If you’re looking to dive into the rich history of the Wild West while visiting Las Vegas‚ a trip to one of the nearby ghost towns is a must. Nevada is home to over 600 abandoned towns‚ with many of them located within a short drive from the Strip. From well-preserved historic landmarks to hidden gems waiting to be explored‚ here are some of the best ghost towns near Las Vegas⁚
Nelson Ghost Town
Located less than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas‚ Nelson Ghost Town is one of the most popular destinations for those seeking a true wild west adventure. Situated in the Mojave Desert‚ this historic landmark offers a glimpse into the past with its abandoned buildings and vehicles. Nelson Ghost Town is a favorite spot for photographers and filmmakers due to its authentic Wild West atmosphere.
Rhyolite
Rhyolite is a well-preserved ghost town that sits just off the highway to Death Valley National Park. This town is packed with historic ruins and is one of the most photographed ghost towns in the West. A visit to Rhyolite is a must for anyone interested in the history of the American West. It is particularly popular among those on the Free-Range Art Highway.
Gold Point
Gold Point is another fascinating ghost town near Las Vegas. Located in Nevada‚ USA‚ this town features abandoned houses‚ cars‚ and a complete lack of people. It offers a unique glimpse into the past and is a great place to explore and take eerie photographs. Gold Point is known for its well-preserved structures and has a truly haunting atmosphere.
Goodsprings
Only a 40-minute drive southwest of Las Vegas is the ghost town of Goodsprings. This former mining town is rich in history and offers visitors the chance to take a self-guided walking tour to explore its well-preserved buildings; A highlight of the visit is the Sagebrush Saloon‚ one of the best-preserved saloons in Nevada. Goodsprings is a great destination for history buffs and those looking to experience the Old West.
Ballarat
If you’re an adventure and camping enthusiast‚ Ballarat is an excellent ghost town to visit near Las Vegas. Located in the Mojave Desert‚ Ballarat offers a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the area. To reach Ballarat‚ you can take the I-15 S from Las Vegas and follow the signs for Los Angeles. Ballarat is a great place to immerse yourself in the desert landscape and soak up the history of the Wild West.
Caliente
Located around 25 miles south of the infamous Outlaw town of Pioche‚ Caliente is a city with a rich history. This ghost town is a great destination for those interested in exploring former mining boomtowns. Caliente offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved buildings and picturesque surroundings. It’s a great place to learn about the mining history of Nevada and appreciate the beauty of its landscapes.
These are just a few of the many ghost towns near Las Vegas waiting to be discovered. From Nelson Ghost Town’s authentic Wild West atmosphere to Rhyolite’s well-preserved ruins‚ these destinations offer a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the history of the American West. So‚ take a break from the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas and embark on a day trip to one of these ghost towns for an unforgettable experience.