While on a road trip hubby & I wanted to include Carson City as part of our itinerary. It's Nevada's state capital. Where to go? My sis & BIL, locals in Reno, suggested the railroad museum. We arrived promptly at 9am, and parked in the free lot. It's $10 admission fee into the museum No senior discount. Train ride is additional cost. We passed as the train goes around in a circle on property a few times. Most of the restored locomotives are local - the V&T aka Virginia & Truckee. Used primarily to haul silver & timber. Staffed mostly by volunteers. Hubby & BIL spent a great deal of time with a volunteer who took them behind the scenes. At least an hour. Sis & I waited in the front lobby where there was AC. Outdoor temperature in the high 90's. There's a small museum gift shop. read more

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I really enjoyed my tour with my in-laws. Bill was a great and knowledgeable guide with a great sense of humor and love for locomotives. Great experience! Great history of the area and then some that blew me away. In today's day in age we should all take the time out and take a step into history here. read more

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Very cool museum and definitely worth a stop if you're in Carson City! Other than the cool trains and informative history, the gift shop has really cool shirts. read more

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Great place for families! Ride the trains, visit the incredible restorations and history! Do go, enjoy, enjoy enjoy! read more

This was an awesome train museum with attached antique machine shop. This is a self paced tour and you can actually go inside some of the trains and cars. It's amazing to think what these trains were used for and tht someone actually figured out the mechanics to make them work. Great stop and reasonably priced. read more

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The museum was very interesting but the volunteers made it special. Kyle was full of knowledge and very gracious with his time. We learned so much about state history as well as the history of the individual cars and engines. The scavenger hunt encouraged us to look closer at the exhibits, and the gift shop has a really great selection of pins if you collect. read more

Nevada State Railroad Museum - Carson City - The interior of 1910 modern train car - Museums Near Me - Carson City, Nevada

Came here for a school field trip to learn about Nevada railroad history. My family hasn't been here in over 7 years. It is a much different experience when you have volunteers give you a tour and share so many fascinating details about the train displays. The tour was really engaging for our class and even the parents. Got to see inside a couple of the train cars and even try the manual push carts on the tracks. Thank you for the fun tour! read more

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This is a really great museum to learn about the history of the trains. The museum is very spacious and has many kinds of old trains on display. The trains looked great. read more

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8/17/2024- Finally made it in! Very cool history.. Not too busy.. Right off the Main Street.. Really like the train rides.. and exhibits.. Great for families and adults.. read more

Nevada State Railroad Museum - Carson City - First time.. - Museums Near Me - Carson City, Nevada

Very interesting and varied displays. The coin press was impressive. And the mine was fun for the kids.

Pretty cool place. As others said, the volunteers have a wealth of knowledge. I enjoyed how the museum showcases their completely restored trains as well as some of the older trains that are still undergoing restoration. We spent about an hour and a half there but you could probably stay there 3 hours easily with all of the information in the museum. Military discounts would be nice. Also, their gift shop was just so-so. It was mostly kids train toys, they should add some real model railroad stuff for sale. read more

My family and I were here for a 2-day event and we were blown away by both the event and the Museum itself. The staff and the volunteers were friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. The event went above and beyond our expectations. The museum was clean, organized, and was full of great information (and even hands on things). I can't wait to visit again, possibly getting a membership, and I am definitely keeping my eyes out for more events! read more

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The railroad is core to the history of Northern Nevada and if you're a history buff or a train enthusiast, this is a must visit in Northern Nevada. My rating is based on a family visit with young children in the winter, and as a family attraction, this wasn't quite what I expected. The museum has three parts: inside, the yard, and an annex that houses a few more types of train cars. Inside is a small space with a handful of trains on display. These trains have historical significance related to mining and how Carson City and the greater Reno Tahoe area came to be developed. These trains are immaculately restored and preserved, and I liked how you can get up next to them for scale. That said, much of what's inside is "look but don't touch" and for young children, that can be tough. I had to constantly remind mine not to get on and I heard museum staff saying the same thing to others in the space. At the back of the museum is a small replica engine with levers, knobs and buttons that the kids can get on and play. My kids really enjoyed this because they could get hands on. The wheels weren't locked though, and they figured out they could move it, which put one of the trains nearby at risk, so we had to promptly usher them off. There's also a little train play table near this they can play with too. That kept them occupied for a bit but then they took off running. The annex was way more hands on with cars they could actually get in and see. They liked being able to sit in the passenger cars and open some doors. It was kind of dark and tough to see details, and the signage in this space had less info about the cars as compared to inside. This was more kid friendly for sure. I can only imagine the yard during warmer months when they have the trains outside. It was still cool to see the turntable and walk the tracks. Easy for kids to enjoy this area with plenty of space to roam. There's also a small park next to the museum with picnic tables, perfect for lunch! All in all a good way to knock off some time. I just wish they offered more hands on for the kids, as they're the main reason for me to go. read more

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I want to start by acknowledging that the staff clearly have a passion for what they do, and I truly appreciate that. However, I have to be honest, this isn't The Sacramento Railroad Museum, and in our experience, it wasn't exactly a kid-friendly environment. We attended the Star Spangled Steam Up, and for the most part, everything was great. Unfortunately, the experience was soured at the end during the photo-taking portion. It became chaotic, and at one point, my daughter was barked at by an overzealous older adult. That was upsetting and unnecessary. Honestly, we would have preferred to take our own photos without staff involvement. I've taken thousands of great pictures over the years without assistance--certainly without input from grumpy older men. Just something to consider for the future: sometimes less is more when it comes to guest experience, especially for families with young children. I wouldn't recommend this event for kids. It's probably best suited for those over the age of 60 who appreciate a more structured environment. read more

We had a great experience here. We visited here during a holiday and got in for free. Right when you walk in there is a cute little shop, you walk through and can watch videos or read about the history of the railroad ways. Staff was friendly. You can purchase a ticket to ride the train, unfortunately we did not have time. read more

Nevada State Railroad Museum - Carson City - Museums Near Me - Carson City, Nevada

This is an excellent Museum with a knowledgeable and friendly group of employees and volunteers. The collection is world class and the grounds are open and welcoming. This is a great place to spend a morning or an afternoon. read more

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This is a fun and fascinating place to visit! The museum has so much history and information and even places for the kids to climb on and into. The train ride is amazing too! Great for kids of all ages, but I think 3+ would enjoy it the most. Museum has a nice gift shop too. read more

The Nevada State Railroad Museum is awesome!! They have a great collection, the history is well documented and explained, and the volunteers are very happy to tell you all about it. We loved our time here, and look forward to stopping again on our next trip to Carson City. This museum is a must stop. read more

Today my mother, daughter, and myself went to visit the NV State Railroad Museum! I've lived in Northern Nevada for almost 9 years now and haven't visited this place (despite passing by it plenty of times). I'm moving out-of-state soon, and when my Mom asked me what I wanted to do before I left...this was the first thing that popped into my head! As of 7/1/24 entry is $10 per adult, and children 17 y.o. and younger are FREE (I'm looking at you, parents of kids that are out of school for the summer). The gentleman that checked us in was enthusiastic about the self-guided exhibits within the museum and very welcoming! The main area had lots of beautifully restored trains to admire and QR code resources that gave you the history of each of the railroad cars. This main building was full of history and great exhibits but I didn't find myself wanting to linger there very long- my main issue was that it was SO hot. It didn't feel like there was any air conditioning, and if there was, maybe it wasn't working today. As my toddler was "choo choo-ing" around the museum, it was refreshing to find that between the main exhibits in the first building there was a whole toddler play area with books, a chalkboard (with hobo symbols to practice), and train-themed toys. I really appreciated this area as a parent of a little, going to places like these aren't so enjoyable when my toddler is bored (and lets everyone know it). Truly a thoughtful touch! The second building in the back had more restored railroad cars, but these ones you were allowed to walk through! I enjoyed looking at the intricate detail and design put into these railroad cars. So very different than our modern trains- what happened to aesthetics?! I think this part of the museum was more enjoyable for me because you were able to walk through and see these beautiful pieces of art instead of peeking through a window like in the first building- and the large train doors were open that let a breeze run through the building. Whoever curated the gift shop is a great shopper! I am usually unimpressed with gift shops and typically only find a magnet to buy. Well, they had magnets, and enamel pins, and train whistles, and conductor hats, and a plethora of train toys for children, and t-shirts, and coffee mugs, and keychains, and railroad-themed locally made BATH BOMBS, and and and...lots more. Thoroughly impressed with the curation and selection and spent way more money than I normally would in a gift shop! *PRO TIPS* 1. In the toddler play area there is a Little Free Library (bring a book, take a book). 2. At the front desk there are lots of fun and free resources for kids- a scavenger hunt for the museum, a train-themed coloring packet, and a Morse code packet! read more

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Really neat museum. Train rides and exhibits that are really fascinating. Come see it. read more

Nevada State Railroad Museum - Carson City - Museums Near Me - Carson City, Nevada

This was a fun place to visit. If you have the time they even have a scavenger hunt to help you engage in the train cars and many other items on display. This is definitely worth visiting. read more

Nevada State Railroad Museum - Carson City - Old railroad engine - Museums Near Me - Carson City, Nevada

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My family and I enjoyed seeing the exhibits here and learning about the railways of Nevada. The museum is a good size so that it doesn't exhaust you (main building and outbuildings). We enjoyed being able to step up into a few of the train cars and learning that at least one housed there was used in Hollywood. We also like a good gift store, and this museum has a good one. Definitely recommend. read more

Loads of history in this place. Learn about how Nevada was built by trains and how Hollywood saved the Nevada trains. A lot to look at and see but only one passenger car you can enter. When you first enter, there are coloring pages for the kids and a Scavenger hunt if you were in a group. read more

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Actual locomotives and train cars highlight the historical displays. Especially enjoyed the historical timeliness and maps. Volunteers provide a wealth of knowledge and everyone was so friendly and helpful. Most fun fact - the origins of time zones was due to the need to coordinate single track railroads. Spend an hour or two. Train rides available seasonally on the weekends. read more

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If you have young kids and they like trains this is a must!! Even as an adult they have so many functional trains it's like reliving childhood. The trains are all in good condition that are working. We didn't have much time to really explore due to a kid incident but look forward to our next trip. Looks like they have decent prices for annual passes. read more

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Really friendly upon arrival. Very nice and well maintained. Was really surprised to see that we started off on a train platform very beautiful. Once you walk in you can immediately drop down to view the trains they are a lot bigger being at the bottom of them then you see on the platform. Really cool live action TV screen at the bottom that gives you a narrated version of how they used to lay tracks we really liked this cool upgraded information. seriously love these digital narratives. Multiple presentations. We had a really great time walking around and getting to see all of the really neat preserved heart effects. We really like walking outside and looking into the train carts those were really cool. Make sure you stop by the gift shop we totally scored the best magnet ever! You get to make impress your own penny and add it to your magnet. Can't wait to add this to my collection on the fridge. read more

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The Nevada State Railway Museum in Carson City is a wonderful place to visit...especially on rainy days or on days when you simply want to get the family out of the house. This museum has wonderfully restored locomotives, train cars and and a caboose, along with photos and the history of many of the locomotives and rail lines that operated in this area. What's most impressive is how the Artisans, Mechanics, Engineers, and volunteers have lovingly restored these relics of the past. Their attention to detail, combined with their knowledge and experience, is amazing. This is made clear when one sees the photos of the rail cars when they were reduced to piles of lumber. The Docents who give their time to guide and educate visitors, are amazing in their knowledge of these relics. I could blather on about this Museum, but instead, I'll close with the comment that this place is a hidden jewell on Carson Street (on your way to the Costco Gas Station), and you really should visit this museum for a bit of Northern Nevada history. It's amazing! read more

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The equipment displayed at the museum has a history of the Comstock and Virginia city during the 1800s and into the 1900s. The museum boasts the only remaining, working McKeen motorcar. Contact the museum for information regarding scheduled events. read more

This was very interesting and we really enjoyed it - for about an hour. No senior discounts which I thought was wierd. All signage in the big bldg refers to V&T without indicating what it means. The back building has Virginia and Truckee on their signage so we figured it out. read more

Wonderful history explained nicely with many different exhibits and halls. Absolutely loved the old mint display. read more

I had never been to a railroad museum before our visit to the Nevada State Railroad Museum so I didn't know what to expect. I had high hopes. Maybe I should've gone with lower expectations, but we still learned interesting things regardless. Some of the better tidbits of knowledge came from a museum volunteer who walked up to us as we were staring at one of the trains. Apparently, the big exhaust on the front of the locomotive is to help catch hot ashes as they spew from the train. This is the style of exhaust that was used in the west. In contrast, the trains in the eastern side of the US had skinny stacks with no grate at the top because there was no concern for forest fires. One has to wonder how many forest fires were started with the early trains before they decided to add the heavy-duty exhaust grate. Another interesting point was that the train behind the locomotive was stacked with wood to provide fuel for the engine. A full stack of wood fuel would only last 50 miles. After that, they would have to load up in order to go another 50 miles. This sounds like the most back breaking job I have ever heard. read more

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Good activity for about an hour or so. We didn't ride the train. Fee for museum was $8 each adult, 17 and under are free. Fee for the train was $10 or $15 for both the train and museum. It was a nice facility and very kind volunteers work it. Educational and Quaint. read more

Nevada State Railroad Museum - Carson City - Museums Near Me - Carson City, Nevada

A great family attraction. The trains displayed and the history lessons on the various exhibits gives not only a great slice of railroad history, but also the history of Nevada and the US in the 19th century. There are indoor and outdoor exhibits and a train to ride, but I think the hours are limited, so please check before you go. The volunteers are very knowledgeable and helpful, ready to answer any question you may have. read more

Went to the Great Western Steam Up on July 4th. I believe there were 9 trains up and running which is a pretty amazing sight and smell. Incredible team of volunteers willing to answer questions and explain exhibits. Super friendly atmosphere with food trucks and a rather fun train ride around the outside of the museum. Highly recommend for families and frustrated engineers such as myself. read more

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Such an unexpected surprise for a great price! $8 per person and a couple of hours to tour through train history on the Nevada and transcontinental rail systems. We have been to a few train museums and historical sites and this was the first one that had old trains and buildings in completely deteriorated shape ready to be restored. It was inspiring to see the old versus the restored pieces and be able to see how volunteers would come in and spend hundreds of hours to lovingly restore these pieces so people could enjoy them for years to come. This is history coming back to life. At different times they also do train rides, which would be fun to take part in. I highly recommend making this a destination. read more

The train museum was absolutely beautiful! We had a gentleman by the name of Jack that took us through the history of the museum and showed us various locomotives and how they worked! My best friend and I loved it! 5 stars and will return! read more

Nevada State Railroad Museum - Carson City - Museums Near Me - Carson City, Nevada

Really nice railroad museum. Some amazing pieces of art and enthusiastic docents. Make sure you visit the second building and see some of the more interesting trains, including the street cars. read more

So much to see! If you love everything trains you want to visit this amazing place! So much history about the area and surrounding areas too. Very reasonably priced...$8 for adults and FREE for those 17 and under! Free parking. Beautiful park like setting, perfect for a picnic day trip with family. Tables and shade trees scattered about. The grounds are not fully even...at some point you'll be walking on rocks (large gravel). Fully stocked museum store with plenty of Nevada railroad & train history, souvenirs, puzzles, toys, shirts and even train hats! They even have a pressed flat penny machine! You bet I got one! Inside the museum are beautiful exhibits about the trains inside. Lots of reading...bring your reading glasses with ya! Actual granite Nevada/California state line monument marker is displayed. Actual artifacts and its amazing that after all these years the preservation is astonishing to me! So much to see inside and outside in shop shed. More items to gawk at in there! V & T (Virginia & Truckee) locomotives to view. You'll be able to board the V & T #22 that is on display out door if its a sunny day. If you get there when they are opening up you can watch as they pull out that car! We were super luck to see that! There is also a working round about you can walk on, just be careful. They do offer train rides certain times of the year, not in February when we visited. May restored equipment and memorabilia are on display. Very clean museum, definitely knowledgeable docents and staff. Restrooms available. read more

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On Monday, April 15, 2019 I went to the Nevada State Railroad Museum located right next to the Carson City Chamber of Commerce on South Carson Street. It is really an expansive facility, with a main building, another display/maintenance building, a train departure building, a quail crossing, a park, and even a canine comfort rest area (no humans allowed except if accompanied by a dog). When you first walk in the main building, there is a gift shop to your right. They have every souvenir imaginable in it. I enjoyed that as much as the museum. They have pressed penny passports for $4.95 and the machine is outside the store in the entrance. [A pressed penny (also called and elongated coin) is a penny that is flattened and elongated into an oval shape, then embossed with another design. They are used as souvenirs and are available at many museums, amusement parks, landmarks, etc.] The gift shop had old-time posters which made me laugh, such as "Beware of card sharks, pick-pockets, fancy women, and shifty politicians". They also sold genuine railroad spikes for $2.95/$4.95, wooden nickels, collector's pins, toys, books, postcards, and clothing. Postcards were only $0.35. The woman who ran the store was very knowledgeable and friendly. I also talked to the volunteer at the front of the museum. He said that admission to the museum is free on Nevada Day, which is the last Friday of October. There is a section upfront for used books for sale, the proceeds of which benefit the museum. This museum can also stamp your Lincoln Highway passports, in addition to the Carson City Chamber of Commerce next door. (Lincoln Highway runs across 13 states in the US, coast to coast, from Lincoln Park in San Francisco to Times Square in New York City. The Nevada portion is on US Route 50, and is known as the Loneliest Highway in the World.) At the front of the maintenance building, they have a railroad handcart; the kind where two people push the handle up and down to make it move on a railroad track. You can ride it if you like (if museum staff accompanies you). Inside, it is huge, They have some train cars which you can go through, as well as all sorts of motors, lanterns, and other historic railroad artifacts. I did not go no a train ride, but I am told it goes around the property three times, and takes about 40 minutes. I am thinking about becoming a volunteer here because I love the museum so much. I am definitely going to come Easter Sunday for their Second Annual Easter Egg-stra Special Express (https://www.yelp.com/events/carson-city-second-annual-easter-egg-stra-special-express?utm_campaign=www_event_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)). There is also one on Monday, April 22, 2019 (https://www.yelp.com/events/carson-city-second-annual-easter-egg-stra-special-express-2?utm_campaign=www_event_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)). read more

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My daughter and son came a week ago and loved it! So they brought us back and we loved it! The only complaint is it was windy and cold outside! The volunteers were excellent, and the train rides were wonderful and we planned to come back! Thank you! read more

Nevada State Railroad Museum - Carson City - Wonderful Volunteers - Museums Near Me - Carson City, Nevada

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