Location: Carson City
Top Things to do in Carson City
Top 10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Carson City, Nevada (NV)
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. Nevada State Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 417 reviews
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.
2. Capitol Complex
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 51 reviews
Tour the lovely grounds of this historic complex which includes: the Nevada State Capitol building, an architecural marvel made of native sandstone with marble hallways, the Legislative Building, the Supreme Court and the State Library and Archives.
Reviewed By getawayeasy
We had 20 minutes to kill and took a stroll through the grounds of the capitol. We thoroughly enjoyed the wide variety of plants and trees, many labeled. It was something our 88 year old mom could safely enjoy. The statues were interesting and the grounds well kept. This is a very inviting capitol.
3. Nevada State Railroad Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 281 reviews
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. Bowers Mansion Regional Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 36 reviews
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.
5. Nevada State Capitol Building
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 158 reviews
Reviewed By 248jbc
Nevada’s State Capitol is amazing, elegant and rich in history and class. The staff is almost as amazing as the architecture.
6. Kit Carson Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 21 reviews
Reviewed By L509RLtinaw
We spent a couple of hours walking around the streets, following the map from the visitor centre. The map gave a trail to follow to view the homes and it provided information such as when the house was built and who lived there. you will see the house where John Wayne shot his last film. And Samuel Clemens brother's house - Samuel Clemens did stay there. You can shorten your walk if you wish - we could have spent longer enjoying these quiet streets. My mother is restricted with mobility so she followed in the car, making stops to get out on occasion. The streets are quiet, tree lined with many manicured gardens. Well worth your time - and at no cost.
7. Virginia and Truckee Railway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 154 reviews
Back in the days of the Comstock load, the Virginia and Truckee Railroad was making history hauling gold and silver. Now more than 70 years later, the V&T is once again traveling along the original route between Carson City and Virginia City, NV. On our fully-narrated, 24-mile roundtrip Sisters in History Route, see old mines, historic cemeteries, travel through tunnels, maybe even see some wild mustangs, then experience the Wild West in Virginia City's shops, restaurants, and saloons. Or join us for an hour-long ride on one of our popular theme trains, like THE POLAR EXPRESS(TM) Train Ride or our relaxing Wine Train into the Carson Canyon. Our regular season opens Memorial Weekend and runs through mid-October, followed by THE POLAR EXPRESS(TM), which runs mid-November to mid-December.
8. Governor's Mansion
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 59 reviews
This Neoclassical 1909 mansion is located in the heart of Carson City's historic district.
Reviewed By X1X2mom - Henderson, United States
Really pretty to stop by and take pictures. Great stop when cruising around town. A must see when in Carson City.
9. Carson City Culture & Tourism Authority
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 34 reviews
Carson City, NV, sits in the center of one of the most scenic and historic areas in the country, making it a perfect starting point for your NV experience. History, year round outdoor recreation, events, the arts... There is always something going on. Pick up your tourism brochures and maps related to the entire region and our office and be sure to follow Visit Carson City on any of your favorite social medias, or our website for all you need to know about the capital of Nevada.
10. Children's Museum of Northern Nevada
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 37 reviews
Enjoy a day with the family at this lively, hands-on museum where children discover that learning and fun go together. Kids pull, push, poke and take apart as they make their way through a series of interactive exhibits.
Reviewed By 107Judy30 - Folsom, United States
Lots of great exhibits and fun things for kids to interact with....very interesting...even to adults.....great place to visit!
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