Need a fun day trip or weekend escape in Southern Nevada? Head to Pahrump! Explore scenic desert landscapes, sip local wines, and discover outdoor adventures just outside Las Vegas. Whether you're golfing, hiking rugged trails, or stargazing under clear desert skies, Pahrump offers a relaxed base with surprising small-town charm and natural beauty.
Pahrump, NV Highlights:
- Pahrump Valley Winery: Taste award-winning wines and enjoy vineyard views at Nevada’s largest and most celebrated winery.
- Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch: Experience high-speed thrills at one of the premier race tracks and driving schools in the country.
- Sanders Family Winery: Sample local wines and enjoy free tastings in a beautiful Tuscan-inspired setting.
- Lake Spring Mountain: Relax at this desert oasis featuring a freshwater lake for kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach lounging.
- Pahrump Valley Museum: Learn about the area’s mining, pioneer, and Native American history through exhibits and historic structures.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Pahrump is during the fall through spring (October–April). Enjoy mild desert temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures, winery tours, and scenic drives. Summers are extremely hot but quieter, with opportunities for indoor tastings, spa visits, and pool lounging.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Pahrump is located about 1 hour west of Las Vegas via NV-160.
- By Plane: The closest airport is Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, with car rentals available for the drive to Pahrump.
- By Shuttle: Some local shuttles operate between Las Vegas and Pahrump; check availability ahead of time.
Where to Stay
- Saddle West Hotel, Casino and RV Resort – Classic casino hotel offering comfortable rooms, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pahrump – Modern, family-friendly hotel with free breakfast and easy access to local attractions.
- Best Western Pahrump Oasis – Relaxed hotel featuring two outdoor pools, complimentary breakfast, and spacious suites.
Best Things to Do
1. Sip Award-Winning Wines at Sanders Family Winery
Rating: ★★★★★
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Who were the pioneers of grape-growing in Nevada?
- The Sanders family was the first to pioneer grape-growing in Nevada and has been producing hand-crafted wines in the Pahrump Valley for over three decades.
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Does the Sanders winery have a tasting room?
- Yes! The winery recently added a Tuscan-style Visitor’s Center and Tasting Room, where visitors can enjoy a free wine tasting and tour.
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What types of wines does the Sanders winery produce?
- Their selection includes white and pink wines such as Chardonnay, a white blend called Serenity, and Harmony Rose.
- Their reds include Merlot, Petite Syrah, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Burgundy.
- They also produce dessert wines such as Cream Sherry and two Ruby Ports.
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Does the winery offer any entertainment?
- Yes! The winery is home to the Betsie Sanders Theatre for the Performing Arts, where visitors can attend Saturday shows featuring live performances.
Sanders Family Winery, 3780 Kellogg Rd, Pahrump, NV 89061, Phone: 775-727-1776
2. If You Love Hidden Histories, Explore the Pahrump Valley Museum
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What is the Pahrump Valley Museum?
- The Pahrump Valley Museum was established in 2003 by a small group of history enthusiasts to preserve and share the history and culture of Nye County and the surrounding areas.
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What can visitors learn at the Pahrump Valley Museum?
- Visitors can step back in time and explore exhibits featuring Native American artifacts, as well as artifacts from early Anglo settlers, prospectors, and farmers.
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Does the museum offer interactive exhibits?
- Yes! The museum features six interactive touch-screen monitors and two large TV monitors where visitors can learn about the “Good Old Days” in the Pahrump Valley.
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When is the Pahrump Valley Museum open?
- The museum is open six days a week, from Tuesday to Sunday.
Pahrump Valley Museum, 401 E. Basin Ave, Pahrump, NV 89060, Phone: 775-751-1970
3. Savor Bold Flavors at ChatThai Bistro
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What is ChatThai?
- ChatThai is a bistro specializing in traditional Thai cuisine, offering an authentic dining experience with signature flavors and aromas of Thailand.
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Who owns and manages ChatThai?
- The restaurant is owned by Chatree (Chat) Soisoongnoen, who hails from Thailand, and is managed by Chat and his mother Pat, who has over 30 years of restaurant experience.
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What type of dishes does ChatThai offer?
- The menu includes appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, and Thai curries, all carefully crafted to bring out the authentic flavors of Thailand.
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What is Gouy Theaw at ChatThai?
- Guests can assemble their own Gouy Theaw, a customizable dish where they select their favorite ingredients to create a flavorsome bowl of happiness.
ChatThai Bistro, 421 S. Frontage Road No.1, Pahrump, NV 89048, Phone: 775-537-7227
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