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by Brett Rhyne
photo courtesy of Nevada State Museum
The history of the American West comes vividly to life for the Carson City visitor who takes to the sidewalks of the historic district, joins in its array of special events or strolls through the capital city’s many museums. From its burgeoning culinary scene to the reconstruction of the historic Virginia & Truckee Railroad, Carson City has more to offer than its indoor attractions and state capital status.
One of Carson City’s main draws is the Kit Carson Trail, a 2.5-mile path through Carson City’s famous historic district, one of the largest in the West. A painted blue line with inlaid bronze medallions marks the route past more than 60 landmarks, including 100-year old Victorian homes, museums and churches. “Talking Houses” tales, 90-second narratives describing frontier life and secrets of the homes, are available online or can be purchased on CD at the visitor’s center. The Governor’s Mansion; the home of Mark Twain’s brother, where the famous author frequently stayed; the inventor of the Ferris Wheel’s childhood home; and the site of John Wayne’s last film can all be seen along the trail.
Carson City’s museums welcome travelers through time. At the Nevada State Museum and Mint, visitors can journey back more than 40 million years in the Earth and Science Gallery, or visit the more recent past by touring a ghost town and underground mine. The Nevada State Railroad Museum delights train and history lovers alike. It features restored equipment from the Virginia & Truckee (V&T) Railroad, the famous silver short line and boasts five steam locomotives. The Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada offers hands-on, interactive exhibits including a space shuttle with flight simulation game, a Carson River watershed display and a virtual reality game called the Virtango Maze.
The Nevada State Capitol is the state’s most recognized landmark with its silver-colored cupola. Completed in 1871, it houses historic exhibits and governors’ portraits. Self-guided tours and guided tours for groups are available.
With mild temperatures and spectacular scenery, the Carson City/Carson Valley area is fast becoming Northern Nevada’s premier golf destination. Nine championship golf courses – the Divine 9 – dot the high desert terrain providing more than 70,000 yards of play and 171 holes for all levels of players.
Back in the mid-1800s, Carson City welcomed gaming along with the rest of Nevada. And what Nevada saw as a potential for economic boom then is still spurring the same results now. Currently there are seven major casinos in Carson City.
Carson City’s historic downtown shopping district is a treasure trove for the antique lover and discriminating shopper. Find one-of-a-kind bargains or fine quality gifts from collectible art to rare books, cherished antiques and upscale home furnishings.
Year round, Carson City is home to a variety of events and activities, including the Cowboy Jubilee & Poetry (March), Wild West Spring Ghost Walk (May), Carson City Rendezvous (June), Silver Dollar Car Classic (July), Railway Reflections International Art Expo (July-August), Ghost Walk (October), Nevada Day (October) and the Victorian Homes Christmas Tour (December).
For more of what Carson City has to offer, call (775) 687-7410, (800) NEVADA-1 or visit www.VisitCarsonCity.com.
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