On a dark dusty highway, well actually a state route, possibly the most eclectic road trip waits for you. Nevada’s state route 375, more commonly known by its nickname, the Extraterrestrial Highway is 98 miles of oddities and curiosities. Ready for an out-of-this-world adventure?
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TLDR? The most important part to keep in mind is not to attempt to go onto the military base. Obey the signs.
The E.T. Highway passes the Nevada Test and Training Range including the portion commonly known as Area 51. The area is famous for countless UFO sightings and alien rumors. One of the oddest is the rumor that an underground train runs from Vegas to Area 51. While the origins of this rumor are unknown, I don’t know why anyone believes it because Janet Airlines does exist. Visitors to Vegas can see Janet Airlines depart the airport several times a day. The airline takes employees (no little green men confirmed as of yet) to work daily in Area 51. The plane is white with a red stripe and no tail numbers.
Did you know the government didn’t admit Area 51 existed until 2013?
The main points of interest on this road trip are the E.T. Highway road sign, E.T. Fresh Jerky, the Alien Research Center, and the Little A’Le’Inn. While traveling east to west the E.T. Fresh Jerky is your first stop and your last chance for a bathroom unless you grab a burger at the Little A’Le’Inn. Beyond the restroom, you will find ample alien-themed gifts and snacks for the rest of your trip.
Next up is the sticker-covered road sign. (It’s ok to add yours I suppose. Even the Nevada tourism office posts adding their own.) At least grab your Instagram shot here.
Next, is the unassuming giant silver arched building popping up among the Joshua trees. Unassuming except for the giant grey alien standing outside that is. This is The Alien Research Center. By research, they mean gift shops.
Keep in mind, that you are traveling through open cattle range country. You will see signs, but the animals could also be on the road.
Your next stop is Rachel, Nevada. Also known as the UFO Capital of the World and the closest town to Area 51. While just more than 50 people call this tiny town home, it is considered the unofficial headquarters of the E.T. Highway and was named after the first baby born within its city limits.
You will find just one business in Rachel, the A’Le’Inn. The flying saucer dangling from a tow truck out front will let you know you have reached this restaurant and bar. Inside you will find currency-covered walls and a museum-like atmosphere for everything UFO-sighting-related. Be sure to check out the time capsule area outside too!
The Litle A’Le’Inn offers a printout of the sights like the “Black Mailbox” for sale. The rest of your drive is opened desert with razor-wire fencing of the base in some areas until you reach the historic mining town of Tonopah.
While the truth may be out there what you will find along this route is long stretches of desert with random sightings of alien-themed gift shops.
Please note that we cannot stress this enough. You are driving PAST the area. You CAN NOT visit the military base. There are plenty of friendly stops along the Extraterrestrial Highway, the military base, however, is defended with deadly force if necessary. In other words, do not go where signs tell you not to go.
