The Small Town In Nevada You’ve Never Heard Of But Will Fall In Love With

Known as the "banana belt," Lovelock was established in 1868 and incorporated on 26 September 1917. Lovelock is located approximately 90 miles east of Reno in the Humboldt River Basin, is two square miles in size, and is home to around 2,400 people. This quaint little town is like any other with public parks, a community pool, schools, a library, hospital, community center, post office and several businesses. However, Lovelock has a little ritual that will make you, like many others, fall in love with this town.

Lovelock is the county seat of Pershing County and the only incorporated city in the county. It was founded by Welsh settler George Lovelock in 1866 when he purchased the squatters' right for 320 acres and got the oldest water rights on the Humboldt River.

This small town was formerly a stop for settlers en route to California.

Lovelock later became a train depot, but farming, mining, and, later, tourism, became the town's primary industries.

The small western community also thrived early on gambling. Several casinos and three legalized brothels cropped up; however, the brothels have now since closed.

Just like any other small town, Lovelock has the usual. Here, the Lovelock post office.

Pershing County's famous round courthouse was built at the end of Main Street where a school used to stand.

The fire department has 30 firefighters who also work as EMTs.

Pershing's Pub is a popular hangout for locals and visitors.

The Covered Wagon Motel; one of several motels in Lovelock.

However, Lovelock has become even more known for Lovers Lock Plaza. Here, people can forever lock their love with another, be it a parent, child, or romantic partner.

Since 2006, lovers have been able to attach a lock to a series of chains in the town square.

You can purchase locks at one of the many businesses in Lovelock or bring your own. After the lock is affixed, lore has it that you must throw away the key to ensure your love will be locked forever.

In addition to its quaintness and beauty, Lovelock's "lock your love" fame has truly given people something to fall in love with. Have you been to Lovelock? Do you have a lock in the town square? Please share your experiences below.