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.
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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 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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- Dec 1
Silver & Snowflake Festival of Lights | Capitol Tree Lighting
Silver & Snowflakes Festival of Lights Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Friday December 1, 2023 5:30 pm Join us at the Nevada State Capitol Building at 5:30 as we kick off…
- Dec 2 - 17
Santa Train | NV State Railroad Museum
Join us on the Santa Train! December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, and 17th, from 10:00am until 3:00pm. Tickets are available for purchase in advance at the museum’s admission desk.…
- Dec 8
Christmas at the Plaza Craft & Vendor Faire
Christmas at the Plaza Craft & Vendor Faire Bridger Mountain presents Christmas at the Plaza Craft and Vendor Faire on December 8 – 10. Come find handmade crafts as well…
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.
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