NEVADA · USA
Brief History/Information Nevada became the 36th U.S. state on October 31, 1864, earning the nickname the "Battle Born State" because it entered the Union during the Civil War. The 1859 discovery of the Comstock Lode brought a massive rush of prospectors, wealth, and people, accelerating fast-tracked statehood. To boost the economy during the Great Depression, Nevada legalized wide-open gambling and quick divorces in 1931. This transformed Las Vegas into a global entertainment capital.
What we did
August 2026, After our time in Yosemite National Park (California), 1890. We drove about four hours to Nevada. Our first stop was to Genoa. This is an adorable old town that has the oldest tavern in Nevada… Genoa Tavern - 25 min south of Carson City. They have a famous 14 ingredient Bloody Mary, and it was delicious!
We then made our way to Carson City. We chose this area to lay our heads because it’s in the middle of Virginia City and Lake Tahoe (and we were flying out of Reno, NV).
Places of Interest
The Old Globe Saloon, 1875 – oldest pub in Carson City.
Bank Saloon, 1899 - it may be old, but it doesn’t look it… all renovated.
Blue Bull - your typical local dive (they allow smoking inside). Great bartenders and pricing.
Kit Carson Trail - This is a 2.5 mile path through Carson City’s historic district. It features stops at landmarks including 1800s-era Victorian-style homes, museums and churches.
Red’s Old 395 Grill- a very delicious restaurant
What we did
August 2026, If you like old places, then this is where you want to be! Here’s some old western history and well preserved. We drove to Virginia City from Carson City. There’s a lot of discussion on the oldest tavern here.
Places of Interest
The Millionaires Washoe Clube of 1862, the oldest saloon in Virginia City
Bucket of Blood Saloon, 1876, oldest in Virginia City
Delta Saloon, 1863, Mark Twain came here, worked across the street. Has the famous ‘Suicide table’
Palace Saloon, 1875,
Ponderosa Saloon, it was once a bank and has an original 1864 Bank of California vault; they also offer guided underground mine tour (we didn’t do it)
Silver Dollar Saloon
Silver Queen Hotel & Saloon, tallest saloon. Featuring the tallest back bar in the world.
What we did
Places of Interest
What we did
August 2026, After our day in Virginia City, we needed something low key and beautiful, so we came to Lake Tahoe for the day. There’s lots to do here, or lots of nothing-whatever you want. We were here in August.
Places of Interest
Logan Shoals Vista
Bay View Trailhead
Inspiration Point Vista
Cascade Falls
Desolation
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