When it comes to treating Mom on Mother’s Day you can take her to brunch, lunch or dinner, but why not surprise her with something completely different: tickets aboard the V&T Railroad.
Bring the entire family and climb aboard the V&T on Sunday, May 13, 2012 for a train ride of a lifetime designed especially for Mom. This special edition diesel ride from Carson City to Virginia City comes with spectacular scenery, Wild West history and plenty of shopping and dining opportunities in Virginia City. Mom is even honored on the train with a long-stem rose.
Once aboard, the V&T iron horse will roll through 16 miles of train track re-opened in August 2009 after 70 years of non-operation. All train rides includes scenic vistas of the Carson River and majestic Sierra Nevada, passing through two tunnels, by abandoned mine shafts, old cemeteries and even offering occasional sightings of wild mustangs. The historic train travels the same silver route paved by the miners of the infamous 1860s Comstock silver boom.
The V&T offers an exclusive one-of-a-kind Mother’s Day special.
The Mother’s Day train departs the Carson City Depot, 4650 Eastgate Siding Road, at 10 a.m. sharp. Book in advance because this popular train ride does sell out. The cost is $35 for adults, $20 for children 16 and under and $31 for veterans and senior citizens, 65 years and up. Gift Certificates are now available by calling the Carson City Convention and Visitors Bureau (775)687-7410 or 800-NEVADA-1.
Another great factor about the Mother’s Day train is that it also provides train enthusiasts a sneak peek into the 2012 V&T season. Opening weekend RailFest activities begin Memorial Day weekend, May 26-28 and will highlight steam and diesel engines with round trip and one-way rides from Carson City to Virginia City. There are plenty of Wild West festivities all weekend long at the event. V&T trains will run weekly, Saturday – Sunday through October 21.
Packed with enough arts, museums, restaurants and culture to go against any U.S. metropolitan area, our very own Carson City stands out as a place we’re extremely proud of to call home. Take a walk through Carson City’s historic district or a tour of the Legislative complex on Carson Street and you’ll see why.
When the Nevada Commission on Tourism launched its Nevada Treasures contest as part of its “Discover Your Nevada” campaign, it was a no-brainer for us to vote on those Capital City places and events that are favorites not only among visitors but fellow Carsonites. We all
have our favorite stops, funky coffee shops and museums we want the world to know about. So why not tell the rest of Nevada and the world which places in Carson City stand out and that no one should miss when they’re here.
Vote for your favorite places through 5 p.m. Friday, March 30 and be sure to tell your friends to vote, too. The top 20 treasures in each territory will then go on to round two, which begins at 9 a.m. April 2 and ends at 5 p.m. Go here to vote. The list is long, so be sure to scroll through it.
Usher in spring and spend a day learning about the silver Comstock era while supporting local health care with a ride aboard the historic V&T Railroad to Virginia City. The annual V&T Wine, Cheese and Dessert Train, a popular fundraiser for the Carson Tahoe Regional Healthcare Auxiliary, will be on Saturday, March 31, departing Carson City Eastgate Depot at 10 a.m.
All aboard the V&T for annual wine, cheese and dessert train Last year's fundraiser for Carson Tahoe Regional Healthcare Auxiliary was a huge success.
Enjoy plenty of wine varieties to sample, gourmet cheeses and fine desserts for $65 per person. Lunch will be served at the Red Dog Saloon and you also have a “Choice of Ticket” to one of three tour venues. You can either work your way through the Way it Was Museum, take a tour of the Comstock Mine or travel by trolley through the rolling streets of Virginia City. A shuttle will be available to and from the Virginia City station. Exclusive shopping discounts at selected Virginia City merchants are extended to all ticket holders as well.
Tickets are available at the CTRHA Gift Shop in the Lobby of the Medical Center or call Gloria Seaton, (7785) 882-8162. Tickets are limited, so act fast!
Proceeds will help the Auxiliary continue their work in helping the Hospital and Community. The Carson Tahoe Regional Healthcare Auxiliary is an all-volunteer, non-profit, charitable organization whose purpose is to render assistance through public activities and fund raising in support of the Regional Medical Center, Nursing Scholarships and Regional Healthcare needs.
Don’t forget to book your tickets for the popular Mother’s Day Diesel train rides aboard the V&T. Make this Mother’s Day something to remember by taking Mom out on a fun-filled day on the V&T Railroad. The V&T – Carson City to Virginia City Route leaves from the Carson City – Eastgate Depot (NOT from the downtown Railroad Museum) on May 13. Buy your tickets in advance of this popular event by going here.
Gift Certificates are now available by calling the Carson City Convention and Visitors Bureau – (775)687-7410 or 800-NEVADA-1. Steam roundtrips aboard the V&T begin May 26.
Carson City was named the country’s No. 3 Family Destination for its old west heritage, special events and value by away.com, one of the nation’s premier vacation planning websites.
Feel like bowling a few frames? Well there are two places in town to do just that. Carson Lanes Retail Center has it all: restaurants, billiards, darts, games and plenty of lanes making it an ideal place for the entire family. This smoke-free center is a great place to celebrate birthdays, graduations and family reunions. 4600 Snyder Avenue.
Bright shoes and neon lights are only part of the fun of bowling.
Another favorite place to bowl is the 32-lanes at Gold Dust West in Carson City. The Bowling Center is ideal for families and friends looking to catch the spare or try their luck at bowling that perfect game. Birthday parties and group specials are available. 2171 East William.
Starting up again in the summer are rides on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, Nevada’s most famous short line which connected Reno with Carson City, Virginia City, and Minden. Visitors today can enjoy a vintage steam train ride over nearly 16 miles of the original line on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, once the country’s richest short line. The route includes scenic vistas of the Sierra Nevada and Carson River as riders pass through two tunnels and by abandoned mine shafts and old cemeteries, while being treated to occasional sightings of Nevada’s wild mustangs. The V&T travels the same silver path paved by the excesses of the Virginia City mines of the infamous 1860s Comstock silver boom.
Don’t forget in the summer there are an abundance of outdoor events from car shows to ghost walks.
What’s your favorite family place in Carson City?
Don't miss your opportunity to ride the V&T train this summer.
With Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, there’s a Polar Express to catch that will take you around the corner, up the block, and all the way to the North Pole , Nov. 25 – Dec. 18.
Boarding passes are going fast for The Polar Express™ train ride, with more than 7,000 sold in a month and 30 rides already sold out.
Here is a video of the Polar Express™ along the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge from 2009.
The classic Christmas tale comes to life in Carson City this holiday season aboard the Virginia and Truckee Railroad, Nov. 25 through Dec. 18.
Do you Believe? The historic diesel train, complete with decorated passenger cars and Christmas music, leaves Carson City and travels nearly two miles before staging at Santa’s mythical North Pole retreat.
Cocoa and cookies will be served on board; there’s a recorded reading of The Polar Express by its author Chris Van Allsburg; and upon arrival at the North Pole, Santa will greet the kids and just as in the story, kids of all ages who believe will receive their own silver bell. There will be caroling on board during the return to the depot where official Polar Express photos with Santa Claus will be available for purchase.
Based on the holiday feature film from Warner Bros. Pictures and the beloved children’s book, by Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express™ is about a doubting young boy who takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.
Ticket Prices and Reservations:
Tickets are free for children two and under, $25 for ages 3-12 and $34 for 13 and older. To book tickets in advance call (775) 687-7410 or here.
Lodging Deals:
Gold Dust West in Carson City is offering a $49 Express Room Package in promotion of the holiday train festivities. Best Western Carson Station Hotel and Plaza Hotel & Conference Center is offering a $59 Polar Express weekend special room rate. While staying at the Best Western families can access the movie on their house channel. Any guest who shows their Polar Express ticket at the Carson City Courtyard by Marriot or Hampton Inn and Suites will receive a discounted room rate.
More Info:
The train leaves the Carson City Eastgate Depot (located seven miles east of Downtown Carson City) and travels nearly two miles before staging at Santa’s mythical North Pole retreat. The Polar Express™ departs Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m., or 8:30 p.m., Nov. 25 – Dec. 18.
Whether it’s taking in motorcycle rides, Community Theater, a ghost walk, wine tasting or a charity golf tournament, there’s plenty of events lined up this weekend in Carson City.
All weekend long Carson City Harley-Davidson, is hosting numerous activities to coincide with Street Vibrations activities throughout Northern Nevada. Let the good times roll Friday and Saturday, with music from eight different bands, demonstrations and at least 40 vendors selling everything from helmets and clothing to hamburgers and beer at the five-acre Research Way dealership. 2900 Research Way
Among the event highlights include Jason Pullen, who will perform stunts at 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Live Fast Motocross with freestyle demonstrations at noon, 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. The below video is just a glimpse of what you’re in for.
Friday, September 23
The Silver State Stars present “And Then There Was One Too,” at the Carson City Community Center 7-9 p.m. The murder-mystery comedy play is a continuation of the popular Agatha Christie take-off comedy, “And Then There Was One.” The Play features 10 characters brought to a house on Cable Car Cliff for a masquerade party. Once G. Reef’s body appears, the guests start to accuse each other. One by one they hit the dust until two characters are left standing, the butler and maid. They believe that they committed the perfect crime, but it ends in a twist, and is filled with hilarious gags and dialog. For more information, call (775) 883-7900.
Warren Engine Co. No. 1 presents “Light Your Fire at the Governor’s Mansion,” in the Nevada Room of the Governor’s Mansion from 5-9 p.m. Live music by Mike and the Liabilities band, catered hors d’oeuvres, no-host bar, raffles and silent auction. Unveiling of recently restored circa 1900 chemical fire suppression cart. WECO began in Carson City, June, 1863 when Nevada was still part of the Utah Territory. The company is the oldest volunteer fire company west of the Mississippi River and probably the oldest continuously operated fire company, having provided uninterrupted service to this community since its inception.
Saturday, September 24
Play a round of golf this weekend to benefit breast cancer programs with the 10th annual Stroke to Help golf tournament hosted by the Soroptimist of Carson City. The format is four-person scramble; players choose to play Eagle Valley East or West Course. Cost: $85 per person and includes 18 holes of golf, cart, continental breakfast and barbecue. Check-in time for the Eagle Valley Golf Course tournament begins at 8 a.m. with a 9 a.m. shotgun start.
Seek what mystery lurks behind the doors and windows of historic downtown Carson City haunted spots. Join Madame Curry for a 90-minute ghost walk through Carson City as she tells tales sure to spooky tales of local haunts.
Sunday, September 25
In the mood for wine? Carson Tahoe Regional Healthcare Auxiliary will host a wine tasting at Aloha Discount Wine and Liquors. The cost is $30 per person, which includes: wine, complementary glass and snacks. Buy your tickets now at the CTRH Auxiliary Gift Shop, located in the Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center Lobby or at Aloha Discount Wine and Liquors. 4555 S. Carson St., Carson City
When it comes to the holidays Virginia & Truckee Railroad has something special cooking this fall and beyond – from the Pumpkin Patch and Halloween Express rides to the Polar Express™, the famed railroad offers a number of options.
The V&T continues to run through the October with some great rides planned along spectacular autumn weather, changing of fall colors and a great train ride aboard the V&T Pumpkin Express, Oct 15-16, 22-23 (Sat and Sun) at 11:20 a.m., 12:30 and 3 p.m. and departs from Virginia City. As an added bonus, everyone gets to pick a jack-o’-lantern from the pumpkin patch.
Do you love Halloween – in fact, it’s one of my favorite holidays? It’s spooky and haunted on the Halloween Express, Oct. 31. This 35 minute train provides thrills for all ages and departs Halloween evening at 4, 6, 7 and 8 p.m. from Virginia City.
Carson City’s Old West meets the North Pole as the Polar Express™ train will take weekend railway runs across the frosty Northern Nevada landscape Thanksgiving through Dec. 18.
The Virginia & Truckee Railroad is one of the officially licensed Polar Express Train Ride events nationwide this holiday season. This historic 100-year train, complete with decorated passenger cars and Christmas music, leaves the Carson City Eastgate Depot (located seven miles east of Downtown Carson City) and travels nearly two miles before staging at Santa’s mythical North Pole retreat. The Polar Express™ departs Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. The trips last about an hour.
The Polar Express train rides are based on the holiday feature film from Warner Bros. Pictures and the beloved children’s book, by Chris Van Allsburg, about a doubting young boy who takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. The Virginia & Truckee Railroad has partnered with Rail Events Inc. (through Warner Brothers Consumer Products, Inc.) to bring the officially licensed train ride event to Carson City this holiday season.
Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, pajama clad passengers will relive the magic of the story as this nighttime train whisks families away for an unforgettable ride to the North Pole.
During the journey, the Conductor will punch tickets and chefs serve hot chocolate, followed by a reading of Van Allsburg’s classic. At the North Pole, Santa will board the train and greet the children! And Santa has a gift for those who truly believe – a silver sleigh bell. Tickets are free for children two and under, $25 for ages 3-12 and $34 for 13 and older. Early reservations are recommended due to the universal popularity of the attraction early as these trains are expected to sell out quickly.
What’s your favorite holiday? What themed train would you like to see on the V&T?
Labor Day weekend at Carson City — there’s no better place to kick back, have a barbecue in the park, take a train ride, eat at any number of great restaurants, buy some fresh fruit and produce and, above all, celebrate the fruits of our working lives.
It’s your weekend. With the weather forecast holding in the upper 80s with plenty of sunshine, here’s some things going on around town especially for you.
Ever watch any of those old westerns with trains in them? Chances are that a few of those movies were filmed aboard historic V&T steam locomotives.
On Saturday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., you can ride behind an authentic V&T railroad steam locomotive in restored period passenger cars at the Nevada State Railroad Museum, 2180 S. Carson Street, Carson City, NV. Departures are every 40 minutes from the historic Wabuska Depot at the museum. Prices vary. Exhibits on site focus on the V&T Railroad in the movies. Call (775) 687-6953.
Meanwhile, you can always take a full tour on the V&T ironhorse. Ride the reconstruction of the V&T’s original Carson City-Virginia City track. Starting just above the Carson River Canyon, the train takes a modern route first, for about two miles, along the east side of Mound House and across a spectacular railroad bridge over U.S. Hwy. 50. For tickets and boarding information click here.
On Saturday, two events in downtown Carson City, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon entail nothing but a pair of good walking shoes and some sun screen.
The Third & Curry Street Farmers Market runs from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. There’s plenty of farm fresh fruits, vegetables, arts and crafts, pony rides for the kids and live street entertainment.
As Saturday morning turns to afternoon, take a stroll with a glass of wine through historic downtown Carson City galleries, restaurants and local shops. In its second season the Downtown Wine Walk one of the capital city’s weekend gems, where sight-seeing goes hand-in-hand with tasting, public art galleries, gift shops, great restaurants, casinos and more.
Local restaurants, spectacular art galleries, casinos and boutiques pull out all the stops to wine and dine you.
Tickets are $10 and includes a commemorative wine glass and a map of stops along the way, each featuring wine, hors d’ oeuvres and shops.
When you’re ready to step out of the sun, you can always step into a movie theater. Catch up on some of those summer blockbuster movies you may have missed at the Galaxy Theater Multiplex inside Casino Fandango. The movies are always first-run and the popcorn is delicious!
Date night meant something new last week: a train ride on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad. I suggested riding the Queen of the Short Lines to Nick, my partner in crime. He agreed it would be a great way to start an evening. Since we both worked a full day, we couldn’t make the Carson City to Virginia City roundtrip and opted for the Toast of the Canyon ride – an hour roundtrip steam train ride from Carson City to the Canyon.
Nick & I
In addition to the views on the train we enjoyed a glass of wine from Tahoe Ridge Winery and noshed on ribs from Red’s 395. Each week they feature appetizers from a different local restaurant and wine from Tahoe Ridge Winery.
We arrived at the Carson City Depot around 4:45 p.m. picked up our tickets, which we reserved online, and snapped some photos before boarding the train. As we were boarding I made sure to ask the conductor which side had the best views.
View of the Canyon from the train
Wine was poured as we enjoyed the leisurely ride to the canyon. Just 30 minutes into our train ride we had reached the half-way point. Here we could see the canyon stretch in either direction of the train. Not too far the Carson River flowed parallel to the train. Too busy enjoying scenic desert views, wine and taking pictures I almost missed the appetizers. They were brought to our seats while we were stopped.The McCloud No. 18 (steam locomotive) unhooked, then rolled by a few times and riders listened for whistles. Before we knew it we were heading back to the depot full steam ahead. The train was moving fast and had us back to the depot within minutes. Not only was our Saturdate unique but we traveled back in time and caught a glimpse of how people traveled by railroad.
McCloud No.18
Next time we’ll have to make a day of it and take the Sisters in History Route, Carson City to Virginia City and back.
What’s your most unique and/or adventurous date night?
V&T Fun Facts:
Originally built to serve the Comstock Lode mining communities of northwestern Nevada.
The V&T ran up to 40 trains per day at the height of the Big Bonanza.
After abandonment in 1950, the old lines were rebuilt by private investors in the 1970s and reopened to the public August 2009.
Known as Queen of the Short Lines
McCloud No. 18 went to Hollywood to film Water For Elephants
My friend, Candice, and myself decided to make the round trip on the V&T Railroad last Saturday, June 25, 2011. We thoroughly enjoyed the trip from the minute we parked in the parking lot of the Carson Eastgate Depot. It was a perfect day–not a cloud in the sky–not too hot with a nice breeze blowing.
All the windows in the train cars were opened to various heights to allow fresh air to blow through. The volunteer conductors were constantly monitoring the passengers’ arms, hands, & elbows, reminding us to keep them inside the car to avoid tremendous harm and/or accidental loss of appendages.
After spending a few hours eating, walking and shopping in Virginia City, thus doing our part to bolster the economy, we joyfully boarded the train for our return trip. It was a lovely ride with everyone talking, smiling and looking at the fantastic scenery.
Candice had purchased a lovely pair of moccasins as a gift for her mother. She decided that to avoid forgetting them on the floor of the train where they had been placed, she would hold them in her lap along with her daypack. They were in their original box within in a plastic shopping bag. She was in the seat next to the open window. All of a sudden, her elbow jostled the box and the whole shopping bag, box and all, slipped right out the window which was opened just enough for the height of the box.
I looked at her and she looked at me in utter amazement! Her brand new $50
purchase had just fallen out the window. We laughed and laughed and then thought about the price of her train ticket which had just escalated to a record high. Her husband wasn’t going to be too pleased by this.
After we departed, we talked to the train personnel, who were trying very hard not to smirk, about the possibility of getting the shoes back. They weren’t too hopeful but they said they would try.
This story does have a happy ending– later that evening Candice and her husband drove to Mound House, as close as they could get to where we thought the spot might be, and her husband found the moccasins still in their plastic bag, which had landed by the train tracks a little ways behind the Moonlight Bunny Ranch.
I sure do hope that Candice’s mother really appreciates her gift.
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