Where is Carson City?

Carson City is the capital of Nevada, located in the western part of the state near the Sierra Nevada mountains. It sits just east of Lake Tahoe and south of Reno.

What are things to do in Carson City?

Carson City offers a mix of history, outdoor adventure, and local culture. You can explore the Nevada State Museum, tour the historic Nevada State Capitol, or visit the Kit Carson Trail to see historic homes. Outdoor lovers can enjoy hiking, biking, and water activities at nearby Lake Tahoe or Washoe Lake State Park.

What is Carson City known for?

Carson City is known for being Nevada’s capital and for its rich history tied to the Silver State’s mining boom. It’s also famous for its proximity to Lake Tahoe, its scenic mountain views, and historical sites like the Nevada State Railroad Museum and the Nevada Capitol Building.

How far is Carson City from Lake Tahoe?

In just a 20-30 minute drive from Carson City, you can immerse yourself in Lake Tahoe's stunning natural beauty.

How far is Carson City from Reno?

Carson City is just a quick 30-minute drive to the heart of Reno.

Carson City

Explore Nevada's State Capital

Things to do in Carson City, Nevada

In 1861, the writer Mark Twain added to the notoriety of Carson City by publishing the following description:

“It nestled in the edge of a great plain and was a sufficient number of miles away to look like an assemblage of mere white spots. The mountain summits overlooking it seemed lifted clear out of companionship and consciousness of earthly things.”

Although Mark Twain visited Carson City NV almost 150 years ago in 1861, the city is still considered a town that is dominated by its spectacular setting. The town maintains the charm of its 1860s gold and silver town roots.

Like Mark Twain, you can dive into the culture and lifestyle that many proudly call home in Carson City. Step into Carson City’s vibrant history by visiting iconic museums like the Nevada State Museum and the Nevada State Railroad Museum. Stroll through the charming downtown, where unique shops showcase everything from vintage treasures to handcrafted goods. When it’s time to eat, enjoy a variety of dining experiences, from cozy cafés to upscale restaurants serving both local specialties and international flavors. Nature lovers can unwind at scenic spots like Carson River Park, perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic. And for those feeling lucky, Carson City's casinos offer thrilling gaming experiences.

Reno to Carson City

A 30-minute drive from Reno, Carson City is its own best attraction. A leisurely walk through its historic neighborhoods is the best way to get acquainted with this pleasant little city at the base of the Sierra Nevada.

Carson City Outdoor Activities

Less than 30 minutes from Lake Tahoe, Carson City provides various outdoor opportunities including golfing, hiking and biking trails, and four-wheeling. You can experience our State Capitol in many ways. Perhaps by taking a walk along the Carson River or even hiking Kings Canyon Waterfall Trail. The Kit Carson Trail is a 2.5-mile journey through Carson City's past, featuring historic landmarks that bring the city's rich story to life.

Hike through Kings Canyon Waterfall Trail in Carson City, Nevada

Carson City Shopping

In addition to its historical significance, Carson City is a growing small-town hub of arts and culture with unique shopping and dining experiences. Shops like The Purple Avocado and Due Sorella are locally-owned gift shops that offer one-of-a-kind items for you or that special one in your life. If you are looking for something a little flashier, check out The Jewelry Bench or Fresh Ideas Shop. Interested in a quick historic landmark while shopping? Stop by the Carson Mall Shopping Center and explore the first enclosed mall built in Nevada.

Carson City Dining

Once you have shopped until you are about to drop, there are a variety of restaurants and breweries along North Carson Street and around downtown that highlight just how unique Carson City is. Some local dining favorites include The Great Basin Brewing Company and Kei Sushi, but there is no shortage of restaurants to choose from.

Nevada State Museum in Carson City, Nevada

Nevada Railroad Museum located in Carson City

Carson City Arts and Culture

Nevada State Museum

The immense production of gold and silver from the Comstock mines prompted the establishment of a branch of the U.S. Mint in Carson City in 1866. The handsome structure on the northeast corner of Carson Street and Robinson was built of prison-quarried sandstone and produced nearly $50 million in coin of the realm until it closed down in 1933.

Nevada Capitol Building

This solemn old sandstone monument to the 19th century has been earthquake-proofed and renovated throughout, but its Alaskan marbled halls are still decorated with elaborate friezes, and hung with the portraits of former governors, back to “Broadhorn” Bradley and James Nye, the New Yorker whose loyalty to the Union was rewarded with the governorship of the Nevada Territory in 1861. The present governor and other top state officials continue to do the state’s business here, but the original Senate, Assembly and Supreme Court Chambers upstairs are most often used for exhibit space and usually open to visitors.

Nevada State Railroad Museum

This small but satisfying museum is a showplace for what remains of railroading in Carson City. The locomotives, coaches and cars inside the museum building are like jewelry, and the steamers that carry passengers back and forth across the grounds are the real thing.

Nevada Children's Museum

This venerable building was once Carson City’s library, but there’s no shushing inside these days, as toddlers through pre-teens find their way through this welcoming environment. This experience brings play and learning together, inspiring creativity and imagination.

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