Carson City
Carson City is the capital of Nevada.
A mountain-valley capital shaped by the nearby Comstock Lode silver boom.
What makes the capitol special
Built in 1871, the Nevada State Capitol features a silver dome that reflects the state’s history of silver mining. The building is made of local sandstone to match the natural environment. Nevada pine trees stand at the entrance, representing the region’s wild landscape.
Three places to visit
- Nevada State Railroad Museum – Ride historic trains and see locomotives from the time of the famous silver mining boom.
- Stewart Indian School Cultural Center & Museum – Learn about the history and personal stories of the students who attended this former boarding school.
- Kit Carson Trail & Historic West Side – Follow the painted blue line on the sidewalk to walk past beautiful Victorian homes and historic city landmarks.
How the city got its name
Carson City is named after Kit Carson, a famous frontiersman. He guided expeditions through the Sierra Nevada mountains in the mid-1800s. The city shares its name with the nearby Carson River.
Why this city became the capital
Carson City became the capital when Nevada became a state in 1864. It was chosen because it was close to the Comstock Lode, a massive deposit of silver that created a mining boom. The city was already established as an important center for transportation and business for the mining industry.
From Celine Carlson’s 50 State Capitals: A Field Guide by a Girl Who Visited Them All, based on her visits to all 50 state capitals. About the author · Sources and research notes.