A visit to historic Virginia City is an experience going back in time. Once one of the most vital and influential settlements between Denver and San Francisco, proceeds from the town’s mining industry amounted to millions of dollars, equaling billions today. The discovery of the Comstock Lode in the late 1800s made this mining town a booming metropolis with approximately 25,000 residents in its heyday.

Today, not much has changed. As one of the largest historical districts in the country, every inch of this Victorian-era town boasts its colorful history. Stroll the authentic wooden boardwalks, visit the same historic churches and old-west saloons while partaking in the modern conveniences including free town WiFi and a historic audio tour available on the mobile app.

Virginia City prides itself on its rich mining heritage with 17 museums, multiple educational tours and historically preserved buildings. The Virginia & Truckee Railroad, once the vehicle that carried precious ore from Virginia City to the gold mills in Carson City and beyond, still takes passengers for a ride to Gold Hill and back. Several mine tours offer the chance to see how miners worked and lived in the depths of the tunnels. Other museums offer a glimpse at the town’s history including the role it played during the Civil War and event rebuilding San Francisco after the 1906 earthquake.

Virginia City is also known for its quirky special events. The Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry, World Championship Outhouse Races, the Virginia City Rodeo and Fiesta del Charro, the International Camel & Ostrich Races are just a few of the annual family-friendly events in this historic town.

Taste the flavors with delicious restaurants and candy shops. Stay the night in the richest place in the world at your choice of cozy bed and breakfasts, one of our haunted hotels or historic properties. It’s the best way to get the full experience of our living breathing mining heritage.

Make the Virginia City Visitors Center your first stop for the latest on daily happenings, purchase your Adventure Pass or sample (and by) the original spirit of Virginia City, Cemetery Gin – made with Nevada pine nuts.

Located just 30 minutes from Reno or 45 minutes from Lake Tahoe, the scenic drive takes you along the Virginia Range and Pine Nut Mountain range.

Take the first step and start planning your adventure at VisitVirginiaCityNV.comor call 775-847-7500.