6 Best Downtowns In Nevada
When it comes to the best downtown areas in Nevada, many people automatically think about the world-famous Fremont Street Experience, adjacent to the Fremont East Entertainment District in Las Vegas or the Riverwalk District in Reno. These are major commercial hubs in the city's heart, brimming with retail shops, restaurants, entertainment, nightlife, cultural attractions, and historic buildings, all within walking distance of each other. But outside Las Vegas and Reno are small towns in Nevada, from Boulder City to Laughlin, that are often overlooked. Visit these lesser-traveled communities to explore their downtown districts, learn about their rich history, or partake in thrilling adventures.
Boulder City
Just 25 miles from Las Vegas lies the charming Boulder City. Its downtown is home to the historic Boulder Dam Hotel, a boutique-style gem built in 1933 to accommodate tourists during the construction of Hoover Dam. With only 21 guest rooms, booking in advance is a must. The hotel, complete with a restaurant, cocktail lounge, museum, art gallery, and library, is a treasure trove of the town's history, waiting to be discovered.
Walking along the downtown streets, discover various public art pieces or shop at stores like Goatfeathers Emporium, Bella Marketplace, and Bloom, which sell everything from antiques and home décor to clothing and gifts. Downtown Boulder City also brings fun to places like Skinny Bar, which has a speakeasy vibe with rotating entertainment such as live music and comedy shows. Another establishment unique to Boulder City is The Dillinger, a hip pub with a gangster theme. Just outside downtown, explore the recreation opportunities at the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Tonopah
Tonopah, a town steeped in history, boasts many historic hotels, saloons, and establishments along Main Street, offering a glimpse into its past as a bustling mining town. The Mizpah Hotel, a luxury establishment built in 1907, still welcomes guests today. The hotel offers a range of experiences, from casual breakfasts at Pittman Café to nighttime ghost tours, fancy dinners at the Jack Dempsey Room, and bottomless mimosas on weekends at the bar.
Across the street from the Mizpah Hotel is the Belvada Hotel, another ideal place to stay in the heart of downtown. Outside the restaurants and cafes inside both hotels, there are a few other places to dine along Main Street worth checking out, including the casual pizza joint Hometown Pizza and the craft brewery Tonopah Brewing Company. Many shops are also within walking distance, from A-Bar-L Western Store, which has Western appeal, to Van-Tastic Fashions, a boutique with trendy clothing. After exploring downtown, visit the Tonopah Historic Mining Park, which features exhibits on mining history.
Mesquite
Just 80 miles north of Las Vegas, in the center of Virgin River Valley, is Mesquite, where you'll find not only world-class resorts and championship golf courses but also local eateries, shops, and attractions in the heart of its downtown area. Start your exploration with a visit to Ella Mae's Brew & Flour to order your favorite coffee beverage, baked treat, or grab-and-go items before kicking off your day. A few blocks away is the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum, where you can learn about early pioneer settlers of the Virgin Valley through various artifacts and exhibits.
The Mesquite Fine Arts Center & Gallery, also nearby, offers art classes, workshops, studios, exhibitions, and a gift shop, providing a creative outlet for artists. You'll also find plenty of dining spots perfect for lunch or dinner, such as Rain Thai Sushi Cuisine, which offers Thai specialties, sushi, and Japanese dishes. For some of the best Indian cuisine in town, Bombay Café is a short walk away. Another favorite in Mesquite is the Golden West Restaurant & Casino, where you can eat, drink, gamble, and watch sports. Shopping centers in downtown Mesquite, such as the Brickyard Shopping Center and Town & Country Village Plaza, offer convenient access to everything you might need while in town.
Laughlin
Laughlin, a resort town on the Colorado River, is well worth a visit. If you're looking for a fun way to spend the day or evening, Laughlin's hotels and casinos, all close to each other downtown, offer many places to eat, shop, and have fun, catering to everyone from solo travelers to couples and families. Harrah's Laughlin, for example, provides a tranquil setting with a secluded beach, while Aquarius Casino Resort offers top-tier entertainment, from live music to comedy acts. Don Laughlin's Riverside Resort, another great place to stay, features an arcade, bowling alley, movie theater, and a classic car museum.
To experience it all, travel along the Laughlin Riverwalk, which offers convenient access to each hotel and scenic views. Water activities like jet skiing and boating are popular with the river as the focal point. From late February through December, Laughlin River Tours offers a sunset dinner cruise for the perfect night out. For more, visit the Laughlin Outlet Center, attend an event at the Laughlin Event Center, or spend the day at Mountain View Park.
Virginia City
Virginia City, located halfway between Reno and Carson City, is a National Historic Landmark with one of the best downtown areas in the state. To delve into its rich history, visit iconic buildings like the Historic Fourth Ward School Museum and the Silver Queen Hotel, all along Historic C Street. Other notable stops include the Washoe Club Museum & Saloon, one of the most haunted places in the West, and The Way It Was Museum, which features Comstock mining artifacts and exhibitions.
Just a block down, you'll find Piper's Opera House, a performing arts space that has been around since the 1880s. Go behind the scenes on a tour or take in a concert at the venue. Millionaire's Row, also in the area, is the site of Victorian mansions built by successful miners during the Comstock Lode. The discoveries within downtown don't stop there—go underground on a Ponderosa Mine Tour, satisfy your sweet tooth at Grandma's Fudge Factory, browse nostalgic memorabilia at Buzzard Creek, or shop at Historic Sundance.
Ely
Although Ely is known for being a quiet, remote mountain town, it's one of the best downtown areas in Nevada. One of its major attractions is the Nevada Northern Railway Museum. Learn firsthand what it's like to be a steam engineer for a day or ride in a restored Pontiac Fairmont Hy-Rail car for a trip back in time. You can also enjoy train rides, including themed excursions like the Sunset, Stars & Champagne, or the Wild West Limited. After your train ride, take a guided tour of the railyard or shop for keepsakes.
Another historic part of downtown Ely is the Hotel Nevada & Gambling Hall. The iconic six-story hotel was one of the top places to eat and stay when it opened in 1929. One of the hotel's most notable features is the Walk of Fame at the entrance, which lists all the prominent people who have visited. Today, it still stands in all its glory. For a casual outing at the hotel, sip craft beers at the bar or try your luck at one of the many slot machines. Just 30 minutes from downtown is the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park, which offers camping, picnicking, and hiking and mountain biking trails. Great Basin National Park, about an hour from downtown Ely, is another attraction for outdoor explorers.
Discover The Best Downtown Areas In Nevada
From Boulder City to Laughlin, these small towns offer a casual, peaceful atmosphere with big-city amenities. They feature historical sites, landmarks, museums, mouthwatering cuisine, exciting bars and saloons, gaming, and a variety of leisure activities to enjoy. The next time you consider visiting Nevada, explore one of these communities instead of vacationing in Las Vegas or Reno—they boast some of the best downtown areas in the state.
