URGENT UPDATE: The ghost town of Goodsprings is experiencing a dramatic surge in visitors, drawing thousands from the bustling Las Vegas Strip just 30 minutes away. Once a thriving mining hub, this eerie destination attracts over 6,420 tourists in 2024 alone, thanks to its unique history and pop culture connections.
Located in the Nevada desert at the base of the Spring Mountains, Goodsprings has a mere population of around 200 residents. Yet, its hauntingly beautiful landscape and rich history make it a must-visit for tourists seeking an alternative to the vibrant nightlife of Las Vegas. The town was once home to 800 people during its mining boom in the early 20th century, featuring a hospital, hotels, and even a school that still operates with just two students today.
The town’s notoriety surged after the tragic plane crash of actress Carole Lombard in 1942. Her husband, Hollywood star Clark Gable, famously waited for news at the Pioneer Saloon, where his cigar burns are said to linger to this day. The saloon now honors this connection with a memorial room dedicated to the couple.
Goodsprings has developed a reputation as a “ghost town,” enhanced by chilling folklore and local hauntings. Visitors on platforms like Reddit share experiences that add to its mystique. One recent traveler noted, “When I went to Goodsprings a few years back with my wife, it was completely dead. It looked like a wild west ghost town that time had forgotten.”
Despite its ghostly ambiance, the Pioneer Saloon remains a welcoming hub for tourists. Owner Stephen Staats, who took over in 2021, recognized the town’s potential in pop culture, particularly as the starting point for the popular video game Fallout: New Vegas. In a surprising twist, Staats hosted a themed event on National Video Game Day on July 8, 2022, expecting around 100 attendees, but was shocked when over 1,000 fans showed up.
The excitement surrounding Goodsprings has escalated since the successful launch of the Amazon Prime Video series based on the game. Following its debut, 6,420 visitors flocked to Goodsprings in 2024, with many praising the town’s atmosphere and the friendly locals. One visitor remarked, “The locals love it, and it’s kind of their only form of tourism.”
With a second season of the Amazon Prime show confirmed and likely to include scenes set in and around “New Vegas,” Goodsprings is poised for an even larger influx of visitors. The town’s unique blend of history, mystery, and pop culture allure continues to capture the imagination of tourists seeking an unforgettable experience just outside of Las Vegas.
WHAT’S NEXT: As Goodsprings prepares for another wave of visitors, travelers are encouraged to explore its storied past while supporting the local community. With its blend of ghostly tales and vibrant local culture, Goodsprings remains a captivating destination for adventurers and history buffs alike. Stay tuned for more updates as this ghost town captures the hearts of even more visitors.
