Wendover UtahATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wendover, Utah.
1. Bonneville Salt Flats
NATURAL WONDER SPEEDWAY
The Bonneville Salt Flats offer expansive white salt landscapes providing a peaceful ambiance and a chance to walk, cycle, or drive across the unique terrain. Visitors can enjoy striking sunset views against the stark white backdrop that stretches to the horizon. The flats have historical significance as the site of numerous land speed records and continue to attract motorsports enthusiasts from around the world.
2. Historic Wendover Airfield
WWII MILITARY HERITAGE
Historic Wendover Airfield preserves significant World War II Army Air Force history, including facilities where crews trained for the atomic bombing missions. The museum educates present and future generations about this crucial period in American military history. Visitors can tour original buildings and see restored aircraft while experiencing the authentic atmosphere of a wartime airbase.
3. Knolls Recreation Area
OFF-ROAD DESERT ADVENTURES
Knolls Recreation Area offers outdoor enthusiasts a vast playground for off-road vehicle adventures across sand dunes and desert terrain. The recreation area provides designated trails and open spaces for ATVs, dirt bikes, and other recreational vehicles. Visitors appreciate the uncrowded atmosphere and diverse landscape perfect for day trips from Wendover.
4. Metaphor - Tree of Utah
DESERT ART INSTALLATION
The Tree of Utah is a striking 87-foot tall art sculpture created by Swedish artist Karl Momen standing in stark contrast to the surrounding salt flats. This colorful concrete, ceramic, and natural stone creation represents a tree with spherical "fruit" elements that catch the desert light. The installation serves as an unexpected roadside attraction for travelers crossing the expansive salt desert on I-80.
5. Danger Cave State Park
ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
Danger Cave State Park Heritage Area contains one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Great Basin region. The cave preserves a remarkable record of human occupation dating back approximately 11,000 years, offering insights into ancient Native American cultures. Guided tours allow visitors to explore this protected site and learn about the artifacts and evidence of early human habitation discovered within the cave.
6. Peppermill Concert Hall
PREMIER ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Peppermill Concert Hall hosts top-bill entertainment and has featured legendary performers like Willie Nelson, Jay Leno, Pat Benatar, and Foreigner. The venue offers intimate concert experiences with excellent acoustics and sightlines from every seat. Located in the Peppermill Resort, the concert hall attracts visitors from across the region seeking quality live entertainment in a comfortable setting.
7. Wendover Will
ICONIC NEON COWBOY
Wendover Will is a giant neon cowboy figure that has been the town's official landmark since 1952. Standing at 63 feet tall, this illuminated cowboy welcomes visitors to West Wendover with his friendly wave and glowing smile. The restored vintage sign represents the area's western heritage and casino culture, making it a popular photo opportunity for tourists.
8. Blue Lake Wildlife Management Area
DESERT OASIS ECOSYSTEM
Blue Lake Wildlife Management Area features a wetland complex of deep and clear spring-fed lakes and ponds in the desert landscape. The unexpected azure waters attract anglers seeking to catch stocked fish, as well as swimmers enjoying the refreshing water. The area has become popular with scuba divers who explore the surprising depths and underwater features of these desert oasis pools.
9. Sun Tunnels
CELESTIAL DESERT SCULPTURE
Sun Tunnels is an environmental art installation created by artist Nancy Holt consisting of four large concrete cylinders arranged in an X pattern in the desert. The tunnels are precisely aligned to frame the sun during solstice sunrises and sunsets in June and December, creating a celestial viewing experience. This remote artwork merges astronomy, nature, and sculpture into a unique interactive experience worth the drive from Wendover.
10. Bonneville Speedway
LAND SPEED RACING VENUE
Bonneville Speedway is the designated racing area on the Bonneville Salt Flats where official land speed record attempts take place during annual Speed Week events. The perfectly flat, densely packed salt surface provides ideal conditions for vehicles attempting to reach extreme velocities. Spectators can witness everything from modified production cars to specialized streamliners pushing the boundaries of speed in this iconic motorsports venue.
11. Pilot Peak
MAJESTIC DESERT MOUNTAIN
Pilot Peak is Nevada's most ultra-prominent mountain, towering over the basin at more than 10,700 feet in elevation. The mountain served as a crucial landmark for early explorers including John C. Fremont, Kit Carson, and the ill-fated Donner Party as they traversed the region. Hiking trails to various elevations offer spectacular views of the surrounding desert landscape including the gleaming salt flats below.
12. Montego Bay Casino Resort
GAMING AND DINING DESTINATION
Montego Bay Casino Resort offers visitors a complete entertainment experience with gaming floors, comfortable accommodations, and multiple dining options. The resort features table games, slot machines, and regular promotions that attract weekend visitors from Utah and travelers passing through on I-80. Its restaurants range from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences, providing options for every taste and budget.
13. San Felipe Catholic Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
San Felipe Catholic Church stands as an important religious and cultural landmark in the Wendover community. The church has served local residents and visitors for generations, providing both spiritual services and community gatherings. Its architecture and interior details reflect the region's heritage and Catholic traditions, making it worth a visit for those interested in local history.
14. Rainbow Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
Rainbow Casino offers visitors a vibrant gaming experience with a variety of slot machines and table games in a welcoming atmosphere. The casino complex includes dining options ranging from quick bites to sit-down meals, catering to different preferences and budgets. Regular entertainment events and promotions add to the appeal of this popular destination for visitors seeking Nevada-style gaming just across the Utah border.
15. Goshute Raptor Migration Project
BIRD WATCHING PARADISE
The Goshute Raptor Migration Project offers bird enthusiasts the opportunity to observe hawks and other raptors migrating along the Pacific Flyway. Located at 9,000 feet in elevation, the observation site provides spectacular views of both the salt flats below and birds of prey soaring overhead. Visitors can participate in monitoring activities with Hawkwatch International researchers while learning about conservation efforts for these magnificent birds.