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!

I Break for Vintage Neon

The Art of Reno’s Old Motel Signs