Summary
Located in the northwestern part of Nevada, Reno is often conceptualized as the sibling of Las Vegas. While both cities offer casinos and entertainment, Reno features numerous unique attractions worth exploring. Indeed, there exists a wealth of activities in Reno that extend throughout the surrounding area.
In close proximity to some of the top destinations in California, and the breathtaking Lake Tahoe, Reno serves as a perfect base for a city getaway as part of a larger road trip through Nevada or California.
Additionally, the renowned Burning Man festival occurs annually in Black Rock City around late August, approximately a 150-minute drive from Reno. This makes the city a likely destination following an adventure at Burning Man.
Regardless of the reason for your visit to Reno, maximizing your experience in the city is crucial. To assist you in fully enjoying your time here, we present some of the premier activities to consider once you arrive.
Now, let’s delve into the outstanding attractions and experiences in Reno. Enjoy your visit!
1.) National Automobile Museum
For automotive enthusiasts, the National Automobile Museum offers a captivating experience, featuring an impressive collection of over 200 vehicles from the 19th and 20th centuries, alongside engaging exhibitions detailing their history and function, making it a prime destination for a morning outing.
The museum segments its automotive displays into four distinct galleries, with one specifically housing the Off-road Motorsports Hall of Fame and several illustrious race cars.
Be on the lookout for iconic vehicles, such as Elvis Presley’s Eldorado, Frank Sinatra’s Ghia, and President John F. Kennedy’s Lincoln Continental.
It’s a remarkable venue; however, if automotive history is not of interest, a visit may not be as enjoyable for you.
2.) Nevada Museum of Art
There exists a misconception that Reno is solely about gaming.
While there is certainly an abundance of gaming, the city also boasts numerous hidden treasures often overlooked by visitors. The Nevada Museum of Art exemplifies this notion.
Renowned for its unique collections and its function in hosting both national and international exhibitions, this museum delivers an enriching visual and cultural experience that is an absolute must-see.
Highlighted within the museum are the works of E.L. Wiegand alongside the Sierra Nevada and Great Basin art collections. Visitors can also experience the signature exhibit, Altered Landscape: Photographs of a Changing Environment, which portrays human interaction with the natural world through photography.
3.) Mount Rose Ski Resort
Who says a city visit precludes a skiing adventure?
Approximately 20 miles from downtown Reno, the Mount Rose Ski Resort offers stunning mountain views and exhilarating skiing trails ideal for a day on the slopes.
This ski resort is recognized as one of the highest in the Tahoe region, creating optimal conditions for skiing.
However, be mindful of crowd levels during peak times; visits on weekends can lead to higher attendance, so aim for weekdays if you prefer a more tranquil experience.
4.) Truckee River Walk
The Truckee River District is one of the most vibrant areas in Reno, providing an excellent environment for leisurely strolls. Bordered by the Truckee River, this locale promises delightful experiences, particularly during the afternoon hours.
Visitors can easily venture into local bars and cafes, followed by explorations of art galleries, museums, and theaters situated within this district.
A visit here can seamlessly follow your trip to the automobile museum.
5.) Rancho San Rafael Park
For those interested in experiencing desert landscapes juxtaposed with mountainous scenery, Rancho San Rafael Park is the quintessential venue.
This park features two preserved original ranch houses, alongside opportunities for joining the relatively straightforward Evans Canyon Trail or visiting the Wilbur D. May Center, an excellent location for exploring diverse collections and a beautiful botanical garden.
Visitors in September should not miss The Great Reno Balloon Race, which occurs within the park, marking it as a premier event in Reno and one of the world’s largest balloon festivals.
6.) Idlewild Park
Situated alongside the Truckee River, Idlewild Park is another of Nevada’s recreational treasures. Spanning nearly 50 acres, this park has been a beloved destination for almost a century.
Notably more serene than downtown Reno, it provides an ideal setting for a leisurely day in the city.
If this park does not interest you, consider attending a game at the Reno Aces Ballpark. This venue, home to the Reno Aces, offers an excellent opportunity to experience local baseball culture.
For those unfamiliar with baseball, the game remains an enjoyable outing! If you miss the chance to witness a game, guided tours are available at the ballpark.
7.) National Bowling Stadium
The National Bowling Stadium, often referred to as the Taj Mahal of Tenpin since its establishment in 1995, is a colossal bowling venue featuring more than 70 lanes, making it quite impressive to visit.
Moreover, it also houses the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame, which provides insight into Reno’s rich bowling history.
If bowling does not pique your interest, it may be better to skip this experience.
8.) Reno Air Races
The Reno Air Races represent a week-long aviation racing spectacle occurring in Northern Nevada. This event transforms the former Stead Air Force Base into a bustling hub each September, generally following the Balloon Festival.
This timing offers visitors the convenient opportunity to experience both events consecutively.
As one of the city’s most awaited events, numerous pilots and crews bring their aircraft to partake in six thrilling races.
Additionally, numerous aircraft displays and both military and civilian flight demonstrations enhance the experience.
9.) Pyramid Lake
Another remarkable sightseeing location near Reno is Pyramid Lake, located at the river basin of the Truckee River. In fact, we visited this area before our Burning Man adventure and found it to be utterly charming.
The lake receives its name from the pyramid-like limestone tufa formations rising above its tranquil, dark waters, creating a stunning visual spectacle.
Additionally, visitors may be fortunate enough to observe the rare pelicans that inhabit this region.
10.) Hunter Creek Trail
Panning out just over 6 miles in distance, the Hunter Creek Trail is considered one of the best activities to engage in when venturing beyond downtown Reno.
For those experienced in hiking, this route will likely feel accessible; however, newcomers to hiking may find it a moderately paced experience. Regardless, the beautiful trail also leads to a waterfall, enhancing the journey!
It’s crucial to note that, similar to many popular hiking locations in the Reno area, this trail can become quite busy. To ensure a more peaceful experience, consider avoiding weekends and early afternoon times.
11.) Explore the Casinos
Although Reno may not possess the same level of glamour as Las Vegas, it is home to several well-established casinos that are iconic to the area.
Wander through Circus-Circus, visit the Peppermill Resort Casino, and explore the Silver Legacy Resort. Each is expansive, offering the opportunity to spend hours trying out different games and entertainment options.
Additionally, be sure to seek out the “Biggest Little City in the World” sign which decorates the downtown streets of Reno.
As with all forms of gambling, it is advisable to establish a budget prior to entering the casinos. Adherence to this budget is paramount, as the saying goes: the house usually wins!
12.) Washoe Lake
Located approximately a 30-minute drive from Reno, Washoe Lake is an excellent destination to visit while traveling south toward Carson City.
At this location, visitors can explore the unspoiled Washoe Lake State Park and partake in boating activities on the lake.
