These 12 Hidden Gems In Nevada Hold Historic Keys To The Past

The Virginia City Historic District encompasses Virginia City, Gold Hill, Dayton and Silver City. The discovery of the Comstock Lode in 1859 is responsible for Virginia City's success.

Hoover Dam, located in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, was constructed during the Great Depression. It was also responsible for the creation of Lake Mead - America’s largest reservoir.

Fort Churchill, located in Silver Springs, was built in 1861 and was once an active U.S. Army fort. It's purpose was to provide protection for early settlers. It was abandoned nine years later, and the buildings that remain today are in total ruins.

The Tonopah Historic Mining Park is located on the original mining claims that started the rush to Tonopah. Covering more than 100 acres, this historic park features many exhibits and restored buildings.

Lovelock Cave was previously known as Sunset Guano Cave, Horseshoe Cave and Loud Site 18. It was in use as early as 2580 BC. However, it wasn't heavily occupied until around 1000 BC. Lovelock Cave was occupied by humans for more than 4,000 years. The most popular discovery of Lovelock Cave was red-haired ancient giants.

Built in 1855, Old Mormon Fort was the first structure built in the same area that would later become Las Vegas.

Grimes Point, located in Churchill County, is a 720 acre archaeological site featuring numerous petroglyphs. In 1972, Grimes Point was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Ruby Valley Pony Express Station, located in Elko, was built in 1860 and is one of only two Pony Express buildings left in Nevada. In 1975, the station was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Rhyolite, located in Nye County, began in 1905 as a mining camp that sprang up shortly after a local prospecting discovery. Today, Rhyolite is in ruins and is Nevada's most popular ghost town.

Built in 1913, and located in Goodsprings, the Pioneer Saloon is Clark County's oldest bar. It's supposedly America's oldest stamped-metal building that's still standing.

Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park was established in 1957. Its main purpose is to protect and display North America’s largest known ichthyosaur fossils. This state park also preserves the mining town of Berlin.