Nevada State Museum

Activity Overview

There are two Nevada State Museums, the principal facility can be found at the former Carson City Mint while the second is in Las Vegas. Both museums exhibit various artifacts that illuminate the human history and natural history of the State of Nevada. In doing so they hope to bring the state's culture and roots to life.

Things to Do

• The Museum in Las Vegas exhibits displays that stretch far back into Nevada's history, back to before humans walked the Earth. Their permanent exhibits start by exploring how the landmass of Nevada was formed and the origins of its flora and fauna. It then takes visitors through the history of the Native Americans who first lived here, through the pioneers and settlers who came from the East right up to how the city of Las Vegas developed into one of the entertainment capitals of the world.
• Being housed in the old Carson City Mint the Museum in Carson City has a permanent exhibit that shows how coins used to be minted here in the late 1800's.
• Apart from this they have other permanent exhibits which include the fossils of America's largest Columbian mammoth and a Native American exhibit that tells these people's story in their own words.
• You can find virtual tours online which give you an insight into what to expect once you arrive.

Nevada State Museum Insider Tips

• The two State Museums fall under the remit of the Nevada Division of Museums and History. Five other touristic sites are managed by this division including the Nevada Historical Society in Reno, the Nevada State Railroad Museums in both Carson City and Boulder City, the Lost City in Overton and the East Ely Railroad Depot Museum in Ely. All of these locations are open for the public to visit.
• The Carson City location is closed on Mondays. The Las Vegas location is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.