Nevada is an excellent place for a vacation. It has some of the best scenery in the world, with more than 300 days of sunshine each year. Nevada's climate is also perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping. Want to take an early-morning balloon ride over the Mojave? That is also possible! Finding great places to visit when one is watching their spending can be difficult. Where can a low-budget traveler go in Nevada? Here are a few of the most interesting Nevada vacation spots that won't break the bank.

The accommodations suggested in this article are based on research into affordable lodging options in Nevada. All accommodations were chosen because they had at least a 7.5 overall rating on Kayak and had reasonable rates when compared to other places with comparable ratings. We also made certain to include locations with the most comprehensive amenities for frequent travelers.

UPDATE: 2023/05/31 21:16 EST BY REENA JAIN

More Vacation Spots In Nevada That Won’t Break The Bank

Nevada is incredibly beautiful, with an abundance of cool places to go, beautiful drives, and outdoor activities. Additionally, it guarantees a fun-filled getaway with both relaxation and indulgence for travelers on a budget. This list has been updated to include four more affordable vacation spots in Nevada that won't break the bank, as well as the best-rated accommodations on Kayak.

Ely, Nevada

Known for its long history and beautiful natural landscapes, Ely is one of the best affordable vacation spots in Nevada for those seeking a peaceful getaway from the busy world. The city offers a variety of affordable lodging options, and many of its attractions, including the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park and the Nevada Northern Railway Museum, require no admission fee or only a small one. In addition, Ely offers a variety of adventures in the outdoors that are both affordable and offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Mesquite, Nevada

Mesquite, a desert oasis close to the Arizona border, is renowned for its year-round sunshine, breathtaking natural scenery, and recreational opportunities. With numerous championship golf courses scattered throughout, it is a favored vacation spot for golfers. Water sports on Lake Mead, hiking in the scenic desert surroundings, and exploring the nearby Virgin River Gorge are all affordable options for outdoor enthusiasts. It also has a thriving casino scene, delightful dining options, and lively entertainment, making it one of the most alluring Nevada vacation spots for an unforgettable trip.

Elko, Nevada

Nestled in the heart of cowboy country, Elko is a hidden gem in Nevada, offering a unique combination of Western appeal, a thriving arts scene, outdoor adventures, and picturesque natural landscapes. The nearby Ruby Mountains entice thrill seekers and nature lovers with numerous opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. For those looking for cultural experiences, the Western Folklife Center and the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering are ideal places to be. Visitors can also attend the Elko Mining Expo and the Elko County Fair to discover the region's culture and traditions.

Winnemucca, Nevada

Referred to as the "Crossroads of the West," Winnemucca is one of the best towns to visit in Nevada because of its breathtaking natural surroundings and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. The charming downtown and the Humboldt Museum are testaments to the city's long history, allowing visitors to learn about the city's rich heritage without spending a fortune. Winnemucca also has a variety of low-cost lodging and dining options, so a visitor on a tight budget can enjoy a stay and meals without breaking the bank.

Las Vegas, Nevada

There is precious little that needs to be said about the tour de force that is the city of Las Vegas, NY. Internationally famous, with a reputation for being the global capital of debauchery, the truth is that there are a whole host of attractions to experience beyond the popular casinos. Maybe one would love to experience the Gondola rides or marvel at the Bellagio’s 1,200 dancing fountains. Perhaps one is most into the idea of unique museums. Las Vegas has that in spades. There’s the Atomic Testing Museum and Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum, to name just two. Whatever one's interest, one thing can’t be denied - Las Vegas, NY, has never been called boring.

Related: At 30 Stories High: The Luxor Las Vegas Pyramid Is Just As Large As Some Of The Pyramids Of Egypt

Reno, Nevada

Some people consider Reno to be another version of Las Vegas, but the truth is that it offers so much more that makes it unique and worthy of being on a list like this. Various attractions are on offer, from gaming to outdoor and natural experiences. One can experience the majesty of the nearby Lake Tahoe, for instance. Reno also has a wide variety of cultural and art experiences, including theater, history, and music. The Nevada Museum of Art is a must-see.

Red Rock Canyon, Nevada

Nevada’s Mojave Desert is a massive draw to the state. Red Rock Canyon is the best bet for those seeking to immerse themselves in the awe-inducing Mojave. There's even a scenic drive in Red Rock Canyon, taking travelers through the heart of the desert. With miles and miles of trails that weave themselves throughout this region, they can hike, bike, and connect with nature to their heart’s content.

Carson City, Nevada

Carson City offers a good mix of history, culture, arts, and outdoorsy natural attractions for anyone looking to have a vacation experience outside the stereotypical Nevada experience. In Carson City, one won’t find the flashy neon lights of Vegas, but for the right person, there is something arguably more valuable. The Nevada State Museum and the State Railroad Museum are essential for history buffs. If one is seeking a more active experience, they could always bike along the Blue Line Trail. Perhaps one is into the arts, in which case many galleries and performing centers demand their attention.

Related: An Underrated Gem: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Carson City & Things To Do

Boulder City, Nevada

Mere minutes from the Hoover Dam (a must-see), it’s easy for people to overlook Boulder City. In terms of energy, this is as polar opposite to Las Vegas as one can get, exuding the quaint charm of a small town. This doesn’t mean that one should overlook Boulder by any means. Its location is critical, for one. In addition to being very close to Hoover Dam, it’s also about 20 minutes away from Vegas itself. Aside from the location, Boulder itself is also a joy to explore, with its Main Street being a particular highlight, playing host to several unusual and unique boutiques.

Sparks, Nevada

If water sports are something that excites visitors, the city of Sparks may just be right up their alley. The Sparks Marina will have them kayaking, canoeing, boating, or fishing, and if they're up for it, they can head to Rock Park and experience the thrill of white-river rafting. If history is more their thing, the Sparks Museum and Cultural Center will make for an exciting journey into the past.

Valley Of Fire, Nevada

The Valley of Fire State Park is Nevada’s oldest park, operating since 1935. Hiking through the Valley of Fire is an experience everyone should experience at least once. Located close to Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam, the unusual, striking, and, frankly, incredible sandstone structures that populate this State Park are one of the major draws to the State of Nevada. Don’t miss out on the fantastic hiking trails, where there are petrified forests, Native American petroglyphs, and many more unforgettable sights.

Sand Harbor, Nevada

With a primary emphasis on boating, swimming, jet skis, and various other water-based experiences, Sand Harbor also has a few notable nature trails for those partial to hiking. However, as far as Nevada goes, Sand Harbor is a must-see. Unbelievably picturesque, visitors will bear witness to 55 acres of white, sandy beaches, forested areas, inlets, coves, and more.

Related: Sand Harbor Is Lake Tahoe's Best Swimming Spot, Here's Why

Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Great Basin National Park is a nature buff’s dream, with a wide variety of biodiversity on offer and display. It's even one of the most underrated national parks in the US and a great place to catch the stars on a dark night. Visitors to this park can explore and be led on tours of various caves, complete with preserved and historic rock art. One of the significant and unforgettable highlights of Great Basin is a night spent out under the stars while camping.

Floyd Lamb Park, Nevada

Located a mere 20 miles from the Las Vegas Strip, Floyd Lamb Park offers a unique park with four ponds perfect for gentle, easy fishing and scenic paths that demand exploration. There are many spots for all-day lounging and picnicking too. Not far is the Tule Springs Ranch, where those interested in paleontology can see fossils of animals long gone extinct, like mammoths and bison, alongside others.