Hiko NevadaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hiko, Nevada.
1. Basin and Range National Monument
NATURAL DESERT WILDERNESS
Basin and Range National Monument offers visitors stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems in the Nevada desert. The monument spans over 704,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness with rugged mountain ranges, valleys, and unique flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography in this pristine natural setting.
2. Alien Research Center
EXTRATERRESTRIAL GIFT SHOP
The Alien Research Center is a quirky roadside attraction located along Nevada's Extraterrestrial Highway. This silver metallic building topped with a giant alien figure houses a gift shop filled with alien-themed souvenirs, memorabilia, and Area 51 information. Visitors can learn about local UFO lore while browsing through an extensive collection of extraterrestrial merchandise.
3. E.T. Fresh Jerky
ALIEN-THEMED SNACK STOP
E.T. Fresh Jerky is a popular roadside stop offering a variety of delicious jerky flavors with an extraterrestrial theme. The shop features colorful alien murals on its exterior and a wide selection of specialty jerky, snacks, and beverages inside. Travelers along the Extraterrestrial Highway often make this a must-visit destination for unique photos and tasty road trip provisions.
4. Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge
DESERT OASIS WETLANDS
Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge is a lush wetland oasis in the Nevada desert, located near Hiko. The refuge encompasses more than 5,000 acres of lakes, marshes, and meadows that provide crucial habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, fishing, hiking, and camping in this serene natural setting.
5. Nevada State Historical Marker #206
PIONEER HERITAGE SITE
Nevada State Historical Marker #206 commemorates the rich heritage of Hiko and its significance in Nevada's history. This marker stands as a testament to the pioneers and indigenous cultures that shaped the region. Visitors can learn about the area's past while enjoying the serene surroundings that have witnessed generations of Nevada history.
6. The Black Mailbox
UFO ENTHUSIAST LANDMARK
The Black Mailbox is a legendary landmark along the Extraterrestrial Highway that has become a pilgrimage site for UFO enthusiasts. Despite its name, the current mailbox is actually white and serves as an unofficial meeting point for those hoping to spot extraterrestrial activity. Visitors often leave notes, take photos, or simply pay homage to this iconic spot near Area 51.
7. Little A'Le'Inn
ALIEN-THEMED RESTAURANT BAR
Little A'Le'Inn is a quirky restaurant and bar that embraces the extraterrestrial theme of Nevada's UFO Highway. This establishment offers hearty meals, cold drinks, and walls adorned with alien memorabilia and photographs of supposed UFO sightings. Visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere while chatting with locals and fellow travelers about extraterrestrial encounters and Area 51 theories.
8. Alien Cowpoke Gasoline & General Store
OTHERWORLDLY CONVENIENCE STOP
Alien Cowpoke Gasoline & General Store combines the practicality of a service station with the whimsy of alien-themed decor. This unique establishment provides essential supplies, fuel, and snacks for travelers along the remote Extraterrestrial Highway. Visitors appreciate both the necessary amenities and the opportunity to purchase unusual souvenirs that commemorate their journey through Nevada's UFO country.
9. Lunar Crater
ASTRONAUT TRAINING GROUND
Lunar Crater is a massive 430-foot-deep volcanic crater where Apollo astronauts once trained for moon missions. This National Natural Landmark offers visitors a chance to explore a landscape so similar to the moon that NASA used it to prepare for lunar expeditions. Hikers can descend into the crater or view it from above, experiencing a geological wonder that connects Earth exploration with space exploration.
10. Tonopah Historic Mining Park
SILVER CAMP HERITAGE
Tonopah Historic Mining Park spans 100 acres atop the original mining claims that birthed the town in 1900. Visitors can explore original mining buildings, equipment, and underground tunnels that tell the story of Nevada's silver rushing past. The park offers both self-guided and guided tours that bring to life the experiences of miners who sought fortune in the 'Queen of the Silver Camps.'
11. The Mizpah Hotel
HAUNTED HISTORIC LODGING
The Mizpah Hotel is a beautifully restored historic lodging establishment known for its elegant accommodations and paranormal activity. Built in 1907 during Tonopah's mining boom, this luxurious hotel features Victorian-inspired rooms, a casino, and restaurants that transport guests to Nevada's glamorous past. Ghost enthusiasts specifically request the fifth floor, hoping to encounter the famous 'Lady in Red' spirit who reportedly haunts the premises.
12. The Clown Motel
AMERICA'S SCARIEST ACCOMMODATION
The Clown Motel houses one of the world's largest private collections of clown figurines and memorabilia in its lobby and throughout its premises. Located next to an old cemetery, this uniquely themed accommodation has been featured on numerous ghost hunting shows and attracts thrill-seekers from around the world. Overnight guests can request specific rooms based on their comfort level with the clown theme and potential paranormal activity.
13. Tonopah Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESERT OASIS
Tonopah Brewing Company offers handcrafted beers and delicious barbecue in the heart of central Nevada. The brewery features a rotating selection of house-made beers that pair perfectly with their smoked meats and comfort food favorites. Visitors appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and quality refreshments after a day of exploring Nevada's high desert attractions.
14. Tonopah Stargazing Park
CELESTIAL VIEWING PARADISE
Tonopah Stargazing Park provides one of the darkest night skies in America, perfect for observing celestial objects with exceptional clarity. The designated viewing area includes concrete pads for telescopes and informational signage about constellations and astronomical phenomena. Visitors can bring their own equipment or participate in organized stargazing events led by astronomy experts throughout the year.
15. Overland Hotel & Saloon
HISTORIC HAUNTED LODGING
The Overland Hotel & Saloon is a historic establishment dating back to Pioche's wild western heyday, offering both accommodations and dining. Known for its paranormal activity, the hotel requires guests to specifically request ghost-free rooms if they prefer not to experience unexplained phenomena during their stay. Visitors can enjoy the authentic western atmosphere, hearty meals at the saloon, and perhaps an encounter with the spirits that reportedly linger from the town's rough-and-tumble past.