On the lookout for strange things in Nevada
For clients craving the stranger things in life, look no further than Nevada for some off-the-beaten-path trip ideas.
Travel Nevada just released an inaugural list of the state’s Seven Weirdest Wonders ranging from natural places that have to be visited to be believed to man-made oddities.
Visit the Republic of Molossia
Just a few minutes east of Nevada’s capital (Carson City), Molossia has been an official, independent, sovereign country inside of Nevada for more than 40 years. With 6.3 acres, Molossia has its own bizarre laws, as well as currency that’s tied to the value of cookie dough. Visitors can even have their passport stamped, as it’s recognized as a micronation, without having to fly overseas.
Take a drive to the International Car Forest of the Last Church
This open-air gallery comprises more than 40 rusted, graffitied cars. The International Car Forest of the Last Church was created by longtime Goldfield resident Mark Rippie, whose vision was to break the Guinness World Record for the world’s biggest car forest.
Clown around at The Clown Motel
The Clown Motel in Tonopah boasts what’s got to be the largest private collection of clown figurines and memorabilia under the sun. Even if you don’t stay the night, drop by the lobby, get drowned in clowns, and snap up some truly unique souvenirs from the mini gift shop in the corner.
Discover a museum like no other at Goldwell
Among some of the world’s most distinctive pieces of experiential art is the Goldwell Open Air Museum. More an experience than a museum, Goldwell boasts seven colossal structures, including a ghostly, life-size version of Leonardo Da Vinci’s painting of the Last Supper; a 25-foot pink woman constructed of cinder blocks; and a gleaming tangle of chrome car accessories. Forget the velvet ropes of a traditional museum – visitors are encouraged to step right into these pieces of art. This stop is definitely photo worthy.
Step back in time at Garnet Hill
Think semi-precious gemstone treasure hunt meets an extinct volcano. This incredible public recreation area, that’s dubbed Garnet Hill by locals, has drawn national attention for its beautifully rich, dark red garnets, which were scattered after a volcano erupted 32-40 million years ago. Once an active volcanic site, which erupted approximately 32-40 million years ago, visitors have the chance to hand-pick gems scattered atop high-desert dirt.
Be on the lookout for extraterrestrial creatures at the Alien Research Centre
Don’t be alarmed to come across a giant two-story silver alien. As the gateway to the Extraterrestrial Highway and Area 51, the Alien Research Center is one Weird Nevada stop you’re definitely not going to want to miss out on.
Witness a spewing geyser
Imagine digging a hole in the middle of the desert and suddenly getting sprayed by hot water as if you hit a pipe. You walk away, only to learn that years later, that hole is still spewing, but is now a 12-foot geyser with a rainbow of coloured rocks surrounding it. That’s essentially how Fly Geyser came to be, and, after more than 100 years since the first “pipe” was hit, people can still come see this ever-spewing natural fountain in all its beauty.
