Little A'Le'Inn
4.5(1.6K)google
4.1(287)yelp
QuirkyMust-See
Overview
The Little A'Le'Inn is a legendary, wonderfully eccentric extraterrestrial-themed motel, bar, and souvenir shop located in the remote desert outpost of Alamo along Nevada's Extraterrestrial Highway. Serving for decades as the absolute cultural headquarters for UFO enthusiasts, conspiracy theorists, and curious adventurers traveling near Area 51, the quirky inn features flying saucer models, alien statues, and photo-lined walls. It offers travelers a highly memorable slice of pure Americana subculture where they can enjoy an alien burger.
Practical Info
Mon–Wed8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thu–Sat8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sun8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Suggested DurationAbout 45-90 minutes
Best TimeBest visited during clear daylight hours up to dusk, which allows for crisp photography of the famous alien-themed outdoor signs and UFO models, while treating you to a stunning desert sunset; avoid driving late at night as the Extraterrestrial Highway (State Route 375) is unlit and free-range cattle are common.
Getting ThereLocated in the tiny town of Rachel along Nevada State Route 375 (Extraterrestrial Highway). Drive north from Las Vegas via I-15 N to US-93 N, then turn onto SR-375 N; the trip takes about 2.5 hours. Due to its remote location and spotty cell service, downloading offline maps and fueling up beforehand is essential.
Travel Tips
- Phone reservations are not accepted, and RV/campsite spaces cannot be booked same-day online; walk-ins are entirely subject to first-come, first-served availability at the bar.
- Located in an extremely remote zone along SR-375 with severe cell blindspots, you must completely fuel up your vehicle in Alamo and download offline navigation maps prior to departure.
- The restaurant and bar operate strictly from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM; avoid late-night arrivals as desert temperatures drop drastically post-sunset and highways completely lack overhead lighting.
Reviews
Positive
- A very quirky and fun experience! Filled with alien and UFO memorabilia, the unique atmosphere makes it a worthwhile stop even just for a quick bite.
- The burgers and food are very affordable, with generous portions and great taste. It is an absolute oasis of hunger relief along the remote Extraterrestrial Highway.
- The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. The motel even lets you borrow old VHS tapes to watch in your room for free, which is a fantastic, retro, and bizarre experience.
- The atmosphere here can't be beat. You can enjoy great conversations about UFOs with locals at the bar, which is perfect for travelers wanting to experience remote desert culture.
Heads up
- The accommodations are very basic and a bit rough. Rooms are in converted trailers with shared, tight bathrooms, so those requiring comfort should be cautious.
- While the alien theme is unique, most of the tourist trinkets and memorabilia look dated and dusty, feeling a bit lacking in detailed maintenance and updates.
- Dining choices are extremely limited. The food hits the spot but is basic fast food served on paper plates, far from being a refined culinary experience.
- Due to the remote location, there is often only one person running the entire restaurant, which heavily impacts service efficiency and leads to long waits when it gets busy.