Museums in Reno

Discover northern Nevada – the culture and history – at the museums in Reno. Visitors and locals have an eclectic way of accessing the area and city through the variety of collections, history centers and other museums in Reno. Reno is home to the state of Nevada’s oldest museum, and there and others invite you to learn about the area’s roots in rail work, ranching and mining. You can also discover the more niche elements of Reno’s past at some of the museums that highlight the Wild West, illustrious automobiles or local philanthropists. The museums in Reno also include botanical gardens and arboretums. For an out-of-this-world thing to do in Reno, head to the planetarium, and be sure to check out the building itself – it’s on the National Register of Historic Places.

Fleischmann Planetarium

Museums in Reno

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Once at risk of being demolished to make way for more university parking, Fleischmann Planetarium is now one of University of Nevada, Reno's crown jewels. It boasts a rare and unique modern digital projector for daily shows, changing hands-on displays in the exhibit hall and a science store with inventory ranging from telescopes to ties and more. Built in 1963 and listed on the National...read more

National Automobile Museum

Downtown Reno

Museums in Reno

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Based upon the extensive auto collection of casino pioneer Bill Harrah, this museum is nationally recognized and serves as a cornerstone of the educational and cultural atmosphere of the downtown area. The exhibits include fascinating styles of cars from the past that never quite caught on, autos that were owned by the biggest celebrities of the day and historical milestones from throughout the development of...read more

Nevada Historical Society

Museums in Reno

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Tucked away on the north side of the university campus is the Nevada Historical Society, the state's oldest museum. Not only does the facility offer programs, exhibits, conferences and educational collections, but also it has a number of research departments, including a library, artifacts, photography and manuscripts. Admission to the museum is just $5 for nonmember adults, and there is no fee to visit the...read more

Nevada Museum of Art

Reno's Midtown District

Downtown Reno

Museums in Reno

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As the only accredited art museum in the state, Nevada Museum of Art is a beacon of culture in the High Sierra. The permanent collections are extensive and stunning, and the changing exhibitions keep things fresh, even for regular visitors. The museum offers three floors of exhibits, usually with varying themes and styles. Most exhibits are on display for at least one month; some may...read more

Northern Nevada Coin

Museums in Reno

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Northern Nevada Coin, with locations in Gardnerville, Reno and Carson City, is a coin-collector's paradise. The main location in downtown Carson City, which is across the street from the former Carson City Mint, has thousands of coins and different variations from the historic mint as well as from around the world. Each location has a selection of collectibles and historic coins, and taking a closer...read more

Scheels

Museums in Reno

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The Scheels sporting goods store at the Legends mall in Sparks offers more than just a retail shop for outdoor gear. The place is almost like a miniature amusement park, with a pair of huge aquariums, a North American wildlife display, an indoor Ferris Wheel and more. Check out the display honoring the American presidents and take a turn on the Coney Island–style shooting gallery....read more

Sparks Museum and Cultural Center

Museums in Reno

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The railroading history of the Sparks area is front and center at the museum and cultural center, with train cars, a depot and a display commemorating the work of the Chinese rail workers. Exhibits and presentations also explore the ranching and mining roots of the region, and there is an interesting section on how Sparks has contributed to the nation's exploration of outer space. The...read more

The Discovery: Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum

Downtown Reno

Museums in Reno

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Imagine the most interesting science museum that you can. Then imagine that it is designed to be engaging to visitors ranging from small children to full-grown adults. Then imagine that it includes tons of hands-on exhibits and displays. This will give you a good idea of what The Discovery is all about. In this 67,000-square-foot hands-on science center, there are both permanent and changing presentations...read more

Wilbur D. May Center

Museums in Reno

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A part of the Washoe County park system, Wilbur D. May Center includes a museum, botanical gardens, an arboretum and a museum shop. It's a delightfully eclectic celebration of the life of Wilbur May, a philanthropist who wore many hats during his life. The permanent museum exhibits provide a fascinating glimpse into a certain period of history in the nation and in the world, while...read more

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