Arts and Culture Itinerary - Visit Carson City

Creativity, Culture, History

Arts & Culture Trips

Day Trip

The best way to experience arts & culture in Carson City is through our many events held throughout the year. Be sure to check the events calendar while planning your trip.

The best place to start your day is Comma Coffee, with artwork covering almost every inch of wall-space, not only is the food delicious but decor is truly unique.

Outside of the wonderful state museums, Stewart Indian School stands out as a mecca for American Indian culture. The Stewart Indian School served as the only off-reservation Indian boarding school in Nevada from 1890 through 1980, and its stone buildings are an icon of education and life for many American Indians in the West. In 1985 the school was listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a Historic District and is currently managed by the State of Nevada. Enjoy the Cultural Center & Museum or take the self-guided audio tour while you're there.

After Stewart head back to our downtown area, where many shops welcome visitors to enjoy the work of local artists. Start off at the Brewery Arts Center, a hub for local art in Carson City. On the back side of the building on Division Street enjoy an incredible mural with a photo op. Stand inside the strings of the marionette for an Insta-Worthy shot. Carson City is home to a handful of additional murals downtown. And for more art, go down Curry Street to Charlie B's Gallery and enjoy plenty of beautiful artwork and the unique Vasefinder Museum. Enjoy plenty of other unique shops downtown all along Curry and Carson Street.

When lunch time rolls around, we recommend driving over to Villa Basque Cafe, a wonderful family-owned restaurant celebrating the prevalent Basque culture and food in Northern Nevada.

The Kit Carson Trail is the perfect ending to a creative day in Carson City. Stop by the Visitor's Center at 716 N. Carson St. for a map to take the 2.5 mile self-guided walking/driving tour of the Historic West Side. Learn more about the history and culture of Carson City through the history of its oldest, most-storied homes like the Governor's Mansion, Mark Twain's brother's home, the house where John Wayne shot his last movie, and more!

After the tour, a great dinner option is The Basil for Thai Food lovers or San Marcos Grill is known for its great Mexican food and tequila selection.