The 13 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Nevada

Discover 13 of the best day trips in Nevada, featuring scenic views, historic sites, and unique attractions.

Have you ever Googled "day trips near me in Nevada?" It's only natural -- Nevada is a sensational state with many things to do and see. From majestic mountains and lakes with breathtaking views to local attractions and unique towns, you could take a day trip every day -- and still not see everything! Here are 13 of the very best day trips you can possibly take in Nevada. Pack up and get ready to embark on some bucket-list-level adventures in the Silver State!

1. Jacobs Family Berry Farm, Gardnerville

This wonderful raspberry and blackberry farm located in the western part of the state near Minden is a great destination for a day trip. From learning about the farm's history to sampling its wares to basking in the stunning scenery, a trip to this gorgeous farm is one you won't soon forget.

Click here for more information and directions.

2. Genoa

Nevada's oldest town, Mormon settlement, and first state capital is located in Douglas County along the western edge of the Carson Valley. Almost like a scene from a movie, Genoa is full of history, gorgeous architecture, and stunning nature. Make sure to eat at the Pink House when you go.

Get more information and directions here.

3. Boulder City/Lake Mead

Boulder City is home to several amazing sights and things to do. This day trip exploring the city, trying the tasty restaurants, and enjoying a cruise on Lake Mead should be on your day trip bucket list.

Read our article about this unique place here.

4. Wheeler Peak, Great Basin National Park

Wheeler Peak sits on the Nevada-Utah border in Great Basin National Park. The scenic mountain drive to the peak snakes through some of the most gorgeous scenery in the U.S. Once at the peak's summit, you can enjoy the sweeping panoramic views of the South Snake Mountains and Great Basin below. Bring a picnic lunch and a camera and enjoy this stunning day trip above the clouds.

Click here for more information and directions.

5. Toquima Cave, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest near Austin

This unique and interesting cave has thousands of pictographs and petroglyphs lining its stone walls. A scenic drive and a short hike takes you to the cave's entrance which is blocked off but enables visitors to view the ancient art that dates back as far as 1000 B.C. to 500 A.D.

Learn all about this unique place in Nevada here.

6. Virginia City

This Old West mining town located approximately 36 miles south of Reno measures slightly under one square mile but is full of Nevada history (and several ghosts, too!). From the Silver Queen Hotel and Casino to the Washoe Club to Piper's Opera House, there is more than enough for an interesting and fun-filled day.

Read all about Virginia City, Nevada, in our previous article.

7. Mount Rose Hike, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

This breathtaking 10.6-mile hike to Mount Rose's summit will take you past wildflowers, by waterfalls, and through alpine forests as you climb from 8,700 feet to 10,778 feet above sea level. At the summit, you will be treated to stunning panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. Despite being long, this hike is family (and pet) friendly.

Get additional information and directions here.

8. Mesquite

Located just 80 miles northeast of Las Vegas is Mesquite, a delightful town that has been named Nevada's safest. In addition to being a golfer's paradise, Mesquite is home to Veterans Memorial Park, Whitney Pocket, Little Finland, museums, excellent restaurants, and, of course hotels and casinos. Its close proximity to Las Vegas makes it a wonderful day trip for the entire family.

This is one small town in Nevada you simply must visit!

9. Devil's Hole, Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, Nye County

This water-filled, depth undetermined, geologic cave filled with geothermic water was made part of Death Valley to protect the indigenous pupfish which are only found here. Enjoy the arid scenery and learn about these ancient fish.

Click here for more information and directions.

10. Lake Tahoe

This largest alpine lake in the United States is renowned for its stunning blue water and oodles of recreational activities available year-round. From swimming to fishing to boating in the summer to skiing in the winter, Lake Tahoe is a must-see. Take a day -- or longer -- to visit this grand gorgeous area.

Click here to read more about Lake Tahoe.

11. Sierra Safari Zoo, Reno

Spend a day at this delightful zoo where you can see over 50 different species of animals, feed deer in the petting zoo, talk to the zoo's birds, get up close and personal with lions and ligers, enjoy a picnic lunch, and watch your kids play in the zoo's playground. This is truly a day trip that is fun for the entire family.

Plan your trip to this cool safari zoo ASAP!

12. Lavender Ridge, Reno

This fragrant and beautiful 1.5-acre, family-owned and operated lavender farm is located in Reno. In addition to serving as a wedding and event venue, Lavender Ridge also hosts "pick your own lavender" days and its annual Lavender Ridge Festival. You can also check out its store for a wide selection of lavender-infused soaps, teas, rubs, and other unique products.

Learn more about this lavender farm here.

13. Pyramid Lake

Located 40 miles northeast of Reno is Pyramid Lake, so named because of the giant tufa limestone pyramid rising from the magnificent blue water. Located on the Paiute Reservation, Pyramid Lake has become a popular fishing spot and awesome day trip.

Get all the details about this geological wonder in this article.

For other amazing Nevada day trip ideas, check out our previous piece here.

Have you visited any of these locations and attractions? What other day trips in Nevada have you enjoyed? Please share them in the comments below!

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