W. M Keck Earth Science And Mineral Engineering Museum — Attraction in Reno

If you are in the Reno area and have an hour or more to spare, I would recommend visiting the Keck Museum, which is located on the University of Nevada, Reno campus. The collection of rocks on display is absolutely stunning. I learned so much by looking at each sample and reading its place of origin. My party and I also explored the Mackey Silver collection that is housed below the rock collection. This is an absolute gem of a museum (see what I did there !) If you are an educator, you can reach out to Mr. Barmore for details about a field trip. Mr. Barmore took the time to talk with my teacher trio about the museum and the many programs that are available to educators. I really appreciated him taking the time to talk with us even though the museum had closed without us realizing! If you are a rock lover, check this...

If you think you are the kind of person that might like a Mineral Mining & Engineering Museum, then you should go here. Everything a good museum should be with lots of physical artifacts rather than just placards. I especially liked the 3d model of the West End mine - something you need to see in person. Also a giant ingot of blister copper that you can touch and (try to) pick up. And a 10 foot tall giant topo map of Nevada (with place names frozen in time 100 years ago). You can't get this stuff from a book or Wikipedia article.

It is also a beautiful space, and completely empty...

I absolutely enjoyed my visit here. This place had the largest and most diverse collection of minerals I have seen in one place. You should plan to spend 1-2 hours here. There are many information cards to read that offer insight into many of the specimens there. The museum spans 3 floors. Check out the fossils and mining equipment on the second floor and don't miss the silver collection in the basement. It is staggeringly beautiful. The museum is quiet with lots of natural sunlight and completely free. This...