The Perfect Fall Trip to Carson City

Must Do Fall Activities

Historic Carson City in autumn will take your breath away no matter how you spend your trip. Explore beautiful parks, where the views are nothing short of mesmerizing, go on a spooky (and educational) ghost walking tour of downtown or enjoy a local brew. We’ve compiled a list of must-do fall activities in Carson City, so grab a warm jacket and get ready to discover the Comstock region.

City Parks

Whether you decide to go for a peaceful walk along the river at Carson River Park or enjoy a warm cup of cocoa as you picnic at Mountain Street Trailhead, your visit to Carson City will be one for the books. While it may be a little chilly outdoors, this is the last time of the year you’ll have the opportunity to bike ride in this bucket list destination before winter arrives. Pedal your way through the Sierra Nevada mountains on the Ash to Kings Trail. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, choose a challenging trail like the Brunswick Canyon and the Carson River. We’re positive you’ll fall in love with the sagebrush-covered hills of the Sierra Nevada mountains in any or all of our city parks throughout the seasons.

Nevada Museums

If you want to explore Nevada Under One Sky then the Nevada State Museum should be your next stop. This Native American exhibit explores the experiences of the very first humans in the Great Basin. There are many exhibits you can enjoy throughout the year. If you like learning about cool objects, minerals, and rocks, the Nevada State Museum has anything and everything for historical and cultural enthusiasts. The museum is a mix of Nevada’s natural and cultural heritage — engaging to both children and adults. Don’t miss out on seeing the Coin Press No.1 in action. There is a fee of $8 for adults, but it is free for anyone 17-years-old or younger.

If motors, trains, and railroads are your thing, add the Nevada State Railroad Museum to your itinerary. What better way to celebrate the fall season than with a ride on the Harvest Train? You won’t want to miss the steam train, food truck, and pumpkin patch fun. If you’d like to explore more, permanent exhibits include the Jack and Marge Gibson Collection, Communication Exhibit and the Transcontinental Railroad: What A Difference It Made.

Are you traveling with children and looking for a place to explore during the day? The Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada is the perfect spot for an engaging visit for all things art, science, and humanities tied to the Silver State. The building, originally built in 1939, offers a safe space where children can explore and learn in fun and interactive ways. Don’t forget to check out the STEM lab and art room on the bottom floor. You and your children will have a blast.

The Arts

Paint, laugh or enjoy some sweet tunes at the Brewery Arts Center in Carson City. This arts center is your one-stop for all things art, music, and comedy. Enjoy an open studio painting night every Wednesday from now until December 25, an evening of Improv Comedy every first day of the month, or listen to some rocking Guitars and Ukuleles. The Brewery Arts Center is the place you want to be in to enjoy a fun night indoors away from the cold. Or explore all other art galleries around town.

Are you interested in exploring the night sky or do you enjoy looking up at the stars? Discover the beautiful Nevada sky with one of the astronomers at the Jack C. Davis Observatory. The observatory hosts free star parties on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month year-round. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from an astronomer and you’ll be on your way to an evening of stargazing.

Looking for your next new reads for fall? After breakfast, hop in the car and head to Morley’s Books to pick out your next read. You’ll likely find a good vacation book while you sip on hot chocolate or sit in the park to feel the cool air.

Carson City Ghost Walk

Get ready to meet the ghosts of Carson City’s past in this one-of-a-kind guided tour of the supernatural. The Ghost Walk Tour will be guided by Madame Curry, a well-known Carson City ghost expert, who will take you through all the historical (and haunted) homes of the state capital.

Ride the Rail on the Carson Canyon Railbike Tour

Explore Carson City’s newest attraction, Carson Canyon Railbike Tours at the V&T Railway Eastgate Depot! These “Made in America” rail bikes are innovative and easy-to-pedal. Individuals, families friends, or corporate groups can easily access the breathtaking beauty of Carson River Canyon in comfort and style all while enjoying historical commentary from a guide telling the rich rail history of the area. Seats slide to adjust for kids and varying heights. The “pedal assist” motors make the 2% grade out of the canyon a cinch! People of all ages can enjoy a scenic ride through the beautiful canyon while being active outdoors.

Click here to read more about the Carson Canyon Railbike Tours. Purchase tickets at vtrailway.com.

 

Walk the Kit Carson Trail

The Kit Carson Trail is a path through Carson City’s historic district. It features stops at landmarks including 1800s-era Victorian-style homes, museums and churches. More than 60 landmarks telling the story of the capital city’s history are featured along the Kit Carson Trail. It’s a stunning sight to see in the fall as the thick trees lining the sidewalks glow yellow and illuminate the Historic West Side. Download the map and find all detailed descriptions of the homes and landmarks here.