MAIN Travel USA Nevada

With much of Nevada a vast desert, it was only the unusually intrepid who explored the territory in the early 1800's.

Things changed when the population grew by the thousands as prospectors streamed into the state following the discovery of the spectacularly rich Comstock Lode silver and gold deposit in 1859.

Today, tourists by the millions visit the state annually in the hope of striking it rich at world-famous Las Vegas and Reno gambling hotels and resorts.

While in Reno, don't miss another top Nevada tourist destination at the National Automobile Museum featuring souped-up classic cars of all descriptions including a 24-karat gold plated DeLorean.

With Nevada being one of the hottest and driest states in the Union, it's really surprise that other major Nevada tourist attractions include Lake Tahoe (sharing a border with northern California) and Lake Mead boasting America's largest reservoir near Las Vegas.

Top Nevada tourist attractions include the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas (left); tours of Lake Mead and the
mighty Hoover Dam (middle) and in northern Nevada the pristine natural beauty of Lake Tahoe (right).

Which finally brings us to another of the state's top "liquid assets" -- the mighty Hoover Dam, a 20th century engineering feat that made Las Vegas possible.

Elsewhere around the state, history buffs will enjoy museums and exhibits that bring the Old West alive on display in Virginia City, as well as a tour of the Kit Carson Trail and the capitol building at Carson City.

2024 Nevada special events and festivals

See spills and chills at the Reno Rodeo in June.

Just up ahead, check out our 2024 Nevada travel calender featuring memorable events and major festivals happening throughout the state with dates, locations and official links for more information.

Happy travels!

May 17 - May 19, 2024 -- Electric Daisy Carnival Las Vegas -- As electricifying as it soundswith three full days of spectacular light shows, a massive music conert lineup, carnival rides and more.

May 24 - May 25, 2023 -- Best Damn Barbecue Challenge Boulder City -- Spend Memorial Day weekend chowing down at this annual BBQ fest in Bicentenial Park featuring more festival food, live music, a classic car show and kids' activities.

June 20 - June 29, 2024 -- Reno Rodeo Reno -- Rip-roarin’, boot-stompin’, jaw-droppin’ action at this annual event also including bull riding, carnival rides and kids' activities.

July 12 - July 14, 2024 -- Silver State Stampede Elko - A bronco-bustin' good time includes the big parade and food and craft vendors.

September 6 - September 8, 2024 -- Great Reno Balloon Race Reno - Thrill to a rainbow of colorful balloons at the world’s largest free hot-air ballooning event with tethered balloon rides, sunset balloon glow events along with food, crafts and souvenirs at Balloon Boulevard.

also see -> Las Vegas for Families

This Christmas in Nevada

More about Nevada travel & tourism around the Web:

Nevada Commission on Tourism - The official site and an eyeful, with facts & information on hotels, guest ranches & RV parks, adventure travel & planning, major attractions, Nevada weddings, chapels & honeymoons, pictures, FAQ, maps.

Nevada Magazine - Digital version of the travel magazine offering feature stories, news & updates, Nevada travel facts & trivia, suggested travel books, magazine subscription information.