More than Las Vegas: Neon Gems of Nevada
Never go on a road trip with me unless you’re prepared to pull off the road whenever I see a neon sign, abandoned building, or something weird. When Patrick and I weren’t on freeways, we took many backroads and old highways during our trip, and even though we had made this drive before, we still spied signs we hadn’t seen previously. We took so many photos during this trip I’m splitting up the “random roadside” snaps into three different posts, and today I bring you the first!
Cactus Jack’s Senator Club, 420 N. Carson Street, Carson City. Operational.
Carson Nugget, 507 N. Carson Street, Carson City. Operational.
The Carson Nugget opened in 1954 and remains one of the largest casinos in Carson City, located in the heart of town.
Evergreen Trailer Park, 12955 S. Virginia Street, Reno. Operational.
Merry Wink Motel, 12901 S. Virginia Street, Reno. Operational.
Ho Hum Motel, 1025 S. Virginia Street #2417, Reno. Operational.
Pony Express Lodge, 2406 Prater Way, Sparks. Operational.
This is quite possibly one of my favorite neon signs simply because of its massive size and animation. The site of the Pony Express Lodge was originally home to Cremer’s Auto Court, which opened in 1933. Later it was purchased by Raymond I. “Pappy” Smith of Harolds Club. Under Smith it became Harolds Pony Express and the property grew, with slot machines in the lobby even! However since its heyday it has had a rotating door of owners.
Fallon Theatre, 71 S. Maine Street, Fallon. Operational.
According to Cinema Treasures, the Fallon opened as the New Rex in 1920, becoming the Fallon in 1930. Today it serves as a cinema and live performance venue as it continues to be restored.
151 E. Park Street. #3443, Fallon.
This sign once stood on Highway 50, but was relocated in 2013 and became the namesake of the Lariat Courtyard at Oats Park Arts Center.
The I.H. Kent Co. Inc., 260 N. Maine Street, Fallon. Operational.
Today known as Kent’s Supply and has been servicing the area since 1892.
Sunset Motel, 1135 Cornell Avenue, Lovelock. Operational.
Sierra Motel. Closed and partially demolished.
For the best view of the arch: 1355 Cornell Avenue, Lovelock.
For the former office and “Motel” spire: 1370 Dartmouth Avenue, Lovelock.
The Griddle, 460 W. Winnemucca Boulevard, Winnemucca. Operational.
Orovada Store, 24990 US-95, Orovada, Nevada. Abandoned.
You’ll notice Las Vegas, the neon capital of America is missing here, well that’s because it will be getting its own dedicated blog post in the near future! So stay tuned!
If you choose to visit and photograph these locations, please remember to be respectful. Many of these signs are located on or near residences. I always abide by “No Trespassing” signs and use my telephoto to get close-up shots.
Want more from in and around these areas? Check out the posts below!
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I just read your recent blog post “More Than Las Vegas: Neon Gems of Nevada” and wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it! As a fellow road trip aficionado, I loved learning about some of the unique, offbeat neon signage that exists outside of the Vegas Strip.
You have a real knack for finding quirky roadside attractions and shining a spotlight on their history and charm. I especially loved your photos of the retro neon signs from Nelson’s Landing Bar & Motel and Twin Lakes Lodge – they are such iconic symbols of classic Americana. And I had no idea that Ely, Nevada had such a treasure trove of preserved neon!
Your tips for exploring Nevada’s “Neon Boneyard” were fantastic. I appreciate you including practical details like guided tour schedules and highlighting can’t-miss photo spots for capturing these neon wonders. The glimpse you provided into Nevada’s Route 50 made me want to get out on that lonesome highway myself!
Thanks for taking me on a virtual road trip to discover some of Nevada’s neon gems. You’ve inspired me to seek out my own offbeat finds on my next Southwest adventure. Keep up the fantastic travel writing!
I loved reading your post highlighting some of the classic neon signs found throughout Nevada beyond just the Las Vegas Strip. As a neon enthusiast myself, I’m always seeking out unique vintage signs when I travel in Nevada.
The photos you shared of the neon cowgirl in Elko, the Snowshoe Thompson sign in Genoa, and the gigantic neon cowboy in Ely captured some quintessential Nevada neon that I’d love to see in person someday. I also appreciated you drawing attention to the Neon Museum locations in Reno and Boulder City – they look like fascinating places to explore neon history outside of the famous Las Vegas museum.
Your tips on the best times to photograph these signs (magic hour and night) are much appreciated too! I’ll have to plan my next Nevada road trip around timing for ideal lighting conditions to really make those neon colors pop.
Thanks for showing that Nevada has so much more spectacular neon to appreciate beyond the Vegas Strip. I love the small town vintage charm of many of the signs you highlighted. Your post makes me eager to get out and continue discovering Nevada’s neon gems!
Let me know if you come across any other classic neon signs in your future travels through Nevada. I’d enjoy seeing what other hidden neon treasures are out there!