Carson City

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Carson City's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Carson City Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café. Afterward, visit the Nevada State Museum to learn about the area’s history.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a downtown eatery, then take a stroll through the Capitol Complex. Stop by the Nevada State Capitol Building for a guided tour.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant. Wind down with a leisurely walk along the Carson River.

day 2
Nature and Trails
morning
:

Fuel up for a day of adventure with a hearty breakfast. Head to the nearby Sierra Nevada for a morning hike on the Tahoe Rim Trail.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit Lake Tahoe for some breathtaking views and maybe a swim. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for some on-water fun.

evening
:

Return to Carson City for dinner at a local grill. Enjoy a cozy evening by a fire pit at a nearby park.

day 3
Art and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a café known for local art displays. Visit the Nevada Museum of Art to explore its dynamic exhibitions.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a bistro downtown, then check out the Brewery Arts Center for local performances and art shows. Spend some time browsing local galleries.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Catch a live music performance at a venue nearby to end your day on a high note.

day 4
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Begin with a breakfast buffet that caters to all ages. Head to the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada for interactive exhibits.

afternoon
:

Lunch at a family-friendly diner is a great pit stop. Spend the afternoon at Mills Park, where kids can enjoy the playground and carousel.

evening
:

Enjoy the night at a community event or fair, if available.

day 5
Cycling Adventure
morning
:

Kickstart your day with a light breakfast. Rent a bike and explore the beautiful scenic trails around Carson City.

afternoon
:

Stop for a picnic lunch at a park along the way. Continue your biking adventure, taking in the gorgeous landscapes.

evening
:

Return your bike and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a café downtown. Share stories from your day over delicious ice cream.

day 6
Winter Wonderland
morning
:

Start with a warm breakfast to gear up for a day on the slopes. Head to nearby ski resorts for some fun in the snow.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a mountain lodge. Continue skiing or try snowboarding for the afternoon.

evening
:

After a day of adventure, have dinner in a cozy cabin-style restaurant. Enjoy hot chocolate by the fireplace.

day 7
Local Festivals and Events
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast at a local diner. Check the city schedule for any festivals or seasonal events happening in the morning.

afternoon
:

Partake in food vendors for lunch at the festival. Enjoy live music or other activities offered at the event.

evening
:

End the day with dinner at a popular local restaurant that features festival specials. Gather with friends to talk about the day's festivities.

day 8
Shopping and Dining
morning
:

Begin with a breakfast at a charming local bakery. Spend your morning exploring the unique shops and boutiques in downtown Carson City.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café offering local delicacies. Continue shopping or visit the Carson City Historical Society to delve into the local heritage.

evening
:

If there's time, stop by a local pub for some craft beer.

day 9
Scenic Drives
morning
:

Enjoy a light breakfast, then prepare for a scenic drive. Explore the picturesque backroads surrounding Carson City for stunning views.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy at a scenic overlook. Stop at roadside attractions and parks along the way.

evening
:

Return to town for dinner at a steakhouse. Wind down with an evening walk to see local landmarks lit up at night.

day 10
Stargazing and Astronomy
morning
:

Kick off with a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Check if any astronomy events are happening at local observatories.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with outdoor seating. Spend the afternoon visiting a planetarium or science center, if available.

evening
:

After dinner, head out for a night of stargazing at a dark sky location. Bring along a telescope or binoculars for an enhanced viewing experience.

Discover Carson City

Read more in our Carson City 2024 Travel Guide.

Carson City Travel Guide