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 Ambrose Carson River 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.
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.
Fun Fall Activities
Downtown Carson City Wine Walk
Enjoy a walk through downtown historic Carson City while sipping on wine from more than 35 locations. The wine walks are held every first Saturday of the month and your ticket includes a commemorative wine glass, which can be used for a discounted entry. The event ends at the Alatte Coffee & Wine Bar with an opportunity to win cool prizes donated by downtown businesses.
Josh Walston, Michelle Barns, Emily Evans, and Randy Loff enjoy the Downtown Business Association Wine Walk in downtown Carson City. Photo by Candice Vivien/Nevada Momentum
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.
Mary Bennett leads the Carson City Ghost Walk on the historical west side of the city. Photo by Candice Nyando/Nevada Momentum
Dare to take a journey back in time on the V&T Railway. There are a variety of rides, including the Toast of the Canyon, the 150th Anniversary Kick-Off Train and the Vintage Steam Train Ride from Carson City to Virginia City. Whichever you choose, the ride will be filled with adventure, fun, history and for some, adult beverages!
V&T engine traveling in Virginia City, Nevada.
This annual event is sure to bring out punk rock and beer lovers alike. Held at the Shoe Tree Brewing Company, this event features great live bands, games, vendors and a punk rock flea market.
You don’t want to miss out on the largest state-held celebration in the nation — Nevada’s birthday! The 2019 theme is Nevada Counties — 100 Years, celebrating all 17 counties in the great Battle Born state. The event will be held on October 26, 2019. It begins at the intersection of William Street and N. Carson Street and ends at the intersection of Stewart Street and South Carson Street.
