Bonanza building along C Street (Nevada State Route 341) just north of Union Street in Virginia City, Nevada Photo: Famartin · CC BY-SA 4.0
Haunted Dining / Bar

Bonanza Saloon

1870 mining-era saloon with violent spirits and haunted table

27 C St, Virginia City, NV 89440

Age

21+ for alcohol service

Cost

$$

Menu items $12-18; drinks $4-8

Access

Limited Access

Historic building with uneven flooring

Equipment

Photos OK

Est. 1870 · Comstock Mining Boom · Virginia City Gaming Culture · 1870s Saloon Era · Mining-Era Architecture

The Bonanza Saloon was built in 1870 during one of the most transformative periods in Virginia City's history. Following the discovery of the Big Bonanza in the Comstock mining district, Virginia City reached a population of over 25,000 by the mid-1870s. During this era of extraordinary mining prosperity, the town supported more than 100 saloons, making establishments like the Bonanza essential social and economic centers for miners, prospectors, and merchants.

The construction of the Virginia and Truckee Railroad to Virginia City in 1870 connected the Comstock district directly to Carson City and the Central Pacific Railroad, catalyzing growth during the exact period when the Bonanza Saloon opened. The building's solid construction and prominent location on C Street ensured its survival through Virginia City's boom-and-bust cycles across subsequent decades.

Over the following 150+ years, the building served as home to many different businesses and enterprises. It has maintained its presence as a saloon and dining establishment while also serving other commercial purposes. The structure's architectural features—including its basement level and original gaming tables—remain largely intact from its 19th-century origins.

Sources

  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virginia_City,_Nevada
  • https://visitvirginiacitynv.com/history/
  • https://www.nevadaappeal.com/news/2023/apr/11/nevada-traveler-virginia-citys-old-time-saloons/

Plan Your Visit

1 way to experience
Drive-By

More Photos

Sources & Further Reading

Every HauntBound history is researched from documented sources. We clearly separate verified historical fact from paranormal folklore.

  1. 1.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virginia_City,_Nevada
  2. 2.visitvirginiacitynv.com/history
  3. 3.nevadaappeal.com/news/2023/apr/11/nevada-traveler-virginia-citys-old-time-saloons

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bonanza Saloon family-friendly?
While dining is available to all ages, the dark paranormal history and reports of violent entity encounters make this better suited for older teens and adults. Overall family fit: Low.
How much does it cost to visit Bonanza Saloon?
Menu items $12-18; drinks $4-8
Do I need to book in advance?
No advance booking is required, but checking availability is recommended.
Is Bonanza Saloon wheelchair accessible?
Bonanza Saloon has limited wheelchair accessibility. Terrain: Historic building with uneven flooring.