If you're planning a trip to the New Jersey shore, there are several things to consider. Because there are so many beach towns, you should do your research ahead of time. If you're looking for a quiet seaside town, you may want to vacation in a small town like Avalon. If you want to be closer to the action and excitement, Wildwood or Atlantic City may be more your speed. If you want to see historic sites, consider Cape May. Luckily, no matter where you stay at the shore, you will likely be within 45 minutes of most any other town. On my family's recent trip to Avalon, we made several day trips to some of Jerseys other seashore towns.
Avalon. Avalon is a quiet town. If you're going strictly for the beach, it's wonderful. With nary a boardwalk in sight (there is a very small "boardwalk" with a small arcade and an ice cream shop-- that's pretty much it). Avalon is still my favorite place for a family-style vacation. This summer they had free movies on the beach every Tuesday night. Restaurant stop: Tortilla Flats, for some authentic Mexican food.
Stone Harbor. Stone Harbor is a charming town, with some great little shops. I stepped into a Christmas shop in July! There are also some great restaurants, including Henny's, which is a Stone Harbor tradition. Restaurant stop: Henny's-- and check out the early bird specials if you like to eat before 5.
Sea Isle City. Sea Isle offers bicycle rentals on their boardwalk. We rented a big carriage style pedal bike for my husband and I and our two kids. Very fun indeed! Restaurant stop: JR's Chicken & Ribs
Ocean City. If you're looking for a boardwalk, OC's is one of the best. Look for the guy that makes the huge sand sculptures. Restaurant stop: Cousins, for Italian food.
Wildwood. Wildwood also has a great boardwalk, featuring Morey's Piers. There are also arcades, old fashioned photo studios, games and tons of places to eat and buy fudge and salt water taffy. The boardwalk tends to be less crowded during the afternoon hours, so if you have young children who want to go on the rides, this is the best time to go. Restaurant stop: Menz Restaurant--check out the cool artifacts throughout the restaurant!
Cape May. Cape May is a great day trip if you're down at the shore. Look for the old lighthouse. There's also great shopping. Best of all, Cape May has a large zoo, The Cape May County park and Zoo, which is free. We took our kids there and they had a great time. Also, take a cruise on the Cape May- Lewes ferry. Restaurant stop: the Mad Batter, for a delicious breakfast.
Atlantic City. Known as the home of the East Coast's casinos, AC has a lot more to offer. If you want to check out the casinos, try the new Borgata, which is elegant and sleek. Atlantic City also has plenty of things for the kids to do-- just 10 miles west of AC is the famed Storybook Land, which is a story-themed amusement park. Restaurant stop: Cuba Libre, inside the Tropicana Hotel and Casino, for awesome Havana style food and drinks (it's a rum bar).
There are so many more Jersey shore towns-- many, many that I have never been to. But I've heard great things about Long Beach Island (not to be confused with New York's Long Island), Sandy Hook, Seaside Heights and Point Pleasant beach.
Wherever you decide to stay, make sure to take advantage of all of the fun things you can do at the Jersey shore--from renting a jet ski to going to the top of a lighthouse to taking a walk on the boardwalk for ice cream. If you have kids, make at least one stop at a water park or amusement park-- and don't forget to play a round of miniature golf (miniature golf places are all over the place at the shore). And remember, when all is said and done, nothing is better than taking an early morning walk on the beach. Get up as early as you can and take a stroll with only the seagulls-- and maybe a few fisherman-- as your company.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Close to Home Labor Day Weekend Getaways
By Christina VanGinkel
With Labor Day weekend only a few days away, deciding on a destination for a weekend getaway might seem like it is too late to accomplish, but it is not. If you do not want to travel far, especially if you will be getting to any destination you choose by driving, consider some of the many options open to last minute travel on the long weekend. While you might think many locales would have no openings available late in the season, with many colleges and schools now starting before what was once the traditional step up to the school year, you can often find openings for getaways that at one time would have been booked solid long before the holiday weekend.
County fairs are happening in all sorts of communities at this time of year. If one is within driving distance to you, make it a day trip or even an overnighter. Fairs often have a variety of fast foods, games, amusement rides, and down home attractions such as beef sales and horseshows. Stock racing is increasingly becoming popular at fairs, so if you are a fan, you might even be able to take in a race or two.
Camping is always a great way to spend Labor Day weekend. Check with local or not too distant campgrounds to see if any spaces are available. Whether you are camping roughing it style with a tent and not much more, or you have a camper and want to set up camp at a location that has electricity and running water, a three day weekend is a perfect time span for a quick camping outing. Go on a hike, get in some geocaching, grill out, sit under the stars and stargaze, roast marshmallows around a campfire, in general just spend the time relaxing once camp is set up.
If you happen to have a Bed and Breakfast close by, consider checking in for the weekend. Maybe you have always wanted to check it out, but figured taking a vacation so close to home was not really a vacation, but if you would really like to spend the time relaxing, what better way than to save your sanity by not spending it traveling. Once you have stayed there and checked it out personally, you can also give first hand recommendations to out of town guests.
Check into a spa. With three days to spend there, you can actually get into the relaxing part of the stay that you may not have the time to accomplish with just a conventional two-day weekend. Book a full body massage, a pedicure, and a facial. With three days to fill, you can take part in many more treatments and activities than you would think possible.
Is there an attraction close to where you live that you have always thought you might like to try, but you never seem to have time to check it out? A hot air balloon ride, a river rafting excursion, paragliding or hang gliding, or how about a beginner's set of lessons on a hobby such as surfing or scuba diving are all choice options for the long weekend. Check with a local travel agency to find out what might be available this late in the season. Last minute bookings can be a bonus both ways. The travel agent gets to fill otherwise empty spots and you might even discover a bargain or two amidst the late holiday season.
Shopping might not be everybody's idea of a vacation, but with malls and stores everywhere offering up sales on Labor Day weekend, if you enjoy shopping, the three-day weekend might be your dream come true. Maybe you have always wanted to check out a large mall that is a few hours away, but figured that by the time you arrived on a Saturday and would have to head home on Sunday that it was just not worth the drive. With Monday added to the queue, you can be assured you will have plenty of time to hit all of the stores you want. Be sure to call ahead to arrange lodging, and plan to check out a few of the local eateries to round out the weekend.
If you want to spend Labor Day weekend taking a mini vacation or occupied doing something you have always dreams about, it is not too late. Pick up the phone and make a few calls, and spend the weekend having fun instead of home thinking about all the places you might have gone or excursions you might have enjoyed!
With Labor Day weekend only a few days away, deciding on a destination for a weekend getaway might seem like it is too late to accomplish, but it is not. If you do not want to travel far, especially if you will be getting to any destination you choose by driving, consider some of the many options open to last minute travel on the long weekend. While you might think many locales would have no openings available late in the season, with many colleges and schools now starting before what was once the traditional step up to the school year, you can often find openings for getaways that at one time would have been booked solid long before the holiday weekend.
County fairs are happening in all sorts of communities at this time of year. If one is within driving distance to you, make it a day trip or even an overnighter. Fairs often have a variety of fast foods, games, amusement rides, and down home attractions such as beef sales and horseshows. Stock racing is increasingly becoming popular at fairs, so if you are a fan, you might even be able to take in a race or two.
Camping is always a great way to spend Labor Day weekend. Check with local or not too distant campgrounds to see if any spaces are available. Whether you are camping roughing it style with a tent and not much more, or you have a camper and want to set up camp at a location that has electricity and running water, a three day weekend is a perfect time span for a quick camping outing. Go on a hike, get in some geocaching, grill out, sit under the stars and stargaze, roast marshmallows around a campfire, in general just spend the time relaxing once camp is set up.
If you happen to have a Bed and Breakfast close by, consider checking in for the weekend. Maybe you have always wanted to check it out, but figured taking a vacation so close to home was not really a vacation, but if you would really like to spend the time relaxing, what better way than to save your sanity by not spending it traveling. Once you have stayed there and checked it out personally, you can also give first hand recommendations to out of town guests.
Check into a spa. With three days to spend there, you can actually get into the relaxing part of the stay that you may not have the time to accomplish with just a conventional two-day weekend. Book a full body massage, a pedicure, and a facial. With three days to fill, you can take part in many more treatments and activities than you would think possible.
Is there an attraction close to where you live that you have always thought you might like to try, but you never seem to have time to check it out? A hot air balloon ride, a river rafting excursion, paragliding or hang gliding, or how about a beginner's set of lessons on a hobby such as surfing or scuba diving are all choice options for the long weekend. Check with a local travel agency to find out what might be available this late in the season. Last minute bookings can be a bonus both ways. The travel agent gets to fill otherwise empty spots and you might even discover a bargain or two amidst the late holiday season.
Shopping might not be everybody's idea of a vacation, but with malls and stores everywhere offering up sales on Labor Day weekend, if you enjoy shopping, the three-day weekend might be your dream come true. Maybe you have always wanted to check out a large mall that is a few hours away, but figured that by the time you arrived on a Saturday and would have to head home on Sunday that it was just not worth the drive. With Monday added to the queue, you can be assured you will have plenty of time to hit all of the stores you want. Be sure to call ahead to arrange lodging, and plan to check out a few of the local eateries to round out the weekend.
If you want to spend Labor Day weekend taking a mini vacation or occupied doing something you have always dreams about, it is not too late. Pick up the phone and make a few calls, and spend the weekend having fun instead of home thinking about all the places you might have gone or excursions you might have enjoyed!
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Historic Quebec City
Quebec City, Quebec, Canada is located on the St. Lawrence Seaway in the southern part of the province of Quebec and has enjoyed its place in Canada for many years. Quebec City is one of North America's oldest cities and in 2008, the city will be celebrating its 400th birthday, so if you don't have the time to visit now, plan to come in '08. There is so much to see and do in a city that is steeped with so much history.
The old part of the city is lined with narrow streets. Some of these streets are so narrow that a car complete with mirrors will just fit through with mere inches to spare on either side (then you will hit sidewalks and buildings). But don't let that deter you from coming to see Quebec City. It is worth the trouble, believe me!
Besides history being a focal point, you will also find all amenities that are typical in any large city. From great motels to great restaurants there is no shortage of places to eat and stay while in the city.
Since Quebec City is almost 400 years old, you would expect to see history come alive in its architecture. And you would be correct in that assumption. Architecture built from as long ago as the city's earliest beginnings and up to the present, following the styles of the particular time in history they were built. Military has played a large part in Quebec City's history as well. The area played a large part in the War of 1812 and you will find the city has fortresses and battle fields. One battle field is called "The Plains of Abraham" and is the site of one of the war's famous battles and where Generals James Wolfe and Louis-Joseph de Montcalm were fatally injured during the battle.
Religion has played a large part in the history of Quebec City as well. Founded by Catholic missionaries, the area and in fact the whole province has remained largely Catholic throughout the years. There are many an old basilicas and churches that are interesting sites to see. One of the most famous of these is The Notre-Dame-de-Quebec-Basilica-Cathedral which features several impressive pieces of art that have to be appreciated in person. Of course, there are many parks and other museums that you will want to make time to see while you are visiting the city.
The Chateau Frontenac is supposedly one of the most photographed buildings in the world. Located on bluffs over looking the St. Lawrence River and more than one hundred years old, it stands as a window to the past, present and even the future. Containing a beautiful hotel and fabulous restaurants, the building also offers daily guided tours and should be at the top of your list to visit while in Quebec City.
Strolling throughout the many quaint streets of the city can be a treat in itself. No matter if you are looking for gourmet food or chocolatiers or fashionable boutiques or handcraft stalls or art galleries, Quebec City is for you. You will find over one thousand boutiques throughout the streets and malls.
Quebec City is known for its European flavour and is mostly French speaking (Montreal has more English speakers than Quebec Citydoes), though in saying that, with tourists and the many tours that are run to the historic sites, quite a bit of English is spoken there. It might not hurt to pick up a few French phrases that will be helpful, such as 'Parlez-vous Anglais?' (Do you speak English?) 'Ou Sont Les Toilettes?' (where is the bathroom) are some of the more important phrases you will want to pick up. You might even want to invest in a French/English phrase book. But there are tours that are often given in Spanish, Japanese and German besides English due to the influx of tourists that come to the city on a regular basis, so English should really be a problem. However, if you travel into rural Quebec, keep in mind that French is the main language spoken.
What to bring with you on your trip will depend on the time of year you come and visit. In the winter you will want to bring boots, mittens, a hat and a scarf because of the winter temperatures that are usually slightly below zero and snow is evident on the ground. In the summer you will want to dress comfortably for humid weather and bring comfortable sandals. In the spring and the fall, layers work best because as the day heats up, you can remove a layer.
No matter what you come to Quebec City for a romantic get-away for two, a business trip or a family vacation, you will enjoy the sights and sounds and surroundings are you spend your time in fabulous Quebec City.
The old part of the city is lined with narrow streets. Some of these streets are so narrow that a car complete with mirrors will just fit through with mere inches to spare on either side (then you will hit sidewalks and buildings). But don't let that deter you from coming to see Quebec City. It is worth the trouble, believe me!
Besides history being a focal point, you will also find all amenities that are typical in any large city. From great motels to great restaurants there is no shortage of places to eat and stay while in the city.
Since Quebec City is almost 400 years old, you would expect to see history come alive in its architecture. And you would be correct in that assumption. Architecture built from as long ago as the city's earliest beginnings and up to the present, following the styles of the particular time in history they were built. Military has played a large part in Quebec City's history as well. The area played a large part in the War of 1812 and you will find the city has fortresses and battle fields. One battle field is called "The Plains of Abraham" and is the site of one of the war's famous battles and where Generals James Wolfe and Louis-Joseph de Montcalm were fatally injured during the battle.
Religion has played a large part in the history of Quebec City as well. Founded by Catholic missionaries, the area and in fact the whole province has remained largely Catholic throughout the years. There are many an old basilicas and churches that are interesting sites to see. One of the most famous of these is The Notre-Dame-de-Quebec-Basilica-Cathedral which features several impressive pieces of art that have to be appreciated in person. Of course, there are many parks and other museums that you will want to make time to see while you are visiting the city.
The Chateau Frontenac is supposedly one of the most photographed buildings in the world. Located on bluffs over looking the St. Lawrence River and more than one hundred years old, it stands as a window to the past, present and even the future. Containing a beautiful hotel and fabulous restaurants, the building also offers daily guided tours and should be at the top of your list to visit while in Quebec City.
Strolling throughout the many quaint streets of the city can be a treat in itself. No matter if you are looking for gourmet food or chocolatiers or fashionable boutiques or handcraft stalls or art galleries, Quebec City is for you. You will find over one thousand boutiques throughout the streets and malls.
Quebec City is known for its European flavour and is mostly French speaking (Montreal has more English speakers than Quebec Citydoes), though in saying that, with tourists and the many tours that are run to the historic sites, quite a bit of English is spoken there. It might not hurt to pick up a few French phrases that will be helpful, such as 'Parlez-vous Anglais?' (Do you speak English?) 'Ou Sont Les Toilettes?' (where is the bathroom) are some of the more important phrases you will want to pick up. You might even want to invest in a French/English phrase book. But there are tours that are often given in Spanish, Japanese and German besides English due to the influx of tourists that come to the city on a regular basis, so English should really be a problem. However, if you travel into rural Quebec, keep in mind that French is the main language spoken.
What to bring with you on your trip will depend on the time of year you come and visit. In the winter you will want to bring boots, mittens, a hat and a scarf because of the winter temperatures that are usually slightly below zero and snow is evident on the ground. In the summer you will want to dress comfortably for humid weather and bring comfortable sandals. In the spring and the fall, layers work best because as the day heats up, you can remove a layer.
No matter what you come to Quebec City for a romantic get-away for two, a business trip or a family vacation, you will enjoy the sights and sounds and surroundings are you spend your time in fabulous Quebec City.
What's Gay In Cincinnati
Traditionally, Cincinnati has been the gateway to the liberal north and away from the Confederacy of the South for many who were trying to run away from the enslaving conditions. Despite its now conservative values, there are many gay and lesbian travelers who find solace in the small city appeal, and big city attractions that Cincinnati has to offer.
Pleasantly nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, downtown Cincinnati is surrounded by seven hills that add to its solace location.
How to get here
With the ever-increasing cost of travel, Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport, located in the northern Kentucky city of Florence, may be one of the most expensive airports to travel in and out of, but its close proximity to the city and easy access to the city makes the flight well worth the price. If you are looking for a less expensive way of travel, Greyhound Bus terminal is located directly downtown Cincinnati, within walking distance of area hotels and hotspot. Megabus is yet another way of getting to and from Cincinnati, but only available if you are traveling from another city located in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois' adjoining states.
http://www.cvgairport.com/
http://www.greyhound.com/
http://www.megabus.com/
Where to stay
When thinking about where to stay in any vacation, you want to make sure that you find a place that is in close proximity to everything that you want to do, is safe, and most importantly, is inexpensive. Extended Stay has several locations through out the Greater Cincinnati area, but has a prime spot, located on the south shores of the Ohio River in Covington, KY. If you want to stay cozened up in a national chained hotel, but want to experience a hotel stay unique to the area, try the Radisson, also in Covington, KY. Its cylindrical shaped hotel is topped with a circler; revolving restaurant that will give you an experience that you are not soon to forget. If class is what you looking for, make sure you check in to the Netherland Plaza Hotel, located downtown Cincinnati. This luxury hotel is bellied up next to a fine, indoor, downtown shopping mall. Both are house in the Carew Tower, Cincinnati's tallest building.
http://www.extendedstayhotels.com/
http://www.radisson.com/
http://glass.typepad.com/journal/2005/03/omni_netherland.html
Where to Eat
For the most part, there are not any specifically gay themed hotels to stay in Cincinnati. I am not sure if the city is ready for something like that. On the other hand, the city has opened it s hearts and arms to eating establishments where you can really show your rainbow colors. Universal Grill (formally Hamburger Mary's), boasts having the best Karaoke in the city and along with its tropical hamburgers coupled with Friday evening cabaret, by the time you leave you will definitely be screaming for a flying pig! If you do not want to brave the crowds, the noise and the hot bois that frequent this newly renovated watering whole, head just a few blocks east to Union Station and watch one of their several big screen televisions or play trivia. If you stay the weekend are not too hung over from the night before, make it to Bella for Sunday brunch. An upscale establishment that is not accompanied by the snootiness, the Sunday brunch that you have here will rival some of the best in the city, with out breaking what's left of your pocketbook.
http://www.cincinnatiusa.com/Dining/detail.asp?RestID=7566
http://www.bellacincinnati.com/contact_index.html
Where to site see
Depending on what you want to see, you may decided to forgo the usually touristy sites and, depending on if it is near the holidays, make it up one of the seven hills of Cincinnati to Clifton and spend some time grazing on the campus of the University of Cincinnati. Its newly renovated Tangeman Hall, Main Street attractions and sports complex draws in college boys from all over the area to run shirtless on the outdoor track and practice their backstroke in the Olympic size swimming pool. If you are looking for an older and more sophisticated sort of eye candy to suckle on, your best bet is to tread your way through majesticique Eden Park and take a stroll through the Cincinnati Art Museum. There you can find works of art by some of the area's greatest artists, to include Frank Duvenek. If you are not worried about looking at some of the most spectacular bodies in the Greater Cincinnati area and have your sites set on more natural phenomenon, take a wake to the top of the Purple People Bridge. That way, your eyes will be filled with more that just last night's escapade.
http://www.uc.edu/
http://cincinnatiartmuseum.org/
http://www.purplepeoplebridgeclimb.com/
Where to play
Its too late to lay by the pool, but if you are gearing up for next summer's trip to Cincinnati, make sure you make it to Adonis Night club, where the pool is open during the summer. Here is where you can baste your eyes on a bevy of bronzing Betties while sipping a margarita, poolside. If you a bit shy, you can also head to The Dock, located in the packing district along side the Ohio River. The not so populated evenings make for great cruising grounds. If an older, more mature crowd is what you are looking for, head up to the Gaslight District and take in one of the campiest drag shows at the oldest gay establishment still in operation. Golden Lions is you can feel like a hometown Joe without pretending that you are looking for a G.I. one.
http://adonisthenightclub.com/
http://thedockcomplex.com/
Pleasantly nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, downtown Cincinnati is surrounded by seven hills that add to its solace location.
How to get here
With the ever-increasing cost of travel, Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport, located in the northern Kentucky city of Florence, may be one of the most expensive airports to travel in and out of, but its close proximity to the city and easy access to the city makes the flight well worth the price. If you are looking for a less expensive way of travel, Greyhound Bus terminal is located directly downtown Cincinnati, within walking distance of area hotels and hotspot. Megabus is yet another way of getting to and from Cincinnati, but only available if you are traveling from another city located in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois' adjoining states.
http://www.cvgairport.com/
http://www.greyhound.com/
http://www.megabus.com/
Where to stay
When thinking about where to stay in any vacation, you want to make sure that you find a place that is in close proximity to everything that you want to do, is safe, and most importantly, is inexpensive. Extended Stay has several locations through out the Greater Cincinnati area, but has a prime spot, located on the south shores of the Ohio River in Covington, KY. If you want to stay cozened up in a national chained hotel, but want to experience a hotel stay unique to the area, try the Radisson, also in Covington, KY. Its cylindrical shaped hotel is topped with a circler; revolving restaurant that will give you an experience that you are not soon to forget. If class is what you looking for, make sure you check in to the Netherland Plaza Hotel, located downtown Cincinnati. This luxury hotel is bellied up next to a fine, indoor, downtown shopping mall. Both are house in the Carew Tower, Cincinnati's tallest building.
http://www.extendedstayhotels.com/
http://www.radisson.com/
http://glass.typepad.com/journal/2005/03/omni_netherland.html
Where to Eat
For the most part, there are not any specifically gay themed hotels to stay in Cincinnati. I am not sure if the city is ready for something like that. On the other hand, the city has opened it s hearts and arms to eating establishments where you can really show your rainbow colors. Universal Grill (formally Hamburger Mary's), boasts having the best Karaoke in the city and along with its tropical hamburgers coupled with Friday evening cabaret, by the time you leave you will definitely be screaming for a flying pig! If you do not want to brave the crowds, the noise and the hot bois that frequent this newly renovated watering whole, head just a few blocks east to Union Station and watch one of their several big screen televisions or play trivia. If you stay the weekend are not too hung over from the night before, make it to Bella for Sunday brunch. An upscale establishment that is not accompanied by the snootiness, the Sunday brunch that you have here will rival some of the best in the city, with out breaking what's left of your pocketbook.
http://www.cincinnatiusa.com/Dining/detail.asp?RestID=7566
http://www.bellacincinnati.com/contact_index.html
Where to site see
Depending on what you want to see, you may decided to forgo the usually touristy sites and, depending on if it is near the holidays, make it up one of the seven hills of Cincinnati to Clifton and spend some time grazing on the campus of the University of Cincinnati. Its newly renovated Tangeman Hall, Main Street attractions and sports complex draws in college boys from all over the area to run shirtless on the outdoor track and practice their backstroke in the Olympic size swimming pool. If you are looking for an older and more sophisticated sort of eye candy to suckle on, your best bet is to tread your way through majesticique Eden Park and take a stroll through the Cincinnati Art Museum. There you can find works of art by some of the area's greatest artists, to include Frank Duvenek. If you are not worried about looking at some of the most spectacular bodies in the Greater Cincinnati area and have your sites set on more natural phenomenon, take a wake to the top of the Purple People Bridge. That way, your eyes will be filled with more that just last night's escapade.
http://www.uc.edu/
http://cincinnatiartmuseum.org/
http://www.purplepeoplebridgeclimb.com/
Where to play
Its too late to lay by the pool, but if you are gearing up for next summer's trip to Cincinnati, make sure you make it to Adonis Night club, where the pool is open during the summer. Here is where you can baste your eyes on a bevy of bronzing Betties while sipping a margarita, poolside. If you a bit shy, you can also head to The Dock, located in the packing district along side the Ohio River. The not so populated evenings make for great cruising grounds. If an older, more mature crowd is what you are looking for, head up to the Gaslight District and take in one of the campiest drag shows at the oldest gay establishment still in operation. Golden Lions is you can feel like a hometown Joe without pretending that you are looking for a G.I. one.
http://adonisthenightclub.com/
http://thedockcomplex.com/
NEVADA: A VACATION WONDERLAND
I love Nevada!
If you tour Nevada, you will find that it contains an abundance of other sites and sounds just as exciting as the casinos and shows on the Las Vegas Strip. The Sagebrush State is more than Las Vegas, magic, showgirls and gambling, although there is plenty of glitz and glamour to enjoy in all that. Nevada is also the home of the London Bridge, Area 51, atomic testing history, The Star Trek Experience and the Pony Express!
In fact, the top 10 Cities visited in Nevada each year are these:
Top 10 Cities in Nevada
THE PONY EXPRESS LANDS
Among the beautiful desert country lays a particularly interesting spot near its center. The Pony Express region of Nevada stretches across US Route 50, tracing the historic Pony Express route that extended from St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California in the early 1860s. Some of my ancestors from Ireland and Scotland traveled this stretch of land to arrive in California at about the time of the Pony Express, and they were witness to its magic. This a region both reminiscent of the 19th century and firmly rooted the future, and the Pony Express will never die here.
Only a few towns exist now along US 50, called “The Loneliest Road in America” by the media. Lonely motorists and folks who leave the frenetic pace of the big city both are lulled by the tranquility in the magnificent peace of the desert. Pony Express lands are full of undisturbed natural creations and historic mining towns that you will enjoy. Going from east to west the next stop on US 50 is Great Basin National Park. Filled with giant bristlecone pines that grow only at elevations over 10,000 feet above sea level, these forests live up to 4,000 years. There are hiking trails leading to alpine lakes and Nevadan mountain tops worth seeing. Lehman Caves in the park displays stalactites and stalagmites that have been developed over several thousand years, perhaps as old as the earth itself. The town of Baker, five miles east of the park, welcomes you with several restaurants, a motel and a gas station.
About an hour northwest of Great Basin is Ely, an old copper mine town that makes a good base camp for trips to local recreation areas and historical sites. Ely has several restaurants, hotels and RV camp spaces, with murals that bring you up close to Nevada’s history. The Nevada Northern Railway Museum in Ely includes the rail yards and shops of the Nevada Northern Railway, a short line that ran for almost 80 years from 1906 to 1986. We wish it were still running today. The refurbished train depot includes a museum, a gift shop and rides on “The Ghost Train of Old Ely.” This would be great for those of you who love Halloween activities and steam engines. There is even the opportunity to drive a locomotive on a trip up the narrow mountain canyon. Exciting!
Seventy-eight miles to the west is Eureka, a 19th-century mining town founded in 1864. It still has many of its original buildings, including the Eureka Courthouse, opened in 1880. Across the way sits the Eureka Opera House, a renovated building that is now a convention and performing arts center. The Eureka Sentinel Museum displays local history and features the press equipment used to produce the town newspaper for 90 years from 1870 - 1960.
To the west is Austin, another mining camp. Silver was discovered in Austin, Nevada in 1862 and within a few years, Austin was the second largest community in the state. Don’t miss the three historic churches: St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, built in 1866; the Methodist Church, also 1866; and St. George’s Episcopal Church, 1878. Austin and the nearby Toiyabe, Toquima, and Hot Creek mountain ranges are popular with mountain bikers.
On the way west from Austin to Fallon, Sand Mountain is a two-mile-long, 600-foot-high sand dune that attracts dune buggies, dirt bikers and sand skiers. The Sand Mountain Pony Express Station is just south of the dune, a large rock enclosure used by Pony Express riders 150 years ago. Further west on US 50 is the Grimes Point Archeological Site and interpretive signs guide you along a trail lined with petroglyphs, which are the rock drawings made by Native American peoples living there from 5,000 B.C and 1,500 A.D.
MORE PONY EXPRESS LANDS ATTRACTIONS
BHP Mining Tours
Enjoy a mining video, guided tour of the mill and operations in the pit from an overlook; seven miles west of Ely on US 50. Call 775-289-7000; or P.O. Box 382, Ruth 89319. Hours: Call for hours and reservations. Year-round Admission: FREE.
McGill Drugstore
Explore the inventory of 50s and 60s memorabilia plus a working 1930 vintage soda fountain. Call 775-235-7082, 11 Fourth St., P. O. Box 757, McGill 89318. Hours: Call for information. Year-round Admission: FREE.
Eureka Opera House
Built in 1880, restored in 1994. Original 1924 hand-painted stage curtain. Unique historic experience. Information: 775-237-6006; P.O. Box 284, Eureka 89316. Hours: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Year-round except state holidays. Admission: FREE.
Eureka Sentinel Museum
In the old Eureka Sentinel building, site of the town's longest running newspaper, museum displays artifacts from 1870s lead and silver mining era. Information: 775-237-5010; P.O. Box 284, Eureka 89316. Hours: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Apr.-Sep., daily; Oct.-Mar., Tue.-Sat. Admission: Donation.
Nevada has my favorite! – Native American Indian Country.
Thousands of years ago, Lake Lahontan, an ancient inland sea covering parts of Northern Nevada and Utah, was full of fish while the land was roamed by mammoth, bison, antelope, deer and big cats. While ancient American peoples left few artifacts, they did create petroglyphs, the rock writings found throughout Nevada and the Western United States today. The etchings show a variety of designs and stick figures, big horned sheep, lizards, and other animals.
At Grimes Point east of Fallon on US 50, there are some very good petroglyphs. They can also be found at Valley of Fire State Park. As Nevada grew dry in the past, larger animals went extinct and the Native Great Basin Peoples adapted to the changes. Lake Lahontan receded and became two small lakes, Pyramid and Walker. The shores were called home by the Northern Paiute. To the South, the Southern Paiutes lived near Las Vegas Valley and the tributaries of the Colorado River. Other tribes, including Western Shoshone and Washo, settled in the mountains.
The descendents of the original Native Peoples continue to occupy their ancestral lands. Pyramid Lake north of Reno is on the Northern Paiute Indian reservation. Pyramid Lake Rd. (State Rt. 445) is a National Scenic Byway, the only federal scenic byway entirely on an Indian reservation. Pyramid Lake has some of the best fishing in Nevada and Pyramid Lake Visitor Center houses a great museum of natural history and Native culture.
Parts of Walker Lake and the town of Schurz are on Walker Lake Indian Reservation to the south. The Lake offers trophy fishing, dramatic desert landscapes, and wide-open spaces. Native tribes have been in Nevada for many thousands of years, but were preceded by a culture known as the “Anasazi” or ancient ones. These people built elaborate adobe villages along the Muddy and Virgin rivers. Today, you can visit the Lost City Museum in Overton, with Anasazi artifacts and adobe buildings and pit houses. The Nevada State Museum in Carson City has a large display of Native Nevadan artifacts and the Stewart Indian Cultural Center, south of Carson City, was a federal boarding school for Indians up until recently in 1980. Today, it is a museum for the school.
Nevada’s Native American nations are involved today in many profitable businesses, from Native American traditional crafts to golf ranges to smoke shops, tobacco being a specialty. The Las Vegas Paiute Resort, owned and operated by the Southern Paiute Nation, includes two championship golf courses just 20 miles northwest of Las Vegas.
MORE NATIVE AMERICAN INDIAN SITES TO SEE
Humboldt Museum
Three turn-of-the-century buildings with antique autos, farm collection and Native American exhibits. Information: 775-623-2912; Jungo Rd. and Maple Ave., P.O. Box 819, Winnemucca 89446. Hours: 10:00 a.m.-noon and 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., Sat. Year-round except major holidays. Admission: Donation
Pershing County Marzen House Museum
An 1874 two-story house, mining equipment, home fixtures, Native American artifacts, Indian Cave exhibit. Information: 775-273-2115; 25 Marzen Ln., P.O. Box 212, Lovelock 89419. Hours: 9:00 a.m.-l:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri., Nov.-Apr.; 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Year-round Admission: Donation.
The Eagle's Nest
Panoramic vistas of the Ruby Mts., wagon/sleigh rides, barbeques, studio/gallery featuring Western art and memorabilia. Information: 702-744-7370; JC 30-449 Box 4, Elko 89801. Year-round Admission: Call for rates; reservations required.
Grapevine Canyon
Seven miles west of Laughlin, ancient Native American petroglyphs above the springs. Information: 702-298-3321; 800-452-8445; c/o Laughlin Visitors Bureau, 1555 S. Casino Dr., P.O. Box 502, Laughlin 89029.
Rainbow Canyon
Self-guided tour with map, petroglyphs, geologic features; allow at least two hours. Information: 775-726-8100; Bureau of Land Management, Caliente Field Station, U.S. Hwy. 93, P.O. Box 237, Caliente 89008.
Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Wetland oasis supports rare fish, plants, native wildlife. Information: 775-372-5435; HCR 70, Box 610-Z, Amargosa 89020. Hours: Sunrise to sunset; Year-round Admission: FREE.
VIVA LAS VEGAS
No travel piece about Nevada can be complete without looking at Las Vegas. This city is the site of 18 of the 20 largest hotels in America and visitors will be overwhelmed by the entertainment, tours, shopping and dining. Las Vegas has more lights than any other city, and is an adult’s Disneyland of wonders. Visiting the Las Vegas Strip, you’ll see a pirate ship battle, an active volcano and laser light water shows. Hotel-casinos present ancient Egypt, King Arthur’s Court, Rome, Venice, New York, Monte Carlo and the tropics. There is 24-hour gaming, restaurants of the most famous chefs in the world and many a star-studded show. Downtown Vegas is enclosed by a canopy of lights for five blocks. Called the Fremont Street Experience, the canopy lights up night with powerful light and sound shows.
Las Vegas is also a center for history and the fine arts. Art and historic museums range from classic and contemporary art, to archaeological and anthropological exhibits of the Native American Peoples. And not to be ignored is the museum of Liberace! Amusement theme parks in Las Vegas pit do anything in the rest of the USA. Recreational sports nearby include golf, boating, hiking, cycling, rock climbing, car racing, and sand and snow skiing.
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, formerly owned by Howard Hughes is now a retreat for outdoor concerts. Half an hour north of Las Vegas is Mount Charleston, like a garden island in a sea of desert. Visitors can stay cool their without air conditioning. In Boulder City, southeast of Las Vegas. is Hoover Dam, a 726-foot- high concrete dam that holds back Lake Mead. It is one of the seven man-made wonders of the world, with tours of its hydroelectric system completed in 1935. Lake Mead is actually the largest man-made lake in the Western Hemisphere. With Lake Mohave, it is in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, which offers five beaches and marinas, campgrounds, boat and Jet Ski rental, sightseeing boats, and other activities. Valley of Fire State Park is 55 miles to the northeast of Lake Mead, with bright red sandstone mountains and valleys.
Mesquite is a city located northeast of Vegas on the Virgin River, a resort with golf and spas, horses, trap shooting and indoor activities for which Nevada is famous. Mesquite is conveniently located for side trips to nearby Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks. In the extreme southern tip of Nevada on the Colorado River is Laughlin, which in 1966, consisted of just a small motel and restaurant that catered to local fishermen. Fishing is great and Laughlin is a lively resort full of 5-star hotels offering big-name entertainment. You can water ski, swim, boat or relax on the nearby beaches. Laughlin’s water taxis are available to take passengers from Arizona to Nevada and back. Make sure to visit a town halfway between Laughlin and Las Vegas: Searchlight. You’ll find an interesting little museum in Searchlight, full of mining memorabilia and local historical color.
MORE LAS VEGAS THAN MEETS THE EYE – DON’T MISS ANY OF THIS
Closing October 1, 2006 -- ELVIS-A-RAMA EXPERIENCE – Not much time left!
The Elvis-A-Rama is an 85-foot-long, 10-foot-high painted mural of the legendary life of Elvis Presley. It was painted by an obscure country music songwriter, Mitchell Torok. The mural was bought in 1994 by another obscure musician, Jimmy Velvet, and moved to Branson, Missouri. Four years after that it was bought by another Elvis collector and moved back to Vegas, where it now stands behind a velvet rope at a mall near the strip. The Elvis-A-Rama Experience displays celebrity autographs of Chet Akins, Archie Campbell, Sonny James, and Maria Shriver.
Elvis tribute performances are given in a small theater by Elvis impersonators. The original blue suede shoes are here, along with his first Cadillac and his turquoise karate outfit with the eagle rhinestone appliqués. One display holds the hotel bill from Elvis's first gig in Las Vegas, and shows that in two weeks he spent only $207.07. Meanwhile, Graceland has paid $68 million for Vegas property next to the Harley-Davidson Cafe, where an Elvis museum and casino resort is to be built.
Elvis-A-Rama Experience: 3401 Industrial Rd, Las Vegas, NV. One block west of The Strip West side of Industrial Rd, behind the Fashion Show Mall, just north of Spring Mountain Rd and Sands Ave. Admission: Adults $12.95 Hours: Until October 1, 2006 only! Phone: 702-309-7200)
American Heroes Veterans Museum
Priceless memorabilia recognize America's Veterans from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. The museum is open daily, 10 a.m. to 4 pm with a large WW II collection, and displays honoring Korea and Vietnam Veterans. A multi-media show, On the Wings of Eagles, pays tribute to American courage. Four screens show scenes of combat from WWII to Desert Storm. Attached to the hotel casino, admission to the show and museum is FREE year-round! Information: 702-298-4200; 800-243-6846; Ramada Express Hotel Casino, 2121 S. Casino Dr. Laughlin, NV. 89029.
Atomic Testing Museum
The Testing Museum opened in Las Vegas with exhibits that chronicle the history of US nuclear weapons testing. This includes a realistically simulated atmospheric blast in Ground Zero Theater. The museum is at 755 East Flamingo Road and Swenson Street, just east of the Las Vegas Strip in the Frank H. Rogers Science & Technology Building. Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays 1 to 5 p.m. $10 for adults, $7 for seniors 65 and older, children 7 to 17 and members of the U.S. armed forces. Children 6 and under are admitted free.
Cowboy Trail Rides
Red Rock Canyon riding stable. Guided horseback riding, mustang viewing, campfire, music cowboy poetry. Information: 702-387-2457; 1211 S. Eastern Ave., Las Vegas 89104. Hours: 8:00 a.m.-dark, daily. Admission: $25.00 and up.
Guinness World of Records Museum
See the amazing facts and feats of the Guinness Book of Records brought to life via replicas, videos and hands-on displays. Information: 702-792-3766; 2780 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas 89019. Hours: 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., daily. Season: Year-round. Admission: Adults-$4.95; seniors, students and military-$3.95; children (12 and under)-$2.95.
Imperial Palace Auto Collection
Displayed in a plush, gallery-like setting are over 200 antique, classic and special-interest automobiles, including Model J Dussenbergs. Also a gift shop with memorabilia and books. Information: 702-794-3174; Fax 702-369-7430; www.autocollections.com or 3535 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas 89109. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m., daily. Season: Year-round. Admission: Adults-$6.95; seniors-$3.00; children (4-12)-$3.00; children (3 and under)-free.
Laughlin River Tours
Steamboats on the Colorado River. Available for weddings, special events and dinner cruises. Information: 702-298-1047; 800-228-9825; P.O. Box 29279, Laughlin 89029. Hours: 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m., daily. Season: Year-round; winter hours may vary. Admission: Adults-$10.00; children-$6.00; children (under 3)-free.
London Bridge Jet Boat Tours
Scheduled 6-hour round-trip jet boat tours from Laughlin to the London Bridge on Lake Havasu. Leaves from the Pioneer Casino. Information: (702) 298-5498 or (888) 505-3545; P.O. Box 508, Laughlin 89029. Hours: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. daily form mid-Feb.-Nov. $52.00 per person; over 65-$47.00; children (under 12)-$32.00.
Liberace Museum
Memorabilia from the world-famous pianist and legend, including a rare piano collection, automobiles, the world's largest rhinestone plus samples from his glittering wardrobe. Information: 702-798-5595; Fax 702-798-7386; www.liberace.org or 1775 E. Tropicana, Las Vegas 89119. Hours: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Mon.-Sat.; 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., Sun. Year-round except major holidays. Admission: Adults-$12.00; seniors-$8.00; students-$8.00; children (10 and under)-Free.
Star Trek: The Experience
See the USS Enterprise bridge, ride a turbo lift and experience a shuttlecraft mission. Enjoy dining, shopping and gaming in the 24th century. Information: 702-697-8751; 888-462-6535; www.startrekexp.com; Las Vegas Hilton, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. Hours: 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. daily, year-round, Admission: $14.95. Live long and prosper!
Zoological-Botanical Park
Endangered cats, the last of the Barbary Apes, chimpanzees, eagles, ostriches, emus, parrots, wallabies, flamingos, exotic reptiles. Information: 702-647-4685; http://www.lasvegaszoo.org
1775 N. Rancho Dr., Las Vegas 89106. Hours: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. daily, year-round. Adults-$5.95; seniors 62 and over and children 2-12 - $3.95; children (under 2)-free.
NEVADA FACTS
Capital: Carson City
Population: 1,998,257
Governor: Kenny Guinn(R, to January 2007)
Entered the Union: October 31, 1864
As the: 36th state
Motto: All for Our Country
Nickname: Sagebrush State, Silver State, and Battle-born State
Flower: Sagebrush
Bird: Mountain Bluebird
Song: Home Means Nevada
Sports Teams: None
Origin of Name: From a Spanish word meaning snowcapped
Major Industries:
Hay, Alfalfa Seeds, Barley, Wheat, and Potatoes; Gaming Equipment, Lawn and Garden Irrigation Devices, Titanium Products, Seismic and Machinery Monitoring Devices (Plus Divorce and Gambling!)
Historical Sites:
Las Vegas Mormon Fort, Stokes Castle in Austin, and the Pony Express Station in Elko
Points of Interest:
Hoover Dam, Pyramid Lake, Lake Tahoe, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Lehman Caves at the Great Basin National Park, Las Vegas, and Reno
Bordering States:
Nevada borders California, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Arizona.
If you tour Nevada, you will find that it contains an abundance of other sites and sounds just as exciting as the casinos and shows on the Las Vegas Strip. The Sagebrush State is more than Las Vegas, magic, showgirls and gambling, although there is plenty of glitz and glamour to enjoy in all that. Nevada is also the home of the London Bridge, Area 51, atomic testing history, The Star Trek Experience and the Pony Express!
In fact, the top 10 Cities visited in Nevada each year are these:
Top 10 Cities in Nevada
Las Vegas
Reno
Laughlin
North Las Vegas
Henderson
Carson City
Elko
Boulder City
Stateline
Mesquite
THE PONY EXPRESS LANDS
Among the beautiful desert country lays a particularly interesting spot near its center. The Pony Express region of Nevada stretches across US Route 50, tracing the historic Pony Express route that extended from St. Joseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California in the early 1860s. Some of my ancestors from Ireland and Scotland traveled this stretch of land to arrive in California at about the time of the Pony Express, and they were witness to its magic. This a region both reminiscent of the 19th century and firmly rooted the future, and the Pony Express will never die here.
Only a few towns exist now along US 50, called “The Loneliest Road in America” by the media. Lonely motorists and folks who leave the frenetic pace of the big city both are lulled by the tranquility in the magnificent peace of the desert. Pony Express lands are full of undisturbed natural creations and historic mining towns that you will enjoy. Going from east to west the next stop on US 50 is Great Basin National Park. Filled with giant bristlecone pines that grow only at elevations over 10,000 feet above sea level, these forests live up to 4,000 years. There are hiking trails leading to alpine lakes and Nevadan mountain tops worth seeing. Lehman Caves in the park displays stalactites and stalagmites that have been developed over several thousand years, perhaps as old as the earth itself. The town of Baker, five miles east of the park, welcomes you with several restaurants, a motel and a gas station.
About an hour northwest of Great Basin is Ely, an old copper mine town that makes a good base camp for trips to local recreation areas and historical sites. Ely has several restaurants, hotels and RV camp spaces, with murals that bring you up close to Nevada’s history. The Nevada Northern Railway Museum in Ely includes the rail yards and shops of the Nevada Northern Railway, a short line that ran for almost 80 years from 1906 to 1986. We wish it were still running today. The refurbished train depot includes a museum, a gift shop and rides on “The Ghost Train of Old Ely.” This would be great for those of you who love Halloween activities and steam engines. There is even the opportunity to drive a locomotive on a trip up the narrow mountain canyon. Exciting!
Seventy-eight miles to the west is Eureka, a 19th-century mining town founded in 1864. It still has many of its original buildings, including the Eureka Courthouse, opened in 1880. Across the way sits the Eureka Opera House, a renovated building that is now a convention and performing arts center. The Eureka Sentinel Museum displays local history and features the press equipment used to produce the town newspaper for 90 years from 1870 - 1960.
To the west is Austin, another mining camp. Silver was discovered in Austin, Nevada in 1862 and within a few years, Austin was the second largest community in the state. Don’t miss the three historic churches: St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, built in 1866; the Methodist Church, also 1866; and St. George’s Episcopal Church, 1878. Austin and the nearby Toiyabe, Toquima, and Hot Creek mountain ranges are popular with mountain bikers.
On the way west from Austin to Fallon, Sand Mountain is a two-mile-long, 600-foot-high sand dune that attracts dune buggies, dirt bikers and sand skiers. The Sand Mountain Pony Express Station is just south of the dune, a large rock enclosure used by Pony Express riders 150 years ago. Further west on US 50 is the Grimes Point Archeological Site and interpretive signs guide you along a trail lined with petroglyphs, which are the rock drawings made by Native American peoples living there from 5,000 B.C and 1,500 A.D.
MORE PONY EXPRESS LANDS ATTRACTIONS
BHP Mining Tours
Enjoy a mining video, guided tour of the mill and operations in the pit from an overlook; seven miles west of Ely on US 50. Call 775-289-7000; or P.O. Box 382, Ruth 89319. Hours: Call for hours and reservations. Year-round Admission: FREE.
McGill Drugstore
Explore the inventory of 50s and 60s memorabilia plus a working 1930 vintage soda fountain. Call 775-235-7082, 11 Fourth St., P. O. Box 757, McGill 89318. Hours: Call for information. Year-round Admission: FREE.
Eureka Opera House
Built in 1880, restored in 1994. Original 1924 hand-painted stage curtain. Unique historic experience. Information: 775-237-6006; P.O. Box 284, Eureka 89316. Hours: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Year-round except state holidays. Admission: FREE.
Eureka Sentinel Museum
In the old Eureka Sentinel building, site of the town's longest running newspaper, museum displays artifacts from 1870s lead and silver mining era. Information: 775-237-5010; P.O. Box 284, Eureka 89316. Hours: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Apr.-Sep., daily; Oct.-Mar., Tue.-Sat. Admission: Donation.
Nevada has my favorite! – Native American Indian Country.
Thousands of years ago, Lake Lahontan, an ancient inland sea covering parts of Northern Nevada and Utah, was full of fish while the land was roamed by mammoth, bison, antelope, deer and big cats. While ancient American peoples left few artifacts, they did create petroglyphs, the rock writings found throughout Nevada and the Western United States today. The etchings show a variety of designs and stick figures, big horned sheep, lizards, and other animals.
At Grimes Point east of Fallon on US 50, there are some very good petroglyphs. They can also be found at Valley of Fire State Park. As Nevada grew dry in the past, larger animals went extinct and the Native Great Basin Peoples adapted to the changes. Lake Lahontan receded and became two small lakes, Pyramid and Walker. The shores were called home by the Northern Paiute. To the South, the Southern Paiutes lived near Las Vegas Valley and the tributaries of the Colorado River. Other tribes, including Western Shoshone and Washo, settled in the mountains.
The descendents of the original Native Peoples continue to occupy their ancestral lands. Pyramid Lake north of Reno is on the Northern Paiute Indian reservation. Pyramid Lake Rd. (State Rt. 445) is a National Scenic Byway, the only federal scenic byway entirely on an Indian reservation. Pyramid Lake has some of the best fishing in Nevada and Pyramid Lake Visitor Center houses a great museum of natural history and Native culture.
Parts of Walker Lake and the town of Schurz are on Walker Lake Indian Reservation to the south. The Lake offers trophy fishing, dramatic desert landscapes, and wide-open spaces. Native tribes have been in Nevada for many thousands of years, but were preceded by a culture known as the “Anasazi” or ancient ones. These people built elaborate adobe villages along the Muddy and Virgin rivers. Today, you can visit the Lost City Museum in Overton, with Anasazi artifacts and adobe buildings and pit houses. The Nevada State Museum in Carson City has a large display of Native Nevadan artifacts and the Stewart Indian Cultural Center, south of Carson City, was a federal boarding school for Indians up until recently in 1980. Today, it is a museum for the school.
Nevada’s Native American nations are involved today in many profitable businesses, from Native American traditional crafts to golf ranges to smoke shops, tobacco being a specialty. The Las Vegas Paiute Resort, owned and operated by the Southern Paiute Nation, includes two championship golf courses just 20 miles northwest of Las Vegas.
MORE NATIVE AMERICAN INDIAN SITES TO SEE
Humboldt Museum
Three turn-of-the-century buildings with antique autos, farm collection and Native American exhibits. Information: 775-623-2912; Jungo Rd. and Maple Ave., P.O. Box 819, Winnemucca 89446. Hours: 10:00 a.m.-noon and 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., Mon.-Fri.; 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., Sat. Year-round except major holidays. Admission: Donation
Pershing County Marzen House Museum
An 1874 two-story house, mining equipment, home fixtures, Native American artifacts, Indian Cave exhibit. Information: 775-273-2115; 25 Marzen Ln., P.O. Box 212, Lovelock 89419. Hours: 9:00 a.m.-l:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri., Nov.-Apr.; 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Year-round Admission: Donation.
The Eagle's Nest
Panoramic vistas of the Ruby Mts., wagon/sleigh rides, barbeques, studio/gallery featuring Western art and memorabilia. Information: 702-744-7370; JC 30-449 Box 4, Elko 89801. Year-round Admission: Call for rates; reservations required.
Grapevine Canyon
Seven miles west of Laughlin, ancient Native American petroglyphs above the springs. Information: 702-298-3321; 800-452-8445; c/o Laughlin Visitors Bureau, 1555 S. Casino Dr., P.O. Box 502, Laughlin 89029.
Rainbow Canyon
Self-guided tour with map, petroglyphs, geologic features; allow at least two hours. Information: 775-726-8100; Bureau of Land Management, Caliente Field Station, U.S. Hwy. 93, P.O. Box 237, Caliente 89008.
Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
Wetland oasis supports rare fish, plants, native wildlife. Information: 775-372-5435; HCR 70, Box 610-Z, Amargosa 89020. Hours: Sunrise to sunset; Year-round Admission: FREE.
VIVA LAS VEGAS
No travel piece about Nevada can be complete without looking at Las Vegas. This city is the site of 18 of the 20 largest hotels in America and visitors will be overwhelmed by the entertainment, tours, shopping and dining. Las Vegas has more lights than any other city, and is an adult’s Disneyland of wonders. Visiting the Las Vegas Strip, you’ll see a pirate ship battle, an active volcano and laser light water shows. Hotel-casinos present ancient Egypt, King Arthur’s Court, Rome, Venice, New York, Monte Carlo and the tropics. There is 24-hour gaming, restaurants of the most famous chefs in the world and many a star-studded show. Downtown Vegas is enclosed by a canopy of lights for five blocks. Called the Fremont Street Experience, the canopy lights up night with powerful light and sound shows.
Las Vegas is also a center for history and the fine arts. Art and historic museums range from classic and contemporary art, to archaeological and anthropological exhibits of the Native American Peoples. And not to be ignored is the museum of Liberace! Amusement theme parks in Las Vegas pit do anything in the rest of the USA. Recreational sports nearby include golf, boating, hiking, cycling, rock climbing, car racing, and sand and snow skiing.
Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, formerly owned by Howard Hughes is now a retreat for outdoor concerts. Half an hour north of Las Vegas is Mount Charleston, like a garden island in a sea of desert. Visitors can stay cool their without air conditioning. In Boulder City, southeast of Las Vegas. is Hoover Dam, a 726-foot- high concrete dam that holds back Lake Mead. It is one of the seven man-made wonders of the world, with tours of its hydroelectric system completed in 1935. Lake Mead is actually the largest man-made lake in the Western Hemisphere. With Lake Mohave, it is in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, which offers five beaches and marinas, campgrounds, boat and Jet Ski rental, sightseeing boats, and other activities. Valley of Fire State Park is 55 miles to the northeast of Lake Mead, with bright red sandstone mountains and valleys.
Mesquite is a city located northeast of Vegas on the Virgin River, a resort with golf and spas, horses, trap shooting and indoor activities for which Nevada is famous. Mesquite is conveniently located for side trips to nearby Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks. In the extreme southern tip of Nevada on the Colorado River is Laughlin, which in 1966, consisted of just a small motel and restaurant that catered to local fishermen. Fishing is great and Laughlin is a lively resort full of 5-star hotels offering big-name entertainment. You can water ski, swim, boat or relax on the nearby beaches. Laughlin’s water taxis are available to take passengers from Arizona to Nevada and back. Make sure to visit a town halfway between Laughlin and Las Vegas: Searchlight. You’ll find an interesting little museum in Searchlight, full of mining memorabilia and local historical color.
MORE LAS VEGAS THAN MEETS THE EYE – DON’T MISS ANY OF THIS
Closing October 1, 2006 -- ELVIS-A-RAMA EXPERIENCE – Not much time left!
The Elvis-A-Rama is an 85-foot-long, 10-foot-high painted mural of the legendary life of Elvis Presley. It was painted by an obscure country music songwriter, Mitchell Torok. The mural was bought in 1994 by another obscure musician, Jimmy Velvet, and moved to Branson, Missouri. Four years after that it was bought by another Elvis collector and moved back to Vegas, where it now stands behind a velvet rope at a mall near the strip. The Elvis-A-Rama Experience displays celebrity autographs of Chet Akins, Archie Campbell, Sonny James, and Maria Shriver.
Elvis tribute performances are given in a small theater by Elvis impersonators. The original blue suede shoes are here, along with his first Cadillac and his turquoise karate outfit with the eagle rhinestone appliqués. One display holds the hotel bill from Elvis's first gig in Las Vegas, and shows that in two weeks he spent only $207.07. Meanwhile, Graceland has paid $68 million for Vegas property next to the Harley-Davidson Cafe, where an Elvis museum and casino resort is to be built.
Elvis-A-Rama Experience: 3401 Industrial Rd, Las Vegas, NV. One block west of The Strip West side of Industrial Rd, behind the Fashion Show Mall, just north of Spring Mountain Rd and Sands Ave. Admission: Adults $12.95 Hours: Until October 1, 2006 only! Phone: 702-309-7200)
American Heroes Veterans Museum
Priceless memorabilia recognize America's Veterans from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. The museum is open daily, 10 a.m. to 4 pm with a large WW II collection, and displays honoring Korea and Vietnam Veterans. A multi-media show, On the Wings of Eagles, pays tribute to American courage. Four screens show scenes of combat from WWII to Desert Storm. Attached to the hotel casino, admission to the show and museum is FREE year-round! Information: 702-298-4200; 800-243-6846; Ramada Express Hotel Casino, 2121 S. Casino Dr. Laughlin, NV. 89029.
Atomic Testing Museum
The Testing Museum opened in Las Vegas with exhibits that chronicle the history of US nuclear weapons testing. This includes a realistically simulated atmospheric blast in Ground Zero Theater. The museum is at 755 East Flamingo Road and Swenson Street, just east of the Las Vegas Strip in the Frank H. Rogers Science & Technology Building. Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays 1 to 5 p.m. $10 for adults, $7 for seniors 65 and older, children 7 to 17 and members of the U.S. armed forces. Children 6 and under are admitted free.
Cowboy Trail Rides
Red Rock Canyon riding stable. Guided horseback riding, mustang viewing, campfire, music cowboy poetry. Information: 702-387-2457; 1211 S. Eastern Ave., Las Vegas 89104. Hours: 8:00 a.m.-dark, daily. Admission: $25.00 and up.
Guinness World of Records Museum
See the amazing facts and feats of the Guinness Book of Records brought to life via replicas, videos and hands-on displays. Information: 702-792-3766; 2780 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas 89019. Hours: 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., daily. Season: Year-round. Admission: Adults-$4.95; seniors, students and military-$3.95; children (12 and under)-$2.95.
Imperial Palace Auto Collection
Displayed in a plush, gallery-like setting are over 200 antique, classic and special-interest automobiles, including Model J Dussenbergs. Also a gift shop with memorabilia and books. Information: 702-794-3174; Fax 702-369-7430; www.autocollections.com or 3535 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas 89109. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m., daily. Season: Year-round. Admission: Adults-$6.95; seniors-$3.00; children (4-12)-$3.00; children (3 and under)-free.
Laughlin River Tours
Steamboats on the Colorado River. Available for weddings, special events and dinner cruises. Information: 702-298-1047; 800-228-9825; P.O. Box 29279, Laughlin 89029. Hours: 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m., daily. Season: Year-round; winter hours may vary. Admission: Adults-$10.00; children-$6.00; children (under 3)-free.
London Bridge Jet Boat Tours
Scheduled 6-hour round-trip jet boat tours from Laughlin to the London Bridge on Lake Havasu. Leaves from the Pioneer Casino. Information: (702) 298-5498 or (888) 505-3545; P.O. Box 508, Laughlin 89029. Hours: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. daily form mid-Feb.-Nov. $52.00 per person; over 65-$47.00; children (under 12)-$32.00.
Liberace Museum
Memorabilia from the world-famous pianist and legend, including a rare piano collection, automobiles, the world's largest rhinestone plus samples from his glittering wardrobe. Information: 702-798-5595; Fax 702-798-7386; www.liberace.org or 1775 E. Tropicana, Las Vegas 89119. Hours: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Mon.-Sat.; 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., Sun. Year-round except major holidays. Admission: Adults-$12.00; seniors-$8.00; students-$8.00; children (10 and under)-Free.
Star Trek: The Experience
See the USS Enterprise bridge, ride a turbo lift and experience a shuttlecraft mission. Enjoy dining, shopping and gaming in the 24th century. Information: 702-697-8751; 888-462-6535; www.startrekexp.com; Las Vegas Hilton, 3000 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas 89109. Hours: 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. daily, year-round, Admission: $14.95. Live long and prosper!
Zoological-Botanical Park
Endangered cats, the last of the Barbary Apes, chimpanzees, eagles, ostriches, emus, parrots, wallabies, flamingos, exotic reptiles. Information: 702-647-4685; http://www.lasvegaszoo.org
1775 N. Rancho Dr., Las Vegas 89106. Hours: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. daily, year-round. Adults-$5.95; seniors 62 and over and children 2-12 - $3.95; children (under 2)-free.
NEVADA FACTS
Capital: Carson City
Population: 1,998,257
Governor: Kenny Guinn(R, to January 2007)
Entered the Union: October 31, 1864
As the: 36th state
Motto: All for Our Country
Nickname: Sagebrush State, Silver State, and Battle-born State
Flower: Sagebrush
Bird: Mountain Bluebird
Song: Home Means Nevada
Sports Teams: None
Origin of Name: From a Spanish word meaning snowcapped
Major Industries:
Hay, Alfalfa Seeds, Barley, Wheat, and Potatoes; Gaming Equipment, Lawn and Garden Irrigation Devices, Titanium Products, Seismic and Machinery Monitoring Devices (Plus Divorce and Gambling!)
Historical Sites:
Las Vegas Mormon Fort, Stokes Castle in Austin, and the Pony Express Station in Elko
Points of Interest:
Hoover Dam, Pyramid Lake, Lake Tahoe, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Lehman Caves at the Great Basin National Park, Las Vegas, and Reno
Bordering States:
Nevada borders California, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Arizona.
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