Nevada

7 Towns in Nevada With Vibrant Downtown Areas

Published

1 year ago

August 20, 2024

7 Towns in Nevada With Vibrant Downtown Areas

Nevada is home to big-name tourist destinations like Las Vegas and Reno, but there is much more to explore in the Silver State. Many charming towns throughout the state have vibrant and bustling downtown areas worth discovering. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, a foodie, a nature lover, or a thrill-seeker, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Go on a dinner cruise or retreat to a private beach in Laughlin, visit a historic saloon in Virginia City, plan a trip to Hoover Dam in Boulder City, see iconic artwork in Ely, go on a ghost tour in Tonopah, hit the golf course in Mesquite, and indulge in the Basque cuisine in Winnemucca. Uncover the ultimate adventure in some of Nevada’s best downtowns.

Laughlin

Casino in Laughlin, Nevada, on the Colorado River. Image credit Andrew Zarivny via Shutterstock

Located 90 miles south of Las Vegas along the Colorado River, Laughlin is a resort town offering an array of dining, entertainment, outdoor recreation, and gaming options within its vibrant downtown area. Enjoy relaxation at Harrah’s Laughlin’s private beach, go on a riverboat cruise at Aquarius Casino Resort, hit up an upscale lounge at Golden Nugget Laughlin, see live acts at Tropicana Laughlin, or play arcade games and go bowling at Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort. This historic casino began what would become the Laughlin that exists today.

Another way to experience Laughlin’s bustling downtown area is by visiting the Laughlin Riverwalk, a serene spot perfect for a stroll. For other things to do, stop by Don Laughlin’s Classic Car Collection to see rare automobiles on display or enjoy retail therapy at the Laughlin Outlet Center.

Virginia City

Virginia City is an Old West mining town located 20 miles southeast of Reno and is one of Nevada’s most well-known and historic tourist spots. Along C Street in downtown Virginia City are various businesses that make the area a popular place to visit. Many of them have been rebuilt to resemble the spirit of the city’s past. Order authentic Tex-Mex dishes at Café Del Rio, sirloin burgers at Palace Restaurant and Saloon, or Chicago-style pizza at Red Dog Saloon.

The Cider House at Canvas Cafe is another popular place to eat. Stop into Grandma’s Fudge Factory for fudge treats or Barrels O’Candy for flavorful ice cream.

Boulder City

Boulder City, in Clark County, is an incredible place to visit if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas, about 26 miles away. This charming town has plenty to do for outdoor enthusiasts, with landmarks and sights like the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Recreation Area. In the heart of the downtown area is Boulder Dam Hotel, a historic colonial-style hotel with an on-site restaurant, a speakeasy lounge, and a museum that gives an up close and personal look at how Boulder City came to be.

Ely

Route 50 and Main St. in Ely, Nevada. Image credit Sandra Foyt via Shutterstock

Ely, a small mountain town within White Pine County, is known for its rich history, art scene, and outdoor adventures. The town’s historic downtown area is home to Hotel Nevada and Gambling Hall, a significant part of Ely’s past. It opened in 1929 and quickly became the town’s most popular dining and lodging destination.

An iconic hotel staple is the entrance’s Walk of Fame, which displays the many celebrities who have graced its halls over the years. Downtown Ely also features a museum, a general store, and beautiful murals and sculptures that showcase its history and vibrant culture.

Tonopah

Tonopah, located halfway between Las Vegas and Reno, is nestled within Nye County and provides plenty of wonder and excitement in its vibrant downtown district. The Mizpah Hotel, a historic hub for the booming mining town in the early 1900s, is at the center. Today, it is still thriving. Indulge in various dining experiences, from a casual breakfast at Pittman Café to an elegant dinner at The Jack Dempsey Room. You can also enjoy bottomless mimosas at Longshot Bar on the weekends. Try your luck with many gaming options, go on a ghost tour, or sip a glass of premium wine all within the hotel.

Another lodging option in downtown Tonopah is the quirky clown-themed motel with thousands of clowns adorning its walls.

Mesquite

Mesquite, a small town in the heart of Virgin River Valley, about 80 miles from Las Vegas, is a place of historical significance and charm. While it is true that the town is known for its championship golf courses and world-class resorts like Eureka Casino Resort and Casablanca Resort, it offers many experiences that are waiting to be explored. The downtown district is home to the Golden West Restaurant & Casino, an excellent place to grab a drink and watch sports.

There is also the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum, where you can learn about the town’s fascinating history and culture, and the Mesquite Fine Arts Center & Gallery, which has rotating exhibitions, classes, and a collection of original paintings and sculptures on display.

Winnemucca

Winnemucca is a friendly small town about 165 miles from Reno on the Humboldt River in the southeast corner of Humboldt County. In the heart of the downtown area are many restaurants, such as The Martin Hotel, offering traditional Basque cuisine, classic cocktails, and live entertainment. The Griddle is an excellent place for a tasty homestyle breakfast. For authentic Mexican fare, visit Chihuahua’s Cantina & Grill. The Star Broiler inside Winners Inn & Casino is another place to eat. While inside the casino, try your luck at gaming options, from slots to table games, or enjoy live entertainment from local bands, musicians, and comedians.

Discover Nevada Towns With Vibrant Downtown Areas

Nevada is home to many incredible towns and communities. In these towns with vibrant downtown areas, you can plan your getaway and dive into a world of adventure. These downtown districts offer something for every kind of traveler. From Laughlin to Boulder City, these communities are brimming with historical landmarks and sights, museums, signature attractions, delicious food, lively bars, gaming options, and recreational fun.

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Nevada

28-year-old inmate at Southern Nevada prison dies

Published

10 hours ago

December 24, 2025

Press Room

28-year-old inmate at Southern Nevada prison dies

A man serving time at the Southern Desert Correctional Center for felony reckless driving died last month, the Nevada Department of Corrections said Tuesday.

Shiloh Walker, 28, died at the Indian Springs facility on Nov. 24, a news release said. Cause of death was not listed.

Walker was serving a sentence of up to six years after a plea agreement was reached in 2022 following a DUI crash that happened May 31, 2021 in Las Vegas, according to online court records.

An autopsy was requested following Walker’s death, though results were not available as of Monday evening. Attempts to reach Walker’s family members have been unsuccessful, according to the department.

Contact Bryan Horwath at bhorwath@reviewjournal.com. Follow @BryanHorwath on X.

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Nevada

Is USPS breaking vow not to use Sacramento for Northern Nevada mail?

Published

22 hours ago

December 23, 2025

Press Room

Is USPS breaking vow not to use Sacramento for Northern Nevada mail?

After widespread condemnation last year, the U.S. Postal Service backed away from plans to move its Reno mail-processing operations to Sacramento — but did it stay true to what it told the public?

The question arose recently after letters sent from one Carson City address to another in Carson City were both postmarked in Sacramento.

Northern Nevadans did not want first class mail sent from one Northern Nevada address to another going first to California. They sent a unified message to the USPS all the way up to the postmaster general.

Critics of the USPS plan were especially worried about delays from mail having to go back and forth over the Sierra during winter.

The Washoe County District Attorney’s office filed a lawsuit over the plan, the Washoe County Commission voted to oppose the plan, public comment was universally opposed, and Democratic and Republican elected officials from across the state joined to stop it.

Could it possibly have happened anyway? The answer is yes, temporarily, for a brief time.

How letters sent in Carson City came to be processed at Sacramento USPS facility

A reader told the Reno Gazette Journal they’d twice had letters internal to Carson City postmarked in Sacramento, so we asked USPS if the policy had changed.

“Mail processing for First Class mail that originates in Northern Nevada and is destined to Northern Nevada has not changed,” USPS spokesperson Sherry Patterson responded by email.

“However,” she added, “without the specific mail piece and class of mail, we cannot determined if there is an issue.”

The reader then supplied a photo of the two envelopes postmarked Nov. 5 in Sacramento, and this was shared with USPS.

“Our processing machine in Reno was temporarily out of service while we awaited a replacement part,” Patterson said after viewing the postmarks to nail down the specific date the letters went through Sacramento.

“To ensure that mail was not delayed during this time, we implemented a contingency plan that involved routing certain mail to our Sacramento facility for cancellation and processing. This measure allows us to maintain service continuity and minimize disruptions for our customers. We understand that this may cause some confusion, and we are committed to ensuring that all mail is processed efficiently and accurately.”

Bottom line: Regarding first class mail that’s being sent to and from Northern Nevada addresses, it’s still USPS policy to process that in Reno at its Vassar Street facility, she said.

The path these particular letters took, Patterson added, “is indeed an unusual occurrence.”

Mark Robison is the state politics reporter for the Reno Gazette Journal, with occasional forays into other topics. Email comments to mrobison@rgj.com or comment on Mark’s Greater Reno Facebook page.

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Nevada

Holiday loneliness affects thousands in Nevada as many face Christmas away from loved ones

Published

1 day ago

December 23, 2025

Press Room

Holiday loneliness affects thousands in Nevada as many face Christmas away from loved ones

LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Loneliness has become a significant health issue for people everywhere, and the holiday season sometimes intensifies those feelings. For many, December looks like family gatherings, matching pajamas and bustling homes. But this time of year can also be very difficult for those who may be battling distance, work commitments or recent life changes.

Marc Valli, an Army veteran who served in Vietnam, has lived in Las Vegas since 1988. He moved to Nevada to join a ministry and be closer to his wife’s parents.

WATCH| Shellye Leggett talks to an army vet who’s recently moved into Escalante at the Lakes assisted living facility

Holiday loneliness affects thousands in Nevada as many face Christmas away from loved ones

“I wanted to come and join ministry here. Also my wife’s parents lived here,” Valli said.

Valli’s wife Barbara, known to friends and family as Bobby, passed away in 2018 after 54 years of marriage.

“I’m still counting the years. We’ve been married 54 years,” he said.

His children moved him into Escalante at the Lakes assisted living facility in June, making this his first holiday season in his new home.

“People are very nice, they treat you good,” Valli said.

Come Christmas Day, the facility’s common room will be filled with residents ready for holiday activities, but Valli hopes to get outside these walls to see his family that still lives nearby.

“I have grandkids. One goes to Cal Poly. He’s here right now, but he’s on vacation, and then I have two little granddaughters, one’s 11, one’s 7,” Valli said. “I don’t know if they’re gonna come for Christmas or I’m going there.”

Gus Farias, the executive director of Escalante at the Lakes Assisted Living, says many of his residents don’t have family nearby. Keeping their spirits high throughout the holidays is an important task.

“We can tell when our residents are feeling down. There’s a lot of pressure during the holidays because some of our residents don’t have families that are nearby, but they have us,” Farias said.

The organisation A Mission for Michael released a study showing just how many people are expected to spend the holidays alone this year. Nevada ranked 43rd on the list of loneliest states, with more than 212,000 people expected to spend Christmas by themselves.

“It’s pretty surprising that there’s so many Nevadans that are gonna spend the holidays by themselves,” Farias said.

He says combating loneliness will take a community effort.

“When you’re at the grocery store or whatever, reach, look back and ask them, you know, wish them a merry Christmas or happy holidays and ask them how they passed their holidays in the past because we, we as a younger generation than our seniors, we can learn a lot from that,” Farias said.

It’s an effort that Valli says makes the holidays a little brighter.

“Oh, it makes a big difference,” he said.

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