Take a Day Trip to This Beautiful and Historic Nevada Town

There are many wonderful small towns in Nevada, most of which are loaded with local history. From abandoned gold-rush-era ghost towns to bustling little cities, there is so much to explore and discover here. Among these is Winnemucca, a historic small town in Nevada with some fun and interesting claims to fame.

My fellow history buffs would love all the historical landmarks scattered throughout the town. And nature lovers will appreciate the gorgeous mountains and outdoor activities. If you’re wondering about some fun things to do in Winnemucca, Nevada, we’ve got you covered. Come see why this historic town is a great day trip destination in Nevada.   

Though incorporated as a city, Winnemucca is still very much a small town, with just over 8,000 residents. Founded in Northern Nevada in the 1800s, this town takes its name from Chief Winnemucca of the Northern Paiute tribe that originally inhabited this area. There is much to enjoy in Winnemucca, but perhaps the most enchanting thing about this town is its people, which has led to it being called the “Friendliest Town in Nevada.”

In town, you can see wonderfully preserved historic buildings full of character. The beautiful Winnemucca State Bank and Trust Company building has storybook charm and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There is a legend that on September 19, 1900, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, the gang also known as the "Wild Bunch," robbed another bank building — the First National Bank of Winnemucca — of over $32,000 in gold coins. Butch Cassidy’s involvement in the bank robbery was never proven, but it lends a bit of fun history to this place.

Stop by the Convention and Visitors Center building, recognizable by the large, colorful mural on the outside wall. The Winnemucca Visitors Center is home to the local Chamber of Commerce, wildlife and mineral exhibits, and the unique Buckaroo Hall of Fame.

Northern Nevada has strong roots in Basque culture, and every year, Winnemucca hosts a Basque Festival to honor the heritage of Basque immigrants who worked as sheepherders in the region during the middle of the 19th century. The festival is a celebration full of traditional music, storytelling, dancing, and food, not to mention Nevada’s famous Picon Punch.

Winnemucca serves as the county seat of Humboldt County and is home to the historic courthouse. Moreover, there are other historical buildings like the Winnemucca Main Post Office, which was built in 1921 and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

A visit to the Humboldt Museum is a must during your day in Winnemucca. The museum tells the amazing history of this place, from Ice Age fossils to cultural artifacts from the American Indian, Chinese, and Basque populations to the “Art Nouveau” period, and much more, all of which will heighten your appreciation for this historic town. And if you're wondering what Winnemucca is named after, then you'll find the answer here.

In addition to the modern brick museum building, other historical sites include an old church (which became the original museum), an 1880s store known as the Greinstein Building, the Art Deco fire department building, and an 1899 home, the Richardson-Saunders House.

What I especially love about the town is all the outdoor recreation. Winnemucca’s gorgeous mountain backdrop is even more stunning in winter. If you visit during the frosty season, bring your winter gear to explore the snowy hiking trails. And during the warmer months, hit the trails inside Pine Forest Range Wilderness Area to see the scenic rolling hills and to frolic amongst the pretty wildflowers.

A day trip to the little city of Winnemucca, Nevada, is one you will not regret. And if you're heading to the area and looking for other things to do nearby, check out our itinerary planner for recommendations for all kinds of activities and eateries!