29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Elko, NV

Are you a tourist or local exploring fun and best things to do in Elko, Nevada, Look no further! You’re at the right place as we will unveil an extensive list of the best and most fun things to do in Elko, NV, in this guide to make the most of your time in this picturesque city.

Elko is the county seat of Elko County and the principal city of the Elko Micropolitan Statistical Area which covers Elko and Eureka counties. Known as the largest city in the County, Elko boasts several points of interest and landmarks.

This picturesque city is home to Great Basin College, the National Weather Service, the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, the Western Folklife Center, and a lot more attractions offering access to recreations like hiking, skiing, hunting, and other fun and educative activities.

Whether you crave water adventures, historical explorations, or artistic pursuits, Elko has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore exciting attractions to make your trip to this town a memorable one.

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29 Best and Fun Things To Do In Elko, NV (2024)

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1.  Northeastern Nevada Museum

Begin your Elko expedition with a visit to the Northeastern Nevada Museum, a treasure trove showcasing the rich history and culture of northeastern Nevada, offering unique and educational things to do in Elko, NV, for art lovers and history enthusiasts.

Established in 1869, this museum boasts a large collection of historical archives and a 4,000-volume library.

The museum features six galleries showcasing a diverse collection including wildlife dioramas, fascinating exhibits on regional art, paleontology, vintage firearms, and artifacts from the area’s first inhabitants, including the Shoshone and Paiute people, Chinese immigrants, pioneers, and Basque settlers.

As you visit the Northeastern Nevada Museum, enjoy an immersive and educational experience by exploring the wildlife dioramas, and learn about the fascinating story of northeastern Nevada, from prehistoric times to the present day.

Address: 1515 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

2. Western Folklife Center

Visiting the Western Folklife Center, a vibrant cultural hub dedicated to keeping the spirit of the American West alive should make your bucket list of entertaining and educative things to do in Elko, NV.

Established in 1890, this cultural center boasts an exhibition gallery, a 300-seater theater, a historic saloon, a 20-seat black box theater, and a gift shop. Also, the center offers a subscription-based streaming service featuring documentaries, performances, and educational programs about the American West.

On your visit, explore the rotating and permanent exhibits that showcase traditional Western craft, cowboy gear, ranch life, and American Indian art reflecting the heritage of northeastern Nevada, catch a performance at the 300-seat theater, featuring everything from plays and concerts to poetry readings and film screenings that celebrate the Western spirit.

For visitors in January, don’t miss out on the crown jewel- the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, a renowned event featuring poetry, music, storytelling, and cowboy culture at its finest.

Address: 501 Railroad Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

3. Sherman Station Visitor Center

Located in downtown Elko, the Shaman Station Visitors Center is one of the must-visit attractions for anyone seeking information and things to do in Elko, NV. Thousand of travelers are welcomed each year, especially during the peak tourist seasons.

Established in 1875, the visitor center features a 2-story ranch house with a vast collection of brochures and maps to help plan your exploration of Elko and the surrounding area, a blacksmith shop, a creamery, and even a one-room schoolhouse.

At the visitor center, you’ll find details about nearby dining, shopping, accommodations, places to go, trips, events, and other fun and educational things to do in Elko, NV, for all ages. Don’t forget to explore the gift shop, where you can discover unique items exclusive to the area.

Address: 1405 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

4. Cowboy Arts and Gear Museum

Delve into the rich history of cowboy culture and Elko’s role in its development at the Cowboy Arts and Gear Museum, a treasure trove for anyone interested in the artistry and history of the American cowboy.

Established in 2016, the museum house exhibits showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of G.S. Garcia, featuring saddles adorned with intricate silverwork and precious stones, cowboy gears like saddles, chaps, spurs, and other equipment essential for working the range.

Cowboy Arts and Gear Museum occasionally offers workshops where you can try your hand at leather stamping, silver engraving, or other traditional cowboy skills. Have a memorable experience of the skill and dedication required to create these functional works of art.

Enjoy live demonstrations by expert saddle makers, silversmiths, and other artisans, allowing visitors to see these time-honored crafts in action.

Address: 542 Commercial Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

5. Great Basin College

Established in 1967, the Great Basin College is a fascinating stop for visitors and locals exploring free things to do in Elko, NV.

Great Basin College offers a unique glimpse into the world of higher education in rural Nevada. Spanning 86,500 square miles, this college boasts several architectural buildings used for different events.

While on your visit, explore the fun activities going on at the campus, attend lectures and cultural events, visit the library, grab lunch at the college cafeteria, or just enjoy the vibrant college town atmosphere.

Address: 1500 College Pkwy, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

6. Duncan LittleCreek Gallery & the Gallery Bar

A visit to the Duncan LittleCreek Gallery & the Gallery Bar, a vibrant cultural hub nestled in the heart of Elko proffers a variety of fun and educational things to do in Elko, NV, for everyone.

The gallery features various mediums like paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, pottery, and other works portraying the craftsmanship of local, regional, and national artists.

This unique establishment combines two distinct experiences under one roof, while on your visit, explore different exhibits, meet up with friends or family for an evening of conversation, drinks, and art appreciation, and attend some events like the open mic music night.

Unwind and relax at the Gallery Bar, a space with a cozy ambiance and smoke-free space boasting an extensive selection of beverages and snacks to satisfy every taste.

Address: 516 Commercial Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

7. Elko County Library

One of the most educational things to do in Elko, NV for everyone is to visit the Elko Public Library, a vibrant space with tons of literary resources.

The library offers extensive books and media collection, free Wi-Fi and public computers, children’s from, meeting and study rooms, and a friendly and knowledgeable staff to meet your needs and interests.

Free programs and events like author talks, book clubs, and educational workshops are always hosted by the library, making it one of the free things to do in Elko, NV, today.

Address: 720 Court Street, Elko, NV, United States.

8. Modz Arcade

Exploring Modz Arcade, a haven for gamers of all ages is among the list of exciting things to do in Elko, NV, today with a vibrant atmosphere filled with classic and modern arcade games to keep you entertained for hours.

This attraction boasts features such as arcade games, modern video games including racing simulators, fighting games, and first-person shooters, redemption games, energetic atmosphere, perfect for a fun outing with friends or family.

Engage in game challenges with family and friends, win tickets when you play redemption games, and host birthday parties at the arcade as the attraction offers an exciting and affordable entertainment option for visitors and residents.

Address: 345 4th Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

9. Rubies Sports Bar & Nightclub

Rubies Sports Bar & Nightclub is a one-stop shop for entertainment offering a plethora of things to do in Elko, NV, for adults, whether as a sports fanatic, a casual drinker, or a night owl looking to dance the night away, Rubies has something for everyone.

This attraction features a sports bar during the day showing major games on their numerous TVs, and at night a buzzing nightclub featuring pool and table games, events and themed nights, karaoke nights, and other special events to keep things interesting.

Unwind and relax at Rubies Sports Bar & Nightclub a great place to have some fun and experience Elko’s nightlife while enjoying the exciting events.

Address: 442 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

10. Route 40 Village & Antique Co

One of the best and most unique things to do in Elko, NV, today is to explore Route 40 Village & Antique Co, a haven for antique and vintage keepsakes.

This vibrant attraction features an array of antiques, collectibles, and vintage discoveries including jewelry pieces or eye-catching vintage toys, old photographs, postcards, or historical memorabilia that cut across different epochs, fostering nostalgic and thrilling feelings.

You can also discover distinctive home decor items to add a touch of vintage charm to your space, including lamps, mirrors, artwork, and decorative objects.

Address: 350 W Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

11. Elko Junction

Unearth a plethora of fun and exciting things to do in Elko, NV, when you visit the Elko Junction, a comprehensive shopping hub offering a variety of stores, restaurants, and services to cater to your shopping needs.

Located in the heart of Elko, this one-stop shopping mall allows for convenient shopping for everyday essentials, clothing, home goods, and pet supplies. Browse through this unique shopping center, grab a bite to eat at one of the Elko Junction’s restaurants or fast-food chains, and enjoy a stress-free and productive shopping trip.

Address: 2755 Mountain City Hwy, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

12. UEC Cinema 6

Catching your favorite movie at the UEC Cinema 6 is one of the most romantic things to do in Elko, NV, at night for couples.

Located at the heart of Elko, this cinema features 6 screens showing a variety of movies simultaneously, including new releases, family favorites, and independent films.

Enjoy a classic movie theater experience with a selection of popcorn, candy, nachos, drinks, and other concession stand staples to complete your cinema experience

Address: 1145 Connolly Drive, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

13. 7018 Brewery

As a beer enthusiast, exploring 7018 Brewery,  shouldn’t miss from your bucket list of fun things to do in Elko, NV, today.

Nestled within the Henderson Bank Building, the brewery prides itself on beers brewed in-house, featuring a different selection of beers, merging the various styles to serve your taste buds. 

14. Ruby View Golf Course

One of the fun things to do in Elko, NV, this weekend is booking a tee time at the Ruby View Golf Course.

This golf haven caters to all golfing mastery levels with a fair challenge. Situated on a large acre of land, the 18-hole golf course spans  5332 yards from the back tees with 117 slopes and plays to a 71 par on the blue and white tees, and the red tees play as a par72 course.

The Ruby View Golf Course features stunning views of the Ruby Mountains, a challenging but fair course, a driving range, a putting green, a pro shop, a full-service restaurant, and a bar.

Address: 2100 Ruby View Dr, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

15. Lamoille Canyon Scenic Drive

One of the free outdoor things to do near Elko, NV, today is to embark on a scenic drive along Lamoille Canyon Scenic Drive, where breathtaking vistas of the Ruby mountains, forests, and meadows. await.

This 12-mile paved road winds through the heart of the Ruby Mountains in Elko County, offering breathtaking views of towering cliffs, rocky outcrops,  lush meadows, stands of aspen trees, and pullouts along the road where you can stop and take in the views or go for a short hike.

The Lamoille Canyon Scenic Drive is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, so while you visit, enjoy a scenic drive, a hike, a picnic, or just relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Address:  NF-660, Spring Creek, NV 89815, United States. 

16. Gold Dust West Casino

Exploring Gold Dust West Casino, an exclusive destination, is one of the fun things to do in Elko, NV, for adults.

The attraction offers elegant accommodations with stunning views, plush furnishings, modern amenities, a casino with diverse table games, slot machines, and a poker room.

The Gold Dust Casino also features award-winning dining options, live entertainment, including live music and comedy shows, a spa, and a salon.

Address: 1660 Mountain City Hwy, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

17. Jarbidge National Monument

The Jarbidge National Monument, located about 70 miles north of Elko offers a plethora of free fun things to do in Elko, NV.

Established in 1964, this landscape is characterized by towering mountain peaks including the Jarbidge Mountains, the Trout Creek Mountains, and the Black Rock Mountains. Also, it has the Jarbidge River, deep canyons, vast sagebrush flats, and is home to a variety of wildlife.

Visitors can hike through a number of trails in the monument, go fishing on the Jarbidge River, go rock climbing and wildlife viewing, or camp in the area.

Address: Elko, NV, United States.

18. Maverick Hotel and Casino by Red Lion Hotels

Exploring Maverick Hotel and Casino by Red Lion Hotels, an exclusive landmark offering a dynamic combination of comfortable accommodations, exciting casino entertainment, and convenient amenities for a memorable stay is one of the fun things to do in Elko, NV, for adults.

The expansive casino features over 350 Vegas-style slot machines and a variety of classic table games including Blackjack, Craps, and Roulette, 222 comfortable guest rooms with modern amenities, a swimming pool, a grocery store, and a free airport shuttle. 

The Maverick Hotel and Casino by Red Lion Hotels also features award-winning dining options, live entertainment, including live music and comedy shows.

Address: 2065 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

19. Performance Athletic Club

Among the many fun things to do in Elko, NV, with kids is to engage in recreational activities at the Performance Athletic Club.

This gym facility features cardio and strength-training equipment, free weights, and weight machines, fitness classes, ample space to move freely, personal training, and a supervised Kids Club where your children can participate in fun activities.

Also, the fitness center features a racquetball court, basketball/volleyball court, indoor tracks, tanning beds, sauna and steam rooms, pools, a hydromassage bed, and a smoothie bar.

So if you need a place to engage in recreational activities with your kids, then enjoy quality time with your children while they participate in the supervised Kids Club program at the Performance Athletic Club.

20. Ruby Mountains

The Ruby Mountains is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone seeking fun and free things to do in Elko, NV, the Ruby Mountains is a beautiful and relaxing getaway.

This attraction is known for its stunning scenery, with towering peaks, lush valleys, and alpine lakes. These mountains offer a variety of outdoor activities for all skill levels, including hiking, camping, fishing, rock climbing, and mountain biking, and are also home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions.

While on your visit, explore the surrounding scenic driveway, go hiking or mountain climbing, spot wildlife, or engage in water activities at the lake.

Address: Elko, NV, United States.

21. Telescope Lanes Bowling & Arcade

One of the fun things to do in Elko, NV,  for all ages is to explore Telescope Lanes Bowling & Arcade, a modern, entertainment-driven bowling treasure for bowlers.

The bowling hub features classic bowling lanes, an arcade with entertaining games, tasty and simple dining options, and a vibrant ambiance ideal for family outings and friendly contests.

A visit to Telescope Lanes Bowling & Arcade promises a relax and much fun with friends and family as you enjoy some friendly competitions on the lanes, and refuel with delicious food and refreshing drinks.

Address: 46 Silver Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

22. Elko Swimming Pool

Beating the summer heat at the Elko Swimming Pool, a stimulating pool for leisurely fun is among the best things to do in Elko, NV, for families.

Established in 1970, this attraction features large lap pools, a designated wading pool, deck chairs, lockers, and public restrooms.

Visitors can pack a picnic lunch and spend a quality day of fun with the family at the pool, lap swimming for a refreshing workout, or take a dip in the pool and cool off on a hot summer day.

Address: 1501 College Avenue, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

23. Johnny Appleseed Park

Experiencing multiple recreational activities at Johnny Appleseed Park is one of the fun things to do in Elko, NV, for families.

The park features a large and well-equipped playground with slides, swings, climbing structures, and more, open green spaces and picnic areas.

Enjoy fun activities such as frisbee or playing a game of catch in the open spaces, pack a delicious lunch and enjoy a relaxing outdoor meal with family and friends, enjoy some quiet time surrounded by nature, or enjoy family time with the kids at the playground perfect keeping children entertained for hours.

Address: Country Club Drive, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

24. Elko Farmers Market

Exploring Elko Farmers Market, a lively gathering place where local farmers, vendors, and buyers meet to sell their freshly grown and harvested produce, is one of the unique things to do in Elko, NV,  on weekends.

This market boasts booths flooded with seasonal fruits and vegetables, fragrant flowers and plants, locally sourced meat, baked goods, local honey,  and special handmade crafts, coupled with live music and chats between vendors and buyers.

Visiting Elko Farmers Market is a great way to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying fresh and delicious food products and unique handcrafted items.

Address; 1405 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

25. Wild Horse State Recreation Area

One of the many fun things to do in Elko, NV,  is exploring the Wild Horse State Recreational Park, an adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Located 67 miles north of Elko, this park boasts a unique landscape characterized by sagebrush flats, with the surrounding mountains offering a picturesque backdrop, 34 designated campsites, picnic tables, fire rings, camp pads, and hiking trails.

While on your visit to this beautiful park, explore the Wild Horse Reservoir, the park’s main attraction which offers opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and other water activities. Keep an eye out for wildlife like for mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and various bird species.

Address:  Elko, NV 89801, United States. 

26. Muley’s Bar & Family Grill

Everyone needs a place to relax after work, explore Muley’s Bar & Family Grill, a casual dining with a menu featuring familiar American comfort food favorites at reasonable prices.

Located in about 22 minutes’ drive from Elko,  Muley’s Bar & Family Grill boasts a broad menu with options to please diverse palates and provides a casual and comfortable environment, perfect for a relaxed meal with friends and family.

The menu ranges from classic appetizers and salads to juicy burgers, hearty entrees like steaks and pasta, delicious desserts, vegetarian options, and a kids’ menu for the little ones

What’s more, the family-friendly attraction creates an ideal atmosphere to chill after the day’s hustles and bustles. Enjoy drink specials throughout the week, including beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages.

Address: 254 Spring Creek Pkwy, Spring Creek, NV 89815, United States.

27. California Trail Interpretive Center

The California Trail Interpretive Center is a treasure trove of history where visitors and locals exploring things to do in Elko, NV, are transported back in time into the captivating saga of the California Trail,

This treasure trove caters to all ages and offers exhibits of the pioneers who embarked on the arduous 2,000-mile trek westward, Life-size dioramas, multimedia presentations, and original artifacts that bring the California Trail to life.

Step back in time as you explore the living conditions of the pioneers, or go hiking on the interpretive trails that wind through the surrounding landscape, offering scenic views and a deeper appreciation for the natural environment the pioneers traversed.

Address: 1 Interpretive Center Way, Elko, NV 89801, United States.

28. National Cowboy Poetry Gathering

Making your list of fun and exciting things to do in Elko, NV, is participating in the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, a one-week annual gathering celebrating the rich tradition and culture of American cowboy poetry.

Established in 1985, the gathering features captivating poetry performances, music, and storytelling, artistic expression of the cowboy culture through exhibits showcasing paintings, sculptures, and traditional Western crafts.

Step back in time as you learn about the rich heritage of the American cowboy, enjoy soulful melodies of Western music and storytelling, and attend workshops led by experienced cowboy poets, musicians, and craftspeople to gain a deeper understanding of the cowboy art held in January.

Address: Elko, NV, United States.

29. Spring Creek Golf Course

With a short trip of about 22 minutes to Spring Creek lies a mesmerizing golfing experience for golfers of different skill levels.

Established in 1973, this 18-hole golf course located at the base of the majestic Ruby Mountains features a stunning landscape, beautiful vistas of the Ruby Mountain, a driving range, putting green, chipping green, golf cart and pull carts, and a snack bar.

This attraction spans 6,302 yards from the men’s tees and 5,658 yards from the women’s tees. As part of the fun things to do near Elko, book a tee time at the Spring Creek Golf Course and experience a thrilling golfing time.

Address: 401 Fairway Blvd, Spring Creek, NV 89815, United States.

plan your trip to Elko, Nevada

Elko, Nevada is a captivating destination with adventure and natural wonders. With the perfect blend of culture and nature, visiting Elko will leave a lasting impression.

Let this guide be your comprehensive starting point as you embark on your journey to discover and experience the wonders of this picturesque town. Wishing you safe travels and unforgettable memories!