26 Exciting Things to Do in Nevada in 2026 (You’ll Want to Save This List)

Now that everyone is focused on 2026 resolutions, how are yours holding up? Every year, I make it a mission to see more of my state. Some years, I’m more successful than others, but even crossing off one or two of Nevada’s attractions is worth it. From hidden natural wonders to the bright lights of Las Vegas, the list of adventures you can experience in Nevada is endless. Let's dive in and explore 26 things I still have time left to do in Nevada in 2026. 

1. Experience the Great Reno Balloon Race Spectacle

Because I have a slight fear of heights, I don’t see myself riding inside a hot air balloon. However, this September, I want to witness the colorful balloons soaring through the sky at the Great Reno Balloon Race. Not only is this one of the best festivals in Nevada, but it’s also free. You can’t beat that! Be sure to check the Great Reno Balloon Race website for the 2026 events.

2. Have Fun with Arcade Games at an Adult Playground

As a kid at heart, I don’t ever want to grow up. After all, life is so much simpler when you don’t have to “adult” every day. If I could wake up, have an adult beverage, and play classic arcade games at Gold Spike, life would be so much better.    

3. Soak Your Worries Away at a Secluded Nevada Hot Springs

What I like most about Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs is that it’s in a remote location with stunning mountain views, and cell phone service is questionable. This means I can truly unplug and relax, forgetting about all my worries for a day.

4. Explore Bellagio Conservatory’s Stunning Spring Botanical Display

There are two things that I want to do at the Bellagio this year. The first is to spend the night inside the luxury Vegas hotel, and the second is to see the stunning springtime display at the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. No matter the time of year, this hidden gem in Vegas will always be on my list of places to visit.

5. Treat Mom to a Scenic Nevada Train Adventure

I enjoy train rides, but this trip would be mainly for my mom. Riding the Virginia & Truckee Railroad is something that she would love to do. And since I have been promising her a train ride for years, I might just schedule it for her upcoming birthday. I’m sure I will enjoy it too! 

6. Eat Tacos at Nevada’s Biggest Food Festival

Tacos, live entertainment, and carnival rides sound like the ultimate date-night activities to me. Now all I need to do is find a date by October to eat our way through the best tacos in Nevada at the Great Las Vegas Taco Festival. Check out the Las Vegas Book Festival for this year's events.

7. Capture Stunning Views on a Top Nevada Hiking Trail

With all the colorful red hues, it’s easy to see why Valley of Fire State Park got its name. Seeing the mind-blowing rock formations and caves has been on my bucket list for years. I can certainly take on the Fire Wave and the Seven Wonders Trail, which is only 2 miles long and offers plenty of otherworldly rewards. Now that’s my kind of hike…short and sweet!

8. Experience Las Vegas’ Iconic Sphere Attraction

I must be honest, when it comes to the Vegas Sphere, I prefer to stay outside and see the interesting images that it randomly flashes. But I also want to experience what it’s like inside this unique musical venue in Las Vegas. It’s one more Vegas attraction that I can scratch off my list this year.  

9. Get a Close Glimpse of Area 51 in Nevada 

I know, I know, this is a weird one. I don’t like ghost tours or creepy places, but I am absolutely fascinated with aliens. And now that we’ve been talking more about the UFO phenomenon, I can openly say that seeing Area 51 is a dream come true for me. Who’s up for this bucket list-worthy adventure with me?

10. Experience Bridgerton Classics at a Candlelight Concert

If you have never seen the Netflix series Bridgerton, you can’t relate to this. But for those who know, Lady Whistledown is my spirit animal. So, when I found this magical live performance on Fever featuring music from the show, I was sold!

Update: This event has passed, but several Candlelight events are on the horizon. Perhaps you would enjoy a tribute to Adele?

11. Stay at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

Ever since I walked inside the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, I have always wanted to spend the night in the hotel. I was utterly awestruck by the unique digital art and the Chandelier Bar surrounded by pretty lavender crystals. It’s easily one of the loveliest hotels on the Vegas Strip.

12. Explore Nevada’s National Parks and Natural Wonders

Renting an RV, gathering my family, and taking a road trip across the country is my ultimate bucket list adventure. One of my goals is to visit all the national parks in the US. I don’t know if I will get to see all of them this year, but the Great Basin National Park and Lake Mead National Recreation Area are definitely on my list. The good news is, I can get a discounted America the Beautiful Pass from our friends at REI. 

13. Eat at One of the Best Soul Food Restaurants in Vegas

When my friend described Mama Bird Southern Kitchen as the best southern food in Nevada, it was a no-brainer to add this local soul food joint to my list. There is a mac ‘n cheese chicken tender sandwich on the menu, and while I can’t completely wrap my head around it, I want to try it!

14. Spend the Weekend at This Secluded Mountain Cabin

I can’t think of a better way to relax than escaping to a secluded cabin in the mountains. And when you add sweeping views of Lake Tahoe, a hot tub, heated floors, plus it’s close to Diamond Peak Ski Resort, this scenic hideaway is excellent for a winter getaway in Nevada.

15. Top City to Visit in Nevada in 2026: Boulder City

Vegas might be the hot spot in Nevada, but Boulder City is the place for hunting treasures. I love a good antique shop where I can find unique items to add to my collection. And with all its antique stores and great restaurants, a day trip to Boulder City is right up my alley. Plus, I want to spend the night at the historic boutique-style Boulder Dam Hotel and visit the museum there.  

16. Walk Across the Hoover Dam

While in Boulder City, of course, I must visit the Hoover Dam. Walking across the dam would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Nevada. Plus, it’s free, and I can get some cool pics along the journey.   

17. Eat Dinner Inside a Tree House Restaurant

There are tons of fantastic restaurants in Las Vegas, and most are worth visiting. But there is only one restaurant on the Strip with a tree house inside. I’ve been to Mastro’s Ocean Club before, but I plan to go back to dine inside their architecturally stunning tree house.

18. Check Out the Breweries and Wineries in Henderson

What I love most about Henderson is its unique vibe. It’s also a great city to escape the hoopla of the Strip. Plus, I can’t go wrong visiting the breweries and wineries here. I can even make my own wine. Visit the website for the Vegas Valley Winery to learn more.

19. Watch the Christmas Boat Parade on Lake Mead

Typically, I avoid Christmas events because they can get too crowded. However, I think the Parade of Lights boat parade in Boulder City is worth the hassle. Plus, it’s a free, family-friendly event that needs a bit of pre-planning. I think I can do it.

20. Try My Luck at Getting Tickets for Gilcrease Orchard 

The fall festival at Gilcrease Orchard is one of the hottest seasonal events in Nevada. Tickets typically sell out early, and the chance of getting them at the gate is slim to none. I will try to get tickets this year, but if all else fails, I can visit one of the nearby attractions in the Northwest Valley.

21. Scenic Drive Through Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Hiking through Red Rock Canyon sounds like a fantastic adventure, but if I could witness the geological wonders from my car, I'm game for that too. Since the park is approximately 15 miles from the Strip, I can easily take the 13-mile scenic drive, leaving plenty of time for other activities.

22. Spend a Summer Night at Lake Tahoe

There’s no denying that Lake Tahoe is paradise on earth. If I could live on the lake, I would. Since that’s not happening anytime soon, for now, I want to spend the night at this stunning Lake Tahoe home featured on Airbnb. The views are to die for, and it’s the ultimate destination for a summer vacation in Nevada.  

23. Stargaze in “America’s Darkest Town” for Unforgettable Views

I don’t know if you’ve been paying attention to the skies, but there have been some incredible celestial shows this year. So, I think it would be cool to go on a stargazing adventure in the darkest town in America - Gerlach.

24. Visit One of the Most Stunning Hidden Gems in Nevada

While I am in Gerlach, I can literally kill two birds with one stone by going to see Fly Geyser. This unique man-made wonder is unlike anything that I have ever seen. So, it’s apparent that I would add it to my list of things to do in Nevada.  

25. Attend the Burning Man Festival in Black Rock Desert

Well, I don't know about you, but for me, the culture, community, and creativity of Burning Man are more intriguing. Here is the thing: you don't need to participate fully. I can promise that just experiencing the Black Rock Desert during the festival will surely create unforgettable memories. When you are here, you can enjoy Nevada's unique events firsthand. You will also witness fascinating art installations.

26. Ice skate at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas

Earlier, I mentioned staying at the Cosmopolitan. I might book my stay for winter so I can ice skate, sit by a fire pit, drink hot chocolate, and roast s’mores. This is the ultimate winter adventure, and I would totally feel like a kid again doing this. 

What would you add to my list of things to do in Nevada? Visit our nomination page and tell us about it. We’d love to hear your suggestions. I might even add them to my list.