Nevada State Capitol Hours & Location
The Nevada State Capitol stands in the heart of downtown Carson City and has served as the seat of Nevada’s government since 1871. Built from native sandstone, it holds the distinction of being the second-oldest capitol building west of the Mississippi River.
Today, the Capitol remains an active government building while also welcoming visitors to explore Nevada’s history.
Tours & Visiting Information
First-come, first-served walk-in tours are available on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
In addition, private guided tours may be arranged through the Education Office at the Nevada State Museum. Group tours require at least two weeks’ notice and depend on volunteer docent availability.
To schedule a tour, call 775-687-0653 or email [email protected].
Because the Capitol is an active government building, visitors should check ahead for updated tour availability.
A Historic Landmark in Carson City
When Carson City founders laid out the town in 1858, they set aside ten acres known as the Plaza. They believed the city would one day serve as the capital of a new territory — and later, a new state.
The Nevada Territory was established in 1861 during the Civil War. Soon after, Carson City became the territorial capital. When Nevada achieved statehood in 1864, the city officially became the state capital.
However, construction of the Capitol did not begin immediately. Lawmakers required three legislative sessions to pass before funding a permanent building. In 1869, the project was finally commissioned. The Capitol was completed in 1870.
Over time, additions reshaped the structure. Wings were added in 1913, and a breezeway later connected the Capitol to the State Library. Despite these changes, the building remains a symbol of Nevada’s early ambition and growth.
Today, the Capitol anchors a picturesque campus that includes the Legislative Building, the Supreme Court, and the State Library and Archives. What was once a dusty frontier plaza is now a landscaped civic center filled with mature trees and historic architecture.
Battle Born Hall: Trailblazing Nevada
In October 2018, Battle Born Hall opened on the second floor of the Capitol. This free museum space features the Trailblazing Nevada exhibit.
Battle Born Hall spans 2,000 square feet and guides visitors through five exhibit areas. The experience moves from prehistory and Native cultures to the mining boom, statehood, early Carson City, and into the modern 21st century.
The exhibit highlights the people and events that shaped Nevada. As a result, visitors gain a deeper understanding of how the state earned its “Battle Born” identity.
Museum Hours:
Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Admission is free.
Why Visit the Nevada State Capitol?
The Nevada State Capitol offers more than historic architecture. It provides a chance to stand inside a working government building that has served Nevada for over 150 years.
Because it sits within walking distance of downtown restaurants, museums, and shops, the Capitol pairs perfectly with a full day exploring Carson City.
Whether you’re interested in political history, architecture, or Nevada’s statehood story, the Nevada State Capitol remains one of the most important landmarks in the Silver State.