LIFE

Memorial Day destination: Visit the Nevada town voted most underrated in the state

Portrait of Carly Sauvageau Carly Sauvageau
Reno Gazette Journal

If you're looking for a Silver State destination for Memorial Day weekend, the bright lights of Reno or Las Vegas may be on your list. But as the seventh-largest state in the nation, Nevada has a lot to offer outside of its urban centers.

WorldAtlas, a geography-focused website, recently released a list of the eight most underrated towns in Nevada for 2025.

"For those seeking a new experience in 2025, any of the destinations discussed here are sure to provide it," WorldAtlas wrote. "Whether it's a lesser-known park to explore or a chance to discover some off-the-beaten-path historic landmarks, these highly underrated Nevada towns should definitely be on the radar."

Here's a look at what town got No. 1 and how the other seven stacked up.

What is the most underrated town in Nevada? What is Ely known for?

WorldAtlas named Ely as Nevada's most underrated town. The rural community in northeastern Nevada began as a copper mining town but has also been a major player in other parts of the Silver State's history. It was once a stop on the Pony Express and a hub for the Northern Nevada Railway — now a museum offering rides on historic trains.

Ely's Renaissance Village, an area of "restored historic homes that highlight the diverse immigrant communities that have shaped the region over the centuries," was also noted as a significant place to visit in Ely by WorldAtlas. The site also recommended the White Pine Public Museum, home to pioneer-era artifacts including a reconstructed 19th-century schoolhouse.

For outdoor recreation enthusiasts, Ely is the most populated town near Great Basin National Park, located less than an hour away. The park is home to several natural wonders, including the Lehman Caves, ancient bristlecone pines and Nevada's tallest peak.

Ely, Nev., on June 9, 2018.

What are the most underrated towns in Nevada, according to WorldAtlas?

  1. Ely
  2. Tonopah
  3. Gardnerville
  4. Caliente
  5. Wells
  6. Pioche
  7. Austin
  8. Lovelock

Where is Ely?

Ely is near Great Basin National Park in northeastern Nevada. It is the largest town and county seat of White Pine County.

How far is Ely from Reno?

Ely is about 320 miles from Reno — a 5-hour drive.

How do you pronounce Ely?

Ely is pronounced EE-Lee, not EE-Lie.