Nevada’s towns, both big and small, are marked by historic architecture and natural landscapes. Winter, in particular, can really highlight the beauty of Nevada. With a dusting of snow or special holiday lighting, “picture-perfect” views of our cities emerge. During that sweet spot between autumn and the start of spring, make a plan to visit these charming towns this winter in Nevada.

1. Genoa

Genoa, NV, USA
Town of Genoa, Nevada / Facebook
Genoa is reportedly the oldest town in Nevada. It's also the home of "Snowshoe Thompson" who was a mail carrier back in the 1800's. He is credited with inventing snowshoes. His remains are buried in the cemetery at Genoa and the town also features a statue in his memory.

2. Winnemucca

Winnemucca
Winnemucca, NV 89445, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr
Winnemucca is the only incorporated city in Humboldt County on the northern end of the state. It was named for Chief Winnemucca of the Paiute tribe that inhabited the territory. Winnemucca has a semi-arid climate and winters have light snowfall.

3. Carson City

Carson City, NV, USA
Scott Schrantz/Flickr
The capital of Nevada, Carson City, is a delightful place to visit in the winter. The town is filled with Christmas cheer, such as the annual lighting of the Governor's Mansion. The mansion is not only the home of the state governor and his or her family but is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

4. Virginia City

Virginia City
Virginia City, NV 89440, USA
Beau Rogers/Flickr
Virginia City is another town with a strong historical flare and a love for Christmas. Each year they hold a Christmas in the Comstock celebration. The town is full of holiday decorations, making for a beautiful night-time image.

5. Ely

Ely
Ely, NV 89301, USA
Don Barrett/Flickr
Ely is the home of the Nevada Northern Railway. This is a "heritage railway" which is a railway preserved to demonstrate a specific time period in the history of trains and the country.

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6. Henderson

Henderson
Henderson, NV, USA
Roadsidepictures/Flickr
A lovely evening view of Water Street on Henderson on Christmas Eve. Water Street is the government and downtown hub for the city. It's also the landing point for Henderson's historic walking tour. When searching for things to do in Nevada in winter, you can learn about all the happenings when you check out the Henderson Facebook page.

7. Reno

Reno
Reno, NV, USA
Beau Rogers/Flickr
Reno, "the Biggest Little City in the World." is a major winter destination for snow sports enthusiasts. It's close to both the Sierra Nevadas and Lake Tahoe. It's also a major tourist location for casino lovers. All the lights in the city produce amazing views at night all year round. Learn all the fun winter places in Nevada's western city by checking out the Reno Facebook page.

8. Elko

Elko, NV 89801, USA
Roadsidepictures/Flickr
Elko is the largest city in Elko County in the northeastern corner of the state. The city is the home of both the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering and the National Basque Festival.

9. Stateline

Stateline
Stateline, NV, USA
Ville Miettinen / Flickr
Stateline is located on Lake Tahoe's eastern shore. The town is primarily tourism-focused because of its location on the lake. Boat tours of the lake are very popular and are available in the winter. Or get out and take a breathtaking hike on the Stateline Lookout Trail. Winter in Nevada has never looked so magical.

10. Las Vegas

Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV, USA
James Marvin Phelps/Flickr
Many would say that Las Vegas looks like a Christmas tree all year round with all the lights and glitter from the casinos on the Strip. Winter stands out as the time of year when there are even MORE lights and decorations for locals and tourists to enjoy. Learn all about the fun you can have in Las Vegas this winter in Nevada!

Have you been to any of these towns during winter in Nevada? Do you have a favorite town that takes the title as best among favorite winter places in Nevada? Share your experiences or thoughts with us in the comments. We would love to hear from you!

To extend your time in any of these charming towns, don’t forget to look at all the options on VRBO. There’s a place waiting just for you to make you feel at home this winter in Nevada.

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More to Explore

Winter Places In Nevada

Katie Feldkamp | December 12, 2023

Where are some must-see places during winter in Nevada?

When looking for things to do in Nevada in winter, be sure to consider planning a visit to any of these must-see places:

  • Thrill seekers will love Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe, just outside Reno.
  • Glide across the ice rink at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.
  • Step inside the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, also in Las Vegas.
  • Ride the magical Polar Express in Ely.

For more information on these and several other locations, check out this article on unforgettable winter places in Nevada.

What are some things to do in Nevada in winter?

Nevada has the best of both worlds during the winter months. Without going too far, you can have either warm, sunny skies or glittering white snow. If you’re having trouble deciding what activities you want to do, check out this list of some of the best things to do in Nevada in winter:

  • Attend the annual tree lighting ceremony in Fallon.
  • Go snow tubing in Stateline.
  • Check out the Fire And Ice Festival in Ely.
  • Take a hike at Valley of Fire State Park in Moapa Valley.

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