Nevada’s mysterious Area 51 has captured the attention of tourists and extraterrestrial enthusiasts for decades.

After a Freedom of Information Act that had been submitted in 2005, Area 51’s official existence became public knowledge in August of 2013.

The closest town to Area 51 is Rachel, located over 100 miles north of Las Vegas along Hwy 375 – “The Extraterrestrial Highway.”  The tiny town has a tourist shop, 12-room motel and the alien themed restaurant and bar, the “Little A’Le’Inn.”  Several unpaved roads near Rachel lead from Hwy 375 to the boundary of Area 51.

Going back to the 1950s, people have reported seeing UFOs at the Southern Nevada Edwards Air Force Base. 

Area 51 is a highly classified United States Air Force facility located within the Nevada Test and Training Range; it is a remote detachment of Edwards Air Force Base.  Due to its secretive nature and the classified military activities that take place there, Area 51 has been subject to much speculation and conspiracy theories.  It is known for its association with the development and testing of experimental aircraft and other classified projects.

Please note:  access to Area 51 is highly restricted and it is illegal to trespass onto the base!