildings, including some that are thought to be haunted! There’s a lot of history to check out in Virginia City, so be sure to take your time while you’re in town!

4. Ely, Nevada

The city of Ely, Nevada is nestled in some of the most beautiful mountains in Nevada. The city boasts a population of just over 4,000 residents, and there’s lots to learn about while in town. Ely is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Nevada.

5. Genoa, Nevada

Genoa is another itsy-bitsy Nevada town with a rich history and beauty. The population of the unincorporated town is under 800 residents. Genoa sits at the base of the Sierra Nevada Range, so the views from town are unmatched. Access to hikes and beautiful drives are easy from Genoa.

6. Austin, Nevada

The tiniest town on our list thus far is Austin, Nevada. As of 2020, there were only 101 residents in this 1.15-square-mile town. Austin sits on the slopes of the Toiyabe Range and offers some stunning mountain views. U.S. Route 50 passes through town, as well, making it an easy and accessible spot. Austin’s a great place for camping and hiking.

7. Rachel, Nevada

The census-designated place of Rachel, Nevada is one of the most famous spots on this list. Rachel, Nevada has a population of zero but is frequently visited due to its proximity to some of Nevada’s most interesting attractions. Nellis Air Force Range and Area 51 neighbor Rachel, Nevada, so lots of tourists roll through town annually.

8. Lovelock, Nevada

With a population of 1,854 residents, Lovelock is one of the most interesting small cities in Nevada. While the name of the city was granted due to the nearby men’s prison, Lovelock has a lot to offer. Lovelock Cave is in close proximity to the city, and this archeological site provides a rich history of the area. The cave is on the National Register of Historic Places.

9. Minden, Nevada

The town of Minden, Nevada is a census-designated place located just east of Lake Tahoe. Minden has a population of 3,400 residents, and the town is known for its parks. While the world-renowned Lake Tahoe is nearby, Minden itself is home to some great land to relax on, including Minden Park. If you’re looking for something more intellectual, check out the Danberg Home Ranch Historic Park to learn more about the area.

10. Caliente, Nevada

The small town of Caliente, Nevada has a population of under 1,000 residents, but a lot of beauty to offer. The town was formerly known as Culverwell and Calientes, and it’s located on the eastern side of the state. Though there are some smaller unincorporated areas on this list, Caliente is the least-populous incorporated city in the state of Nevada. Caliente is beautiful and the city is known for its streets lined with rose-beds.

11. Tonopah, Nevada

Tonopah, Nevada is one of the quirkier towns on this list of must-visit stops in the state. The population of Tonopah is around 2,000 residents, but the city is known for its tourism. Tonopah’s nickname is the Queen of the Silver Camps because the city has a rich history in the mining industry. Now, tourists can expect exciting accommodations and some cool outdoor excursions when they come to Tonopah.

12. Incline Village, Nevada

If you’re looking to visit a small town in Nevada with absolutely beautiful outdoor attractions, Incline Village is a must-visit stop. Incline Village sits along Lake Tahoe and houses many of the mountain retreats of the lake. Its population is under 10,000 individuals, including some well-known celebrities like Aaron Rodgers! You can expect a high-quality trip if you stay at one of the resorts in the village. While Incline Village is on the pricier end of Nevada areas, its views are one-of-a-kind!

13. Eureka, Nevada

Eureka, Nevada is another tiny unincorporated town that is worth stopping by while you explore the state. Its population is under 500 residents, but the town has a big reputation for its history. Eureka was a mining town that has since been well-preserved. Learn about the mining industry of the American West as you explore the town of Eureka. Like many of the towns on this list, Eureka is also in great proximity to outdoor adventures.

14. Boulder City, Nevada

The city of Boulder City, Nevada is one of the best small spots in the state of Nevada. Its population is just under 15,000 residents, and the city is under 30 miles from Las Vegas. If you head to Sin City and get tired, come out to Boulder City to chill out. Boulder City boasts small-town charm and close proximity to the Hoover Dam. Whether you’re looking to explore the dam or just stroll around a quirky downtown, check out Boulder City!

15. Moapa Valley, Nevada

Finally, Moapa Valley is a must-stop spot in Nevada for folks looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of the big city. Moapa Valley has a population of under 7,000 residents, and the unincorporated town boasts a long list of beautiful outdoor excursions. Moapa Valley is home to some cultural landmarks, such as the Double Negative, as well as some gorgeous mountain peaks. If you’re outdoorsy, Moapa Valley is a great spot to hit while you’re in Nevada.

Conclusion

Overall, Nevada is home to some epic small towns. The state has it all: natural beauty, small-town charm, and Sin City, of course! Whether you’re looking to learn about the history of the American West or explore the great outdoors, Nevada is a wonderful place to visit. Use this list to get the most out of your trip to Nevada!

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