Summary
When individuals consider gambling and casinos in the United States, their thoughts typically gravitate towards Las Vegas. Consequently, Reno often goes unnoticed, which is regrettable for travelers missing the exceptional offerings of this city. Alongside the vibrant lights of the casinos, visitors can enjoy a multitude of activities including strolls by the majestic Truckee River, visits to museums, galleries, and zoos. If you explore slightly beyond Reno, you will encounter the remarkable and iconic Lake Tahoe, which merits a trip in its own right. Even within the city limits, you can discover hidden treasures such as Mount Rose, as well as parks, botanical gardens, and arboretums.
If after all these activities you still wish to try your fortune, Reno certainly lives up to its reputation as a destination for gambling entertainment, featuring several iconic casinos like the Atlantis and the Eldorado. While these establishments may not possess the opulence found in Vegas or Atlantic City, they are still filled with gaming tables offering sports betting, combined with diverse dining options and live performances, ensuring that you won’t need to leave a casino unless you choose to explore beyond. If you decide to venture out, you will be rewarded with the dynamic and varied experiences that this city presents.
Let us delve into the top attractions in Reno:
1. Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is situated approximately 40 miles from the city of Reno, yet it remains one of the region’s most significant attractions. Nestled between Nevada and California, Lake Tahoe is celebrated as one of the most stunning locations in the United States, drawing visitors globally to witness its azure waters framed by magnificent mountains.
The surroundings of Lake Tahoe offer numerous beaches and hiking trails, along with opportunities for boating and various aquatic activities such as fishing. Given its popularity, if you find yourself in Reno, you should seize the chance to make the brief journey to Lake Tahoe.
2. Mount Rose Ski Resort
For breathtaking views within Reno, visit Mount Rose Ski Resort, located merely about 20 miles from the city center. Mount Rose, at over 8,000 feet in elevation, is acknowledged as the highest resort in the Reno/Tahoe region.
The primary attraction of Mount Rose is the extensive skiing opportunities available, accommodating skiers of varying expertise levels, resulting in peak season crowds. However, should you visit during non-peak times, such as weekdays, you may experience a peaceful and serene skiing environment.
3. Eldorado
The Eldorado is among the most renowned casinos in Reno, recognized as a premier establishment for gambling, should you wish to test your fortune during your visit. Opened in the early 1970s, the Eldorado has witnessed numerous transformations within Reno over the years, retaining a unique charm reminiscent of its earlier days.
For those willing to try their luck, all essential amenities are available, including table games, poker tables, slot machines, and options for sports betting. If a break is needed, there are more than 10 bars, cafes, and restaurants conveniently located within the premises, allowing you to enjoy everything without venturing far.
Even for those disinclined towards gaming, the Eldorado offers live music concerts and various events, as it holds cultural significance, attracting visitors who wish to experience its vibrant atmosphere.
4. Aces Ballpark
For a distinct experience away from the casinos, Aces Ballpark provides an enjoyable visit as the home ground of the Reno Aces, a minor league baseball team.
Encircled by the picturesque scenery of Reno, highlighted by towering mountains, it adjoins the Truckee River, making it an excellent venue to enjoy a baseball game during your stay.
In case you cannot attend a game, guided tours are available, offering insights into the history of sports in Reno along with views of the iconic features across the grounds.
At the front of Aces Ballpark, Aceskating offers a fully operational ice skating rink open during the winter months.
5. Riverwalk
Winding alongside the Truckee River in downtown Reno is the Riverwalk, an area rich in cultural activities, particularly recognized for its art galleries and dining establishments.
You may explore Riverwalk independently or participate in one of the numerous guided tours, such as the Wine Walk, which allows visitors to visit local galleries and wine shops, sampling some of the finest selections available in Reno.
6. Nevada Museum of Art
Established in 1931, the Nevada Museum of Art is one of the oldest and most significant institutions in this region of the United States. It underwent renovations in the early 2000s, embracing a contemporary design inspired by the Black Rock Desert in Nevada.
Within the museum, visitors can explore four distinct areas, each thematically focused. The exhibits encompass photographs, paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Beyond the interior galleries, which feature both permanent and rotating exhibitions, visitors can enjoy strolls through sculpture gardens.
There are guided tour options available for those desiring in-depth knowledge about the artwork, or you can meander through the museum independently, appreciating notable features such as a suspended staircase that offers a view of the city skyline.
7. National Automobile Museum
Automobile enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to visit the National Automobile Museum located in Reno.
The museum showcases over 200 items that chronicle the history of the automotive industry, including vintage carriages, celebrity vehicles, and racing cars.
One of the museum’s highlights is the Mercury Series 9CM, a vehicle from 1949, famously driven by James Dean in the film ‘Rebel Without a Cause.’
8. Animal Ark
Spanning 38 acres in the northern part of Reno, Animal Ark serves as a sanctuary for animals rather than a conventional zoo or wildlife park.
This facility rescues animals that can no longer survive in their natural habitat, showcasing a variety of species, including some native to the Reno region.
Visitors can observe the animals in a semi-natural environment, with specific feeding times when they may catch glimpses of furry residents such as bears.
In addition to viewing the animals, the Ark shares their stories and promotes education on animal preservation and ecology.
9. Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum
If you are keen to explore subjects such as science, engineering, technology, mathematics, and even art, the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum is the perfect destination.
Renowned for its interactive exhibits aimed at educating visitors about science, this discovery museum serves as an excellent alternative to the more conventional casino experiences in Reno, especially for families.
The museum features rotating and permanent exhibitions, with a strong focus on hands-on learning, highlighted by signature displays such as an 80-foot replica of the Truckee River.
10. Wilbur D. May Center
For those wishing to reconnect with nature, a visit to the Wilbur D. May Center is highly recommended. Nestled in the serene Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, the center comprises both a museum and botanical garden.
The museum houses an extensive collection of items that belonged to Wilbur D. May, a rancher and notable figure in Reno during the early 20th century.
May’s travels are reflected in his diverse collection from around the world. In addition to the museum, the property includes a botanical garden and arboretum spanning 12 acres, showcasing a variety of regional flora and fauna.
The gardens include various themes, such as English-style flower gardens, the Songbird Garden, and the Evans Creek that traverses the botanical area.
11. Sierra Safari Zoo
Located in the northern section of Reno, the Sierra Safari Zoo, which first opened in the 1980s, has gained prominence and is currently recognized as the largest zoo in Nevada.
This zoo encompasses a broad spectrum of animal species from across the globe and highlights those native to the Reno and broader Nevada area.
Visitors can anticipate themed areas focusing on various groups of animals, including reptiles, big cats, and primates, alongside aquariums and even a dolphinarium on-site.
12. Idlewild Park
As one of the most cherished parks in the area, Idlewild Park occupies an impressive 49 acres adjacent to downtown Reno and alongside the Truckee River.
The park is distinguished by its signature features, including a rose garden and ornamental duck ponds, and it offers playgrounds for younger guests.
For those seeking refreshment during warmer months, a swimming pool is available, along with a skate park for practicing skating skills.
13. Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
Atlantis Casino Resort Spa is a prominent casino and luxury hotel in Reno, established in 1972, and has become a fixture in the local casino landscape.
The casino floor spans over 60,000 square feet, offering a variety of games that include poker tables, blackjack, roulette, and numerous slot machines.
In addition to the extensive gaming options, the design of the casino and hotel draws inspiration from the legendary lost underwater city of Atlantis.
14. Peavine Peak
Peavine Peak is renowned as the highest peak atop Peavine Mountain and is one of Reno’s iconic landmarks.
This peak and mountain derive their name from the pea vines that grow in the area.
Visitors engage in a variety of activities here, including off-road vehicle exploration and hiking on designated trails.
15. Fleischmann Planetarium
Opened in the 1960s, the Fleischmann Planetarium is located on the campus of the University of Nevada, Reno’s foremost university.
The planetarium is accessible to the public, featuring a dome theater that hosts daily shows where visitors can explore the solar system and its planets.
Alongside galaxy films, there is also a stargazing program available for those interested in learning more about the night sky.
