Expect the unexpected in Carson City: Surprising experiences await in Nevada’s Capital

When you think of visiting a state capital, things that come to mind may include touring the capitol building, strolling through the town square or browsing through a museum or two.

But what about hang gliding? Or, hiking…with goats?! Or, how about completing a triathlon that you don’t have to train for? Did you think about trying cuisines from around the world?

Whether you’re looking for an experience to surprise a special someone with or you’re planning to cross something off your bucket list, Carson City, Nevada offers unexpected activities and experiences for all ages!

Take to the sky: Get a bird’s-eye view of the Sierra Nevada mountains! 

You can see great views of the Sierra Nevada mountains from pretty much anywhere in Carson City – but getting the bird’s eye view is a nontraditional option that you simply can’t pass up.

Taking off from the runways of the Carson Airport, Hang Gliding Tahoe offers flights for adventurers year-round (weather permitting). This one-of-a-kind experience allows you to see the most incredible views of Carson City and Lake Tahoe up to 12,000 feet in the air. 

The flights offered are engine-powered, controlled, and passengers sit behind a licensed pilot on a three-wheeled trike. No hanging from a harness or jumping off a cliff is required. Before the flight, the pilot will fit you with a flight suit and brief you on everything you’ll need to know to be safe in the air. 

Once in flight, you’ll have the opportunity to fly the aircraft yourself if you wish (with close supervision and support of the licensed pilot, of course.) Learn more and book your flight in advance with Hang Gliding Tahoe. 

Other nearby options for getting an incredible bird’s eye view are Soaring NV, Balloon Nevada, and Lake Tahoe Balloons.

Tackle the most challenging – oops, we mean relaxing – triathlon ever invented

Once you’ve tackled exhilarating outdoor activities, it’s time to relax and treat yourself to a brew, a meal, and a hot soak. 

That’s where the “most relaxing triathlon” comes in – this unexpected area tradition involves eating, drinking, and hot spring soaking, and it’s lovingly referred to as the Carson City Triathlon. Start with a hearty beer at Shoe Tree Brewing Co., enjoy a meal at Sassafras Eclectic Food Joint, and, finally, take a well-deserved soak at Carson Hot Springs. Visit all three establishments in one day and you’re a winner! You can even earn a t-shirt prize – and the order of all three activities is completely up to you. 

Taste cuisine from Nashville to Indonesia (plus, more in between!)

Carson City is home to plenty of terrific restaurants, pubs and breweries that serve up many options for great meals. But what you might be surprised to hear about are the options for southern fare, Indonesian meals and … surf-and-turf eggs benedict?! 

Get a taste of Nashville – a.k.a. The “Music City” – at the Nashville Social Club on South Carson Street. Experience Southern comfort foods like Nashville hot chicken and shrimp ‘n grits while you enjoy live music. 

Another surprise waiting for you is at Tee Jay’s Corner Cafe. Located inside Cactus Jack’s Casino, this spot serves up American favorites alongside Indonesian cuisine. Enjoy the cafe’s most popular dish, Drunken Noodles, or the famous Mie Goreng noodles in the classic diner atmosphere. You may even run into Tee Jay himself who is always happy to share a story or two. 

Last, but most certainly not least, is Eve’s Eatery. This new restaurant’s breakfast and brunch options will make your jaw drop. A few of the more unexpected options include Loukamades (Greek donuts), chicken with red velvet waffles, and surf-and-turf eggs benedict, just to name a few. Find more surprises at the variety of dining options in Carson City here.

It’s time to expect the unexpected with activities and options in Carson City, Nevada that you’ll want to return for year after year.