Nevada is more than casinos and the Strip, it has plenty of activities for lovers of all kinds.
One couldn't mention Nevada without discussing Las Vegas. In fact, an entire week's vacation can be spent visiting the casinos alone (and you still wouldn't get to see them all), but Las Vegas is so much more than that. For instance, what nicer way is there to spend an evening than watching the Fountains at the Bellagio in all their splendor? Every thirty minutes the world's most famous fountains put on a breathtaking choreographed display to the sounds of opera, show tunes and classical music.
While in Las Vegas, be sure to head down town to see the Fremont Street Experience, a canopy of lights stretching four blocks long. Hundreds of people experience the sights and sounds of lights and music nightly. In between shows, view one of the many performances taking place along the open-air pedestrian mall. Certainly, this is one attraction that's not to be missed.
The Nevada Symphony Orchestra, also knows as the Las Vegas Symphony Orchestra, performs to sold out crowds at the University of Las Vegas' Artemus Hamm Hall. In late summer, outdoor concerts are held in Summerlin at the Hills Park. Reserve tickets early.
Less than an hour's drive from Las Vegas is Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Lake Mead, America's largest man-made reservoir plays host year round to boaters, hikers, fishermen and sun worshippers. Lake Mead is also the home of Hoover Dam. Tours of Hoover Dam are offered daily, except for Christmas and Thanksgiving. If you're not interested in a tour, it's worth while to just stop by and take in the view.
The Wild Island Family Adventure Park isn't just for families. There's plenty for the thrill-seeking couple to enjoy as well. Northern Nevada's biggest family amusement complex includes miniature golf courses, a water park and a couple of racetracks.
The Southern Nevada Zoo-Botanical Park is a three-acre park located 15 miles from the Las Vegas strip. Here, one can find over 150 species of plants and animals including endangered cats, the last family of Barbary Apes in the country, eagles, exotic reptiles and rare plants. The zoo also offers eco-tours via jeep or bus, where one can check out ghost towns, a mining district and collect gems.
The Pahrump Valley Winery offers more than just opportunities to taste their award winning wines. A leisurely stroll through the rose garden to the gazebo provides the perfect setting for any romantic occasion. There's live jazz on an outdoor stage, an elegant restaurant and cookouts, grape stomps and concerts with dancing under the stars. For an intimate evening, it doesn't get any better than this.
Like Las Vegas, Reno is more than casinos. With Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Mountains close by, Reno is surrounded by beauty. Golfers can enjoy one of several top-notch golf courses and history buffs will enjoy walking the pony express trails or visiting Virginia City. While in town be sure to visit The Nevada Museum of Art, the oldest arts organization in Nevada and the only nationally accredited art museum in the state.
Lake Tahoe is famous for being a year round vacation destination. Depending on the time of year, one can play golf, boat, mountain bike or ski and that's not all. Take a riverboat cruise or go ballooning. Hike along the Tahoe Rim Trail, which encompasses Lake Tahoe. Take in breathtaking views and wildflowers in the summer and changing foliage in the fall. If you're planning on staying awhile, rent a house or cabin. No matter the climate, Lake Tahoe has something for everyone.
Don't let the ominous name fool you. Visitors to Death Valley National Park are treated to beautiful displays of snow-covered mountains, wild flowers and sand dunes. Death Valley is not only one of the hottest places in the world, but it's also the driest spot in North America. This shouldn't stop you from enjoying the park, however. Death Valley offers trails for hiking, mountain biking and four wheel drive vehicles. Guided tours are also available.
As you can see, there's more to Nevada than casinos and flashing lights. If you're looking for a romantic vacation together, Nevada has so much to offer. Tour an old ghost or mining town. Visit historical museums and view archeological treasures. In the summer you can camp, hike and fish. In the winter enjoy some of the country's best skiing. You can even get married in one of the state's many quaint wedding chapels. What could be more romantic than that?
