Nevada’s Rising Star: This Underrated City is Ideal for Any Traveler

When we think of cities to visit in Nevada, which one immediately comes to mind? If you said Las Vegas, which sees nearly 41 million tourists annually, you're like most people. Another popular Nevada city is Reno which sees around 5 million visitors each year. While both of these cities offer so much in terms of casinos, restaurants, entertainment, and attractions, other cities deserve our attention like Boulder City. While it may not have all the glitz and glamour of Vegas, this underrated city in Nevada is certainly one that any tourist would find worth visiting.

With a population of roughly 15,000, Boulder City is certainly small. However, it still packs a punch when it comes to activities and scenery, and it's a great alternative if you're looking for a place that's not as overrun with tourists as, say, Vegas.

Boulder City is a quiet place without casinos. Despite the lack of gambling options, the city is home to something a bit different and absolutely remarkable—the Hoover Dam. When construction was completed in 1935, the Hoover Dam was a true engineering marvel, damming the Colorado River to provide hydroelectric power. Boulder City resulted from its construction as a place for thousands of construction workers to call home.

While the Hoover Dam is a must-see upon visiting Boulder City, and I highly suggest you take a tour, there are other notable things to see and do while in town.

For one, you should certainly spend time at Lake Mead National Recreation Area which is home to the largest man-made lake on the continent. Within this recreation area, you can go boating, camping, fishing, swimming, and hiking as well as explore hot springs or take a tour. While exploring its vast wilderness, be on the lookout for wildlife like bighorn sheep, Gila monsters, coyotes, bobcats, mule deer, and so much more.

Another outdoor attraction worth exploring is the Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail. This historic 8.2-mile multi-use trail goes through five large tunnels that were once used during the construction of the Hoover Dam. Each of the tunnels is 25 feet wide and 30 feet tall, making this trail such an incredible point of interest in Boulder City.

Of course, there are other things to do aside from all the outdoor stuff. There's the Southern Nevada Railroad Museum where you can learn about trains and take a ride on one, dining options like Fox Smokehouse BBQ and Huevos Avenue, and shopping at antique stores, trading posts, and local boutiques. Honestly, this small city in Nevada has it all (minus casinos, that is), and I urge you to make plans to visit, whether for a day or longer.

So, have you visited this underrated city in Nevada yet? What sights have you seen here? For city events, check out the Boulder City Chamber of Commerce website.

While you can take a day trip to Boulder City, how about a weekend getaway instead? For accommodations, book a stay at Boulder Dam Hotel, a boutique hotel located within walking distance of the Boulder City Hoover Dam Museum.