Things To Do
in Reno
Reno, the Biggest Little City in the World, sits at the edge of the Great Basin with the Sierra Nevada looming nearby. It fuses casino energy with a growing arts scene, historic neighborhoods, and easy access to outdoor recreation. The city offers eclectic dining, street markets, and museums that showcase its frontier heritage.
It serves as a convenient base for exploring Lake Tahoe, Donner Summit, and the surrounding mountains year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely walk through the Truckee Riverwalk, enjoying the public art installations and scenic river views. Visit the Nevada Museum of Art to immerse yourself in contemporary and regional artworks. Grab a coffee at a local café nearby while soaking up the vibrant downtown atmosphere.
Head over to the National Automobile Museum where you can marvel at an impressive collection of vintage cars and learn about automotive history. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro featuring local cuisine. Afterward, explore the historic Midtown district with its eclectic shops, galleries, and street murals.
Dine at one of Reno's renowned farm-to-table restaurants to savor fresh, seasonal ingredients. Catch a live performance at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, showcasing local theater or music productions. End your day with a relaxed stroll along the illuminated riverwalk, enjoying the lively nightlife ambiance.
Drive to nearby Lake Tahoe for a morning filled with breathtaking mountain and lake views. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by pine forests and alpine peaks. Alternatively, take a scenic hike on one of the many trails offering panoramic vistas.
Have a picnic lunch on the shores of the lake or visit a lakeside café for fresh, local fare. Spend the afternoon swimming or lounging on the sandy beaches, or take a boat tour to learn about the lake’s natural history. Capture stunning photos of the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains as the sun moves across the sky.
Return to Reno and unwind with a casual dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the Truckee River. Experience the city’s lively casino scene with some light gaming or enjoy a cocktail at a rooftop bar. Take in the cool evening air as you stroll through downtown’s illuminated streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-150 |
| 🚌Monthly public transit pass | $60 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $1,400-2,000 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant nightlife and casino energy mixed with approachable outdoor access
- Gateway to Lake Tahoe and Sierra Nevada adventures
- Growing arts scene, museums, and Basque food culture
- Summer heat can be intense and dry
- Casinos and high-tourist areas can feel crowded or loud for some visitors
Places to Visit in Reno
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic neon arch at the intersection of 4th Street and Virginia Street; best at dusk when the lights come on and the river reflections glow.
Scenic riverside path with bridges, water views, and reflections—great for golden-hour photography.
Vibrant murals and eclectic storefronts along Virginia Street and nearby lanes, ideal for colorful urban shots.
Candid cityscapes featuring the skyline, river, and historic buildings with sunset light.
Food in Reno
Reno Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature Basque-style main served in many local Basque restaurants, typically featuring roasted lamb with potatoes and peppers.
Must-Try!
A traditional, communal dining format in Basque eateries with shared courses of stews, salads, and breads.
A historic orange-flavored cocktail beloved in Reno’s Basque bars and old-school cafés.
Hearty, local options such as trout or other mountain-style dishes found on menus across Reno.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and prepared street foods in a lively downtown setting.
A rotating lineup of food trucks and pop-ups along the riverfront and in downtown areas, especially on warm evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common courtesy includes a friendly hello and small talk; locals appreciate relaxed, respectful conversation.
Casinos can be lively; keep voices at a reasonable level and be mindful in shared spaces. Dress codes are generally casual but some high-end venues may require neater attire.
Safety
Tipping in Reno
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is standard. For bars and casual service, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% is common. Casinos and high-end venues may expect tipping for table service and hosts.
Cash is widely accepted, as are major credit/debit cards and mobile payments. Some smaller or older venues may prefer cash; most places in casinos and tourist areas accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and sunny with hot daytime temperatures; pack sunscreen and stay hydrated. Thunderstorms can roll in mid-afternoon, but evenings are pleasant for outdoor activities and strolling the riverwalk.
Cold with chances of snow, especially in the mountains nearby. Road conditions can be icy; allow extra travel time and layer for temperatures near or below freezing.
Mild to cool with variable rain. Blooming landscapes around the foothills and Galena Creek area make for scenic hikes.
Cool days with crisp evenings and vivid autumn colors in surrounding hills. Great time for scenic drives and city photography without peak heat.
Reno at Night
Hiking in Reno
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep, high-elevation trail with panoramic views; suitable for fit hikers seeking alpine scenery.
Forested canyon trails with streams and wildlife—great for a shaded day hike near Reno.
Scenic canyon route with forested sections and waterfalls close to the city.
Airports
How to reach Reno by plane.
Main airport serving Reno and the Lake Tahoe region with a range of domestic flights and some seasonal international connections.
Major alternative hub about 2-2.5 hours drive from Reno; useful for longer connections or cheaper fares.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Tech, gaming, hospitality, and service sector workers contribute to a lively city scene.
A strong student presence from the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), fostering a youthful, active culture.
A mix of families seeking outdoor recreation and retirees drawn to the region’s climate and amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby Lake Tahoe resorts offer winter sports within a short drive from Reno.
UNR Wolf Pack games provide college sports excitement in town.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Reno.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Reno restaurants can accommodate vegetarian options with salads, veggie-forward mains, and seasonal sides; look for Basque or farm-to-table spots that emphasize vegetables, grains, and legumes.