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Piper's Opera House: A Living Relic of the Comstock Lode

Experience the grandeur of the Old West at Piper's Opera House, a historic performing arts venue in Virginia City, Nevada.

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Step back in time at Piper's Opera House, a beautifully preserved performing arts venue in Virginia City, Nevada. This historic landmark has hosted legendary figures like Mark Twain and Buffalo Bill, offering a glimpse into the vibrant cultural scene of the Old West.

A brief summary to Piper's Opera House

  • Thursday 11 am-4 pm
  • Friday 11 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the event calendar for upcoming shows and performances to experience the Opera House in its full glory.
  • Take a self-guided tour to explore the Opera House's rich history and see the stage where legends once performed.
  • Purchase tickets for tours and events at Piper's Opera House or the Virginia City Visitors Center.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Piper's Opera House is located on B Street in the heart of Virginia City. From most points in the downtown area, it's easily accessible on foot. Simply head towards the main thoroughfare and look for the historic building with its prominent sign.

  • Public Transport

    While Virginia City doesn't have an extensive public transportation system, a trolley tour is available that provides a narrated overview of the town, including the Opera House. The trolley is a good option for those who prefer not to walk the steep streets. Tickets for the trolley are $6.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Virginia City, though pick-up times may be longer than in larger cities. A short taxi ride from one end of Virginia City to Piper's Opera House will likely cost around $10-$15.

  • Parking

    Parking can be limited in Virginia City, especially during peak tourist season. There are parking lots and street parking available, but it may require a bit of searching. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $5-$10 for a few hours in a parking lot.

Unlock the Best of Piper's Opera House

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Discover more about Piper's Opera House

Piper's Opera House, located in the heart of Virginia City, Nevada, stands as a testament to the town's rich and colorful history during the Comstock Lode silver rush. The current building, dating back to 1885, is actually the third iteration of Piper's Opera House, a phoenix risen from the ashes of two devastating fires. The first opera house, Maguire's Opera House, was built in 1863, and John Piper took it over in 1867, renaming it Piper's Opera House. It quickly became a cultural beacon, hosting a variety of performances from Shakespearean plays to minstrel shows. Tragedy struck in 1875 when the Great Fire of Virginia City destroyed much of the town, including Piper's Opera House. Undeterred, Piper rebuilt in 1878, only to see his second opera house succumb to another fire in 1883. The resilient Piper, however, was determined to keep the spirit of the performing arts alive in Virginia City. He opened the third and current Opera House on March 6, 1885. Piper's Opera House has welcomed a remarkable array of talent over the years. Mark Twain, Buffalo Bill, Al Jolson, and numerous other famous performers graced its stage. Even heavyweight boxing champion Gentleman Jim Corbett used the venue as a training facility. Today, Piper's Opera House continues to host a variety of events, including concerts, plays, weddings, and even paranormal investigations. Visitors can take self-guided tours to explore this historic gem and experience the ambiance of a bygone era. The interior features a sloped stage, a box office, and even Piper's private apartment, offering a unique glimpse into the life of this legendary figure.

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