My Favorites
1. Las Vegas

Vegas Sunrise
Highlights: Casinos, nightlife
Suggest Staying: 3-5 days
Stay Around: The Strip or Freemont Street (Oasis at Gold Spike)
Internet: Strong
2. Lake Tahoe

Emerald Bay
Highlights: Lake, nature, hiking, gambling
Suggest Staying: 2-5 days
Stay Around: South Lake Tahoe
3. Valley of Fire

Atlatl Rock Campground
Highlights: Hiking, rock formations
Suggest Staying: 1-2 days
Stay Around: Las Vegas or Atlatl Rock Campground
Internet: Weak (ViaSat available)
4. Great Basin National Park

Stella Lake
Highlights: Bristlecone pines, alpine lakes, forests, hiking
Suggest Staying: 1-2 days
Stay Around: Baker or Ely
Internet: Weak (Great Basin)
5. Cathedal Gorge State Park

Cathedral Gorge State Park
Highlights: Hiking, camping
Suggest Staying: 1/2 day (overnight)
Stay Around: Campground
Internet: Good (ViaSat available)
Other Considerations
Reno

Reno
The little brother of Las Vegas, Reno has similar ambitions, but doesn’t get to the same level. It mostly just casinos and places to eat. That said, it’s a convenient stop for a break and worth driving through. Didn’t explore much, but Circus Circus was awesome with a bit of creepy.