Things To Do
in Spanish Springs
Spanish Springs is a small Nevada community just north of Reno, offering a rural-meets-suburban feel with a compact town center. It serves as a gateway to the Sierra Nevada foothills, providing easy access to outdoor recreation and scenic drives. The area blends a laid-back, friendly vibe with convenient cafes, shops, and public spaces.
Visitors can base themselves here for day trips to Lake Tahoe, Mount Rose, and the surrounding countryside while enjoying a relaxed western atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café near Spanish Springs Plaza, sampling freshly baked pastries and strong coffee. Take a leisurely stroll around the plaza to get oriented and chat with friendly locals about hidden gems. Capture photos of the Sierra Nevada foothills bathed in morning light before heading to your next adventure.
Head to Hidden Valley Regional Park for a guided nature walk through rolling hills and wildflower meadows. Bring plenty of water and a packed picnic lunch to enjoy lakeside views. Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as mule deer and a variety of bird species.
Return to town and dine at a family-run trattoria offering farm-to-table ingredients and regional wines. As the sun sets, relax on an outdoor patio and enjoy live acoustic music. End the night stargazing under the clear high-desert sky.
Start at the Spanish Springs Veterans Memorial to learn about the area’s pioneer and agricultural heritage. Follow that with a visit to Tiberti Golf Course’s small history exhibit, showcasing local ranching roots. Enjoy coffee and a light snack from the course’s clubhouse cafe.
Explore the nearby Sparks Heritage Museum for interactive exhibits on early settlers and the development of the railroad. Stop at a local deli for a deli-style sandwich and fresh salad. Take a self-guided walking tour through the historic downtown district of Sparks, admiring restored buildings.
Dine at a riverside restaurant along the Truckee River in Sparks, savoring seasonal dishes. After dinner, stroll the riverwalk lit with decorative lanterns. If you’re up for it, catch a community theater performance at the Sparks Fringe Festival venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $1,200-1,800 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $4-5 |
| 📶Internet per month | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to outdoor recreation in the Sierra Nevada foothills
- Calm, approachable base with proximity to Reno and Lake Tahoe
- Limited nightlife within Spanish Springs itself
- Weather can be extreme; highway conditions can change quickly in winter
Places to Visit in Spanish Springs
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic main street with pastel storefronts and inviting public spaces, ideal for golden-hour photography and candid street scenes.
Wide-angle viewpoints of the valley and distant mountains; great for sunset and landscape photography.
Food in Spanish Springs
Spanish Springs Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Basque dish featuring tender lamb chops, often served with potatoes and peppers, commonly found in Reno-Sparks Basque venues.
Must-Try!
Skewered bites and small plates with bold flavors, perfect for sharing at Basque markets and tapas-style restaurants.
hearty, pepper-spiked stew-style dishes that appear in several regional diners and Basque-inspired menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for Basque groceries, prepared foods, and deli bites; ideal for tasting pintxos and picking up regional specialties.
Seasonal market featuring local produce, artisanal foods, and occasional street-food stalls; great for fresh snacks and picnic provisions.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Neighbors tend to be welcoming and polite; a simple greeting and friendly small talk are appreciated.
Be mindful of quiet residential areas and follow local norms for noise and shared public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Spanish Springs
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard US practice: 15-20% at restaurants; tip bartenders separately as needed; round up for small purchases if appropriate.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for small markets or vendors; mobile payments are common in many venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry heat and long days; stay hydrated, use sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Cold temperatures with possible snow in higher elevations; pack layers, check road conditions to Mount Rose and Tahoe corridors, and plan for shorter daylight hours.
Spanish Springs at Night
Hiking in Spanish Springs
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested foothill trail near Reno with varying elevation gains and scenic viewpoints.
Pine forest loop around Spooner Lake with opportunities for wildlife viewing and lake reflections.
Steep, rewarding climb with panoramic views of the valley and Lake Tahoe region.
Airports
How to reach Spanish Springs by plane.
Main regional airport serving Reno-Sparks; short drive from Spanish Springs with frequent domestic flights.
Smaller regional airport serving general aviation; useful for private flights and access to the North Lake Tahoe area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, commuters, and retirees; growing Latino and Asian communities alongside long-time residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe, Diamond Peak, and other Lake Tahoe-area resorts offer winter sports and scenic mountain experiences.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Spanish Springs.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Basque and American eateries offer vegetable-forward dishes; ask for egg- and dairy-free options, or plates featuring seasonal vegetables, grains, and salads.