nevada

The bright lights of Las Vegas, charming historic mining towns and mystery awaits

the silver state

Where thrill-seekers, history buffs and nature lovers can find common ground.
Embark on a journey to Nevada, where the sunsets paint the desert sky in hues of gold and crimson, and the landscapes unfold like a canvas of adventure. Start your journey in Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, where themed resorts, lively casinos, world-class entertainment, shopping extravagance and fine dining awaits.

But venture beyond the bright lights and Nevada reveals its raw, untamed beauty. Lose yourself in the mystique of the Valley of Fire, where crimson rock formations whisper tales of ancient civilizations, and discover the serenity of Lake Tahoe where crystal-clear waters provide year-round recreational opportunities.

Witness the engineering marvel of Hoover Dam or for the intrepid souls, the extraterrestrial mysteries surrounding Area 51 beckon, sparking the imagination, and inviting you to explore the unknown along the famed Extraterrestrial Highway.

Nevada's history is deeply intertwined with the Silver State's mining boom in the 19th century, contributing to the development of cities like Reno and the historic mining towns of Tonopah and Virginia City. The echoes of the past resonate through the hundreds of dusty ghost towns scattered through the state, providing a nostalgic peek into the Wild West.

From the iconic Las Vegas Strip to historic towns and natural wonders, Nevada, the state of contradictions. offers up a unique tapestry of experiences, promising not just the excitement of the bright lights, but also the thrill of the unknown.

Lake Tahoe Nevada Side stunning clear water & scenery

Things to see & do

Browse through our recommended selection of things to see and do in Nevada. Many of these are included in our suggested itineraries, however, if there is
anything you see that particularly takes your interest, please let us know and we will include it in your holiday package or put you in touch with the right people.

Valley of Fire State Park

Moapa Valley, Nevada

Nestled an hour from Las Vegas, the Valley of Fire unfolds as a mesmerising wonderland. Its vibrant red sandstone formations, adorned with 2000 year old petroglyphs, create an otherworldly desert escape. Explorers can hike winding trails, uncover hidden slot canyons, and relish fiery sunset hues. One of Nevada’s hidden gems it promises a unique experience, where nature's artistry paints a surreal landscape.

Kit Carson Trail

Carson City, Nevada

Walk the iconic Kit Carson Trail, a 4 km route that winds its’ way through Nevada’s state capitol’s charming downtown and historic residential areas, showcasing the city's rich heritage. Along the way, visitors can explore beautifully preserved 1800s-era homes, museums, and landmarks associated with Carson City's past. Delightful journey offering a glimpse into the city's history and the life of legendary frontiersman Kit Carson, for whom the trail is named.

Las Vegas Strip

Las Vegas, Nevada

Take a journey down this famous stretch of road lined with neon lights, iconic hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues. Renowned for its extravagantly themed resorts and non-stop nightlife, The Strip is a dazzling showcase of excitement and glamour, where every moment is an invitation to revel in the extraordinary.

Hoover Dam

Black Canyon, Nevada

Witness a marvel born from the Great Depression, straddling the Nevada-Arizona border. This engineering wonder not only harnesses hydroelectric power for both states but also tames the mighty Colorado River, forming Lake Mead, the grandest reservoir in the country. Beyond its power, the Hoover Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and an adventure waiting to unfold. Located just an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, making for an ideal day trip. 

The Extraterrestrial Highway

Crystal Springs - Warm Springs, Nevada

Take an out-of-this-world road trip down the Extraterrestrial Highway - a 150km remote stretch of State Route 375 where you never know what you might come across!  Explore eclectic and quirky stops along the way, infamous for its closeness to the secretive U.S. Air Force facility, Area 51. Yes, it's real, but please heed the signs - this isn't the place for space invaders. Buckle up and journey into the unknown …

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, Nevada

Enjoy the all-season playground of Lake Tahoe. Embraced by the stunning Sierra Nevada Mountains this nature lover's haven attracts visitors to soak up the outdoors with hiking trails, biking adventures and exhilarating water sports. And when winter rolls around, it transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting visitors to carve through its snowy slopes on skis or snowboard. The lake's clarity and the scenic beauty of its surroundings make Lake Tahoe a much sought-after destination.

Lost City Museum

Overton, Nevada

Cultural treasure trove that preserves the heritage of the prehistoric Moapa Valley Native Americans. Established in 1935, the museum exhibits artifacts, pottery, and tools from archaeological excavations, offering insights into ancient cultures. Visitors can explore reconstructed pit houses and gain a deeper understanding of the region's indigenous history.

Stay in an iconic hotel

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is home to several iconic hotels, synonymous with extravagant entertainment. Popular options include the Bellagio, celebrated for its mesmerising fountain show, The Venetian, featuring opulent Italian-inspired design and a Grand Canal replica, and the timeless Caesars Palace, radiating Roman-inspired grandeur. When reaching out to Travel USA, feel free to mention these hotels, and we can seamlessly incorporate them into your trip plans.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Boulder City, Nevada

Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States formed by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River.,  offers a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. The surrounding Lake Mead National Recreation Area provides a refreshing escape from the desert heat and a scenic retreat for visitors with its desert landscapes, diverse wildlife, and hiking trails.

Nevada State Museum

Carson City, Nevada

A captivating exploration of the state's diverse history featuring exhibits that showcase Nevada's geological wonders, Native American heritage, and the impact of mining on its development. The museum's historical artifacts, interactive displays, and engaging narratives offer a comprehensive journey through time where visitors can delve into the vibrant cultural fabric of Nevada.

Extravagant Casinos

Las Vegas & Reno, Nevada

Try your luck at the tables - no Las Vegas experience is complete without a visit to its myriad of casinos. Whether you're a poker ace, blackjack enthusiast, craps connoisseur, or just spinning the slots, practically everywhere you turn you can try your luck. And the lure of the tables extends into Reno, affectionately known as ‘The Biggest Little City in the World’! 

Tonopah Historic Mining Park

Tonopah, Nevada

Take an immersive journey into Nevada's mining heritage, showcasing the remnants of a once-thriving silver mining industry. The park, now a museum and historical site features preserved structures, mining equipment, and artifacts that transport visitors to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explore the iconic Mizpah Mine's headframe, wander through the original mining camp, and delve into the rich history through guided tours.

The Sphere

Las Vegas, Nevada

Experience entertainment like never before! Standing at 111-metres tall and 157-metres wide this revolutionary circular theatre creates one of the most ground-breaking viewing experiences on the planet. Featuring the world’s largest and highest resolution LED display, 3D immersive sound, and 4D technologies integrated with the experience to transport audiences to places both real and imagined. Check with Travel USA to see what’s on whilst you’re in town.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour

Las Vegas, Nevada

Get a birds-eye view of the Grand Canyon and soar to new heights with a helicopter tour from Las Vegas and witness the Grand Canyon like never before. Marvel at the colossal canyon walls, the meandering Colorado River, and the majestic landscapes below. A front-row seat to nature's grand spectacle, where every twist and turn unveils a new breathtaking view.

Lehman Caves

Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Nestled within the Great Basin National Park, Lehman Caves is the longest cave system in Nevada - a subterranean marvel showcasing stunning limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. Guided tours lead visitors through a labyrinth of chambers, unveiling the delicate, ancient formations that have evolved over thousands of years.

Fremont Street Experience

Las Vegas, Nevada

The second most famous street in Las Vegas and home to the dazzling Fremont Street Experience -  the largest LED canopy screen in the world suspended 30 metres in the air featuring a nightly selection of free dazzling light shows and the biggest musical acts on the grandest screen ever. Visitors can also soar above the bustling crowds on the SlotZilla Zip Line.

Burning Man Festival

Black Rock City, Nevada

Every year, tens of thousands of people gather in Nevada's Black Rock Desert to create Black Rock City, a temporary city dedicated to community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance. The pinnacle is the burning of a colossal wooden effigy, symbolising the impermanence of art and life. Truly unique event encouraging a participatory experience, transcending traditional festival norms with its ethos of radical self-expression.

Red Rock Canyon

Mojave Desert, Nevada

Just 20 minutes away from Las Vegas, in the Mojave Desert, lies Red Rock Canyon, a natural wonder characterised by its striking red sandstone formations and desert landscape. Featuring the Keystone Thrust geologic fault, it's your opportunity to escape the city whether you're craving a scenic drive or looking for a more immersive outdoor adventure like hiking and rock climbing.

Experience live sport

Las Vegas, Nevada

Experience live sport - the American way! Catch the adrenaline, the cheers, and the thrill of a live game - because experiencing sports the American way is an absolute must! Las Vegas is famous for boxing world title fights and is also home to the Las Vegas Raiders NFL and Vegas Golden Knights ice hockey teams. Chat with Travel USA to score your tickets and we'll look to lock in your seats before you even pack your bags!

Rhyolite Ghost Town

Nye County, Nevada

Nestled in Nevada's Bullfrog Hills near Death Valley, lies Rhyolite, one of the most photographed ghost towns in America. Established back in 1905, today it stands as a haunting testament to the Gold Rush era with weathered remnants of its former glory including skeletal building frames, the iconic bottle house, and the eerily preserved Cook Bank building. Visitors can explore the spectral echoes of Rhyolite's past, capturing the essence of a bygone era in the vast Nevada desert.

Pyramid Lake

Washoe County, Nevada, 

High-desert lake renowned for its striking turquoise waters and unique pyramid-shaped rock formations, including the iconic Pyramid Island. It holds particular cultural significance for the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe and whilst it is not recommended for swimming, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquillity and beauty of its water and the surrounding desert landscape.

Nevada Northern Railway

Ely, Nevada

Step back in time at this National Historic Landmark, where over 70 buildings, structures, and 30 miles of track preserve a vanished time. Board meticulously restored vintage trains and traverse the same tracks that once facilitated the booming mining industry of the early 20th century. Wander through historic railroad workshops, depots, and museums, gaining insight into the pivotal role railways played in shaping the state's history.

Cathedral Gorge State Park

Lincoln County, Nevada

Another of Nevada’s geological wonders located in a long, narrow valley and characterised by intricate canyons and towering spires. Erosion has sculpted the soft clay into dramatic formations resembling cathedral interiors, hence its name. Visitors can explore the intimate slot canyons, marvel at the unique terrain, and embark on a scenic hike.

Nevada State Capitol Building

Carson City 

Completed in 1871, the Nevada State Capitol Building is an architectural gem with a neoclassical Italianate style and design. Located in the state's capital, Carson City, it houses the Nevada Legislature and various government offices. Visitors can explore the historic building, which features a silver cupola, impressive columns, and legislative chambers.

Lee Canyon Ski Resort

Las Vegas, Nevada 

Perhaps surprisingly, within 90 minutes of the city, lies a winter wonderland amid the desert where you can experience the thrill of skiing and snowboarding catering to all skill levels. And when the snow melts, the fun doesn't stop - summer brings hiking trails and scenic chair lifts making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nelson Ghost Town

Searchlight, Nevada

Within an hour of Las Vegas in the Eldorado Canyon, lies Nelson Ghost Town. Steeped in Wild West history, the town boasts well-kept structures, vintage cars, and artifacts preserving the remnants of a once-thriving gold mining community. Visitors can also explore Techatticup Mine, the oldest and most famous gold mine in Southern Nevada and witness the relics of the past, whilst immersing themselves in the ghostly atmosphere.

Explore Las Vegas with the Go City Pass

With Travel USA and Go City, sightseeing couldn’t be easier. One pass, one price, all the sights - save up to 50% on the best attractions and activities - see more, spend less! From natural wonders to nights out to remember, we've got you covered!

N.B. The all-inclusive pass is included in Travel USA’s Las Vegas and selected Nevada packages giving you unlimited access to more than 50 attractions, tours, and activities during your stay.

Nevada-Austin small town in Nevada

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not quite what you're looking for?

Our packages and featured 'things to see and do' have been created to excite, inspire and inform Kiwi travellers about what we recommend they do when travelling to the USA. All of these can be personalised to your individual needs and preferences. Contact us to discuss your requirements so we can work together to create the perfect adventure for you.

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