Virginia City NevadaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Virginia City, Nevada.
1. Virginia & Truckee Railroad
HISTORIC SCENIC RAILWAY
The Virginia & Truckee Railroad offers an authentic step back into the Old West with its ornate, century-old passenger cars. Passengers journey along tracks that pass 17 historic mine sites, traveling between Virginia City and neighboring Gold Hill. This scenic ride is a must for history buffs and families looking to experience the mining heritage of the region.
2. St. Mary in the Mountains Catholic Church
HISTORIC LANDMARK CHURCH
St. Mary in the Mountains Catholic Church stands as one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in Nevada. Visitors are awed by its intricate stained glass windows, carved woodwork, and storied past linked to the Comstock mining era. The church remains both a place of worship and a significant historical attraction.
3. The Washoe Club Haunted Museum
HAUNTED HISTORIC SALOON
The Washoe Club Haunted Museum is famed for its paranormal activity and legendary Old West history. Guests explore museum exhibits and can join ghost tours in what is considered one of the most haunted locations in the United States. The building also features a saloon, offering a spirited setting for refreshments.
4. Historic Fourth Ward School Museum
VICTORIAN-ERA SCHOOLHOUSE
The Historic Fourth Ward School Museum is a beautifully preserved Victorian-era schoolhouse turned museum. It showcases exhibits on local history, mining, education, and life in 19th-century Nevada. The building itself is a rare architectural gem and offers panoramic views over Virginia City.
5. The Way It Was Museum
MINING HISTORY EXHIBIT
The Way It Was Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and photographs from Virginia City's mining heyday. Exhibits chronicle the story of the Comstock Lode and the people who built the town. Its displays offer a vivid window into the past for history enthusiasts of all ages.
6. Mackay Mansion Museum
OPULENT 19TH-CENTURY HOME
The Mackay Mansion Museum is a stately Victorian home once inhabited by mining magnate John Mackay. Decorated with period furnishings, the mansion provides guided tours that reveal tales of wealth, high society, and famed guests. Visitors are also treated to stories of its rumored ghostly residents.
7. Piper's Opera House
HISTORIC THEATER VENUE
Piper's Opera House is a legendary venue that has hosted world-famous performers since the 1800s. The opera house still stages shows, community events, and tours, offering a sense of Virginia City's cultural vibrancy. The historic building is renowned for its charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
8. Chollar Mine
UNDERGROUND MINE TOURS
Chollar Mine invites guests to descend into the depths of an authentic silver mine dating back to the 1860s. Guided tours highlight mining technology, geology, and the daily lives of Comstock miners. The mine is considered one of the richest on the Comstock Lode, offering an immersive historical experience.
9. Delta Saloon
OLD WEST SALOON
The Delta Saloon is a historic bar and casino known for its original charm and famous Suicide Table gambling relic. Guests are welcomed into an environment filled with antique decor and stories from the Wild West. The saloon remains a lively spot for drinks, dining, and gaming.
10. Virginia City Outlaws
WILD WEST COMEDY SHOW
Virginia City Outlaws performs lively Wild West-themed entertainment with interactive gunfights and stunts. The troupe combines comedy and action, delighting audiences of all ages with their spirited performances. Shows feature authentic costumes and props, immersing visitors in the Old West era.
11. Red Dog Saloon
LEGENDARY LIVE MUSIC BAR
The Red Dog Saloon is celebrated for its live music, historic ambiance, and role in launching the 1960s San Francisco music scene. Guests enjoy hearty fare and drinks in a space overflowing with memorabilia. The saloon's stage often hosts local and touring musicians, drawing visitors and music lovers alike.
12. Silver Queen Hotel & Saloon
HAUNTED HISTORIC HOTEL
Silver Queen Hotel & Saloon is an iconic lodging and drinking establishment featuring the renowned 15-foot Silver Queen portrait adorned with 3,261 silver dollars. Guests can stay overnight or simply visit for a drink while taking in the historic surroundings. The hotel is also known for its ghost stories and supernatural tales.
13. Bonanza Casino & Saloon
CLASSIC WESTERN CASINO
Bonanza Casino & Saloon delivers classic gaming in a vintage Wild West setting, complete with historic photos and frontier memorabilia. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors seeking slots, poker, and traditional saloon fare. The venue frequently hosts live music and special events.
14. Virginia City Antique Mall
CURIO AND COLLECTIBLES MARKET
Virginia City Antique Mall offers an extensive selection of antiques, curios, and collectibles reflecting the town's rich past. Shoppers can browse treasures ranging from Old West memorabilia to unique vintage finds. The shop is a favorite stop for those seeking a tangible piece of Virginia City's history.
15. Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon
OLDEST OPERATING HOTEL
Located just outside Virginia City, the Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon is Nevada's oldest continuously operating hotel, dating back to 1859. Guests enjoy period-style rooms, a legendary saloon, and acclaimed on-site dining in a setting full of historic charm. The property is a favored destination for those wanting an authentic Old West overnight experience.