Las Vegas‚ known for its vibrant nightlife‚ glitzy casinos‚ and endless entertainment‚ is also conveniently located near several ghost towns. If you’re interested in exploring the remnants of the past and immersing yourself in Nevada’s rich history‚ you’ll have no shortage of options to choose from. While there are many ghost towns scattered throughout the state‚ two of the closest ones to Las Vegas are Nelson and Goodsprings.
Nelson Ghost Town
If you’re looking for a true Wild West adventure just a short drive from Las Vegas‚ Nelson Ghost Town is the place to go; Located in the state of Nevada‚ which is home to over 600 ghost towns‚ Nelson is one of the most popular destinations for visitors. What makes it even more appealing is its proximity to the Las Vegas Strip‚ being less than an hour’s drive away.
Nelson Ghost Town provides a fascinating glimpse into the past‚ with its well-preserved buildings‚ old mining equipment‚ and vintage cars. It was once a thriving mining community‚ but today it stands as a testament to the bygone era. You can explore the abandoned buildings‚ stroll through the dusty streets‚ and imagine what life was like during the town’s heyday.
Interestingly‚ Nelson Ghost Town has also become a popular filming location for movies and TV shows‚ adding to its allure. As you wander through the empty streets‚ you might recognize familiar scenes from films such as ″3000 Miles to Graceland″ and ″Transformers″.
Goodsprings
Another nearby ghost town‚ Goodsprings‚ is located just a 40-minute drive from Las Vegas. Named after rancher Joseph Good‚ Goodsprings was once a bustling mining district known for its gold‚ silver‚ and copper production. Today‚ it stands as a reminder of Nevada’s mining history‚ with its abandoned buildings and remnants of the past.
While Goodsprings may be a ghost town‚ it’s far from deserted. The town still has a small population and a few businesses‚ including a popular bar called The Pioneer Saloon. This historic establishment is a favorite among locals and visitors alike‚ offering a taste of the Old West and providing a glimpse into the town’s lively past.
Exploring the Ghost Towns
Visiting these ghost towns near Las Vegas is a unique and intriguing experience. It allows you to step back in time and witness the remnants of the past in a region that has undergone significant changes. Whether you’re interested in history‚ photography‚ or simply seeking a break from the bustling city‚ a trip to these ghost towns is well worth the visit.
Both Nelson and Goodsprings offer guided tours‚ providing valuable insights into the history and stories of these ghost towns. If you prefer to explore on your own‚ you can take your time wandering through the streets‚ taking photographs‚ and discovering the hidden gems that await around every corner.
In Conclusion
Nelson and Goodsprings are the two closest ghost towns to Las Vegas. Both are less than an hour’s drive from the city‚ making them easily accessible for a day trip or a quick escape from the bright lights of the Strip. Whether you’re a history enthusiast‚ a photography buff‚ or simply curious about the past‚ exploring these ghost towns will transport you to a different era and allow you to uncover Nevada’s fascinating history.