If you are the type of traveler who loves a good ghost story, then we have the perfect outing for you! Head to Virginia City in October, and you will be treated to a spooktacular array of events, food, and drink. This tiny Nevada town has the reputation of being one of America’s most haunted, so what better place to celebrate “Hauntober” than our very own Virginia City? Incorporated in 1863. The discovery of the first major silver deposit turned Virginia City into a full-fledged boomtown.   

Located 35 miles southeast of Reno, Virginia City is the perfect day trip to explore the town's rich history and haunted past. With millions of dollars worth of silver being mined from the area, prospectors from all over the world used their riches to build mansions and a thriving community of schools, churches, hospitals, and even an opera house. It’s been rumored that silver from this tiny town helped save the Union. It’s also responsible for elevating San Francisco, a city built with Comstock silver. At its peak, Virginia City was home to more than 25,000 residents. 

Today, Virginia City is a favorite destination for a taste of the old West. With some of the most beautifully preserved structures, including mansions, churches, saloons, and cemeteries, The entire town has secured a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. History fanatics can visit any one of the 17 museums or enjoy a self-guided or expert-led historical tour around the city. Step onto the train platform and take a ride on the ornate and beautiful Virginia & Truckee Railroad, undoubtedly the most famous of all American Short Line railroads.  

For those hoping to experience a  little paranormal activity, we recommend “Bats in the Belfry,” a walking ghost tour guaranteed to keep you on your toes and sleeping with the lights on. Visit the Silver Queen Hotel and Mackay Mansion before sashaying into one of 13 saloons located on the main drag. Built in 1875, the “Bucket of Blood Saloon offers great food and drink, plus old-west decor and live music. The Washoe Club is the oldest saloon in town, and we are pretty sure we’ve seen ghosts every time we’ve visited.

Virginia City isn’t all Old West and creepy ghost stories, the town offers an array of great restaurants, cafes, shops, and live entertainment. There is absolutely no shortage of fun things to do and great places to eat and drink. But, if you are visiting in October, oh, we mean Hauntober, then you are in luck! Partake in “The Spirits Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl, Pumpkin Patch Train, Parade, Mascarade Ball, and even Halloween Bingo. Bring the kiddos for a fun day of trick or treating through town for a day the entire family will never forget