Things To Do In Elko. Looking for the fun and best things to do in Elko, Nevada? You’ve come to the right place! You’re in the right place because this guide will show you a huge list of the best and most fun things to do in Elko, NV. Use it to get the most out of your time there.
Elko is the main city of the Elko Micropolitan Statistical Area, which includes Elko and Eureka counties. It is also the county seat of Elko County. Many interesting things can be found in Elko, which is the biggest city in the county.
This beautiful city is home to many interesting places, such as Great Basin College, the National Weather Service, the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, the Western Folklife Center, and many more. These places offer fun and educational activities like hiking, skiing, shooting, and more.
Elko has something for everyone, whether you want to go on a boat trip, learn about history, or make art. So, pack your bags and get ready to see fun things that will make your trip to this town one you’ll never forget.
28 Best And Fun Things To Do In Elko, NV (2024)
1. Northeastern Nevada Museum
Start your trip in Elko by going to the Northeastern Nevada Museum. This is a great place to learn about the history and culture of northeastern Nevada. It’s one of the best things to do in Elko, NV, for art and history fans.
This museum has been around since 1869 and has a big collection of historical records and a library with over 4,000 books.
The museum has six galleries with a wide range of exhibits, such as dioramas of animals, interesting displays on regional art, paleontology, old guns, and artifacts from the Shoshone and Paiute people, as well as Chinese immigrants, pioneers, and Basque settlers.
Check out the wildlife dioramas at the Northeastern Nevada Museum for an interesting and educational experience. You can also learn about the interesting history of northeastern Nevada from ancient times to the present day.
Address: 1515 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
2. Western Folklife Center
You should put visiting the Western Folklife Center on your list of fun and educational things to do in Elko, NV. It is a lively culture center whose mission is to keep the spirit of the American West alive.
It has been around since 1890 and has a gift shop, an exhibition room, a 300-seat theater, a historic saloon, and a 20-seat black box theater. The center also has a streaming service that you can subscribe to that has films, performances, and educational shows about the American West.
You can look at the changing and permanent exhibits that show traditional Western craft, cowboy gear, ranch life, and American Indian art that reflects the heritage of northeastern Nevada. You can also see a show at the 300-seat theater, which hosts Western-themed plays, concerts, poetry readings, and film screenings.
Don’t miss the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in January if you’re a visitor. It’s the event of the year and features poems, music, stories, and the best of cowboy culture.
Address: 501 Railroad Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
3. Sherman Station Visitor Center
People who want to learn about and find things to do in Elko, Nevada, should go to the Shaman Station Visitors Center, which is in downtown Elko. Many tourists come every year, especially during the busiest times of the year.
The tourist center has a two-story ranch house with a lot of brochures and maps to help you plan your trip around Elko and the surrounding area. It also has a blacksmith shop, a creamery, and even a one-room schoolhouse.
The visitor center has information on nearby places to eat, shop, stay, go, trips, events, and other fun and educational things for people of all kinds to do in Elko, NV. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop. It has unique things that are only available in this area.
Address: 1405 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
4. Cowboy Arts And Gear Museum
Learn about Elko’s part in the history of horse culture at the Horse Arts and Gear Museum. This is a great place for anyone interested in the art and history of the American cowboy.
The museum opened in 2016 and has displays of the amazing craftsmanship of G.S. Garcia. These include saddles decorated with intricate silverwork and valuable stones, as well as cowboy gear like chaps, spurs, saddles, and other things needed for working the range.
The Cowboy Arts and Gear Museum sometimes has classes where you can learn how to stamp leather, engrave silver, and do other traditional cowboy tasks. Have a memorable experience of the skill and hard work that goes into making these useful works of art.
Expert saddle makers, silversmiths, and other artists will be giving live demonstrations so that tourists can see how these time-honored crafts are done.
Address: 542 Commercial Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
5. Great Basin College
The Great Basin College, which opened in 1967, is an interesting place for tourists and locals looking for free things to do in Elko, NV.
You can get a unique look into college life in rural Nevada at Great Basin College. This college is spread out over 86,500 square miles and has many beautiful buildings that are used for different events.
You can check out the campus’s fun events and activities, go to lectures and cultural events, check out the library, eat lunch in the college restaurant, or just enjoy the lively college town vibe.
Address: 1500 College Pkwy, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
6. Duncan LittleCreek Gallery & The Gallery Bar
The Duncan LittleCreek Gallery & the Gallery Bar is a lively culture center right in the middle of Elko. It has lots of fun and interesting things for everyone to do in Elko, NV.
There are paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photographs, pottery, and other works in the gallery that show the skill of local, regional, and national artists.
This one-of-a-kind place has two very different experiences all in one place. While you’re there, you can look at the different exhibits, get together with family or friends for drinks, talk, and art appreciation, and go to events like the open mic music night.
Take it easy at the Gallery Bar, which has a friendly atmosphere and is smoke-free. It serves a wide range of drinks and snacks to suit everyone’s tastes.
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Address: 516 Commercial Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
7. Elko County Library
Everyone should visit the Elko Public Library, which is a lively place with lots of reading materials. It is one of the most educational things to do in Elko, NV.
There are a lot of books and media in the library, as well as free Wi-Fi and public computers, a children’s area, meeting and study rooms, and a helpful staff that can help you with your needs and hobbies.
The library always has free events and programs, such as author talks, book clubs, and educational workshops. This makes it one of the free things to do today in Elko, NV.
Address: 720 Court Street, Elko, NV, United States.
8. Modz Arcade
One of the fun things to do today in Elko, Nevada, is to check out Modz Arcade, which is a haven for gamers of all ages. It has a lively atmosphere and enough old and new arcade games to keep you busy for hours.
This place has arcade games, current video games like racing simulators, fighting games, and first-person shooters, redemption games, and a lively atmosphere that makes it great for a fun day trip with family or friends.
Take on game challenges with family and friends, win tickets by playing redemption games, and have birthday parties at the arcade. It’s a fun and cheap way for residents and guests to pass the time.
Address: 345 4th Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
9. Rubies Sports Bar & Nightclub
There are many fun things for adults to do in Elko, NV, at Rubies Sports Bar & Nightclub. Whether you’re a sports fan, a casual drinker, or a night owl looking to dance the night away, Rubies has something for everyone.
There is a sports bar during the day with many TVs showing big games, and at night there is a busy nightclub with pool tables, themed nights, karaoke nights, and other fun events to keep things interesting.
Take it easy at Rubies Sports Bar & Nightclub, which is also a great spot to have fun and check out Elko’s nightlife while watching the big games.
Address: 442 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
10. Route 40 Village & Antique Co
In Elko, Nevada, today one of the coolest and most interesting things to do is to check out Route 40 Village & Antique Co., which is full of old and unique keepsakes.
This lively attraction has a wide range of antiques, collectibles, and vintage finds, such as jewelry, interesting vintage toys, old photos, postcards, and historical artifacts from different times that make you feel both nostalgic and excited.
There are also unique home decor items like lamps, mirrors, artwork, and decorative objects that will give your room a bit of vintage charm.
Address: 350 W Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
11. Elko Junction
You can find a lot of fun and interesting things to do in Elko, Nevada, when you go to the Elko Junction, a shopping center with many shops, restaurants, and services to meet your needs.
This one-stop shopping mall is right in the middle of Elko and makes it easy to get clothes, home goods, and items for your pets. Elko Junction is a one-of-a-kind shopping area. You can look around, eat at one of the restaurants or fast-food chains, and then go shopping without any stress.
Address: 2755 Mountain City Hwy, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
12. UEC Cinema 6
At night, one of the most beautiful things to do in Elko, NV, is to see your favorite movie at the UEC Cinema 6.
This movie theater is right in the middle of Elko and has 6 screens showing different movies at the same time. These include new releases, family favorites, and independent films.
Enjoy a classic movie theater experience with popcorn, candy, nachos, drinks, and other common snack stand foods to round out your trip.
Address: 1145 Connolly Drive, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
13. 7018 Brewery
If you like beer, you should put visiting 7018 Brewery on your list of fun things to do today in Elko, NV.
The brewery is in the Henderson Bank Building and is proud to make its own beers. It has a variety of beers that combine different kinds to please your taste buds.
When you go to 7018 Brewery, you can try a variety of craft beers, unwind in a simple and friendly space, and take part in events like karaoke nights to have fun in a new way.
Address: 401 Railroad Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
14. Ruby View Golf Course
Making a tee time at the Ruby View Golf Course is a fun thing to do this weekend in Elko, NV.
This golf paradise has a fair number of tasks for golfers of all skill levels. On a big acre of land, the 18-hole golf course is 5332 yards from the back tees and has 117 slopes. The blue and white tees play to a par of 71, while the red tees play to a par of 72.
The Ruby View Golf Course has a driving range, a putting green, a pro shop, a full-service diner, a bar, and beautiful views of the Ruby Mountains. The course is difficult but fair, and there are views of the mountains.
Address: 2100 Ruby View Dr, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
15. Lamoille Canyon Scenic Drive
Today, one free outdoor activity near Elko, NV, is to take a scenic drive along Lamoille Canyon Scenic Drive. From this road, you can see beautiful views of the Ruby Mountains, forests, and fields. wait.
Elko County’s 12-mile paved road winds through the heart of the Ruby Mountains, with views of high cliffs, rocky outcrops, lush meadows await, and stands of aspen trees. There are pullouts along the road where you can stop and enjoy the views or go for a short walk.
Both locals and tourists love the Lamoille Canyon beautiful Drive. If you’re there, take a beautiful drive, go hiking, have a picnic, or just sit back and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Address: NF-660, Spring Creek, NV 89815, United States.
16. Gold Dust West Casino
One fun thing for adults to do in Elko, NV, is to check out the Gold Dust West Casino, which is a private place.
The site has beautiful rooms with views, plush furniture, modern conveniences, a casino with many table games, slot machines, and a poker room.
The Gold Dust Casino also has a spa, a hairdresser, live entertainment like comedy shows and music concerts, and restaurants that have won awards.
Address: 1660 Mountain City Hwy, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
17. Jarbidge National Monument
There are many free fun things to do in Elko, Nevada at Jarbidge National Monument, which is about 70 miles north of Elko.
The Jarbidge Mountains, the Trout Creek Mountains, and the Black Rock Mountains are some of the tallest mountains in this area, which was established in 1964. Along with the Jarbidge River, it has deep valleys, huge sagebrush flats, and a lot of different kinds of wildlife.
There are many tracks for hiking in the monument. People can also fish in the Jarbidge River, go rock climbing, watch wildlife, or camp in the area.
Address: Elko, NV, United States.
18. Maverick Hotel And Casino By Red Lion Hotels
One fun thing for adults to do in Elko, NV is to check out the Maverick Hotel and Casino by Red Lion Hotels. This is a unique landmark that offers a dynamic mix of comfortable rooms, exciting casino entertainment, and useful services for a memorable stay.
The huge casino has over 350 slot machines that look like they belong in Las Vegas as well as classic table games like Blackjack, Craps, and Roulette. It also has a swimming pool, a grocery store, 222 comfy guest rooms with modern amenities, and a free airport shuttle.
The Maverick Hotel and Casino by Red Lion Hotels also has live entertainment, such as comedy shows and restaurants that have won awards.
Address: 2065 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
19. Performance Athletic Club
Taking part in leisure activities at the Performance Athletic Club is one of many fun things to do in Elko, NV, with kids.
There is cardio and strength-training equipment, free weights, and weight machines at this gym. There are also exercise classes, a lot of room to move around, personal training, and a supervised Kids Club where your kids can have fun.
The exercise center has indoor tracks, tanning beds, saunas and steam rooms, pools, a hydromassage bed, a racquetball court, and a sports court for basketball and volleyball.
If you’re looking for a place to have fun with your kids, the Performance Athletic Club’s guided Kids Club program is a great choice. You can spend quality time with your kids while they play.
Address: 3250 Sagecrest Drive, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
20. Ruby Mountains
People who like the outdoors and people looking for fun and free things to do in Elko, Nevada often go to the Ruby Mountains. The mountains are beautiful and peaceful.
With its tall peaks, lush valleys, and alpine lakes, this site is famous for its beautiful scenery. For people of all skill levels, these mountains are a great place to go hiking, camping, fishing, rock climbing, and mountain riding. They are also home to many animals, such as mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions.
During your visit, you can drive along the nearby scenic road, go camping or mountain climbing, look for wildlife, or do things in the water at the lake.
Address: Elko, NV, United States.
21. Telescope Lanes Bowling & Arcade
Exploring Telescope Lanes Bowling & Arcade is a fun thing for people of all ages to do in Elko, NV. It is a modern bowling alley that is big on fun.
The bowling hub has classic bowling lanes, an arcade with fun games, simple but tasty food choices, and a lively atmosphere that’s great for family fun and friendly competitions.
Telescope Lanes Bowling & Arcade is a great place to relax and have fun with family and friends. You can play friendly games on the lanes and refuel with tasty food and drinks.
Address: 46 Silver Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
22. Elko Swimming Pool
The Elko Swimming Pool is one of the best things for kids to do in Elko, NV, because it’s a cool place to beat the summer heat.
This attraction has been around since 1970 and has big lap pools, a designated wading pool, deck chairs, lockers, and public bathrooms.
People can bring a picnic lunch and have a great time at the pool with their family. They can swim laps for a good workout or just jump in the pool to cool off on a hot summer day.
Address: 1501 College Avenue, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
23. Johnny Appleseed Park
One fun thing for kids to do in Elko, NV, is to go to Johnny Appleseed Park and do a variety of fun things.
There are open green places and picnic areas in the park, as well as a big, well-equipped playground with slides, swings, climbing structures, and more.
Enjoy outdoor activities like frisbee or catch in the open areas, bring a tasty lunch and eat it outside with family and friends, take a break and enjoy nature, or spend time with your kids at the playground, which is a great way to keep them busy for hours.
Address: Country Club Drive, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
24. Elko Farmers Market
One unique thing to do in Elko, NV, on the weekends is to check out the Elko Farmers Market. This is a busy place where local farmers, vendors, and buyers meet to sell their newly grown and harvested food.
There is live music and people talking to each other while shopping at this market. The booths are full of seasonal fruits and veggies, flowers and plants that smell nice, locally sourced meat, baked goods, local honey, and unique handmade crafts.
Going to Elko Farmers Market is a great way to support local farmers and craftspeople while getting fresh, tasty food and one-of-a-kind things made by hand.
Address; 1405 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
25. Wild Horse State Recreation Area
Exploring Wild Horse State Recreational Park is one of the many fun things to do in Elko, Nevada. This is a great place for nature lovers and people who like being outside.
This park is 67 miles north of Elko and has a unique scenery with sagebrush flats and mountains in the background that make for a beautiful view. There are 34 designated campsites, picnic tables, fire rings, camp pads, and hiking trails.
Enjoy your time at this lovely park by checking out the Wild Horse Reservoir, which is the main draw and where you can fish, boat, kayak, canoe, and do other water sports. Wildlife such as mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, wolves, and different kinds of birds should be checked out.
Address: Elko, NV 89801, United States.
26. Muley’s Bar & Family Grill
Everyone needs a place to unwind after work. Check out Muley’s Bar & Family Grill for a casual meal with a menu full of affordable American comfort food favorites.
Muley’s Bar & Family Grill is about a 22-minute drive from Elko. It has a large menu with options to suit all tastes and a casual, comfortable atmosphere that makes it great for a meal with friends and family.
The menu has traditional starters and salads, juicy burgers, hearty main dishes like steaks and pasta, tasty desserts, veggie options, and a kids’ menu for the little ones.
In addition, the family-friendly site makes for a great place to relax after a busy day. During the week, you can get deals on drinks like beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks.
Address: 254 Spring Creek Pkwy, Spring Creek, NV 89815, United States.
27. California Trail Interpretive Center
At the California Trail Interpretive Center, history buffs and people from Elko, Nevada looking for things to do can be swept back in time to the interesting story of the California Trail.
This museum is fun for people of all ages. It has life-size dioramas, multimedia presentations, and real artifacts that bring the California Trail to life.
You can go back in time and see how the pioneers lived, or you can go hiking on the interpretive trails that wind through the surrounding landscape. These trails will give you a better understanding of the natural setting the pioneers lived in.
Address: 1 Interpretive Center Way, Elko, NV 89801, United States.
28. National Cowboy Poetry Gathering
The National Cowboy Poetry Gathering is a one-week event that celebrates the rich history and culture of American cowboy poetry. If you want to do something fun and exciting in Elko, Nevada, you should put it on your list.
The event has been going on since 1985 and includes performances of poetry, music, and stories. It also has art displays with paintings, sculptures, and traditional Western crafts that show how the cowboy culture is expressed.
You can go back in time and learn about the rich history of the American cowboy. You can also enjoy the soulful sounds of Western music and stories, and in January, you can go to workshops led by experienced cowboy poets, singers, and craftspeople to learn more about cowboy art.
Address: Elko, NV, United States.
29. Spring Creek Golf Course
It only takes about 22 minutes to get to Spring Creek, where players of all skill levels can enjoy a breathtaking game.
In 1973, this 18-hole golf course opened at the base of the stunning Ruby Mountains. It has a beautiful scenery, a driving range, a putting green, a chipping green, golf carts and pull carts, and a snack bar.
The men’s tees are 6,302 yards away, and the women’s tees are 5,658 yards away. As one of the fun things to do near Elko, make a tee time at the Spring Creek Golf Course and have an exciting game of golf.
Address: 401 Fairway Blvd., Spring Creek, NV 89815, United States.