9 Top-Rated Small Towns In Nevada

Nevada is bordered by Oregon and Idaho to the northwest and northeast, Utah to the East, Arizona to the southeast, and California to the west. Most everyone is familiar with the larger cities in Nevada: Reno, Las Vegas, Carson City, and Spring Valley, but there is much more to offer in the Silver State.

Nevada is home to an array of history, from the changes in geography and landscapes to mining, outlaws, and gun fights. The Wild West and the American Frontier existed during a time of lawlessness within the territories west of the Mississippi River. Museums, historical societies, diners, restaurants, outdoor recreation, exploration, and experiences await you in these top-rated small towns. As the cold weather rolls in for this winter solstice, it's a great time to consider a weekend getaway in Nevada.

Gardnerville

The population of Gardnerville, Nevada, is 6,211. Five different parks can be found throughout Gardnerville. Arbor Gardens and Gardner Park are smaller neighborhood parks. Mountain View Nature Park is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the wilderness. A stocked pond full of rainbow trout is along the Martin Slough Trail. Heritage Park is the center and hub for social functions and community events. Not only can locals and visitors enjoy shows, events, and festivals, but they can also be rented for private celebrations. Movies in the Park and Oktoberfest take place at Heritage Park.

You might notice the rich Basque and Danish influence around Gardnerville. The people came to the area as immigrants and became some of the region's first early settlers.

Danberg Home Ranch Historical Park is a unique museum dedicated to preserving the state's ranching history and culture. This ranch was one of the first in Nevada, and you can schedule a tour of the interior for a closeup. Carson Valley Museum and Cultural Center is in the heart of Gardnerville's Historic District.

Adults can head to Buckaroo's Saloon or NV Ugly (a popular dive bar). The Overland Restaurant and Pub is a historic building (circa 1902). What started as a meat market turned hotel is now a restaurant serving delicious food and cold brews. You can find unique shops, a vintage market, and an incredible candy store called the Chocolate Shoppe. Gardnerville is an excellent place for a family or weekend getaway, but it's also among the best small towns in Nevada for retirees. The Historian Inn is worth checking in to. There are also a few hotels in town and the next town over.

Virginia City

Virginia City is southeast of Reno, Nevada, with a small population of less than a thousand. The luxuriant Victorian buildings built during the 19th-century mining boom are magnificent, and the brickwork architecture can be seen everywhere throughout the town. Mackay Mansion Museum is a prime example of the architecture; this 1860 Italianate-style mansion is rumored to be haunted and is a hotspot for paranormal investigations.

The Mansion was featured in season 12, episode 5 of Ghost Adventures, and season 1, episode 16 of The Dead Files. Chollar Mine is another popular tourist attraction, and it's also been featured on Ghost Adventures, season 2, episode 15.

The Way It Was Museum covers the town's mining history, and the Historic Fourth Ward School Museum has fascinating exhibits and educational lessons, events, and fairs.

Piper's Opera House is a historic performing arts venue. The Virginia City Outlaw Theater is located in the historic district. You can find daily shows and performances, including stunt shows and comedy gunfights. 

Enjoy a 35-minute scenic and historic train ride at the Virginia and Truckee (V&T) Railroad Company. There are various saloons in the area, but three of them are historic saloons that have been operating since the late 1850s, 1860s, and 1870s. 

The Cobb Mansion Bed and Breakfast is a beautiful and luxurious B&B. Honestly, you have several choices of bed and breakfasts in Virginia City, each one unique with something special to offer.

Lovelock

Lovelock, Nevada, is the county seat of Pershing County and has a population of around 1,922. Lovelock often makes the list as one of the most underrated towns in Nevada, and for good reason. A short 22-minute drive from town leads to Rye Patch State Recreation Area, where outdoor enthusiasts can spend the day camping, hiking, boating, or fishing along the 72 miles of shoreline.

Lovelock's story seems to be one of the most popular things. It was named after George Lovelock, a resident of a hip store, and the tradition of hanging a lock symbolizes the love between two people. It is an ancient tradition that's practiced or honored throughout the world.

Lovelock Cave has an exciting story and artifacts that accompany it. The artifacts can be seen in the exhibit on display at the Humboldt Museum. 

This small Nevada town comes alive during the summer. The Humboldt River Valley sees a lot of activity throughout the year, especially during the summer. After all, the Humboldt River is the longest in the US within the boundaries of one state. The Cadillac Inn is a cute place to get a room. It is close to the Black Rock Grill, which is a nice restaurant to grab lunch or dinner.

Pioche

Pioche, Nevada, is an old western town with a smallish population of 1,158. It is a fantastic town in the Great Basin to chill out. The region's semi-arid climate means the temperatures are a bit cooler, and there is more rain than in surrounding areas, making it ideal for spring and summer getaways. The climate is only one thing that makes this a popular tourist destination.

Spring Valley State Park, Echo Canyon State Park, and Miller's Point are ideal locations for outdoor recreation.

The Italianate-style architecture of the Million Dollar Court House is divine. The Lincoln County Museum features the history of the area. The 19th-century opera house opened its doors in 1873, and only then was Brown's Hall. This building has a fascinating history. Boot Hill Cemetery started in the 1870s; it is well-known for Murderer's Row, a portion of the cemetery holding the graves of over 100 murderers. 

Pioche is "Tavern Territory," an excellent area for a night out. The Nevada Club of Pioche, Overland Saloon, the Alamo Club & Liquor Outlet are all within half a mile of one another.

Ten minutes south of town, the Cathedral Gorge State Park is home to picture-worthy, buff-colored moon caves or slot canyons, spires, and natural tunnels. When you are ready to rest your head for the night, the Overland Hotel and Saloon is a quaint little hotel with a beautiful backdrop.

Panaca

Panaca is just 16 minutes or 12.2 miles south of Pioche in Lincoln County, Nevada. Cathedral Gorge State Park is only a six-minute drive from town. Cathedral Gorge is a prime location for hiking and biking. It is one of the best hikes in Nevada. If you were to head a mile north of town, you would find yourself at the Panaca Warm Springs. This beautiful swimming lake offers crystal clear waters and a year-round temperature of 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pine Tree Inn Bed and Breakfast is a rustic and casual B&B. Rent a private guest room or a cabin for family and group settings. Even without this beautiful B&B, Panaca is an excellent place for a relaxing weekend in a scenic environment. All the stones, canyons, rivers, and springs combined with the friendly people only elevate the welcoming atmosphere.

The Panaca Heritage Center is a lovely museum dedicated to preserving the local history. A 30-minute drive from town leads to the Panaca Summit Kilns, incredibly well-preserved charcoal kilns in a remote landscape. These kilns were used during the late 1870s to produce coal for the silver mill. Panaca is a beautiful place for a weekend getaway. Pine Tree Inn and Swallow Cover are a couple of excellent overnight options.

West Wendover

Along the Utah-Nevada border lies West Wendover, a beautiful city in Nevada. Not long after this small Elko County town was established, it became an oasis for travelers traversing either side of the state's border.

The Victory Highway Monument Arch is a historic landmark many have seen in photos. Victory Highway is a monument honoring those who served the country during World War 1 (WWI). The Historic Wendover Airfield Museum is an original Army Air Base used during WWII. You can explore the museum, check out exhibits, and browse through the gift shop.

Montego Bay Hotel Casino Resort is an all-in-one place to spend the night or the weekend. The Peppermill Concert Hall is a contemporary concert venue showcasing well-known comedians and musicians. Wendover Will Neon Cowboy is a famous historical landmark. Wendover Will is a Registered Trademark of the town; some might know him better as "The Cowboy." The Peppermill Wendover is a Tuscon-themed hotel and casino with comfortable rooms and on-site eateries.

Minden

Minden, a small town with a population of around 3,400, is in Douglas County. Minden is popular amongst thrill-seekers. Of course, this region has plenty of room for outdoor recreation activities. River Fork Ranch Nature Preserve and Seeman Ranch Park are two popular go-to locations for recreation. Ironwood Park is an excellent space for the kids to explore and adventure around the playground. Enjoy a picnic under the big shade trees.

There are a lot of exciting and thrilling opportunities to be had in Minden. Soaring Nevada offers gliding excursions. You get a 15-minute tour over Carson Valley, but different routes are available. Topz Lake Park is for all water action and sports lovers who go swimming, fishing, and jet skiing. After a long day on the water, head to one of the campsites and relax.

History, excitement, relaxation, and thrills are only a few reasons this is a top-rated destination in Nevada. Head to the Historian Inn and book your room for a night or the weekend. The rates are affordable, and the rooms are spacious.

Fallon

Fallon is a beautiful small town with a rich history, architecture, nature, and nightlife options. Liberty Pond is a relaxing environment with a dog park for furry family members. Laura Mills Park and Oats Park are lovely places to take the kids to play on the playground, play sports, or enjoy a picnic. This charming lake town perfectly blends historical trademarks and modern community.

Naval Air Station Fallon is a historic military base starting in 1942. Grimes Point is an archaeological area and a hidden cave seven miles from town. The Robert L. Douglass House (circa 1904) is an exceptional piece of Queen Anne architecture. Unfortunately, the building is temporarily closed.

Frey Ranch Distillery offers whiskey-tasting tours. This family-owned and operated distillery has been running for over 160 years. The Grid Fallon is a brewpub restaurant with a full bar. After dinner, there are five casinos to choose from, or you can try to catch a race at Rattlesnake Raceway. The Holiday Inn and Best Western Fallon Inn & Suits are two options for a weekend stay. Both locations are close to restaurants, casinos, and grocery stores.

Jarbidge

This Elko County town has around 100 residents, give or take a few. Jarbidge is the ultimate getaway for nature lovers and outdoor recreation fans. Jarbidge River is a small river with a steep canyon wall and the backdrop. It's a bigfoot research area but fantastic for fishing, hiking, and camping. Jarbidge Falls is a serene setting with rushing waterfalls. The Jarbidge Wilderness Area is located in northeastern Nevada, close to the Idaho border. The forested peaks, sweeping basins, and river-cut gorges are picture-worthy. It was the first wilderness area in Nevada in 1964.

Pioneer Park is a historic mining site that houses the local mining history and displays exhibits of artifacts, and there is even a park for the little ones. The Outdoor Inn gives off all the Western vibes anyone could want. The surrounding beauty is fantastic, with the hills, cliffs, and lush trees.

Discover Nevada's Hidden Treasures

Nevada boasts beautiful cities, stunning natural landscapes, exciting and unique tourist attractions, and many experiences. From the mountain peaks to the river valley floors, there is something for everyone to enjoy—the history, architecture, and, in some areas, a thriving nightlife and thrills. The beautiful state of Nevada offers much more to travelers than casinos and desert land; how do lush forests and refreshing lakes sound?