There’s something special about every small town in Nevada, but the town of Lovelock in the northern region of the state is truly unique in its own way. With a population of about 1,800 friendly locals, this town certainly lives up to its name. In fact, it takes its name pretty seriously and you’re about to see why. It’s not so often you come across a town that openly celebrates “love”, but that’s exactly what this town does. Check it out.
Located in the Humboldt River Basin is the quaint community of Lovelock. This quintessential small town is big on Western hospitality. The locals are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever come across.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
At first, Lovelock may seem like any other small desert town. However, it’s increasingly growing as a tourist destination for the town’s many unique aspects. There is one day that may be the town’s busiest for tourists: Valentines Day.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Lovelock takes its name seriously. The town holds dear to its heart a tradition in which couples can purchase a literal lock, place it on a chain in the town’s square, and throw the key into the Humboldt River.
Wayne Hsieh/Flickr
You can purchase an engraved lock from numerous businesses around town. Couples who visit Lovelock leave their padlock as a symbol for their everlasting love. It’s also fun to look at the thousands upon thousands of locks that have been left behind in the years past.
Laura P/TripAdvisor
Valentines Day is quickly approaching and you should definitely considering planning a trip to Lovelock to celebrate. The town holds an annual Love-Locks Festival in which the main event is the “Lovers Aloft” hot air balloon races.
Pershing County Nevada/YouTube
The hot air balloon races are supposed to commemorate the beauty in everlasting love. Along with the races, the festival holds a variety of Valentines-themed events. Who knew this small Nevada town could make such a romantic getaway?
Pershing County Nevada/YouTube
Along with the town’s unique fixation on love, Lovelock also contains several fascinating historical points. The Pershing County Courthouse is one of the last round-shaped courthouses in the nation. Originally built in 1920, the courthouse is one of the town’s most unique landmarks.
Ken Lund/Flickr
The town is big on hospitality so be sure to stop for a meal at one of the local eateries. The Cowpoke Cafe is an iconic restaurant in town. It’s the type of place where everyone seems to know everyone.
Tastemy/TripAdvisor
The Lovelock Caves are another big tourist attraction in the area for those who are looking for an adventure. The hike through untamed wilderness to get to the caves is a true taste of the West’s rugged landscape.
Ken Lund/Flickr
The caves are actually an archaeological site where ancient Native American artifacts can still be uncovered. The caves are a fascinating look at the region’s past, and it’s a must for anybody who visits Lovelock.
324emanuellac/TripAdvisor
Have you been to Lovelock? If you love how quirky this town is, be sure to check out The Most Hippie Town In Nevada That You Need To Visit.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Wayne Hsieh/Flickr
Laura P/TripAdvisor
Pershing County Nevada/YouTube
Ken Lund/Flickr
Tastemy/TripAdvisor
324emanuellac/TripAdvisor
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