GENOAS’ HISTORIC CHARM ATTRACTS VISITORS YEAR-ROUND
Genoa, pronounced “ju-NO-ah,” is nestled at the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, 20 minutes from Lake Tahoe’s world-class skiing and golfing. Home to 225 residents, Genoa offers visitors a quaint town with historical charm. Established in 1851 by Mormon traders from Salt Lake City, Utah, it was called Mormon Station until 1855 when, as legend has it, Judge Orson Hyde, an admirer of Christopher Columbus, renamed the burgeoning town after his birthplace Genoa, Italy. It is the first and oldest settlement in Nevada.
The small town welcomes visitors for day trips, or a longer, restful stay. You can spend the day shopping at Genoa Square, where you’ll find unique gifts, old-fashioned candy and freshly ground coffee. On a warm day you may opt for a quiet and cozy picnic at the Mormon Station State Historic Park, or grab a cool drink at the charming historic Genoa Bar, Nevada’s oldest saloon. Take in a round of golf at the world-class Genoa Lakes Golf Club, and then plan a relaxing massage at 1862 David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort and Spa. For the history buffs; visit any one of Genoa’s historic landmarks: Mormon Station State Park Museum, Genoa Courthouse Museum, the Genoa Cemetery, Genoa Town Hall, and the Genoa Community Church.
If you’re fortunate enough to be visiting the last week of September, then you absolutely must attend, and join in the fun, at the annual historic Candy Dance event. It began in 1919 to raise money for streetlights by selling homemade candy at a dinner-dance festival, the tradition continued in order to pay the towns’ electric bills. In 1970 a small crafts fair was added, and now the Candy Dance Arts and Crafts Fair draws large crowds, closing down the streets for an entire weekend. The Genoa Candy Dance is well known as one of the greatest craft fairs in Northern Nevada drawing artisans from all over the west who come to sell their wares.
Genoa’s natural beauty and historic charm continues
to beckon travelers’ worldwide.
For more information:
Mormon Station State Park Museum
1862 David Walley’s Hot Springs Resort
Genoa Bar, Nevada’s Oldest Thirst Parlor
Genoa Lakes Golf Club and Resort
Attractions, Local Getaways and Fun Places — in 45 minutes or less!
Speak Your Mind
You must be logged in to post a comment.