Photo credit: www.travelzoo.com
As autumn envelops the landscape, it beckons travelers to indulge in all things eerie and supernatural. The season invites adventures, ranging from the enjoyment of warm spiked cider in a haunted speakeasy to twilight strolls in ancient graveyards, where the spirits of the past may feel tantalizingly close.
In Nevada, aptly nicknamed the Silver State, the experience of spooky traditions takes on a grander scale. The state boasts the renowned Extraterrestrial Highway, an array of haunting desert art, and an impressive count of ghost towns—more than 600 ghost towns line its history.
For those keen to embark on a chilling yet memorable journey, downloading Travel Nevada’s Paranormal Passport is a great first step. Whether you’re collecting points toward various spooky experiences or simply savoring the eerie ambiance, this adventure promises to leave an unforgettable mark on your travel memories, intertwining the specters of history with your modern-day explorations.
Here are seven ghostly destinations not to miss:
Rhyolite
Once a thriving gold mining community, Rhyolite is now a ghost town adorned with the remnants of its storied past. The skeletal structures that remain give it an unmistakable haunted charm. This historic site, now federally protected, welcomes visitors who can marvel at attractions like the Tom Kelly Bottle House, constructed from thousands of bottles, and the Goldwell Open Air Museum, which features otherworldly art installations.
A visit here can be combined with a trip to Death Valley, making it an easy day trip from Las Vegas, and offers 15 passport points for those keeping track.
The Extraterrestrial Highway Sign
Located near the quaint town of Rachel, famous for its proximity to the secretive Area 51, the Extraterrestrial Highway sign serves as a paradise for UFO enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. This iconic photo stop offers a glimpse into the phenomenon of extraterrestrial lore, alongside several attractions, including the The Little A’Le’Inn, known for its delicious Alien Burger, and the souvenir-filled Alien Cowpoke.
Travelers earn another 15 passport points here while indulging in tales surrounding UFO sightings and mysterious occurrences on this famed highway.
Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon
The Gold Hill Hotel, established in 1859, holds the title of being the oldest hotel in Nevada. Over the years, it has transitioned from a brothel to a bar to a residence, and today it stands as a prime example of Virginia City’s rich history. Visitors seeking a taste of the past can opt to stay in some of the originally furnished rooms, where tales of friendly ghosts still linger. Even non-staying visitors can revel in its charm at the saloon, earning themselves 25 passport points along the way.
Old Tonopah Cemetery and The Clown Motel
This bizarre yet captivating combination features a historic burial site alongside a motel that’s become an attraction in its own right. Known for its extensive clown collection, the Clown Motel—often dubbed “America’s scariest hotel”—is a stop that resonates with thrill-seekers. Whether staying overnight or just visiting, guests can tour the cemetery’s fascinating plots and learn about the unique individuals buried there, garnering a total of 30 passport points from both locations.
Goldfield High School
This beautifully preserved structure from the early 20th century highlights Goldfield’s former prominence as the most populous town in Nevada. Built in 1907, it featured an impressive high school basketball court that symbolized its wealth. After years of decline resulting in abandonment, the school has undergone restoration, and now ghost hunters report numerous paranormal activities within its walls, especially in the boys’ restroom. Visitors who dare to experience its haunted reputation will be rewarded with 25 passport points.
Tom Devlin’s Monster Museum
Just a short drive from Las Vegas, Tom Devlin’s Monster Museum in Boulder City is a delight for horror aficionados, showcasing the art of special effects and memorabilia from iconic films. As a renowned makeup artist who has contributed to various cinematic horrors, Devlin’s museum is a tribute to chilling characters, housing a treasure trove of props and creature suits. It’s also an engaging space for visitors looking to catch special events or signings, not forgetting to earn 10 passport points during their time here.
Washoe Club & Haunted Museum Ghost Tour
The Washoe Club, inaugurated in 1875 and filled with tales from the mining boom era, once hosted prominent figures like Generals Ulysses S. Grant and William Tecumseh Sherman. Today, it stands as a haunted museum inviting all to participate in guided tours exploring the intriguing spirits believed to still roam its halls. The tours traverse three floors and a crypt, appealing to both history enthusiasts and paranormal aficionados, offering participants 15 passport points in the process.
Source
www.travelzoo.com