If you’d like to explore more of Nevada, then you’ve come to the right place! Although there is a LOT more to the Silver State than the destinations on this list, we think you’ll find that this is a fantastic place to start. Below is a wide variety of unforgettable day trips to take in Nevada – one for each month of the year. Pick and choose as you please, but definitely be sure to visit some of these amazing spots – easily some of the best day trips in Nevada you can take – throughout the year!
1. January: Valley of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park, Moapa Valley, NV 89040, USA
Start the year off with a bang by visiting one of Nevada's most picturesque destinations. Valley of Fire State Park is a popular place to visit and for good reason! The park's fiery red sandstone formations look like they could've been taken from an alien planet. Photos of this park are always amazing, but nothing beats seeing it firsthand. If you are interested in hiking, you can learn about the trails here on AllTrails.com.
Hiding out in the northwest corner of the state is a remote desert landscape that reeks of adventure. The Black Rock Desert famously hosts the annual Burning Man Festival, but it's a great place to visit no matter what time of year it is. From a strange man-made geyser to a steaming hot spring, you'll love spending the day exploring this impressive landscape.
After just one day in Eureka, you'll quickly understand why it's called "The Friendliest Town on the Loneliest Road in America." From its quiet small-town atmosphere to its rich history, you'll love getting to know Eureka and all of its quirks. In fact, one day might not be enough time to enjoy all that it has to offer!
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4. April: Lake Mead
Lake Mead National Recreation Area, 10 Lakeshore Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005, USA
Oh, how we love Lake Mead. Hiding out in Southern Nevada, there's always an adventure to be had at Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Whether you opt to explore the famous railroad tunnels, cruise across the lake's clear waters, or simply enjoy a tasty meal at a waterfront restaurant, time at Lake Mead is always time well spent.
5. May: Great Basin National Park
National Forest Development Road 448, NF-448, Nevada 89311, USA
Did you know that Great Basin is one of the country's least visited national parks? That's just crazy! Great Basin National Park is full of gems, from the otherworldly Lehman Caves to Bristlecone Pines a.k.a. the oldest trees in the world. Spend a beautiful May day getting to know this beautiful park and the treasures it's hiding. By the way, Great Basin National Park has some fantastic hiking trails to enjoy!
There's no better way to spend a summer day than getting to know one of Nevada's small towns. Known as "The Gateway to Death Valley," Beatty has something for everyone. Historic structures, great dining options, weird desert art, and even an old ghost town all wait for you in this unassuming little town.
Summers in Nevada can get hot, hot, hot, and an escape to the mountains is just what you need to cool down. Lake Tahoe's cerulean waters offer the perfect escape. It is easily the most beautiful lake in Nevada. The lake's waters are famously chilly - perfect for taking a dip, paddleboarding, kayaking, and so much more! Turn it into a weekend escapade by staying at one of the lake's surrounding lodges or campgrounds.
Take some time to delve into Nevada's history with a visit to the California Trail Interpretive Center. Located in Elko, the center is home to life-size exhibits, summer programs, and some incredible hiking trails. It's a great place to visit for families and a memorable way to spend an August day!
Sit back, relax, and sip on wine at the local winery that's hiding out in Pahrump. Sanders Winery is surrounded by gorgeous vineyards and welcomes visitors for daily tastings and vineyard tours. There's simply no better place to be if you love wine!
Referred to as "The Town That Refused To Die", visiting Ione is like stepping back in time to the 1800s. This little town burst to life in 1863, but today it's home to just a few dozen individuals. Spend the day exploring some of the ghost town's original structures that are surprisingly still standing to this day.
Have you been to Nevada's oldest town? If not, consider it a must this year! Genoa may be small, but it boasts plenty to see and do. Hop up on a stool and have a drink at Nevada's oldest thirst parlor, walk along the charming main street, and explore Mormon Station State Historic Park which can be found smack dab in the middle of town.
Enjoy a rare glimpse at early pioneer life with a visit to Buckland's Station, located within Fort Churchill State Historic Park. Once a prominent rest stop for stagecoach travelers, the station serves as a reminder of the state's early days. The surrounding area is also worth exploring and is home to hiking, camping, fishing, and more.
If you were to do a search for “best day trip near me,” one of these will most certainly pop up at the top of the list!
So, what do you think? Would you agree that these are among the best day trips in Nevada? Are you ready to make this year one to remember? Share the places you plan on visiting (and when) with us in the comments; we love hearing about your adventures.
Looking for another “one for each month of the year” themed adventure? Then, check out these 12 charming Nevada small towns!
If you’d like to embark upon some hikes in Nevada, you can find some great trails by going to the AllTrails website.
If you’re still in the mood for more Nevada adventures, take a look at this video about Lake Mead:
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Lysa Allman-Baldwin|July 02, 2023
What are some unique places to go in Nevada?
Fly Geyser in Gerlach is a strange but interesting geothermal feature drawing folks from all over the country.
The Pinball Hall of Fame in Paradise features 24,000 square feet of pinball machines from the 1950s to the 1990s.
The Neon Museum/Boneyard in Las Vegas is where the old marquis from long-ago Las Vegas Strip establishments are retired. Tours are given at night when they are lit up again.
