If you’re heading out Alamo way, be ready to get off the pavement. There are hundreds of miles of trails for off-road vehicles open to the public. And if you’re a birder, bring your binoculars – the specimens out here are amazing.

Alamo’s also home to the Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge – 5,000 acres of open wetlands and lush grasslands. This quaint community, founded in 1901, also includes homey services like cafes, a grocery store, churches, motels – even a landing strip for your private plane if you happen to have one. And as one of the closest towns to the legendary Area 51, planes might not be the only thing you spot in the sky.