Do flying saucers whiz across the Nevada desert sky regularly? Alas, probably not. However, while travelers may not spot any little green men during a visit to the famed Area 51, they can certainly enjoy an exhilarating road trip.
The first report of UFOs at Area 51, nestled within the Nevada Test and Training Range, surfaced in 1955. People mistook test flights of the Air Force’s covert U-2 airplane for an alien invasion. The government, keen to keep the aircraft under wraps due to Soviet interest, didn’t correct the assertions, thus expanding the legend of Area 51.
Visitors cannot venture into Area 51; the Air Force is quite serious about protecting its training-range boundaries, marked with fencing and motion detectors. Therefore, travelers have to settle for merely getting close to the site, which daring souls can approach near the Groom Lake salt flat.
Las Vegas: The Starting Point
Our adventure begins in Las Vegas. Explore the famous Strip and enjoy a ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Moreover, buckle in for a quick jaunt around the state to see all the major Area 51 attractions.
Las Vegas Motor Speedway
After leaving Sin City, head east on I-15 to discover the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Engage in one of the racing experiences at the $200 million facility, tour the track, or enjoy treats from the gift shop.
ATV Tours at Nellis Dunes from Las Vegas
Continue east on I-15 for the next exciting destination. While nearby Nellis Air Force Base may not harbor signs of extraterrestrial life, it does feature some of the country’s top pilots, practicing aerial maneuvers in the vast desert. Watch these daredevils at play, and revel in an exhilarating afternoon traversing the desert during ATV tours at the Nellis Dunes.
Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge
Next, head north onto US Hwy 93 and momentarily forget about flying saucers. Instead, delight in the breathtaking sights at Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birdwatchers. Over 400 species of birds visit the refuge each year, and the park offers scenic camping along Upper Pahranagat Lake.
E.T. Fresh Jerky
Before entering Crystal Springs, indulge at the town’s legendary E.T. Fresh Jerky rest stop, which boasts ‘jerky from Area 51.’ It’s an otherworldly treat. Enjoy your munchies while snapping photos with alien murals decorating the store.
Alien Research Center
At Crystal Springs, near the top of US Hwy 93, take a moment to pop into the Alien Research Center to uncover ‘the real story behind the myth of Area 51,’ as the center promises. Expect fascinating theories rather than concrete evidence about aliens.
UFO Capital of the World
As travelers merge onto State Route 375, also known as the Extraterrestrial Highway, they might spot spooky saucers. The town of Rachel takes pride in being the ‘UFO Capital of the World,’ with most of its businesses featuring alien themes. Moreover, watching the stunning desert sunset before hitting the road is an unforgettable experience.
Area 51: A Mysterious Destination
Visitors can’t actually enter Area 51 without encountering armed personnel. To catch a glimpse, follow the dirt roads to the entrance nearest to Rachel and gaze from a safe distance.
Tonopah Brewing Company
Continuing on the ET Highway, craft brewery enthusiasts should drive north to State Route 6 leading to Tonopah. Treat yourself to a delicious meal of barbecue and beer at Tonopah Brewing Company.
International Car Forest of the Last Church
From State Route 6, go south on State Route 95 until reaching Goldfield and the nearby International Car Forest of the Last Church. This bold art installation features around three dozen vehicles, including cars and trucks, buried bumper-first in the earth.
Rhyolite Ghost Town
Just beyond Beatty, while continuing on 95, divert to Rhyolite, one of the West’s most famous ghost towns. Here, visitors can explore the remnants of abandoned schools, banks, and railroads dating back over a century to the financial Panic of 1907.
National Atomic Testing Museum
Wrap up your journey back in Vegas with an educational finale. Visit the National Atomic Testing Museum, which frequently features UFO exhibits, adding a thrilling conclusion to your Area 51 adventure.
