The 5 Best History Museums in Carson City, Nevada (NV)

March 19, 2022 Terina Blouin

A city of natural beauty, charm, history and western hospitality, this state capital derived its name from Kit Carson, the legendary trapper, scout and explorer. A trip to the city is a living history lesson. One need only jump on the Kit Carson Trail downtown, which passes old mansions, courthouses, a depot and a brewery, to experience a taste of life in the Old West. Also downtown, the State Capitol, built in 1870, offers a look at the birth of Nevada as a state and Carson City as its capital. Other historic landmarks, cultural heritage centers and museums dot the landscape around town, but don't forget your clubs. The city is well-known for the Divine Nine, a group of top-rated area courses designed by pros such as Arnold Palmer, Johnny Miller and John Harbottle and set amid the magnificent Sierra Mountains. After a little golf, gambling or sightseeing, spend some down time at the Carson City Hot Springs. You will emerge feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and ready for more exciting endeavors.
Restaurants in Carson City

1. Baldwin Museum

861 Crescent Dr, Carson City, NV 89701-7704 +1 775-888-0936
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Learn about the Washoe Indian culture through slide presentations and displays of housing, artifacts and pictures.

2. Nevada State Museum

600 N Carson St, Carson City, NV 89701-4004 +1 775-687-4810 http://museums.nevadaculture.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=486&Itemid=439
Excellent
65%
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4.5 based on 417 reviews

Nevada State Museum

This museum focuses on the rich natural and cultural heritage of the "Silver State." Visit to learn about local wildlife, see the bones of pre-historic creatures found in the area and the Ichthyosaur Shonisaurus popularis, Nevada's state fossil.

Reviewed By EricG141 - Pasadena, United States

The exhibits are very well designed, with a nice combination of artifacts, signage and multimedia. There is plenty of interest for both adults and teenage kids. This is a great way to understand the development of the State. There is a good gift shop and very clean restrooms.

3. Nevada State Railroad Museum

2180 S Carson St, Carson City, NV 89701-5552 +1 775-687-6953 [email protected] http://www.nvculture.org/nevadastaterailroadmuseumcarsoncity
Excellent
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4.5 based on 281 reviews

Nevada State Railroad Museum

Train buffs will love this museum which features a diverse collection of photographs and artifacts that trace Nevada's railroad history. Highlights include a 19th-century rail equipment exhibit and five steam locomotives.

Reviewed By jamescF5515DT - Reno, United States

The Museum has a wonderful selection of historic RR artifacts including steam locomotives Dayton,Inyo and #25, McKeen and Edwards motorcars and Coach 17 from the “Golden Spike” ceremony at Promontory Summit in Utah as well as several other rolling stock pieces. On selected days kids and adults alike can get up close and take a short ride on one of the authentic trains. It is a wonderful place with a friendly staff who welcome questions and love to discuss the museum pieces. Ask about the locomotive with no brakes!

4. Stewart Indian Cultural Center

5366 Snyder Ave, Carson City, NV 89701-6743 +1 775-882-6929 http://www.stewartindianschool.com/
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4.5 based on 13 reviews

Stewart Indian Cultural Center

Once a school that taught Native Americans how to get along in "the white man's world," this cultural center now houses a fascinating collection of Native American art including the work of photographer E.S. Curtis.

Reviewed By RedRoss53 - Richland, United States

I can't remember how we heard about this when we visited Carson City, but we were glad we did. The visitor center was quite impressive and the movie was helpful to understand the school, how & why it was founded and perhaps more importantly, how it changed to encourage traditions of Native Americans rather than drum them out of the children who came here, either voluntarily or by force of the white establishment. Very nice, enthusiastic volunteers and beautiful buildings - some abandoned and some in use as govt. offices. No cost - great for bad weather!

5. Bowers Mansion Regional Park

4005 Bowers Mansion Road, Carson City, NV 89704 +1 775-849-1825 http://www.washoecounty.us/parks/parks_and_trails/park_directory/mt_rose_district/bowers_mansion_regional_park.php
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4.5 based on 36 reviews

Bowers Mansion Regional Park

Tour back in time to Nevada's heyday and see how Comstock millionaires Eilley and Sandy Bowers lived the posh life in Washoe Valley. Picnic, swim and play on the grounds as every generation of visitors has done since the Victorian era. Bowers Mansion is open seasonally (weekends and holidays), usually from Memorial Day through Nevada Day weekend. Tours are every hour, on the hour, from 11:00am-4:00pm. Summer group tours are also available by appointment.

Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States

We returned to Bowers Mansion Regional Park This is a nice large park with green area, picnic area, swimming pool, and playgrounds. Its a wonderful park to go to. There is also the historic silver barron mansion, complete with mining exhibits and ranch exhibits to see.

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