Fernley Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and things to do in Fernley, Nevada. Plan your trip to the beautiful city with our comprehensive travel guide.


Comprehensive Travel Guide to Fernley, Nevada

Nestled in the western part of Nevada, Fernley is a charming city that offers numerous attractions to visitors. From museums and historical places to outdoor adventures and scenic views, there is something for everyone in Fernley. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will help you plan your trip by providing information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, eat, and much more.

Introduction to Fernley

Fernley is a small city located in Lyon County in Western Nevada. The city is surrounded by stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the vast expanse of the desert. Fernley has a rich history, which can be traced back to the time of the Paiute Indians. Today, the city has grown into a bustling community with plenty of attractions, making it an ideal destination for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Fernley

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fernley Depot Museum: This museum is located in an old train station and offers visitors a glimpse into the history of the area.
  • Fort Churchill State Historic Park: This state park features the ruins of an old fort, which was used to protect early settlers.
  • Churchill County Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Churchill County, which includes Fernley.

Natural Attractions of Fernley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lahontan State Recreation Area: This recreation area has a 17,000-acre reservoir and is perfect for fishing, boating, and water sports.
  • Fernley Wildlife Management Area: The Fernley Wildlife Management Area is a popular spot for hunting and fishing.
  • Sand Mountain Recreation Area: This recreation area features a large sandy mountain that is a popular spot for off-road vehicles and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fernley

  • Truckee River Bike Path: This bike path follows the Truckee River from Reno to Fernley.
  • Fernley Nature Trail: This trail is a short, scenic trail that follows the river through the heart of the city.
  • Sand Mountain Loop Trail: This is a challenging mountain bike trail that offers incredible views of the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Fernley: Activities and Tours

  • Fernley Speedway: Watch racing on a quarter-mile oval track.
  • Top Gun Raceway: This is a quarter-mile drag strip located just outside of Fernley.
  • Fernley Nugget Casino: A popular casino that offers gaming and entertainment.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fernley

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Fernley Depot Museum and Churchill County Museum
Day 2 Explore the Fort Churchill State Historic Park
Day 3 Go fishing or boating at Lahontan State Recreation Area
Day 4 Take a hike or bike ride on the Fernley Nature Trail
Day 5 Visit the Sand Mountain Recreation Area
Day 6 Watch a race at Fernley Speedway
Day 7 Try your luck at the Fernley Nugget Casino

Food and Drink Scene of Fernley

Must-Try Dishes

  • Basque cuisine: There are several Basque restaurants in and around Fernley that serve hearty, flavorful dishes.
  • Steak: Many local restaurants serve delicious, juicy steaks.
  • Mexican food: There are several Mexican restaurants in the city, serving authentic, flavorful dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: There are several coffee shops in the city that serve delicious coffee.
  • Local breweries: There are several breweries in the area that offer unique, locally-brewed beers.

Where to Stay in Fernley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Best Western Fernley Inn
  • Comfort Suites Fernley
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Fernley

What to Buy in Fernley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Basque cookbooks: Bring home a cookbook to recreate the delicious Basque dishes you tried while in Fernley.
  • Cowboy hats and boots: Buy traditional cowboy hats and boots at local shops and bring home a piece of western history.
  • Local wine: Visit one of the local wineries and bring home a bottle of Nevada wine.

Local Culture and Customs of Fernley

  • The city has a rich Basque culture, which is reflected in the food, music, and events.
  • Fernley has a thriving art community, with several galleries and studios.
  • The city hosts several events throughout the year, including the Basque Festival and the Lyon County Fair.

Best Time to Visit Fernley

The best time to visit Fernley is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fernley

Do:

  • Visit the Fernley Depot Museum, one of the top attractions in the city.
  • Try the delicious Basque food.
  • Attend one of the city’s many annual events.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the city’s natural areas.
  • Don’t feed wildlife.
  • Don’t ignore the rich cultural history of the area.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fernley

  • Fernley is a safe city but visitors should take normal precautions.

Health in Fernley

  • Fernley has several medical centers, including an urgent care facility and a hospital.

Getting to Fernley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fernley

  • Reno-Tahoe International Airport (approx. 40 miles away)

Bus Stations Near Fernley

  • Greyhound Bus Lines (approx. 25 miles away)

Other Options

  • Car rental is available in the city.

How to Get Around in Fernley

  • Driving is the best option for getting around Fernley.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Fernley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Reno: Just a short drive away, Reno offers visitors a range of attractions, including casinos, nightlife, and outdoor activities.
  • Lake Tahoe: A beautiful lake located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, perfect for skiing, hiking, and boating.
  • Pyramid Lake: A beautiful lake known for its gorgeous scenery and opportunities for fishing and boating.

Conclusion

Fernley, Nevada is a unique and charming city with a rich history and culture. From museums and historical places to outdoor adventures and scenic views, Fernley has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Fernley and explore all this beautiful city has to offer.