Carson City, NV

Carson City is the capital of Nevada. This northwestern Nevada city has logging, mining, and the railroad to thank for its popularity since its inception in 1858. One major boost to Carson City's status occurred in 1859, when the discovery of Comstock Lode's wealth of silver and gold made the city a flourishing commercial and transportation hub. Today it remains the main commercial center of its area. In fact, while it was once advertised as the smallest state capital in the country, Carson City now has about 55,000 residents and is one of the largest capitals. Its proximity to vacation venues such as Reno and Lake Tahoe only boosts its reputation as a fun place to visit or call home, as do its myriad casinos, resorts, and outdoor recreational activities.

ECONOMY AND INDUSTRIES

Carson City is known as the commercial and retail center of its area. The two industries are expected to grow even more in the future. Its economy also relies on tourism and the service industry, as is evident by the number of casinos and ski resorts in the city. About 30 percent of residents work in the service industry, 14 percent work in manufacturing and 25 percent work for the government, which is not surprising for a capital city. Carson City's largest employers include the following Carson City School District, State of Nevada, Carson-Tahoe Hospital, Nevada Department of Transportation and the city of Carson City.

NEIGHBORHOODS AND DISTRICTS

In 2008, business and property owners in downtown decided to redevelop the area. There are a flurry of restaurants, cafes, delis and pubs that are located in Downtown Carson City. Additionally, there are many shops, hotels, live music venues and private clubs located in the area.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

- Nevada State Museum & Mint: Visitors have the opportunity to view ancient coin presses, a mock mine, ghost towns, and antique coins at this former mint.

- Foreman-Roberts Museum: This museum's main focus is its ancient Gothic architecture, which dates back to the mid-19th century.

- Nevada State Railroad Museum: This museum highlights the importance of trains in Nevada's history. Its collection includes railroad artifacts from the late-19th century. One of the country's oldest steam engines, Inyo, is on display here; it has appeared in nearly 30 movies.

- Wild Horse Children's Theater: Performances in this theater feature talented children in plays that strive to both educate and entertain.

- Brewery Arts Center: This performing arts center is a major venue for Carson City and the surrounding areas. More than 100 concerts, plays, art classes, festivals, and other events are presented here each year.

- Nevada State Capitol: The grounds of this structure, built in 1870, house the state supreme court, the state library, and the legislative building.

Naturally, this Nevada city is full of casinos that attract locals and tourists alike. The newest is Casino Fandango, which boasts 700 slots, 4 restaurants, and 5 bars. CarsonStation Casino, Carson City Nugget, and Comstock Casino are all known as some of the friendliest in the area. Other nearby casinos include Cactus Jack's, Carson Horseshoe Club, Silver Dollar Casino, Slotworld, and Gold Dust West Casino Hotel.

FAMILY FUN

- The Divine Nine: This is the name for the collection of nine golf courses in and around Carson City. Silver Oak, Eagle Valley, and Sunridge Golf Club are just a few of the courses in the city.

- Skiing: Carson City's location near Lake Tahoe makes it a well-known area for both amateur and experienced skiers. The area has 15 ski resorts, all within a half-hour drive of the city.

- Mills Park: This spacious park features indoor and outdoor pools, a small golf course, and tennis courts. It is also home to the Carson City Skateboard Park.

- Washoe Lake Recreation Area: This picturesque area allows visitors to fish, hunt, boat, and camp.

SHOPPING

- Downtown shopping: This historic area features unique boutiques, specialty shops, and small cafes. Shoppers will also find larger retail stores, including discount stores and sporting goods retailers.

- Antiquing: For fans of antiques, Carson City offers plenty of shops that carry collectibles, ancient artwork, and furniture.

GETTING AROUND

- Public Transportation: Jump Around Carson, or JAC, transports residents around the city for $1 each way. Four routes are available in Carson City.

- Highways: Though currently this city has no direct connection to a major highway, Interstate 580 will eventually connect Carson City to Interstate 80 and Reno. This area of the highway is still under construction as of 2009.

- Air Travel: Reno/Tahoe International Airport serves the area. Allegiant Air, Delta, United, US Airways, Horizon Air, Southwest, and American Airlines transport passengers to nearby states.

FUN FACTS

• Carson City and Trenton, New Jersey, are the only two capital cities in the county that border another state. Carson City borders California.
• Robert Laxalt's Pulitzer Prize-nominated book, A Basque Hotel, uses early-20th-century Carson City as its setting.
• Popular California cities are within driving distance of Carson City: Los Angeles is about six hours away, while Sacramento is about two hours away.