Did you know that over 500,000 curious travelers visit Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway each year, hoping to catch a glimpse of the mysterious Area 51? Despite being one of America’s most classified military installations, this secretive base wasn’t officially acknowledged by the U.S. government until 2013—after decades of conspiracy theories, reported UFO sightings, and pop culture references had already cemented its legendary status.

For adventurous travelers seeking the truth (or just a unique road trip), the remote desert region surrounding Area 51 offers legal viewpoints, quirky attractions, and the chance to experience one of America’s most enigmatic landscapes. While you won’t be able to enter the base itself (unless you fancy a close encounter with heavily armed security), this guide will show you exactly where to go, what to see, and how to make the most of your extraterrestrial adventure.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

The journey to Area 51 viewpoints begins with proper planning, as you’ll be venturing into remote desert territory with limited services.

Closest Airports

Las Vegas McCarran International Airport is your primary gateway, located approximately 150 km (93 miles) from the start of the Extraterrestrial Highway. From Las Vegas, you’ll need to rent a vehicle for the journey north.

Driving Directions

From Las Vegas, take I-15 North, then US-93 North toward Alamo. At Crystal Springs, turn left onto Nevada State Route 375 (officially designated as the Extraterrestrial Highway). This 158 km (98-mile) stretch of road will take you through the heart of Area 51 country.

Essential Preparations

• Fill your gas tank completely in Alamo or Tonopah—there are very few services along the Extraterrestrial Highway
• Bring plenty of water (at least 4 liters per person per day)
• Pack food and snacks
• Ensure your vehicle is in good condition with a spare tire
• Download offline maps as cell service is extremely limited
• Bring binoculars for distant viewpoints
• Pack sunscreen, hat, and appropriate clothing for desert conditions

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

The high desert climate around Area 51 features extreme temperature variations that can significantly impact your experience.

Recommended Months

Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant temperatures, typically ranging from 18-27°C (65-80°F) during the day. These seasons provide comfortable conditions for outdoor exploration without the scorching summer heat.

Months to Avoid

Summer (June-August) brings extreme daytime temperatures often exceeding 38°C (100°F), making outdoor activities potentially dangerous. Winter (December-February) can be surprisingly cold with nighttime temperatures dropping below freezing, occasionally accompanied by snow at higher elevations.

Weather Considerations

The desert environment means dramatic temperature swings between day and night—often 20°C (36°F) or more. Pack layers regardless of when you visit. Sudden thunderstorms can occur in summer months, creating flash flood risks in low-lying areas. Always check weather forecasts before departing.

Getting Around Locally

Navigating the remote terrain around Area 51 requires preparation and the right vehicle.

Vehicle Requirements

A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended for accessing the more remote viewpoints. While the Extraterrestrial Highway itself is paved, many of the access roads to viewpoints are unpaved dirt roads that can become challenging, especially after rain. Four-wheel drive is essential for reaching Tikaboo Peak, the only legal vantage point from which to see Area 51 facilities.

Navigation Tips

• GPS coordinates are more reliable than addresses in this remote region
• Bring physical maps as backup—cell service is extremely limited
• Many dirt roads are unmarked—pay close attention to landmarks
• Always inform someone of your planned route and expected return time
• Respect all posted boundaries and warning signs

The region’s vastness and limited services mean you should always travel with emergency supplies. Cell phone coverage is virtually non-existent throughout much of the area, so consider renting a satellite phone for safety if venturing to more remote viewpoints.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options near Area 51 are limited but unique, ranging from themed motels to desert camping.

Rachel, Nevada

The tiny town of Rachel (population: approximately 50) is the closest settlement to Area 51 and the center of extraterrestrial tourism in the region.

The Little A’Le’Inn is the only motel in town, offering simple rooms and a restaurant serving their famous “Alien Burger.” The inn also features a gift shop with UFO memorabilia and a “UFO information center” where visitors share stories. Reservations are strongly recommended as rooms are limited.

Nearby Options

For those seeking more conventional accommodations:

• Alamo (approximately 80 km/50 miles from the Extraterrestrial Highway): Offers basic motels and services
• Tonopah (160 km/100 miles northwest): Features several hotels including the historic and reportedly haunted Mizpah Hotel
• Las Vegas (240 km/150 miles south): Provides endless accommodation options for those willing to make a long day trip

Camping

Dispersed camping is permitted on most Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in the area, offering a chance to sleep under extraordinarily dark skies. No formal campgrounds exist near the viewpoints, so come prepared for self-sufficient camping with all necessary supplies.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Dining options are extremely limited in this remote region, making advance planning essential.

Rachel Dining

The Little A’Le’Inn restaurant is the only dining establishment in Rachel, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their menu features American diner classics with alien-themed names, including:

• The “World Famous Alien Burger” – a hearty hamburger that’s the signature dish
• “Alien Amber Ale” and other beverages
• Homemade “Alien Pie” for dessert

Hours can be irregular, so call ahead to confirm they’re open. The restaurant also serves as a gathering place for UFO enthusiasts, making it as much about the experience as the food.

Self-Catering Options

Given the limited dining options, most visitors bring supplies:

• Stock up on groceries and snacks in Las Vegas, Tonopah, or Alamo
• Bring a cooler with ice for perishable items
• Pack more water than you think you’ll need
• Consider bringing a portable stove if camping

E.T. Fresh Jerky in Hiko offers a selection of uniquely flavored beef jerky and road trip snacks, making it a popular stop for provisions along the Extraterrestrial Highway.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

While you can’t enter Area 51 itself, several legal viewpoints and related attractions make for a fascinating visit.

Legal Viewpoints

Tikaboo Peak (GPS: 37.344264, -115.358897) offers the only legal vantage point from which to see Area 51 facilities. The challenging 2.5 km (1.5-mile) hike gains approximately 365 meters (1,200 feet) in elevation. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope—the base is still 42 km (26 miles) away. The round-trip hike takes 3-4 hours for most visitors.

Boundary Gates & Photo Opportunities

• The “Back Gate” (37.594104, -115.898846): A less-monitored entrance with warning signs
• The “Front Gate” (37.351153, -115.646777): The main entrance with security presence
• Groom Lake Road Warning Signs (37.207884, -115.956813): Iconic “Photography Prohibited” signs

Extraterrestrial Highway Attractions

The Black Mailbox (now actually white) at mile marker 29 on Highway 375 has become a gathering spot for UFO enthusiasts. Though just a rancher’s mailbox, it’s gained fame as a meeting point for nighttime sky watching.

The Alien Research Center in Hiko features a large silver alien statue outside and a gift shop with extraterrestrial merchandise. While small, it’s a popular photo stop along the highway.

Nighttime Activities

The area’s minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. Many visitors spend evenings near the Black Mailbox or in other remote locations watching for unusual aerial phenomena. Bring warm clothing regardless of season—desert nights get cold year-round.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

While the immediate Area 51 region has limited cultural attractions, several related museums and events are worth exploring.

Nearby Museums

The National Atomic Testing Museum in Las Vegas features an “Area 51: Myth or Reality” exhibit exploring the connection between nuclear testing and UFO sightings. The museum provides historical context for the military activities in Nevada that contributed to Area 51’s development.

The Nevada State Museum in Las Vegas includes exhibits on the state’s military history and the development of the Nevada Test Site, offering background on the region’s significance during the Cold War.

Annual Events

The annual UFO Mega Conference, typically held in Laughlin, Nevada (approximately 330 km/205 miles from Area 51), brings together researchers, authors, and enthusiasts for lectures and discussions about extraterrestrial phenomena.

Rachel, Nevada occasionally hosts informal “UFO Watch” gatherings, particularly during meteor showers or other astronomical events. Check with the Little A’Le’Inn for current information when planning your visit.

Following the viral “Storm Area 51” internet phenomenon in 2019, the “Alienstock” festival was created as a more organized alternative. While the original event was a one-time occurrence, check local event listings for any similar festivals during your planned visit.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

The remote desert landscape surrounding Area 51 offers unique outdoor experiences beyond UFO hunting.

Hiking Opportunities

Beyond the Tikaboo Peak hike, the region offers several other notable hiking opportunities:

• Mount Irish (approximately 30 km/19 miles from Rachel): Features ancient petroglyphs and panoramic desert views
• Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge: Offers easy walking trails around wetlands that contrast dramatically with the surrounding desert
• Badger Mountain: Provides challenging hikes with views of the Groom Lake area from legal vantage points

All hikes in this region require proper preparation with ample water, sun protection, and navigation tools. Many trails are unmarked and require basic route-finding skills.

Wildlife Viewing

The desert ecosystem supports surprising biodiversity. Watch for desert bighorn sheep in mountainous areas, jackrabbits, coyotes, and numerous reptile species. Birdwatchers can spot golden eagles, prairie falcons, and various hawk species soaring above the landscape.

Photography

The area’s dramatic landscapes, unusual rock formations, and extraordinary dark skies create exceptional photography opportunities. The “blue hour” just after sunset offers particularly striking conditions for landscape photography. Remember that photography is prohibited at military boundaries and warning signs.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Visiting the Area 51 region requires special attention to safety and legal considerations.

Legal Boundaries

The boundaries of Area 51 and the Nevada Test and Training Range are clearly marked with orange posts and warning signs. These boundaries are actively monitored with surveillance cameras, motion sensors, and security patrols. Never cross these boundaries under any circumstances—security personnel are authorized to use detention and potentially deadly force against trespassers.

Desert Safety

• Dehydration is the primary risk—drink at least 4 liters (1 gallon) of water per person per day
• Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat
• Check weather forecasts for flash flood warnings
• Watch for rattlesnakes and scorpions, particularly in warm weather
• Carry a basic first aid kit
• Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained with a full-size spare tire

Local Etiquette

The small community of Rachel has a complex relationship with UFO tourism. While businesses welcome visitors, residents appreciate respectful behavior. Keep noise levels reasonable, especially at night, and pack out all trash. When photographing local businesses or property, ask permission first as a courtesy.

Many locals have fascinating stories about living near Area 51. If you engage in conversation, be respectful of different perspectives on UFOs and government activities—opinions vary widely in this unique community.

Visitor Comments About Area 51 Viewpoints

Additional Nearby Destinations

Extend your Area 51 adventure with these worthwhile nearby destinations.

Valley of Fire State Park

Located approximately 160 km (100 miles) south of the Extraterrestrial Highway, Valley of Fire features spectacular red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and scenic hiking trails. The dramatic landscape has served as a backdrop for numerous science fiction films, making it a thematic complement to an Area 51 visit.

Great Basin National Park

About 240 km (150 miles) northeast of Area 51, Great Basin National Park offers alpine lakes, ancient bristlecone pine forests, and Lehman Caves. The park’s dark sky designation makes it another excellent stargazing location.

Tonopah Historic Mining Park

Explore Nevada’s mining history at this open-air museum featuring preserved mining structures and equipment. Tonopah is also home to the Clown Motel—often called “America’s Scariest Motel”—located next to an old cemetery for those seeking additional unusual accommodations.

Practical Travel Tips

• Cell service is virtually non-existent throughout most of the region—download offline maps before departing
• Gas stations are extremely limited—fill up in Alamo, Tonopah, or before leaving Las Vegas
• ATMs are not available in Rachel—bring sufficient cash
• Weather can change rapidly—pack layers regardless of season
• The Little A’Le’Inn accepts credit cards but having cash backup is wise
• Allow more time than you think you’ll need for all activities—distances are vast and roads can be challenging
• If hiking to viewpoints, register your plans with someone who can alert authorities if you don’t return on schedule

For photographers, bring extra batteries and memory cards—charging opportunities are limited. A tripod is essential for night photography, and a red-light headlamp helps preserve night vision while setting up equipment.

Consider bringing walkie-talkies if traveling in multiple vehicles, as cell phones won’t work for communication between cars in most areas.

The Truth Is Out There: Your Area 51 Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re a dedicated UFO enthusiast, a curious traveler seeking unusual destinations, or simply someone who appreciates remote desert landscapes and extraordinary night skies, the Area 51 region offers a truly unique American travel experience. The mystery surrounding this classified military installation has created a fascinating cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

As you stand at the legal viewpoints gazing toward the secretive base, you’ll join generations of curious minds who have pondered what lies beyond those distant boundaries. While you may not uncover definitive proof of extraterrestrial life, you’ll certainly experience one of America’s most enigmatic landscapes and perhaps gain a deeper appreciation for both the power of government secrecy and the enduring human fascination with the unknown.

Pack plenty of water, bring an open mind, and prepare for an adventure that’s truly out of this world.