Virginia City
Virginia City, NV, 89440
Step back in time to the Wild West at the historical mining town of Virginia City, once called the “richest place on Earth.” Enjoy 100-mile (160-kilometer) views across the high desert, ride the V&T railroad, shop, have a bite to eat or drink in an old saloon, and tour museums, mines, and mansions on a themed itinerary in one of the country’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts.
The Basics
The best way to enjoy Virginia City is to walk up and down C Street, the town’s main street. Stop at the Welcome Center on the corner of C Street and Taylor, pick up a map of attractions, and purchase tickets to individual attractions or an adventure pass. Highlights include the Chollar Mine Tour, Bucket of Blood Saloon, Piper’s Opera House, the Mark Twain Museum, and The Way It Was Museum. A number of ghost-hunting tours are available for those interested in the paranormal. And fans of Bonanza may recognize Virginia City from the show.
Guided tours are available from South Lake Tahoe, driving along part of the historical Pony Express Trail. Tours include a ride on the V&T Railroad, as well as stops at historical points of interest in Carson City.
Things to Know Before You Go
Virginia City is a must-see for any visitor to northern Nevada.
The town is free to visit, but certain attractions charge an admission fee.
Virginia City is in the high desert, so bring sun protection and plenty of water.
How to Get There
Virginia City is located in western Nevada, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) southeast of Reno. From Reno take US 395 to exit 57B, then climb along NV 341, known as Geiger Grade. From Carson City take US 50 east to NV 341, the Comstock Highway.
When to Get There
Virginia City can be visited year-round, though the most pleasant weather is in spring and fall. Summer can get very hot, while winter can see snow, which can affect road conditions. Virginia City also hosts a number of festivals and races throughout the year, including the Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry in March, the International Camel and Ostrich Race in September, and the World Championship Outhouse Race in October.
Virginia City History
With the discovery of the Comstock Lode, the first major silver deposit found in the US, in 1859, the town seemed to boom overnight. Thousands of people sought their fortunes here, including Mark Twain, who worked here for two years. At one point, this area produced nearly half of all the precious metals mined in the US. The boom didn’t last for long, though, and mostly died down by 1880. Today, the town welcomes over two million visitors a year.
Ways to explore
The best way to enjoy Virginia City is to stop at the Virginia City Visitor Center to pick up a map of attractions for a self-guided walking tour, purchase admission tickets or passes, book a saloon crawl, and check out a daily schedule for parades and events. Several haunted history tours are available for those interested in the paranormal. Highlights include the Chollar Mine Tour, Bucket of Blood Saloon, Piper’s Opera House, and The Way It Was Museum. Most tours include a ride on the V&T Railroad, as well as stops at historic points of interest in Carson City.
Accessibility
Some of the historic buildings and attractions in Virginia City have limited accessibility.
Age limits
There are activities for the entire family in Virginia City, from mine tours and train rides to panning for gold.
What to pack
Camera and battery pack, water bottle
What to wear
Hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes
Not allowed
You must purchase an individual ticket or multi-attraction pass to enter most sights.
Amenities
Shops, eateries, visitor center, Wi-Fi, restrooms
Address
Virginia City is located in western Nevada, about 35 miles (56 kilometers) southeast of Reno, and is most easily reached by car. Day trips to Virginia City generally set off from South Lake Tahoe, driving along part of the historic Pony Express Trail. The V&T Railroad offers scenic rides from Carson City from spring through fall.
Driving
From Reno, take US 395 to NV 341, known as Geiger Grade. From Carson City, take US 50 east to NV 341, the Comstock Highway.
Public transportation
There is no public transportation to Virginia City, with the exception of the tourist V&T Railroad rides from Carson City. Instead, join a tour that includes round-trip transportation.
Best times to visit
Most attractions, shops, and saloons keep regular business hours, so plan to visit during the day to take in the town’s historic highlights.
Best days to visit
This tourist destination fills with visitors on weekends and holidays, especially from spring through fall. Visit on a weekday to bypass the crowds.
Best months to visit
The V&T train runs from May to October, so plan your visit accordingly if you’d like to hop on the train.
Special events
The town is known for its full roster of parades and events year-round. Check the official website for an updated schedule.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!