Nevada State Prison Tours

Nevada State Prison: In Carson City, Nevada The Nevada State Prison, located in Carson City, is one of the most historically significant sites in the state. Operating from 1862 to 2012, the prison witnessed over 150 years of Nevada history, from its earliest days as a territorial facility to a fully operational state institution. It housed thousands of inmates over the years and was the site of notable events, including the nation’s first gas chamber execution, a prison-run casino, and the discovery of Ice Age fossils within its quarry. The sandstone used to construct the prison also contributed to several of Nevada’s landmark buildings, including the State Capitol. Today, the Nevada State Prison is preserved and interpreted by the Nevada State Prison Preservation Society, a volunteer-led organization dedicated to opening the site to the public and educating visitors about its historic significance. Tour Offerings Historic Day Tours These 90-minute guided walking tours cover nearly half a mile inside the facility. Visitors explore key areas of the prison, including cell blocks, the execution chamber, the quarry, and other historically rich locations. Tours provide insight into the daily life of inmates, the prison’s role in state history, and stories of infamous prisoners. Ghost Walks Offered in the evening during the fall months, ghost tours explore the paranormal side of the prison. These 90-minute guided experiences focus on the eerie atmosphere of the site after dark and highlight stories of unexplained occurrences and haunted locations within the prison. Tour Details Tour Season: May through November (select weekends) Duration: Approximately 90 minutes Cost: $20 per person Advance booking required through the Nevada State Prison Preservation Society’s website All visitors must sign a liability waiver Tours include uneven surfaces and stairs; closed-toe shoes are recommended Group sizes are limited to maintain an intimate and immersive experience For current tour dates, ticket reservations, and additional details, visit nevadastateprison.org. Keep Exploring Carson City Make the most of your visit with more ways to experience Carson City’s rich history and culture: Visit the Nevada State Museum and uncover the story of Nevada’s past. Explore the Stewart Indian School Cultural Center & Museum for a deeper look at Indigenous heritage. Take a Historic Walking Tour through downtown and see where history lives on today.