Spark’s proud railroad heritage is apparent in its historic downtown where the museum is located. A vintage steam locomotive, cupola caboose and Pullman executive car are displayed along with a depot replica, the restored one room Glendale Schoolhouse and a monument to the Chinese rail workers. Inside the museum visitors explore 4000 square feet of engaging exhibits. Using artifacts to tell the story, exhibits communicate the rapid changes the region has undergone from ranching and mining to the introduction of the railroad and into modern times, including the significant role the region has played in the Space program.
The Sparks Museum and Cultural Center’s changing gallery features unique displays focusing on the arts, sciences, history and the rich diversity of Sparks and the surrounding Truckee Meadows. A variety of educational programs for adults and families are offered throughout the year.
Hours of Operation
Tuesday to Friday 11am to 4pm
Saturday 1pm to 4pm
Admission $5 for Adults
Members and Children 12 and younger are free
Senior and Military discounts
Free Admission for Everyone Thursdays, 4pm-7pm During 39 North marketplace and the Last Friday of each month of Sparks Last Friday Events.
Phone (775) 355-1144
Historic 8 Train located on Victorian Ave. is open Saturdays for free tours 1pm-4pm
Please call to schedule your group to tour the Glendale School House, Train and Museum
Download Sparks Historic Tours
When you stop by the museum, your smartphone is your guide. Use the Sparks Historic Tours downloadable app for a guided tour of the museum, followed by a walking tour of historic downtown Sparks. Experience the past with historic photos, facts, and stories. Get the app in the App Store, Google Play, or scan the QR code to the right.
The Sparks Museum is operated by volunteers and relies on memberships and donations to operate. In 2014 the museum received funding to support educational programs which included free school tours, a free downloadable app walking tour of downtown Sparks, the NV150 Sesquicentennial Events Series – Celebrating 150 years of Nevada History and Heritage culminating with the Western Heritage Festival.
These programs have been funded, in part, by a grant from the Nevada Arts Council, a state agency, and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency, Nevada Humanities, Union Pacific Railroad and the City of Sparks. A special thank you for the support.
Sparks Museum will close due to severe weather. Event calendar has complete list of activities.