Your Ultimate Guide To Winter Attractions And Activities In Nevada
Courtnie Erickson
Author
There is nothing quite like winter in Nevada. Here, you can enjoy the best of both worlds — warm and sunny winter days and plenty of snowfall to help you enjoy winter sports to their fullest. Because of the unique landscapes, weather, and even attractions, there are dozens of things to do to help you fall in love with this time of the year. Whether you are looking for weekend adventures or even just cheap things to do in Nevada in winter, the list of options is long. So, rather than stay cooped up indoors all winter long, here are just 15 fun things to do in Nevada in winter.
Table of Contents
Holiday Events In Nevada
The holidays in Nevada are full of wonder, magic, and lots of holiday cheer. From twinkling Christmas light shows to tree lighting ceremonies to even festivals, there are many attractions and events to get you into the holiday spirit. Below are four holiday events in Nevada to add to your bucket list.
1. View The Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Light Display
Easily one of the best holiday displays in Nevada and a must-see event for the young and young at heart, the 14,000-square-foot botanical gardens at the Bellagio Conservatory on the strip transforms into a magical wonderland each year. Every inch of the botanical gardens is perfectly designed to bring holiday cheer with lights, flowers, and more. This is one holiday show you’ll find yourself hoping to attend multiple times throughout the holiday season and even better, it’s available 24 hours a day.
2. Talk a walk through the Magical Forest
Located at Opportunity Village in Las Vegas, the Magical Forest may be one of the most highly anticipated holiday events in Las Vegas. This outdoor event features incredible Christmas lights, countless trees, gingerbread house displays, and so much more — it’s pure magic. Santa Claus and popular holiday characters, like the Grinch, regularly make appearances and children can even take a ride on the Enchanted Carousel.
3. Attend the annual Fallon Christmas Tree Lighting
One of the best ways to welcome in the holiday spirit is by attending a Christmas tree lighting and the event in Fallon, Nevada should be at the top of your list. During this annual Christmas tradition, the entire community comes out for a family-friendly night filled with carolers, Christmas cookies, hot chocolate, hundreds of twinkling lights, and, of course, Santa.
4. Experience holiday train rides on the Nevada Northern Railway
Is there any better way to enjoy the holidays than on a train ride? Stop into the Nevada Northern Railway Museum in Ely to learn all about the railroad and the importance it played in the Silver State. Then, make sure to sign up for one of the themed train rides such as the Santa’s Reindeer Flyer, where you will take a train ride to the North Pole to visit Santa Claus. On the way, hot chocolate and cookies are served.
Christmas Towns In Nevada
When Christmas arrives each year, there are Nevada towns that know how to get the grumpiest Scrooge into the holiday spirit. The best Christmas towns in Nevada transform into winter wonderlands with holiday lights, Christmas parades, annual activities, festivals, and, of course, appearances from the big man himself — Santa Claus.
5. Genoa, Nevada
Genoa may be our favorite Christmas town in Nevada. This town is small, with a population of approximately 1,000 residents, but during the holidays it turns into the ultimate winter wonderland. As you walk around town, you’ll notice light displays and Christmas décor. Genoa also hosts all types of holiday events such as Breakfast with Santa, Christmas caroling, and cookies and hot cocoa. Just make sure you don’t miss the annual Genoa Tree Christmas tree lighting ceremony to welcome in the holiday season.
6. Carson City, Nevada
Carson City, Nevada deserves a visit every holiday season. At the beginning of December each year, Carson City hosts the Silver and Snowflake Festivals of Lights celebration. But that's not all, there are also magical Christmas light displays, including the state tree in downtown Carson City. Visit Santa Claus in town, enjoy sleigh rides, and so much more. You’ll easily fill up a day (or even a weekend) with the many activities in Carson City.
7. Henderson, Nevada
There is nothing quite like the holidays in Henderson. Each year, this town comes alive with activities and events that last throughout the entire season. Welcome in the holidays with the annual tree lighting ceremony, drone show, and light parade. Then, continue to celebrate with concerts, holiday parties, Christmas cookie decorating, reindeer games, a Candy Cane Festival, and so much more.
Outdoor Activities
Why spend your winter in Nevada cooped up inside? There are countless activities that will bring a smile to your face during the colder months of the year. In fact, there are activities for everyone from ice skating and skiing to train rides and must-visit festivals. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for free things to do in Nevada in winter or even activities that require a little more savings, there is plenty to choose from.
8. Ice skate at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas
Spend a winter night ice skating at one of the best ice skating rinks in North America. This outdoor ice rink at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas features 4,200 square feet of ice and will make you feel like you are in a winter wonderland, rather than the middle of the desert. This is an activity the entire family will enjoy and once you need a break, sit back and watch others next to the fire pits with hot chocolate in hand or roast s’mores. This may just be one of our favorite family things to do in Nevada in winter.
9. Snow tubing near Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is more than just a place to ski and snowmobile, it is also a wonderful snow tubing destination. Tahoe Snowmobiles features two snow tubing hills near Lake Tahoe — one at the Lake Tahoe Golf Course in California and the other in Stateline. At the Stateline, Nevada location, you’ll park at the Golden Nugget and soar down hills for a heart-racing winter activity. Keep in mind that reservations are required.
10. Skiing and snowboarding at Diamond Peak Ski Resort
One of Lake Tahoe’s greatest hidden gems is Diamond Peak Ski Resort. This is a skier and snowboarder paradise as you can enjoy incredible views of Lake Tahoe, fewer crowds than other resorts, and areas for skill levels, including a dedicated area for child skiers. This is a community-owned resort and you’ll notice the difference from prices to the overall vibe of the mountain.
11. Attend the Fire and Ice Winter Festival
If you attend only one winter festival in Nevada, make sure it is the Fire and Ice Festival in Ely. This three-day festival typically takes place the third weekend in January and features both art and athletic events. During the events, creators design ice and snow sculptures that will leave you amazed. Athletes also let out their competitive side during cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat bike events.
12. Hike at Valley of Fire State Park
Winter is the best time to visit and explore Valley of Fire State Park. While the weather can be chilly, it often doesn’t last for too long. Plus, you can often avoid the crowds when visiting during this time of the year. One of the best things to do at this Nevada state park is to take a scenic drive, stop at the visitor center, check out the petroglyphs, or tackle one of the hiking trails. My favorite trail is the Fire Wave, White Domes, and Seven Wonders Loop, which isn’t too difficult and just over three miles.
Winter Getaways
Are you searching for romantic things to do in Nevada in winter? What about a relaxing getaway to help you de-stress and unwind? You are in luck because Nevada is home to incredible winter getaways from cabins to rent to hot spring adventures. Whether you want to venture on your own or bring your loved ones along, below are three of our favorite winter getaways in Nevada.
13. A family-friendly getaway to Lake Tahoe
If you are searching for romantic places to visit in Nevada in winter, this charming cabin in Incline Village is it. You can come with your significant other or bring the entire family along as it comfortably sleeps up to six guests. There are plenty of amenities from a kitchen to a fireplace where you can easily curl up and enjoy a good book. Soak in the hot tub and unwind from all of your adventures. The cabin is also near many shops, restaurants, and popular attractions.
14. Relax at Steamboat Hot Springs
When you need to destress and let go of some of life’s stresses, plan a visit to Steamboat Hot Springs in Reno. This natural spring features geothermal mineral water to help you relax, rejuvenate, and unwind. Plus, Steamboat Hot Springs features all types of wellness services from massages to chakra alignment. And after a day spent relaxing, you can book a stay at a cozy vacation rental in Reno for even more time away from the daily grind.
15. Book a stay at the Mount Charleston Cabins
Enjoy a winter getaway with a stay at Mount Charleston Cabins. While, unfortunately, the beautiful lodge burned down in 2021, the cabins in the area are still there and are the perfect place to relax and enjoy a break from the stresses of life. And, not only will you enjoy the coziest of accommodations, but the views surrounding the cabins are breathtaking. This is one winter activity that you’ll never want to end.
When winter arrives, it’s time to fill your calendar with lots of Nevada winter activities. We realize that there are hundreds of other fun things to do in Nevada in winter and countless day trips you can plan, so make sure to check out our collection of Nevada winter articles for even more ideas. And, before you head outdoors, take a look at our ultimate winter packing list. Whether you are venturing into the desert or a snowy mountain, make sure you are prepared with the right gear!
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