Things to Do
Carson City offers year-round recreation, museums, a thriving arts and culture scene, unique shopping and antiquing, Nevada-style gaming, and dining for every palate.
Fresh Air
outdoor recreation
Explore the mountains by hiking a trail, mountain biking or skiing. Play a round of golf at one of our 3 golf courses. Enjoy water activities on the alpine lakes or fish in the river. Whatever your preference, there are many ways to enjoy the outdoors in Carson City.
Learn MoreTake a Walk
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. Nearly 50 landmarks telling the story of the capital city’s history are featured along the Kit Carson Trail.
Learn MoreRide the Rails
Carson Canyon Railbike Tours
Rides begin Spring 2022. Explore Carson City’s newest attraction, Carson Canyon Railbike Tours, at the V&T Railway Eastgate Depot! These “Made in America” pedal-assist motored rail bikes are innovative, and easy-to-pedal. Individuals, families or friend groups can easily access the breathtaking beauty of Carson River Canyon and with comfort. People of all ages can enjoy a scenic ride through the beautiful canyon while socially distancing and getting exercise.
Learn MoreExperience
Arts & Culture
Carson City hosts a vibrant arts and culture environment with an eclectic and exceptional array of exhibitions, historic walking tours, art galleries, public murals, performing arts events, musical theatre productions, a summer jazz festival and more.
Learn MoreFun for All
Family Activities
There are many family-friendly activities in Carson City, ranging from interactive exhibits at the museums, riding the train to visit a historic city, children's theaters, exploring the outdoors and more. Carson City is the heart and history of Nevada, learn more about how to explore the capital city with your family today.
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Museums
Carson City has a selection of museums showcasing history, natural history, trains, and interactive exhibits for children. These museums exhibit an impressive collection of stories and artifacts from a history that spans not just through northern Nevada, but across the country, including Native American culture, trains, geology, wildlife, and wild frontier living.
Learn MoreFind it Here
Downtown Shopping
The historic downtown Carson City shopping district is a treasure trove for the antique lover and shopper. Stroll through the beautiful historic west side and enjoy the unique shopping, friendly locals, and iconic scenery.
Learn MoreExplore
Day Trips
Carson City's central location makes it easy to explore other local communities. Head to Virginia City, Lake Tahoe, Reno, Carson Valley or Fallon for a quick day trip.
Learn MoreChug-a-Lug
Historic Railways
Following the discovery of rich silver and gold deposits in Virginia City, it soon became apparent that something beside freight wagons was needed to carry heavy ore from the mines to the mills along the Carson River for refining. To address these needs, the Virginia and Truckee Railroad Company was established in March 1868. Today, visitors can ride the historic train up to Virginia City, and learn more about the railroad heritage of Nevada at the Nevada State Railroad Museum.
Learn MorePut it on Black
Gaming in Carson City
While other states began to prohibit gaming in the mid-1800s, Nevada embraced it for its potential economic boon to the area. Today, the casinos in Carson City offer slot machines, table games, race and sportsbook, and family-friendly entertainment.
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Itineraries
Featured
Events
Carson City hosts special events throughout the year, including mountain bike races, the Nevada Day Parade, summer concert series and more. Mark your calendars for these can't miss events!
View All Events- Apr 21 - 23
Mark Twain Days Festival
MARK TWAIN DAYS FESTIVAL | April 21 -23, 2023 A new capital city festival celebrating the life of Mark Twain in Carson City. “Never let the truth get in the…
- Apr 29
Lei Day 2023
E komo mai (welcome)! The Nevada State Museum is celebrating Lei Day on Saturday, April 29th, from 10 am to 2 pm. In Hawaii, “May Day is Lei Day” and we are…
- May 20
Stetina's Paydirt 2023 Race
Inspired by Peter Stetina, we’re setting off on 2 wheels to discover forgotten lands that have never been ridden, in search of cycling’s true treasure. And then we cheer our good…
Carson City
Attractions
Discover the history of Carson City, explore the outdoors, experience the arts, shop or play. Nevada's capital city offers many attractions to choose from.
