Immaculate Conception Church (Sparks, Nevada) 🇺🇸

If you are exploring the Reno area, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Sparks, Nevada, offers a fascinating glimpse into regional history and architecture. Now located at 2900 McCarran Way as part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Reno, the parish's roots trace back to its historic former site on Prater Way. That original 1932 brick structure was built following a devastating 1930 fire that destroyed the earlier 1905 house of worship.

When you study the historic Prater Way building, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1992, you are looking at the oldest surviving Catholic church in Sparks. It represents a relatively rare local example of Mediterranean Revival architecture, designed by the prolific Nevada architect Frederic J. DeLongchamps.

Historically significant as one of Nevada's first churches built after the state became its own diocese under a 1931 decree by Pope Pius XI, the older structure features a compatible 1970 front vestibule and porch addition. Meanwhile, the parish's modern McCarran Way complex showcases the community's ongoing growth, complete with a Faith Formation building added in 2007. It is a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in historic Nevada design and local heritage.

What to see at Immaculate Conception Church (Sparks, Nevada)

• Designed in Mediterranean Revival style by renowned architect Frederic J. DeLongchamps
• Recognized as the oldest surviving Catholic church building in Sparks, Nevada
• Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992
• Built following a 1931 decree by Pope Pius XI establishing Nevada as a diocese
• Features a historic 1932 brick construction alongside a modern McCarran Way location

Visiting tips

Take time to appreciate the historic Mediterranean Revival architectural details designed by Frederic J. DeLongchamps on the original Prater Way building.

How long: 1 hour · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Immaculate Conception Church (Sparks, Nevada) is easy to reach on Reno’s public transport, and pairs naturally with First United Methodist Church (Reno, Nevada) and Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Reno travel guide.