If you leave Las Vegas heading north, or leave Reno heading east, in both cases, you'll eventually get to Ely. This rural town is still a major refueling and rest stop.
Most people experience Nevada in the edges of the state. In the northwestern corner is Reno, and Black Rock where the Burning Man festival gathers. Las Vegas is down in the southern tip, and usually takes more than one visit to truly experience. Along the eastern edge, just about at the middle of the state there isn't much at all. However, at the junction of US50, US90 and US6 you'll find the town of Ely.
It looks like "eel-eye" but locally, they say "eel-E." Reno is six hours due west on the lonliest highway; Vegas is four to five hours south. This is the major gas, food, rest and everything stop for however far you're going in any direction. Driving through town, there are historic murals on a variety of the buildings downtown. The walkable or driveable loop runs for just blocks.
There are several very interesting historic sites in the area. In town, there is the NV Northern Railway Museum and the Ghost Train. Passing through town on several road trips, I'd suggest going right to the largest grocery store in town and just trying to get all your supplies. We've come up empty-handed at other places, only to wind up there in the end every time.
Just south about a half hour or so out of town are the historic Ward Charcoal Ovens. They have spots for picnics, restrooms, and a nearby campground facility as well. It's a great spot to spend the night after restocking in town. Or you might head east and visit the Great Basin National Park. I highly recommend the caves, especially if you make a summertime visit.
