Photo credit: Brian Oar
Solo travel is on the rise—43% of Americans took a solo trip in 2024, with plans to travel alone even more in 2025, according to a Skyscanner survey. But it’s not just about affordability or checking a destination off a list. Today’s independent explorers are seeking places that feel rewarding, flexible and refreshingly off the beaten path, with opportunities for relaxation and self-care. Enter Mesquite, Nevada, a budget-friendly solo travel destination with breathtaking natural beauty, a serene atmosphere, and abundant activities.
With its relaxed pace and walkable layout, this gem is tailor-made for autonomous travelers. It’s easy to navigate, easy on the wallet and full of ways to enjoy the Mojave Desert at your own rhythm. Whether you’re craving a rugged hike, a spa day, a cozy boutique to browse or a quiet corner to finally finish that book, this guide is your invitation to experience this warm, wide-open escape on your terms.
Resort Comforts Tailored for Solo Travelers
When you’re a party of one, your accommodations extend beyond a place to sleep—it’s a home base for exploring, relaxing and indulging in experiences. In Mesquite, you’ll find resort stays that are affordable and comfortable, with easy access to the area’s top outdoor and dining experiences.
The sleek, modern Eureka Casino Resort offers low-key luxury. The Resort Opulence king or queen room is a standout, with plush pillow-top bedding, a sleek tile entryway and views of the pool and courtyard. Plus, there are many ways to enjoy yourself, from live music, comedy shows and themed events to top-notch entertainment, like a lively 21+ karaoke night in the ballroom.
Unwind in style at CasaBlanca Resort & Casino by opting for a spacious king suite with pool views, a separate living area and oversized tub. Or upgrade to a spa package for the ultimate self-care—a two-night stay in a pool-view room, two drink tickets and a $100 spa credit for one person. Keep your wellness routine going at the Casa del Sol fitness center with its top-of-the-line Matrix equipment and inspiring views of the pool.
Hikes with Sweeping Views & Quiet Trails
Solo travel in the serene Mojave Desert surrounding Mesquite offers unique opportunities for reflection, clarity and deep connection with a place that feels untouched.
Gold Butte National Monument is steeped in history, home to ancient petroglyphs, fossil beds and native wildlife. Begin your journey at Whitney Pocket, where fiery red-rock domes meet green valleys, a spectacular setting for sunrise or sunset photos. The monument is open for hiking, birding, off-road exploration and traditional tribal uses. You can wander the terrain solo to take in its quiet beauty—or better yet, join a guided hike or stewardship event with Friends of Gold Butte to experience the landscape alongside fellow nature lovers.
For more seasoned hikers, the remote Virgin Peak, located about nine miles south of Mesquite, offers sweeping views from a rugged 8,071-foot summit. This “sky island” rise above the desert floor delivers unmatched solitude and a true sense of accomplishment.
For a shorter hike, check out the trails around the Virgin River Canyon area. These scenic paths wind through red sandstone formations and valleys scattered with Joshua trees that are ideal for photo ops, birdwatching or simply pausing to take it all in beneath the open sky.
Thrilling Rides Across the Desert Terrain
If your desert getaway includes a little dust and a lot of adventure, these UTV rental options offer the ultimate way to explore the surrounding desert on your own terms.
Experience an unforgettable ride through the magical Mojave Desert with Virgin River Adventure Rentals, offering UTV experiences for lone riders and small groups. Cruise across the Arizona Strip or the Arizona/Nevada desert border in a Can-Am Maverick Sport, with routes that take you to hidden wonders most travelers never see.
For another off-road option, check out Mesquite Outdoor Rentals, located at Mesquite Trails RV Resort. Its fleet includes street-legal Yamaha YXZ 1000cc 2-seaters and RMAX 1000cc 4-seaters, and come fully equipped with trail permits, GPS, maps, tools, a spare tire and full windshields, so all you need to do is enjoy your off-roading adventure.
Scenic Solitude & Spa Bliss
Surrounded by desert stillness, The Spa & Salon at CasaBlanca Resort & Casino invites you to choose from a full menu of services, from facials and wraps to massages and mani-pedis. The Triple Shot Trio is a must-try, with its luxurious combination of a caramel coffee sugar scrub, tapioca pudding mask and soothing massage. It will leave your skin glowing and your mind at ease.
You don’t have to lay on a massage table to indulge in me time. Hafen Park is a quiet, reflective place where you can cast a line into the two-acre fishing pond stocked with rainbow trout and catfish or take a slow walk along the well-manicured paths that wind through native plants and desert views. The park is especially peaceful in the early morning or golden hour, making it ideal for journaling or meditation.
Inviting Cafés, Restaurants & Lounges
This relaxing retreat is full of welcoming spots where you can settle in to grab a great meal, perhaps enjoy a conversation with a local or unwind with a good book.
Start your day on a warm note at Ella Mae’s Brew & Flour, a cozy community-minded coffee shop serving locally roasted espresso, freshly squeezed lemonade, sandwiches and fresh pastries--including gluten-free and sugar-free flavoring options. With live events and creative gatherings regularly on the calendar, it’s a great spot to gear up for the day, reflect on your experiences, or spark conversation with fellow patrons.
The Terrace Restaurant at the renowned Wolf Creek Golf Club pairs sweeping views of the greens with a relaxed, scenic setting—perfect for dining indoors or al fresco. Open daily for breakfast and lunch, with dinner served Friday and Saturday evenings from October through June, the menu ranges from hearty breakfast burritos to crisp salads, stacked sandwiches, and entrées like grilled salmon and filet mignon. End your leisurely meal with a New York cheesecake topped with berry coulis and fresh strawberries or a warm apple tart à la mode.
Treat yourself to an indulgent evening at Katherine’s Steakhouse & Lounge in CasaBlanca Resort & Casino, a Mesquite institution known for its award-winning steaks, table-side presentations and impeccable service. Recently refreshed with a new lounge, expanded bar area and updated carpeting, the space is more inviting than ever. Menu highlights include USDA Dry Aged Prime steaks, fresh-from-the-Keys Florida stone crab (seasonal) and standout seafood like the rich Seafood Diablo. Live music fills the lounge on Friday and Saturday evenings from 7-10 p.m., adding to the ambiance if you want a little atmosphere without needing a crowd.
Shop Small for Art, Décor, Gifts & More
Treasure hunt your way through locally loved boutiques and shops filled with handcrafted goods and one-of-a-kind gifts.
Spend a day treasure hunting at standout spots for handcrafted finds and distinctive gifts. Juniper Outpost is a woman-owned boutique with everything from local artwork to small-batch apothecary goods, all with a desert-inspired touch.
Just three minutes up the road, peruse Heavenly Gift Shoppe II for a refreshingly eclectic shopping experience. You’ll find crystals, stones, handmade jewelry, incense and other inspired gifts that go beyond the ordinary. This locally loved boutique also hosts bimonthly crafting classes that welcome beginners and seasoned makers alike to connect, unwind and create something uniquely their own.
And for a sweet surprise, stop by Danielle’s Chocolates & Popcorn, a beloved family-owned shop known for its Snowy Chocolate Popcorn. Beyond the signature treat, you’ll find an array of handcrafted chocolates and caramels, each rooted in family tradition and small-batch care.
Local Culture & Creative Spaces
From its preserved pioneer history to its vibrant arts community, you’ll find plenty of ways to connect with the culture and stories that shape this delightful desert town.
Head to the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum, where the story of Mesquite’s early settlers comes to life through cultural artifacts, including quilts and slot machines from the days of yore, as well as hands-on exhibits. Housed in a Pueblo Revival-style building constructed in 1942 by the National Youth Administration, the museum is a piece of local history. It’s a fascinating glimpse into life between 1875 and 1935—and admission is always free.
Next door, the Mesquite Fine Arts Center offers even more ways to immerse yourself in the local creative scene. The center’s gallery hosts monthly exhibitions with varying themes, highlighting works from local artists. Additionally, the center organizes events like the “Brown Bag Cultural Series,” which features lectures and discussions on various art-related topics. Be sure to check its event calendar for everything from basket weaving classes to “Palette & Pour” parties.
Exploring Mesquite on your own means every moment can feel meaningful—even if you’re only here for 24 hours. Whether you’re climbing desert trails or chatting with locals at a gallery, you’ll find experiences that strike the perfect balance of independence and connection.