LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – Happy National Vacation Day Plan! Travel Nevada has released the second annual list of Nevada’s Seven Strangest Wonders just in time for travelers looking for destinations that might take them beyond their comfort zone in the Silver State.
Post-pandemic travel has been steadily increasing since 2021. According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, Las Vegas welcomed nearly 39 million visitors in 2022. The city’s hotel occupancy averaged 79 percent, 16 percent higher than the overall national hotel occupancy average of 63 percent.
The second edition of the list of the Seven Strangest Wonders of Nevada has been aptly named Uncommon Overnighters by the Travel Nevada team of experts who compiled it. It includes historic, haunted, and luxurious hotels, yurts, and castles from across the state.
Tour Nevada’s Seven Strangest Wonders, Uncommon Overnighters Edition:
Ruby yurts – Visiting the beautiful scenery of Nevada’s Ruby Mountains should be on everyone’s bucket list. Located approximately 10,000 feet on Conrad Creek Ridge, the Ruby High Yurt is in a prime position for “stunning views and easily accessible terrain.” While sleeping at 10,000 feet is an unusual feat, getting to Ruby High is an adventure in itself. You can get there in a variety of ways, from a solo hike to helicopter support.
Mizpah Hotel – Looking for a dose of rich history with a spooky side? The iconic Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah is one of Nevada’s most historic hotels, where you might spot a few friendly spirits who like to call the place home. Built in 1907, the hotel now includes historically preserved standard hotel rooms as well as special themed rooms. Those looking for a particularly spooky visit should book a stay at the Lady in Red Suite, named after a sex worker who was murdered there by a jealous ex-lover.
Ike’s Canyon Ranch – Just south of America’s loneliest road is Ike’s Canyon Ranch. Perched in the foothills of the Alta Toquima Mountains between Austin and Eureka, the off-the-grid ranch is the perfect place to hit the quiet button, participate in writing retreats (offered seasonally) and see what the rural Nevada is all about.
Paradise Ranch Castle – Have you ever dreamed of staying in a castle? Well, if you’re in the Reese River Valley, just 12 miles from Austin, you can! Spread over 160 acres, Paradise Ranch Castle features ornate rooms, an on-site bar, recreation room and breathtaking views of the Toiyabe Mountains and the star-studded night sky. This quaint bed and breakfast offers tranquility to the most regal of travelers.
Stone church hut – At Stone Church Lodge, guests can learn about the rich mining history of Eureka, NV by staying at this original location from the gold and silver mining boom. Originally built as a church in 1881, the lodge features master craftsmanship, original 1880’s stonework and vaulted ceilings. Stone Lodge offers free parking and WiFi and is pet friendly.
Tarantula Ranch Vineyard – The perfect adventure base camp for outdoor recreation in Nevada is just minutes from Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge and Death Velley National Park. With stunning dark sky views, an outdoor kitchen and strong WiFi, Tarantula Ranch is the perfect stop for glampers.
Old Yella Dog Farm – Are you looking for a place where you can relax and leave all your stressors behind? Look no further than the Old Yella Dog Ranch, a fully furnished cabin next to Massacre Rim. The ranch is part of the ghost town of Vya, Nevada and is located on the historic Applegate Lassen Emigrant Trail. While in the area, visitors should definitely visit one of Nevada’s mines and take home an opal alongside your memories.
Looking for other “weird” spots in Nevada to visit this year? For more travel inspiration, visit Travel Nevada’s Weird Nevada page.