Unionville NevadaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Unionville, Nevada.
1. Unionville Ghost Town
HISTORIC MINING SETTLEMENT
Unionville Ghost Town is a well-preserved relic of Nevada's mining boom, known for its picturesque canyon setting and 19th-century ruins. Visitors can wander past abandoned structures, remnants of old mills, and original adobe buildings, offering a vivid glimpse into the state's frontier days. The town's peaceful landscape and storied past make it a favorite destination for history enthusiasts and ghost town explorers.
2. Mark Twain's Cabin
AUTHOR'S HISTORIC RESIDENCE
Mark Twain's Cabin is a humble stone structure where the famed writer Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, lived briefly during his Western adventures. The cabin stands as a testament to Twain's colorful time in Nevada, which he later recounted in his book 'Roughing It.' This small landmark invites literary fans to step back into the mid-1800s and experience a part of American literary history.
3. Buena Vista Canyon
LUSH SCENIC VALLEY
Buena Vista Canyon surrounds Unionville with verdant meadows, towering mountains, and year-round streams, creating a tranquil escape from the desert. The area is known for its beautiful yards, flowering trees, and small ponds frequented by ducks and geese. Visitors enjoy the serene, green landscape that provides a striking contrast to Nevada's arid scenery.
4. Unionville Orchards
HISTORIC FRUIT FARMS
Unionville's historic orchards remain from the community's 20th-century agricultural period, when irrigation transformed the canyon into productive farmland. These orchards contain various fruit trees planted by early settlers, which still bloom each spring and summer. Travelers often appreciate the contrast between the lush greenery and the ghost town's rugged mining backdrop.
5. Old Unionville Schoolhouse
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL SITE
The Old Unionville Schoolhouse is one of the remaining structures from the town's boom era, representing the community's commitment to education even in remote Nevada. Though no longer in use, its weathered facade tells stories of the many children who once learned there. The site invites visitors to imagine daily life in a long-vanished mining town.
6. Unionville Cemetery
FRONTIER ERA BURIAL GROUND
The Unionville Cemetery offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of the pioneers and miners who once called the canyon home. Tombstones, some dating back to the 1800s, mark the resting places of early settlers and reflect the hardships of frontier life. The cemetery provides a quiet spot for reflection amidst the hills of Nevada.
7. Old Stone Jail
FRONTIER LAW AND ORDER
The Old Stone Jail stands as a rugged reminder of Unionville's days as a bustling mining center. Built from local stone, the small building once housed criminals and kept order during the town's lawless boom years. Its sturdy design and local lore attract history buffs and fans of the Old West.
8. The Old Pioneer Garden B&B Guest Ranch
RUSTIC BED AND BREAKFAST
The Old Pioneer Garden B&B Guest Ranch invites visitors to experience Unionville's charm with comfortable accommodations in a renovated historic property. Guests enjoy home-cooked meals, welcoming hosts, and lush gardens that reflect the area's agricultural heritage. The ranch is a popular lodging choice for travelers exploring the town and surrounding canyon.
9. Unionville General Store (Historic Site)
CENTER OF MINING COMMUNITY
The Unionville General Store was once a vital hub for miners and townsfolk, stocked with supplies essential to daily life. Although the original store no longer operates, its preserved facade and foundation help tell the story of the town's commercial past. The structure is a favorite stop for those interested in local history and ghost town architecture.
10. Dirt Road to Unionville
SCENIC DRIVE EXPERIENCE
The dirt road leading to Unionville is part of the adventure, taking drivers through beautiful canyons and past dramatic mountain vistas. The route is suitable for most vehicles and offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path journey into one of Nevada's oldest settlements. This scenic drive is celebrated for its quiet beauty and sense of history.
11. Pershing County Courthouse (Nearby)
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Pershing County Courthouse in Lovelock is known for its striking circular architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1921, it exemplifies early 20th-century civic design and remains a focal point for the surrounding community. The courthouse attracts architecture enthusiasts and those interested in Nevada's legal history.
12. Lovers Lock Plaza
UNIQUE ROMANTIC TRADITION
Lovers Lock Plaza in Lovelock invites couples to symbolize their love by attaching a padlock to specially designed structures. This charming tradition has made the plaza a popular stop for travelers seeking a memorable, romantic experience. The site is surrounded by local shops and cafes, perfect for an afternoon stroll.
13. Cowpoke Café
HEARTY AMERICAN DINING
Cowpoke Café is a well-loved dining spot in Lovelock, serving up classic American fare in a friendly, rustic atmosphere. Known for generous portions and homemade pies, it's a favorite stop for locals and highway travelers alike. The café's warm service and traditional cooking make it a must-visit restaurant in the region.
14. Winnemucca Sand Dunes
EXPANSIVE DESERT PLAYGROUND
The Winnemucca Sand Dunes stretch for miles just outside the city, offering a vast landscape for off-roading, sandboarding, and photography. These iconic Nevada dunes attract adventure seekers and families alike, providing stunning sunset views. The dunes are accessible year-round and are a popular day trip from Unionville.
15. Martin Hotel
HISTORIC BASQUE RESTAURANT
The Martin Hotel in Winnemucca is renowned for its authentic Basque cuisine, served family-style in an atmospheric old building. Guests savor hearty dishes alongside stories of immigrant shepherds and the hotel's storied past. It is a culinary destination for regional travelers looking for a unique dining experience.