Top-Rated Museums to Explore in Reno

Museums, historic sites, and attractions in the Reno area offer a diverse range of experiences. From children’s museums to historical parks, Reno, Sparks, and northern Nevada present engaging activities for families and visitors alike, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Museums in Reno and Sparks

• Nevada Museum of Art: The Nevada Museum of Art in Reno stands out as the only accredited art museum in Nevada, offering a diverse collection of artworks.
• Nevada Historical Society: As the state’s oldest museum, the Nevada Historical Society (NHS) showcases Nevada’s fascinating history.
• National Automobile Museum in Reno: This museum ranks among the best globally for automobile enthusiasts, featuring an impressive collection.
• W.M. Keck Earth Science and Mineral Engineering Museum: This museum houses an incredible array of mineral specimens, rocks, fossils, and historic mining artifacts from Nevada.
• Historic Reno Preservation Society: The HRPS conducts programs that are free and accessible to the public, promoting local historical awareness.
• Fleischmann Planetarium & Science Center: This renowned planetarium was the first to display full-dome movies, making it a must-visit for astronomy lovers.
• Donner Party Park: This historical site marks where the Donner Party camped in 1846 before their harrowing journey across the Sierra Nevada.
• The Discovery (Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum): Opened in September 2011, this museum is dedicated to engaging children in hands-on learning experiences.
• The Lake Mansion: A historic mansion that belonged to Myron Lake, often regarded as Reno’s founder, offers insight into the region’s past.
• Sparks Museum and Cultural Center: A volunteer-operated museum that has served the community for over twenty-five years, featuring various exhibits and activities.
• Wilbur D. May Center: This center boasts the Wilbur D. May Museum and a beautiful public garden, enriching visitors’ experiences in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park.

Other Museums and Historic Sites around Northern Nevada

• Nevada State Railroad Museum in Carson City: A first-class facility that delights train enthusiasts and educates visitors about railroading history.
• Nevada Historical Markers: The Historical Marker Program celebrates the state’s heritage, encouraging public awareness of its historic significance.
• Ride the Virginia & Truckee Railroad: This excursion line offers scenic views, tracing the original route between Virginia City and Carson City.
• Fort Churchill State Historic Park: A multi-faceted state park featuring history, camping, hiking, and wildlife observation, all accessible from Reno.
• Nevada State Museum in Carson City: This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Nevada’s natural and cultural history.
• Mormon Station State Historic Park: Located in Genoa, this park offers a glimpse into the region’s early history and its connection to the Sierra Nevada.
• Comstock History Center: Home to significant artifacts, this center provides insights into regional history.
• Historic 4th Ward School Museum: Visitors can explore a preserved Victorian school building, providing a window into 19th-century education.
• Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Museum and Visitor Center: Delve into the history and culture of the Paiute people at this informative museum.

More About Reno and Nevada History

• Reno Divorce Trade and the Virginia Street Bridge Legend: This captivating legend intertwines with the iconic Truckee River.
• Jacob Davis, Reno’s Famous Tailor: The creation of the riveted Levi blue jeans took place right in Reno, marking a significant historical innovation.
• Visit Virginia City, Nevada: This historic area offers enriching experiences for both locals and tourists alike.
• Reno / Tahoe Place Names: Explore the fascinating stories behind place names in northern Nevada.
• City of Reno Register of Historic Places: This resource highlights places of historical importance within the city.
• Online Nevada Encyclopedia (ONE): A valuable repository of historic information about Nevada, created by Nevada Humanities.