ARTOWN
Reno

Craving creativity? The avant garde? New interpretations of the "Biggest Little City"? Every July, this month-long Reno celebration showcases the city's "off-the-beaten path art scene," along with works by international artists as well. During the festival, "every single day offers something different," from plays and ballet to theatre and art exhibits. With over 300 events, you'll find "almost every kind of art there is." Better yet, many of the events are free, so you can soak up all the culture you want without opening your wallet. For outdoor events, be sure and bring a blanket or a low-back chair. Read more.

Christmas Tree Pass Road
Laughlin

The scenic road that leads through the Lake Mead Recreation Area between Laughlin and Las Vegas is "simply wonderful and spectacular." Even though it adds an extra hour, it's "well worth the side trip," and everyone "should try and make it at least once." Because the road is unpaved (in some places it's just dirt), steep, and rugged, it's not just for any type of vehicle--4WD is mandatory. However, the road is "well maintained and easy for the beginner to navigate." Moving through several photo-worthy ecosystems, at its highest point you'll find yourself surrounded by pinion pines. Read more.

Milo's Best Cellars Café
Boulder City

Those seeking the sidewalk scene will find this indoor/outdoor wine bar to offer a "welcoming, boutique-style atmosphere." Set in the historic town of Boulder City, which is on the way to or from the Hoover Dam, Milo's offers over 50 beers and wine by the glass, along with "fabulous food" ranging from salads and sandwiches to "share-worthy" cheese platters. On weekend evenings, you might find "entertainment like belly dancers or musicians" at the outside café area. Also, be on the lookout for drink specials. Read more.

The Pneumatic Diner
Reno

For a "welcome relief from Reno's stereotypical casino ambience," ascend to the second floor of the "unassuming" Truckee River Lodge to this "small, all-vegetarian diner." Everything on the menu is organic and "imaginatively named," and even though there's beer on tap, this is the kind of place that fills up when church lets out on Sundays with "happy waffle eaters." Adventurers also tend to stumble in with ravenous appetites after taking to the Truckee River right across the way. Paintings by local artists adorn the walls to create an "eclectic atmosphere" that is overall "incredibly relaxed."

48th Annual International Camel Races
Virginia City

What began as a practical joke is today a somewhat "unusual festival" that brings in camel riders from around the world. The family-friendly events take place in various venues in Virginia City. In addition to the fiercely competitive camel races, highlights include the camel parade and camel hump ball. "Kids will really get a kick out of the camels" and even have the chance to ride them. The emu herding is also wildly popular with the younger set. The city's connection to camels began back in its silver-mining days, when the camels were used to haul salt. Read more.