City Limits

There’s something about retro, vintage, and chic that’s practically irresistible. Maybe it’s the way they stir up nostalgia—or maybe people just had better taste back then. And sure, while you could don a pant suit and aviators for your retro revelry, why not go all in with an immersive stay at some of Nevada’s coolest overnighters?

The quiet campus of the Stewart Indian School stands as a memorial to a traumatic—and lingering—chapter in American history. But while the school’s early years were marked by cruelty and abuse, it ultimately transformed into a place of pride, community, and healing. Today, the Stewart Indian School Cultural Center & Museum archives the seldom-taught history behind Indian boarding schools. However, the center also lives in the present as a place of gathering that allows visitors to discover northern Nevada’s rich Native culture.

Nevadans take great pride in things that might seem a bit odd to non-dwellers. For example, we celebrate the anniversary of our statehood—Nevada Day—as an official public holiday, complete with an old-fashioned parade in Carson City. We will brag about the unsinkable battleship USS Nevada, the only vessel to get under way during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Mark Twain’s first byline was in a Nevada newspaper, and we have more named mountain ranges than any other state.

Silver, saloons, mining lore, the Comstock, and Mark Twain: It's likely some or all of these words come to mind at the mention of Virginia City. The history of this northern Nevada gem is as wild, deep, and important as they come, and it also makes for a seriously fun destination.

Located halfway between Las Vegas and Reno, Tonopah is a welcome stop for road-weary travelers. But this old mountain town is no mere rest stop. Tonopah is the perfect weekend getaway to wander Sahara-like dunes, dine in luxurious haunted hotels, and take in some of the darkest skies around.

Las Vegas is in the middle of an urban cultural renaissance. A well-timed combination of affordable living, supportive city policies, and grassroots community planning has made the city a stronghold for creative expression. At the heart of this movement sits the Las Vegas Arts District and its 18-plus blocks of colorful shops, novel restaurants, and endless entertainment.  

Self-guided walking tours are a free and fun way to explore a community at your own pace—and a good excuse to get your steps in. It’s as easy as picking up your map and brochure at the locations listed below, so get walking!