Reno

Day Trips

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.

Begin with a visit to the Wilbur D. May Center to explore the botanical gardens and natural history museum exhibits. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings as you wander through the arboretum’s unique plant collections. Stop by the center’s café for a light breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Participate in a hands-on cooking class focusing on regional cuisine, learning to prepare traditional Nevada dishes. After lunch, explore Reno’s vibrant farmers market to meet local artisans and taste fresh produce. Visit the nearby Basque Block to discover the rich Basque heritage of the region through shops and cultural centers.

Savor an authentic Basque dinner at one of the historic eateries known for family-style meals and lively atmosphere. Attend a cultural performance or live music event that showcases Reno’s diverse artistic community. Conclude the evening with a walk under the stars along the Truckee River corridor.

Start at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, enjoying a morning hike through wooded trails and open meadows. Visit the Wilbur D. May Museum located within the park to learn about Nevada’s natural and cultural history. Spot local wildlife such as birds and small mammals in their natural habitat while strolling the paths.

Head to the Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary for an up-close experience with native and exotic animals in a natural setting. Attend a guided tour or an educational talk to understand conservation efforts in the region. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the sanctuary’s designated areas surrounded by scenic views.

Return to downtown Reno for dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring game meats and local specialties. Explore the local brewery scene with a tasting session at one of the craft breweries offering unique flavors. End your day with a peaceful walk through the city’s illuminated parks and green spaces.

Take a day trip along the Virginia City Scenic Byway, starting with a visit to the historic mining town of Virginia City. Explore the preserved 19th-century architecture, old saloons, and museums dedicated to the mining boom era. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local diner with views of the surrounding hills.

Tour the famous Comstock Lode mines and learn about the silver rush that shaped the region's history. Browse through artisan shops and galleries featuring handmade crafts and mining memorabilia. Have lunch at a historic tavern, soaking in the old-west ambiance and live entertainment if available.

Return to Reno and enjoy a relaxed evening at a rooftop lounge offering panoramic views of the city and mountains. Savor a cocktail or glass of local wine while reflecting on the day’s historic discoveries. Take a short walk around the Riverwalk district to enjoy the nighttime scenery and street performers.

Begin your day with a leisurely brunch at one of Reno’s stylish casino resorts, enjoying views of the city skyline. Explore the casino floor to get acquainted with the vibrant gaming atmosphere and elegant décor. Take time to visit the resorts’ art installations and boutique shops scattered throughout the property.

Book a spa treatment at one of the luxury resorts to relax and rejuvenate before the evening excitement. Enjoy lunch poolside or in a gourmet café within the resort. Later, try your luck at various table games or slot machines while mingling with fellow visitors in a lively setting.

Attend a headline show, concert, or comedy performance hosted by the casino’s entertainment venues. Dine at a fine restaurant within the resort featuring celebrity chefs and innovative menus. Finish the night with a cocktail at a stylish nightclub or lounge, soaking in the energetic nightlife of Reno.

Start at the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum, where interactive exhibits offer hands-on learning for all ages. Participate in science demonstrations and explore engaging displays focused on technology, biology, and engineering. Grab a snack at the museum café before heading out for more family adventures.

Visit Idlewild Park to enjoy its large playground, picnic areas, and open spaces perfect for children. Rent bikes or paddleboats to explore the park’s scenic features and enjoy a casual lunch at the park’s café or picnic spots. Stop by the nearby Animal Ark for an educational wildlife experience if time allows.

Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant offering diverse menus and comfortable seating. Attend a kid-friendly theater production or movie screening at a local performing arts center. Conclude the day with a visit to a dessert shop known for creative ice creams and sweet treats.

Drive out to the nearby Truckee Meadows wine region to visit boutique vineyards and tasting rooms. Start with a morning tasting of local varietals while enjoying vineyard views and learning about regional wine production. Take a guided tour of the vineyards to understand the terroir and grape-growing techniques.

Enjoy a gourmet lunch paired with wines at a vineyard restaurant featuring farm-to-table cuisine. Visit additional wineries to sample a range of reds, whites, and sparkling wines unique to the area. Take time to shop for wine and artisanal products crafted by local producers.

Return to Reno and dine at an upscale restaurant known for expertly paired wine menus. Attend a wine-pairing dinner event or sommelier-led tasting to deepen your appreciation of Nevada wines. Relax afterward with a nightcap at a cozy wine bar featuring rare and vintage selections.

Gear up for an adventurous morning biking the extensive trail system in the nearby Peavine Mountain area. Experience varied terrain with beautiful views of the Reno valley and surrounding peaks. Stop at scenic overlooks to rest and capture photos of the rugged landscape.

Have a packed lunch at a designated trail picnic area or visit a nearby café for a nourishing meal. Continue exploring different trails suited for all skill levels or try rock climbing and hiking nearby. Visit a local outdoor gear shop to learn about seasonal activities and upcoming events.

Relax with a casual dinner at a brewpub popular with outdoor enthusiasts, offering hearty meals and craft beers. Share stories of the day’s adventures with fellow riders in a friendly atmosphere. Take an evening stroll in downtown Reno, enjoying street musicians and outdoor art displays.

Wake early to capture the sunrise over the Sierra Nevada mountains from one of Reno’s scenic viewpoints. Visit Rancho San Rafael Regional Park or Idlewild Park to photograph lush greenery and wildlife in natural light. Practice photography techniques on the banks of the Truckee River, focusing on water reflections and urban nature contrasts.

Drive to the nearby Washoe Lake State Park for wide-open landscapes and opportunities to shoot wildlife like birds and deer. Enjoy lunch at a picnic area surrounded by natural beauty. Spend the afternoon exploring lesser-known trails and capturing the diverse flora and geological features of the area.

Return to Reno and dine at a restaurant known for its ambiance and visual appeal, ideal for food photography. Attend a local gallery opening or photo exhibit to inspire your creative side. End the day with a twilight shoot along the riverwalk, capturing the city lights mirrored in the water.