Escape to Virginia City, NV - Home of Bonanza!

NEVADA - After spending a somewhat lucrative casino filled nightlife in Reno, NV, my wife and I decided to rent a car and meander up the winding dry hills towards the emerald waters of Lake Tahoe. On the map, a historic stop intrigued us through the renowned "Old West" town of Virginia City.

Sound familiar?

That's because Americans have watched Virginia City in the TV episodes of past as the legendary John Wayne rode through town on horseback in the famed western show 'Bonanza'.

The TV show ran for 14 seasons and 431 episodes and became the most famous TV Western in America's entertainment history.

"The Night Virginia City Died", a 1970 Bonanza episode , the character Deputy Clem Foster's fiancee destroyed the iconic town in a raging series of fires.

JOHN WAYNE - BONANZA

Today, the modern paved streets are filled with cars that line the storefronts. But similar to the Wild West days, most of Virginia's City's visitors reside far away and are looking for a break from modern days. This visit is just what they might need. A true return to what is was in the days of old...

ST. MARY'S of the MOUNTAINS

This Church is a Spectacular structure in the middle of Bonanza City serving as a meeting spot for all the citizens of the region. Marriages, Sermons, Legal Exchanges, Baptisms, and more were conducted here. This was the pinnacle of the West.

The towns remain in the same fashion as it did days ago, with wooden walkways by business entrances, elaborate choices of food and spirits, and historical tidbits mixed and prevalent through the whole journey.

A variety of stores, attractions, churches, grave sites, cafes, and other sites of interest are by the plenty. Get some history and see some amazing classic Edison Phonographs from all eras of invention. Then visit some creatively named saloons like the Bucket of Blood Saloon.

BUCKET OF BLOOD SALOON

WORLD'S OLDEST GLOBE !

Oldest Globe in the World.

Take a look at what is believed to be the World's oldest Globe. Seen perched up in a local restaurant, it has been valued at over $1,000,000. It's elaborate hand made construction was the highlight of any mapmaker's projects.

MAKE BELIEVE - IT'S THE WILD WEST!

And of course pick up some Wild West props and have a little fun at a variety of Western facades. Sneak around and look for the criminals, be one yourself. Try not to spend a night in Jail in Virginia City, and "Watch your back Pardner..."

VIRGINIA CITY JAIL

ENJOY THE DAY IN VIRGINIA CITY, NV

Explore the old cemetery and learn some interesting facts about the lifestyle of the days. See what old west Firefighting was like in any of the local museums that are eager to share their part of the world with you.

Virginia City, Nevada is a prime half day getaway in the hills outside of Reno. Come interested, come hungry, and bring your camera for this journey into the sunset...

RIDE INTO THE SUNSET...

The next time you plan a trip near Reno or Lake Tahoe or Sacramento, CA - Take a side trip and enjoy a visit to Virginia City. A throwback into an American Spirit of Expansion...

Have you been there? How was your Experience..?