Looking for adventure, arts, and casinos with mountain views? Head to Reno! I like visiting all the diverse attractions here. Known as “The Biggest Little City in the World,” Reno blends outdoor thrills, a buzzing arts scene, and vibrant nightlife, all set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Reno is from late spring through early fall (May to October), when warm weather supports hiking, festivals, and lakeside escapes. Winter also attracts visitors for nearby ski resorts.
How to Get There
- By Car: Reno sits at the crossroads of I-80 and U.S. 395, about 4 hours from San Francisco and 2 hours from Sacramento.
- By Air: Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is just minutes from downtown with daily flights from major cities.
- By Train: Amtrak’s California Zephyr stops at Reno Station, connecting the city to San Francisco, Denver, and Chicago.
Where to Stay
- Silver Legacy Resort Casino – Iconic high-rise with gaming, restaurants, and direct access to two sister casinos.
- Whitney Peak Hotel – Modern, non-smoking hotel with a climbing wall and views of downtown Reno.
- Grand Sierra Resort – Expansive resort with a casino, spa, bowling, shopping, and on-site entertainment.
Top Attractions
- MidTown District – Explore art galleries, vintage shops, craft breweries, and hip eateries in this creative neighborhood.
- Truckee Riverwalk – Walk or bike along the scenic river through downtown, dotted with parks and public art.
- Reno Arch – Snap a photo under the famous arch that defines the city’s energetic spirit.
Things to do in Reno
Feed Your Creativity at the Nevada Museum of Art - Explore cutting-edge exhibitions inspired by the landscape of the West.
Blast Off at Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center - Launch into space, science, and hands-on wonder.
Go Wild at Animal Ark - Meet rescued wildlife in a sanctuary that’s both heartwarming and thrilling.
Spark Curiosity at the Nevada Discovery Museum - Where kids - and kids at heart - experiment, build, and explore.
Fuel Your Passion at the National Automobile Museum - See classic, rare, and celebrity-owned cars in a beautifully curated collection.
Feel the Rush at the National Championship Air Races - Witness gravity-defying stunts at the world’s fastest motorsport.
Catch a Game at Reno Aces Ballpark - Enjoy America’s pastime with mountain views and local flavor.
Carve Fresh Powder at Mt. Rose Ski Resort - Hit the slopes just minutes from downtown Reno.
Take Your Seat at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts - From Broadway hits to ballet, the gold geodesic dome dazzles inside and out.
Stroll, Sip, and Savor the Reno Riverwalk District - Art, eats, and culture line the banks of the Truckee River.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Feed Your Creativity at the Nevada Museum of Art
- • Blast Off at Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center
- • Go Wild at Animal Ark
- • Spark Curiosity at the Nevada Discovery Museum
- • Fuel Your Passion at the National Automobile Museum
- • Feel the Rush at the National Championship Air Races
- • Catch a Game at Reno Aces Ballpark
- • Carve Fresh Powder at Mt. Rose Ski Resort
- • Take Your Seat at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts
- • Stroll, Sip, and Savor the Reno Riverwalk District