You may not have heard of some of the small towns in Nevada, but the truth is, Nevada is a big state with a LOT of small towns. Visitors may travel from all over the world to visit places like Las Vegas, but true Nevadans know that our cute small towns in Nevada are where the Silver State spirit thrives! There’s always an adventure to be had exploring our small towns and these six communities are especially fantastic. When you feel like a memorable outing, plan a trip to one of these small towns and explore their wonderful downtown areas.

1. Tonopah
Tonopah, NV 89049, USA
Don Barrett/Flickr
With a population of just 2,000 residents, the historic town of Tonopah is one of Nevada's best-kept secrets. It may be small, but there's plenty to do in this gem of a town! Tonopah's Historic Downtown is filled with century-old buildings, bars, unique shops, and restaurants. And the Mizpah Hotel, built in 1907 and fully restored to its former glory, is the centerpiece of it all. Once you've explored downtown, you can head over to Tonopah Historic Mining Park which consists of 113 acres of mining history. Learn more about one of the best small town downtowns in Nevada, and then plan your visit there.
2. Virginia City
Virginia City, NV 89440, USA
Thank You (21 Millions+) views/Flickr
The Old West is alive and well in the small town of Virginia City, which is home to just under a thousand residents. Walking down Virginia City's historic streets, you can't help but feel like you've fallen into a time capsule! The town's downtown is filled with old saloons, cozy restaurants, history-filled hotels, and museums. Stop by the Visitor Center and grab yourself a Comstock Adventure Pass which includes access to some of the town's greatest attractions! This is one of the most historic small towns in Nevada, so history buffs will want to add this to their bucket list.
3. Fallon
Travel Nevada/Flickr
Known as the "Oasis of Nevada", the town of Fallon is a lovely community in the Lahontan Valley. Known for its small town hospitality, rich cultural history, and proximity to some of the most exciting outdoor adventures, there's something for everybody in this little hamlet. Fallon's historic Main Street is a walkable destination with unique spots like Oats Park Arts Center, Churchill County Museum, and tons of great little eateries and shops. This charming small town in Nevada is just an hour from Reno, so it's a great day trip from there.

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4. Caliente
Caliente, NV 89008, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr
Tucked away in southeastern Nevada, Caliente is a quiet and peaceful community with a quaint hometown feel. Originally founded in 1901, it's also filled with history! Here, you'll find the Union Pacific Train Depot that was built in 1905 in true Spanish-style architecture. The train depot is the town's crown jewel, but you'll also find myriad restaurants, lodging options, and shops. While here, be sure to get yourself a Walking Tour visitors guide that features Caliente's most interesting highlights. Caliente is one of the best small towns near Las Vegas Nevada, so plan a enjoyable day trip there!
5. Gardnerville
Gardnerville, NV, USA
Jasperdo/Flickr
Nestled in the beautiful Carson Valley, Gardnerville is the type of community that immediately lures you in with its friendly vibe and gorgeous setting. Located just off Highway 395, it makes for a fantastic place to explore in this corner of Nevada. Spend the day exploring two floors of vintage items at Cheshire Antiques, sampling sweets at the Chocolate Shoppe, and chowing down on authentic Basque dining at JT Basque Bar & Dining Room. Start planning your visit to this small mountain town in Nevada.
6. Eureka
Eureka, NV 89316, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr
When traveling along the Loneliest Road in America (Highway 50), it's impossible not to stop for a spell in the town of Eureka. This small town has earned itself the nickname of "The Friendliest Town on the Loneliest Road" and it's easy to see why! Eureka is lovely as can be with a historic and tidy main drag. Originally a mining community, you'll see bits of Eureka's history everywhere you turn. The Eureka Opera House, Sentinel Museum, and County Courthouse are just a few of the historic gems you'll find hiding here. After exploring the town's history, you can stop at the Owl Club Bar & Steakhouse for a bite to eat, and maybe even go for a Historical Ghost Tour at the Jackson House Hotel. Eureka is certainly one of the best cute small towns in Nevada, so start planning your visit there.

Have you been to any of these wonderful small towns in Nevada? Share your favorite small town with us in the comments below!

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small towns in Nevada

Jessica Bohl | September 14, 2022

What are some picturesque small towns in Nevada?

While Las Vegas and Reno may get a lot of attention, the small towns in Nevada are really what make it special. For those who delight in a charming small town, there are plenty of great ones in Nevada to visit. For instance, Genoa is Nevada’s oldest town and has the most photo worthy charm. It’s located 25 miles east of Lake Tahoe and 1 hour south of Reno, so it’s a great place to explore for the day. Mount Charleston is another picturesque small town, not only due to its small size, but also for its namesake, Mount Charleston, overlooking the town. Head there for some great hiking, and be sure to bring your camera!

What are some small towns in Nevada with cool attractions?

If you think that small towns in Nevada may not have enough to hold your attention for an entire day or weekend, think again. There are some great small towns with cool attractions. For instance, head over to Blue Diamond and the nearby Bonnie Springs Ranch. This western-themed amusement park has a zoo, miniature train, an Old Western town, a motel and a restaurant. Or, for sculpture lovers, head over to the ghost town of Rhyolite and visit the 7.8-acre Goldwell Open Air Museum.

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