From iconic desert and mountain landscapes to the neon lights of Las Vegas, Nevada is home to big cities, untouched nature, and everything in between. Whether you’re considering moving to Nevada or have lived in the state for years, you may wonder – what is Nevada known for?
With entertainment venues, national parks, and hidden gems, Nevada is famous for many things. If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Las Vegas or buy a home in Reno, read on to find out what makes Nevada a great place to live.
Thriving economy and job opportunities
With popular cities like Las Vegas and Reno, it’s no surprise that Nevada’s primary job industries include tourism, gaming, and entertainment. Major corporations include MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment. Additionally, the state’s mining industry, particularly for gold and silver, remains significant, with companies like Barrick Gold Corporation still in operation.
Nevada’s top five employers
- MGM Resorts International
- Caesars Entertainment
- Las Vegas Sands Corporation
- Wynn Resorts
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV)
Unique tourist attractions
Nevada is home to countless attractions – from stunning desert landscapes to big cities with nightlife options.
- Las Vegas Strip: This iconic street has world-renowned hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues. You’ll find vibrant clubs and bars, dazzling shows, and endless dining options.
- Hoover Dam: A marvel of modern engineering, Hoover Dam is located along the Nevada-Arizona border. It has breathtaking views of the Colorado River and Lake Mead.
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: The stunning crimson-hued rock formations, scenic trails, and diverse desert flora and fauna are perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and photography.
- Great Basin National Park: Located in eastern Nevada, this remote wilderness area has pristine alpine lakes, ancient bristlecone pine forests, and Wheeler Peak, the state’s second-highest mountain.
- Lake Tahoe: Situated on the Nevada-California border, Lake Tahoe is known for its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by majestic mountains and pristine forests. There are plenty of year-round activities, including skiing, hiking, boating, and relaxing on scenic beaches.
Innovative regional cuisine
Nevada’s food scene includes a wide array of iconic foods and cuisines. For example, Nevada is known for hearty Basque cuisine, celebrated for its flavorful meats and seafood, and authentic Southwestern fare, with dishes like green chile stew and fry bread tacos. Additionally, the state’s love of steakhouses showcases prime cuts of beef, while its bustling food truck culture offers a blend of cuisines, from gourmet burgers to Korean BBQ tacos.
Popular restaurants in Nevada
- Joël Robuchon in Las Vegas
- SW Steakhouse in Las Vegas
- Lotus of Siam in Las Vegas
- The Basque Market in Reno
- Mabel’s BBQ in Las Vegas
World-class entertainment and bustling nightlife
Nevada showcases its rich history in museums, entertainment, and nightlife. The state has world-renowned museums like the Nevada Museum of Art in Reno and the Neon Museum in Las Vegas, which showcase its eclectic heritage and innovative spirit. Cities like Las Vegas, with its iconic Strip, and Reno, dubbed the “Biggest Little City in the World,” are hubs of creativity and expression, hosting a range of live performances and art exhibitions.
Nevada has a dynamic music scene with festivals such as the Electric Daisy Carnival in Las Vegas and the Reno Jazz Festival, drawing crowds from far and wide. The state’s film industry is centered in Las Vegas and Reno, with independent filmmakers and major productions using the unique landscapes as cinematic backdrops.
Five iconic places to catch a show in Nevada:
Fun fact: Las Vegas’ famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign was designed by Betty Willis. Built in 1959, this sign is a long-standing symbol of the city’s glamor and hospitality.
Varied landscapes and national parks
Nevada’s natural land formations have everything from the rugged peaks of the Sierra Nevada range to the vast expanses of the Great Basin Desert. The state is home to iconic features such as the Valley of Fire State Park, where crimson sandstone formations contrast against the blue sky, and the Black Rock Desert, famous for its sprawling playa and the annual Burning Man festival. You can also find the gorgeous Lake Tahoe, one of the best lakes in Nevada to live on. Additionally, Nevada has geological wonders like the unique limestone formations of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which provide a striking backdrop for outdoor adventures.
National Parks in Nevada
- Great Basin National Park near Baker
- Lake Mead National Recreation Area near Henderson
- Death Valley National Park
Professional sports teams
Nevadans have a passion for professional sports teams, home to many arenas and teams.
- Las Vegas Raiders (NFL): Formerly based in Oakland, the Raiders relocated to Las Vegas in 2020, bringing NFL football to the desert.
- Vegas Golden Knights (NHL): The Golden Knights quickly captured the hearts of Las Vegas residents and hockey fans worldwide with their exciting play and playoff runs.
- Las Vegas Aces (WNBA): The Aces represent Las Vegas in the Women’s National Basketball Association, showcasing top-tier talent.
- Las Vegas Lights FC (USL Championship): As part of the United Soccer League Championship, the Lights FC bring professional soccer action to Las Vegas.
Popular Nevada phrases
- “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” embodies the city’s reputation for nightlife, indulgence, and luxury.
- “Sin City” or “The Entertainment Capital of the World,” nicknames referring to Las Vegas’ entertainment scene.
- “The Biggest Little City in the World,” a nickname showcasing Reno’s charm and resilience.
- “The Strip,” is slang for the iconic Las Vegas Boulevard.
- “High Roller” and “Lady Luck,” reflect the state’s deep-rooted association with gambling and luck.
More things Nevada is known for
- Area 51: Shrouded in secrecy and conspiracy theories, Area 51 is a remote military installation in Nevada’s desert. It’s purportedly involved in experimental aircraft testing and extraterrestrial research, capturing the imaginations of UFO enthusiasts worldwide.
- Silver State: Nevada earned its nickname as the “Silver State,” due to its rich history of silver mining. During the 19th century, the industry played a crucial role in the state’s development and economic prosperity.
- Burning Man: Held annually in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, Burning Man is a unique event that celebrates art, self-expression, and community. It attracts tens of thousands of participants who create a temporary city in the desert.
- Wild West History: Nevada’s history is intertwined with the Wild West, featuring legendary figures like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. The state has historic mining towns such as Virginia City, where you can step back in time and experience the state’s past.
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