Just forty-five minutes outside of SW Las Vegas, Nevada sits a small ghost town called Nelson. This ghost town sits tucked away in the Nevada desert and is one of the most famous ghost towns in Southern Nevada. Recently we took a trip to Nelson and discovered how perfect of a place this is for families to explore, see our state’s history, and experience life in a small ghost town. The town was discovered by the Spanish around 1775 and was originally called El Dorado Canyon. Many Civil War deserters settled in the area and it was one of the most popular areas for silver and gold mining at the time.
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This tucked away ghost town has become very popular with photographers and filmmakers because it offers plenty of photo opportunities that will take you back in time. The 2001 film 3000 Miles to Graceland was filmed there and you can still see the remnants of the plane crash staged for filming. This small town is set up with staged buildings and offers tours where you can learn about the history of mining in the area. It is also home to the Techatticup Mine, which is the oldest gold mine in the area. Tours are one-hour long and cost $15 per person. Reservations are required and masks must be worn.
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If you plan to take photos, you are required to check in at the desk in the main office. There is a $10 per hour fee for the photo tour. Those who don’t purchase this photo tour will have limited access to locations throughout the town. Nelson Ghost Town is located at 16880 State Highway 165 in Nelson, Nevada (89046). Here is a screenshot from Google Maps to help with the location and directions. Mine tours, canoe/kayak rentals, and photo tours run seven days a week. The area is closed Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day and it closes at noon on Christmas Eve. |  |
Please note: The publishers of Macaroni Kid SW Las Vegas were not compensated in any way for this article. All admission fees and expenses associated with getting to Nelson were paid for by the publisher.
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