10 Historic Towns in Nevada Worth Visiting

Bet you didn’t know Nevada’s history is just as rich as its silver! Let’s explore these 10 timeless towns together.

Dec 15, 2024By Gabriel Kirellos, Published Travel writer & editor

historic towns nevada visit

 

Nevada is not all about Las Vegas and Reno; the Silver State, as it’s fondly nicknamed, is steeped in a fascinating history that goes far beyond its bustling cities. Known for its pivotal role during the mining boom of the 19th century, Nevada was shaped by the discovery of rich silver and gold deposits, which led to the rapid growth of towns across its rugged desert landscapes. These historic towns were once thriving hubs of commerce, culture, and innovation, and today, they preserve the legacy of Nevada’s pioneering past. Here are ten historic towns in Nevada that are worth a visit.

 

1. Virginia City

fourth ward school virginia city nevada
Fourth Ward School, Virginia City, Nevada. Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Virginia City, founded in 1859, is a historic gem that thrived during the Comstock Lode silver rush. Once home to 25,000 people, its wealth helped fund Nevada’s statehood and supported the Union, led by President Abraham Lincoln, in its fight to preserve the United States during the Civil War. Today, it serves as a living museum, preserving its rich and vibrant history.

 

When visiting, you can stroll along wooden boardwalks, explore the Comstock Historic District, and tour iconic landmarks like the Fourth Ward School Museum and Piper’s Opera House. History enthusiasts can visit the Mark Twain Museum, while thrill-seekers might enjoy ghost tours at the Washoe Club. The Virginia & Truckee Railroad and Chollar Mine tours provide an immersive mining experience.

 

2. Genoa

genoa courthouse museum genoa nevada
Genoa Courthouse Museum in Genoa, Nevada. Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

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Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Genoa holds the honor of being the state’s first settlement, founded in 1851. A quiet town rich in pioneer spirit, it served as a vital trading post for westward travelers, pioneers and settlers moving west during the nation’s westward expansion. Its charm lies in its simplicity, where history whispers through every street.

 

You can explore Mormon Station State Historic Park, where the first trading post was established, or admire the Genoa Courthouse Museum, showcasing artifacts from Nevada’s early days. The Genoa Bar, the state’s oldest saloon, offers a rustic glimpse of the past. Each October, the town comes alive with its famous Candy Dance Arts & Crafts Faire, a tradition since 1919.

 

3. Goldfield

goldfield hotel goldfield nevada
View to the Goldfield Hotel in the center of Goldfield, Nevada. Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Goldfield emerged from the arid desert in 1902, transforming into a thriving boomtown seemingly overnight. The discovery of gold brought fortune seekers in droves, making Goldfield the largest city in Nevada at its peak. The town’s streets, once bustling with over 20,000 residents, now carry echoes of its glittering past.

 

Today, Goldfield is a captivating blend of history and intrigue. Iconic landmarks like the Goldfield Hotel said to be one of the most haunted buildings in the West, and the towering Goldfield Consolidated Mines Company buildings tell stories of prosperity and ambition. Wandering its streets, you’ll find artistic installations, remnants of saloons, and mining ruins.

 

4. Austin

austin town nevada
Small town of Austin, Nevada. Source: Flickr

 

Founded in 1862, this historic town is a treasure trove of history tucked into the rugged Toiyabe Range. It sprang to life after silver was discovered on Pony Canyon, sparking a rush that turned this isolated mountain region into a thriving mining hub. At its height, Austin had over 10,000 residents, complete with grand churches, saloons, and schools. While the silver faded, the town’s rich heritage endures.

Austin is a living relic of the Old West. The Stokes Castle, a three-story stone tower built in 1897, stands as a testament to the town’s mining wealth. Also, make sure to check out the historic Austin Courthouse, built in 1871, or marvel at the preserved architecture of St. Augustine’s Church, the oldest Catholic church in Nevada.

 

5. Pioche

old red cabin pioche nevada
Old Red Cabin, Pioche, Nevada. Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

This town was founded in 1864 and is famous for being one of the Wild West’s most lawless settlements. Its silver boom brought fortune seekers, but the town’s remote location and lack of law enforcement led to an era of infamous violence. In its early years, more men were said to have died in gunfights than in mining accidents.

 

Despite its turbulent past, Pioche remains a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. The iconic Million Dollar Courthouse, built in 1872, stands as a monument to the town’s prosperity, while the nearby Pioche Cemetery offers a haunting glimpse into its rough-and-tumble history. You can also tour the ruins of the aerial tramway system, once used to transport ore across the rugged hills.

 

6. Eureka

eureka town nevada
Small town of Eureka, Nevada. Source: Flickr

 

Eureka earned its name as miners exclaimed, “Eureka!” upon discovering rich silver and lead deposits in the region. Nicknamed the “Pittsburgh of the West,” Eureka quickly grew into a thriving mining and smelting hub, boasting over 100 active mines during its peak. With its wealth came culture and refinement, leaving behind a legacy of historic architecture and community spirit.

 

The town was founded in 1864, and today, it offers a remarkable window into Nevada’s mining history. The Eureka Opera House, built in 1880, remains a beautifully restored venue for performances and events. You can also explore the Eureka Sentinel Museum, located in the original 19th-century newspaper office, filled with artifacts and mining relics. The historic Jackson House Hotel and preserved buildings along Main Street provide a vivid glimpse into the town’s prosperous past.

 

7. Belmont

belmont courthouse state historic park belmont
Belmont Courthouse at the Belmont Courthouse State Historic Park in Belmont, Nevada. Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Founded in 1865, this mesmerizing ghost town once symbolized the height of Nevada’s silver boom. Back at the time, it was a bustling community built on silver and quartz deposits. After that, Belmont quickly became the Nye County seat, with over 2,000 residents, saloons, and businesses flourishing in its heyday. However, as the mines dwindled, so did the town, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful reminder of Nevada’s past.

 

When you visit Belmont, you’ll be able to see remnants of its golden age. The Belmont Courthouse, built in 1876, still stands as a proud relic of its prosperous days, offering a peek into Nevada’s territorial justice system. Scattered ruins of homes, shops, and mining facilities dot the area, inviting exploration and reflection.

 

8. Tonopah

tonopah nevada
US 6 & US 95 passing through the center of Tonopah, Nevada. Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

This beautiful historic town in Nevada rose to prominence after prospector Jim Butler stumbled upon one of the richest silver strikes in the West. Known as the “Queen of the Silver Camps,” Tonopah quickly became a bustling mining town that helped shape Nevada’s economic and cultural landscape. At its peak, the town’s mines produced millions of dollars in silver and gold, making it a critical hub during the early 20th century.

 

The town was founded in 1900. Today, you can visit Tonopah and witness the Tonopah Historic Mining Park, set on the site of original mines, where you’ll be able to walk through restored headframes, see original equipment, and even explore underground tunnels. The Mizpah Hotel, a beautifully restored 1907 landmark, invites guests to experience luxury steeped in history, with whispers of ghostly tales adding intrigue. Meanwhile, the famous Clown Motel, surrounded by a pioneer cemetery, combines quirky charm with the town’s eerie past.

 

Other must-see attractions include the Central Nevada Museum, which houses artifacts, photos, and stories from Tonopah’s mining heyday, and the remnants of the Belmont Mine, showcasing the town’s industrial ingenuity. Visitors can also marvel at Tonopah’s dark skies, celebrated as some of the best for stargazing in the United States.

 

9. Caliente

caliente train station nevada
Caliente, NV train station. Source: Flickr

 

Founded in 1901, Caliente owes its origins to the arrival of the Union Pacific Railroad. Nestled in the lush Meadow Valley, the town quickly became a vital railroad hub, connecting Nevada to neighboring states and fueling the growth of its mining and ranching industries. Named for the nearby hot springs, “caliente” meaning “hot” in Spanish, this small town thrived as a transportation and hospitality center.

 

The Caliente Railroad Depot, built in 1923, is a stunning Spanish Colonial-style building that now serves as the town’s visitor center and museum. Nearby, visitors can explore the remnants of the old roundhouse and rail yards that were once the lifeblood of the community.

 

Caliente is also a gateway to the natural wonders of Lincoln County. Just minutes away, Kershaw-Ryan State Park offers lush gardens, hiking trails, and picturesque picnic spots amid dramatic desert scenery. For those interested in Nevada’s mining heritage, the ghost towns of Delamar and Pioche are a short drive away, each with their own stories of boom and bust.

 

10. Boulder City

boulder city view lake mead nevada
Boulder City, View of Lake Mead, Nevada. Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

This historic town that was founded in 1931 was born out of one of the greatest engineering marvels of the 20th century: the construction of the Hoover Dam. Built to house the workers and their families, Boulder City was meticulously planned as a model community, with tree-lined streets and strict laws that prohibited gambling. It became a symbol of resilience during the Great Depression, as the dam project brought jobs and hope to thousands.

 

Today, you can visit the Hoover Dam Museum, located in the Boulder Dam Hotel, which chronicles the dam’s construction and its impact on the region. You can also tour the dam itself, marveling at its scale and the ingenuity of its builders. Boulder City also offers a charming, small-town atmosphere that feels worlds away from the hustle of nearby Las Vegas.

 

On top of that, Boulder City is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Lake Mead National Recreation Area provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking, while the Railroad Museum offers rides on historic trains along scenic routes. The city’s annual events, like the Art in the Park festival, celebrate its vibrant community spirit.

Author Image

By Gabriel KirellosPublished Travel writer & editorGabriel is a travel writer and editor with 5 years of experience, having authored more than 400 articles on historic sites, ancient monuments, and other travel topics across the U.S. and the Americas, Europe, and Asia. His work explores hidden landmarks, from medieval castles in France to ancient temples in Asia, offering readers in-depth cultural insights. With personal travels to over 35 countries, he combines firsthand exploration with historical research. Gabi is a digital nomad traveling across Europe throughout 2024-25 to bring authentic storytelling to his followers.