Top Rated Attractions in Reno

This facility is home to more than 40 species of animals and is now officially the largest zoo in Nevada. Staffed by volunteers and supported by donations, this organization does a marvelous job displaying the animals in their natural habitat. Special tours and field trips are available to provide educational fun for young and old alike. See lions and Siberian tigers roaming, reptiles slithering, baboons swinging, and parrots and other birds putting on their high-flying antics. If the weather is questionable, call before you visit.

In 1900, the Central Pacific Railroad decided to move the tracks out of Wadsworth, Nevada, and run them closer to the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The land for the new terminal and the rail yards is where Sparks is located today. It took four years to fill the swamp created by the Truckee River. By 1904, the job was completed and Sparks became the busiest terminal between Utah and California. You can see artifacts and learn the history of Sparks at the museum located three blocks from John Ascuaga's Nugget.

First discovered in 1859, this mine once produced both gold and silver ore. Today, it yields history rather than precious metals. Take a 30-minute walking tour through the actual mine shaft and learn more about its intriguing history. As you descend 400 feet (121.92 meters) deep into the mine, you will marvel at the design of the mine's support structures and see the tools that were actually used by men that coaxed the ore out of the mine's veins. This guided tour offers many historical facts about how Virginia City miners lived, worked, and survived.

This historic mansion, which was built and occupied in 1859, was owned by the former superintendent of mines, George Hearst. By the 1870s, John Mackay took over the mansion and became one of the most powerful and revered characters of the Comstock. The maroon upholstered furniture in the grand parlor was made in 1868 and interestingly, the carved heads on the arms of the chairs commemorate the opening of the Suez Canal. The carpet, which was laid in the 1860s, is also original. The yard features original pieces as well, including the large weathered clothesline and Chinese laundry. Apart from its beautiful antiquity, the mansion is also believed to be haunted by several ghosts, including those of Mr. and Mrs. Mackay.

All aboard! Take a trip back to the old Comstock days and enjoy a ride on this authentic steam train. You can go on a six-mile round trip from Virginia City to Gold Hill. The narrated 35-minute ride will take you through the heart of the Comstock mining region. As you travel along, the guide will fill you in on some of the town's tall tales and historical facts. Check the website for schedules and current ticket prices.

The Ponderosa Saloon and Mine is not your ordinary local bar. It may look like one from the outside, but underneath it lies over a century's worth of history. The pub, via a tunnel made by the owners, is connected to the Best and Belcher Mine, and a bank vault from the 1860s. The people who are interested are taken on a tour of the mine; after that they can have food and drinks at the restaurant overhead. They serve delicious hot dogs out of which, the Pondo Dog is known to be a local favorite. They also serves pizzas, along with bloody marys and other amazing cocktails. The place gives off a homey vibe, which adds to its vintage appeal.