Elko, Nevada, is a high-desert oasis in the heart of Ruby Valley, making it a place rich in history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. But it is also a center for the arts, and the Elko Convention Visitors Authority hosts poetry festivals, musical concerts, and ballet performances. Unsure what to do? Here are some good ways to start your vacation in Elko:
Finding a Place To Stay
Several types of lodging are available in Elko, including casino hotels, traditional hotels, and motels, as well as RV parks and campgrounds for the outdoor enthusiast. Most accommodation options are close to and in town, keeping you within a short drive of our top attractions. Three of Elko’s five casino hotels are pet-friendly, including the Gold Country Inn & Casino, Gold Dust West Casino, and the Hampton Inn by Hilton. Twelve other hotels and motels offer proximity to popular destinations, free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, and shuttle services.
Campgrounds and RV parks provide easy access to the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and the Ruby Mountains. Most campgrounds are managed federally or by Nevada State Parks and require a reservation in advance. Some popular sites include Thomas Canyon, Terraces Campground & Picnic Area, Angel Lake, South Ruby, and Wild Horse State Recreation Area. Many RV parks are full-service and are located either near town or closer to the national forest. The Gold Country Inn & Casino also has a 26-site RV park.
What To Do in Elko
Local Attractions
Though Elko offers gaming and casino entertainment, we also have family-friendly destinations like arcades, bowling alleys, and museums. The Western Folklife Center aims to preserve the rich culture of the American West. This museum provides a platform to share the area’s historic culture and exchange ideas between rural and urban communities. The Northeastern Nevada Museum collects and preserves local historical records, including photos, newspapers, and maps. It also features artifacts from early settlers to tell the story of Elko’s history as a railroad and mining town.
Outdoor Activities
Northeastern Nevada is a winter sports paradise. Visitors can rent snowmobiles, cross-country skis, or snowshoes to explore the Ruby Mountains. Or, visit Snobowl Ski and Bike Park for a day of snowboarding on the slopes. For those looking for a high-adrenaline thrill, schedule a heli-skiing experience through 90 miles of varied mountain terrain.
In the warmer months, outdoor enthusiasts can fish, hike, and bike in the national forest. They can also go birdwatching at the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge or rock-hounding at Black Shale Pit. For a unique look at the area’s landscape, schedule an off-road tour.
Cultural Experiences
Basque and Native American Cultures are central to our area’s history. Originating in France and Spain, the Basque people traveled to Nevada hoping for gold but settled as herdsmen. The National Basque Festival is celebrated every July and includes strength competitions, food, and dancing. This region was home to the Western Shoshone people, and the Te Moak Tribe now holds an annual pow-wow open to visitors.
Events
The Elko Convention & Visitors Authority arranges events, including the Elko Pop Con and Festival of Trees, with many more each year. We have an annual mining expo, the Silver State Stampede Rodeo, golf tournaments, and much more. Check our calendar to see what’s on during your visit!
We’re HeWe’re Help You Enjoy Your Vacation
The Elko Convention & Visitors Authority offers a downloadable guide with detailed information on local attractions and events to make planning your visit easy. We keep updated schedules of events, and you can book tickets on our website. If you’re ready for modern fun with an old-west vibe, plan a getaway in Elko.
