Historic Reno Preservation Society, Reno, NV, US

Established in 1904, the Nevada Historical Society is the oldest cultural museum in the state. The building, located on the University of Nevada campus in Reno features exhibits about Nevada's native people, the state's mining towns and pioneers, gaming and the fact that Nevada is mostly owned by the government. The museum also has a research libraryBest and worst time to go to the Nevada Historical SocietyThe museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays, but the rest of the time it is never crowded. The best time to visit is during a special event or movie night.Must see/do at the Nevada Historical SocietySome of the best exhibits at the Historical Society are the quirkiest. The museum has over 500 matchbooks from both existing and defunct restaurants and casinos as well as classic neon signs from past casinos. Another interesting exhibit is about the government ownership of the state that touches on military bases and mysterious places like Area 51.Admission to the Nevada Historical SocietyThe admission cost is $5 per person. Children under 17 are free.Parking and public transportation to the Nevada Historical SocietyThere is space for about 15 cars in the Historical Society parking lot. There is also parking at the nearby Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center. Be sure not to park outside these lots—the University owns these spots and they will ticket if you do not have a permit. The Sierra Spirit bus costs only 25 cents and stops near the museum.Food at the Nevada Historical SocietyThere are no restaurants at the museum, but the University of Nevada Joe Crowley Student Union has several restaurants including Cantina Del Lobo and Starbucks.Insider tip for visitors to the Nevada Historical SocietyThe museum's store has some interesting books and they also sell Battle Mountain Blue Gem Mine Turquoise jewelry from the middle of the state.Author's bio: Christina Nellemann is a writer and designer living in Reno who loves the Halloween events at the Nevada Historical Society.