Many visitors come to Carson City, Nevada for its proximity to historic sites. The town itself played a large role in the development of mining in the region, and was early on designated the county seat and later the capital of Nevada. For whatever reason you find yourself in Carson City, consider checking out a few of the historic buildings in town.

Carson City essentially got its start in 1851 with the creation of the Eagle Station Ranch, a trading post that served as a stopover for folks traveling on the Carson Branch of the California Trail. In 1858 the settlement that grew up around Eagle Station was renamed Carson City. The silver and gold mines of the Comstock Lode in the late 1800’s increased the city’s relevance and population for a while until the mining bust. It wasn’t until the 1960’s that a steady population was regained in Carson City. But several buildings from the city’s early years have remained.

The St Charles Hotel, built in 1862, is one of these, and is one of the oldest remaining buildings in the region. It operated as hotel from that time up until recently when it was renovated as the Firkin & Fox Pub. Other historic buildings in town are related to the political importance the city has played in the area. The state capital was constructed in 1870-1871 with local sandstone. Visitors will find statues, portrait galleries, and many other historical items on display in the building. The Old Federal Building (now the Paul Laxalt State Office Building) is a Victorian style building that was erected in 1890-1891. It initially housed federal agencies, was later used as library up until the 1990’s, and is currently the home of the Nevada Commission on Tourism and Nevada Magazine. The Brewery Arts Center is another building not to be missed. Built in 1865, this fine two-story brick structure acted as a brewery up until the 1940’s. From the 1950’s to the early 1970’s it was printing plant for several newspapers, and today it acts as a community arts center hosting art exhibits, musicals, and other theatre productions.

There are dozens of other historic homes, mansions, hotels, schools, and other buildings constructed decades ago but still standing for visitors to enjoy. The Nevada State Museum and the Nevada State Railroad Museum are also located in Carson City, Nevada.