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    Top 10 Things To Do Near Area 51

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    Area 51 is a highly secure military base in the Nevada desert that has long been the subject of conspiracy theories and fascination. While there are no public tours of the base, there are plenty of other things to do in the surrounding area:

    1. Visit the Alien Research Center

    The Alien Research Center is a tourist attraction located in Hiko, Nevada, near Area 51. The center is a popular destination for fans of Area 51 and the paranormal, and it features a variety of exhibits and souvenirs related to aliens and extraterrestrial life.

    The Alien Research Center offers a variety of exhibits on the history of Area 51 and the surrounding area, including information on the military base and its association with conspiracy theories and paranormal activity. The center also has a gift shop with a variety of alien-themed souvenirs and merchandise, as well as a small museum with artifacts and other items related to aliens and extraterrestrial life.

    The Alien Research Center is open year-round and is located just a short drive from Area 51. While there are no base tours, the center offers a good way for visitors to learn more about the history and culture surrounding Area 51.

    2. Explore the Extraterrestrial Highway

    The Extraterrestrial Highway, also known as Nevada State Route 375, is a stretch of road in Nevada that runs from Crystal Springs to Warm Springs. The highway is known for its association with Area 51 and is a popular destination for fans of the military base and the paranormal.

    Along the Extraterrestrial Highway, you’ll find a variety of alien-themed attractions, including the Alien Fresh Jerky store, the Little A’Le’Inn, and the Area 51 Alien Travel Center. These attractions offer travelers souvenirs, food, and other amenities, which are a good way to learn more about the history and culture surrounding Area 51.

    In addition to the alien-themed attractions, the Extraterrestrial Highway also offers stunning views of the Nevada desert and the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. The highway is a great place to go for a drive or a motorcycle ride, and it’s a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.

    If you’re planning a trip to Area 51, be sure to include a drive along the Extraterrestrial Highway on your itinerary. It’s a unique and memorable way to experience the culture and history of the region.

    3. Take a hot air balloon ride

    hot air balloon ride near Area 51
    Photo by Francesco Ungaro

    The skies over Nevada are perfect for hot air ballooning, and several companies offer rides in the area. You’ll get a unique perspective on the landscape from up high and may even spot Area 51 from a distance.

    4. Visit the Nevada Test Site

    The Nevada Test Site (NTS) is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) reservation located about 65 miles northwest of Las Vegas, Nevada. It was the primary location for nuclear testing by the United States from 1951 to 1992 and is still used for testing non-nuclear devices.

    Access to the NTS is restricted and requires prior authorization from the DOE. It is not open to the public, and a DOE employee or contractor must sponsor visitors. Area 51, on the other hand, is a classified United States Air Force facility located in the Nevada desert and is not open to the public. It is not possible to visit either of these sites without proper authorization.

    5. Go hiking or camping

    The desert around Area 51 is home to a variety of wildlife and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. The region has several hiking and camping areas, including the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area and the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

    We recommend contacting a local park or tourism agency for information about specific locations and any necessary permits or reservations. It is always important to follow local rules and regulations when hiking or camping in any location and to be respectful of the natural environment.

    6. Take a trip to Las Vegas

    Located just a short drive from Area 51, Las Vegas is a popular destination for visitors. The city is known for its casinos, entertainment, and nightlife, and there’s always something to do, no matter your interests.

    It is a popular tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors each year. If you are planning a trip to Las Vegas, there are many things to consider and plan for, including transportation, accommodation, activities, and budget. We will cover this topic in another blog.

    7. Visit the Nevada State Railroad Museum

    The Nevada State Railroad Museum is located in Carson City, Nevada, and preserves, restores and operates historic railroad equipment and facilities. It is operated by the Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and is open to the public.

    Nevada State Railroad Museum
    Photo by Gary : https://www.pexels.com/photo/aerial-view-of-the-hearst-castle-in-california-united-states-12334352/

    The museum features a collection of historic steam and diesel locomotives, passenger and freight cars, and other railroad equipment, as well as exhibits on the history of railroads in Nevada. It also offers train rides on a restored steam locomotive and a diesel locomotive on a 1.5-mile section of track.

    The museum is open year-round, but hours and availability may vary depending on the season. Admission fees may apply. I recommend visiting the museum’s website or contacting them directly for the most up-to-date information on hours, admission, and events.

    8. Go stargazing

    The clear, dark skies around Area 51 make it an excellent place for stargazing. Some popular places for stargazing near Area 51 include:

    • Great Basin National Park: Located in eastern Nevada, Great Basin National Park is home to some of the darkest skies in the continental United States. The park offers stargazing programs and events throughout the year, and the scenery is also stunning during the day.
    • Black Rock Desert: Located in western Nevada, it is known for its dark skies and is a popular spot for stargazing. The desert is also home to the annual Burning Man festival, which features a variety of art and music events.
    • Valley of Fire State Park: Located in eastern Nevada, the Valley of Fire State Park is known for its stunning red rock formations and dark skies. The park offers stargazing programs and events throughout the year, and the scenery is breathtaking during the day.
    • Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: Located in southern Nevada, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is known for its stunning red rock formations and dark skies. The conservation area offers stargazing programs and events throughout the year, and the scenery is breathtaking during the day.
    • Mount Charleston: Located in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, Mount Charleston is a popular destination for stargazing due to its high elevation and dark skies. The mountain is also home to various hiking trails and outdoor recreation opportunities.
    • No matter where you go for stargazing near Area 51, be sure to bring a flashlight with a red light setting to preserve your night vision and a good star chart or app to help you identify the constellations.

    9. Visit the Hoover Dam

    Located just a short drive from Area 51, the Hoover Dam is a popular destination for visitors. The dam, completed in 1936, is a marvel of engineering and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

    Hoover Dam near Nevada
    Photo by Dario Urt: https://www.pexels.com/photo/hoover-dam-under-blue-sky-and-white-clouds-11370053/

    The Hoover Dam is open to the public and can be visited by driving or taking a tour. There are several tours available, including guided tours of the dam, tours of the power plant, and boat tours on the Colorado River. There are also several viewpoints and overlooks where you can get a good view of the dam.

    I recommend visiting the Hoover Dam’s website or contacting them directly for the most up-to-date information on hours, admission, and tours. It is always a good idea to plan ahead, be prepared when visiting any tourist destination, and follow local rules and regulations.

    10. Go off-roading

    The desert around Area 51 offers plenty of off-roading opportunities, with various trails and routes to explore. Whether you have a Jeep, you are an off-roading beer biker, or a 4×4, you’ll find plenty of places to put your vehicle to the test.

    I recommend contacting a local park or tourism agency for information about specific locations and any necessary permits or reservations. It is always important to be respectful of the natural environment and to follow safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities. 

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