The Overland Hotel and Casino, a renowned name in Reno’s chip-collecting community, holds a unique place in the history of legalized gaming in Nevada. Established in 1933, it stands as one of the state’s earliest legal gaming establishments, following the legalization of gaming in Nevada in 1931.

Under the ownership and vision of Richard “Pick” Hobson, a pioneering figure in Reno’s gaming scene, the Overland became more than just a casino. It was known for its $25,000 keno jackpot and proudly billed itself as “The Last Frontier of the Old West,” adorned with historic cowboy paintings that added to its allure.

Pick Hobson, who also operated several other casinos, left a lasting legacy in the gaming industry. He ran clean and well-organized gaming establishments, earning a reputation for fairness. Even after his passing in August 1996 at the age of 85, his influence on early gaming in Reno, Nevada, continued to be felt.

The Overland Hotel’s history is not without its challenges. It closed its doors for the final time in 1977, while another of Hobson’s casinos, the Riverside Hotel, followed suit in 1986. Notably, Hobson ensured that all his employees received their owed wages, including vacation pay, upon the closure of these establishments.

The present-day Overland Hotel, reconstructed in 1948, stands on the same footprint as its earlier incarnation. It once operated as a boarding house and bar, with historical ties to a Chinese family who owned the property in the early 1900s. The property also includes the remnants of miner’s rock houses from the late 1800s, showcasing how living spaces have evolved over time.

In 1947, a tragic fire in Pioche resulted in the loss of about one-third of the town, including the original Overland Hotel. However, the hotel was rebuilt in 1948, mirroring its current appearance. The structure features thick concrete walls up to the second floor, transitioning to brick construction on the upper levels. It also boasts an extensive basement that once housed a bowling alley and roller-skating rink.

Over the years, the hotel’s layout and usage evolved. The ground floor housed Pioche’s grocery store, while the second floor accommodated doctor’s offices and hotel rooms. The saloon has remained a central feature throughout its history. The 1948 reconstruction saw the incorporation of a solid cherry wood back bar, front bar, and a room registration area from Kimberly, Nevada. Subsequent owners made various modifications, including the addition of a coffee shop and the transformation of the dance hall.

Bill Brown purchased the Overland in 1976, and Ron & Candice Mortenson took over in 1996, embarking on a 22-year journey to restore the hotel to its original splendor. Today, the first and second floors feature solid oak plank flooring, and the entire property has undergone extensive restoration and renovation.

The Overland Hotel & Saloon has not only a rich history but also a reputation for being haunted. The Travel Channel’s “Ghost Adventures” visited the property in 2014 to investigate and interact with the resident spirits and ghosts. While the owners maintain a level of discretion regarding these hauntings, employees have their own stories to share, making it an intriguing destination for those interested in the paranormal. If you prefer a ghost-free stay, you can request a room without reported activity from the front desk clerk.