Home > Destinations > Reno

Places to Visit in Reno

Reno is a vibrant destination in the western United States that combines outdoor adventure, entertainment, cultural attractions, and scenic natural beauty. Known as "The Biggest Little City in the World," Reno offers visitors a unique blend of casinos, mountain landscapes, art districts, family-friendly attractions, and year-round recreational activities. Located in northern Nevada, Reno serves as a gateway to the stunning Lake Tahoe region and provides an exciting alternative to larger gaming destinations.

This guide covers the best places to visit in Reno, popular things to do, flight information, food tips, transportation apps, and currency basics to help you plan your trip with ease.

Places to Visit in Reno

Reno offers an impressive variety of attractions that appeal to nature lovers, families, history enthusiasts, and entertainment seekers.

One of the city's most popular attractions is Riverwalk District, a lively area along the Truckee River featuring restaurants, public art, local shops, entertainment venues, and scenic walking paths.

Families should visit National Automobile Museum, home to one of the finest collections of vintage and classic automobiles in the United States. The museum showcases more than a century of automotive history through beautifully restored vehicles and interactive exhibits.

For science and hands-on learning, The Discovery offers engaging exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, and creativity for visitors of all ages.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, a large recreational area featuring walking trails, gardens, picnic areas, and seasonal events.

A short drive from downtown leads visitors to the spectacular Lake Tahoe region, famous for crystal-clear waters, mountain scenery, beaches, hiking trails, skiing, and outdoor recreation throughout the year.

Art lovers can explore the colorful Midtown District, known for its murals, galleries, boutique shops, and vibrant local culture.

Things to Do in Reno

Reno offers activities for every type of traveler.

Visitors can enjoy entertainment, live performances, gaming, and nightlife at the city's numerous resort properties and entertainment venues.

Outdoor adventures are among Reno's biggest attractions. Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and skiing are all easily accessible within a short distance of the city.

Winter visitors can explore nearby ski resorts around Lake Tahoe, including world-renowned destinations that attract snow sports enthusiasts from around the world.

Golfers will find numerous championship courses throughout the Reno-Tahoe region, offering beautiful mountain views and excellent playing conditions.

The city also hosts major annual events including the Reno Rodeo, Great Reno Balloon Race, and the National Championship Air Races legacy events that have contributed to Reno's unique identity.

Food tours, brewery visits, riverfront festivals, and cultural events provide additional opportunities to experience the city's welcoming atmosphere.

Flights to Reno

Reno is served by Reno-Tahoe International Airport, the primary airport for northern Nevada and the Lake Tahoe region.

The airport offers convenient connections to major cities throughout the United States and serves millions of travelers each year.

Major airlines including Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Alaska Airlines operate regular flights to and from Reno.

The airport is located only a few miles from downtown Reno, making transfers quick and convenient via taxis, rideshare services, rental cars, and hotel shuttles.

Booking flights early is recommended during ski season, summer vacation periods, major events, and holiday travel periods.

Compare flight options and plan your journey with us to find the best routes and fares for your Reno adventure.

Reno Food and Transportation Apps You Must Know

Reno's food scene has grown significantly in recent years and now offers a diverse range of dining experiences.

Visitors can enjoy Nevada-style steakhouses, American comfort food, craft breweries, international cuisine, farm-to-table restaurants, and innovative chef-driven concepts.

Popular dining areas include Midtown, Downtown Reno, the Riverwalk District, and nearby Lake Tahoe communities.

Helpful apps for travelers include Google Maps, TripAdvisor, Yelp, OpenTable, Uber Eats, and DoorDash for restaurant discovery, reviews, and reservations.

Getting around Reno is relatively simple. Uber and Lyft operate throughout the city and surrounding areas, while rental cars are popular for travelers planning to explore Lake Tahoe and other outdoor destinations.

Public transportation services connect major parts of the city, although many visitors prefer rideshare services or rental vehicles for convenience.

Places to Visit in Reno For Free

Reno offers numerous free attractions and activities.

Walking along the Truckee River through the Riverwalk District provides beautiful scenery, public art, and opportunities to experience the city's lively atmosphere at no cost.

Visitors can explore Midtown's colorful murals and public art installations for free while discovering local businesses and creative spaces.

Rancho San Rafael Regional Park offers free access to open spaces, walking trails, gardens, and picnic areas.

Many seasonal festivals, outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and community events throughout Reno provide free entertainment for visitors and locals alike.

A scenic drive through the surrounding mountain landscapes and viewpoints also offers unforgettable experiences without admission fees.

Reno Currency

The official currency used in Reno and throughout the United States is the US Dollar (USD).

Credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payment methods are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, attractions, stores, and transportation services.

ATMs are readily available at airports, hotels, casinos, shopping centers, and convenience stores throughout the city.

While cash is accepted almost everywhere, most travelers find digital and card-based payments sufficient for the majority of purchases.

Wrapping Up Your Reno Trip

Reno is a destination that combines outdoor adventure, entertainment, natural beauty, and Western hospitality into one memorable travel experience. From the vibrant Riverwalk District and fascinating museums to the world-class recreation opportunities of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains, Reno offers something for every type of traveler.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, family attractions, entertainment, cultural experiences, or a convenient gateway to Lake Tahoe, Reno rewards visitors with memorable experiences throughout every season.

Ready to compare flights and plan your Nevada getaway? Book your Reno journey with us today. With the right planning, your Reno trip can be smooth, exciting, and truly unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got Questions? We Have Answers

Find answers to the most common travel questions regarding bookings, cancellations, refunds and travel packages.

The best time to visit Reno depends on your interests. Summer (June to September) is ideal for outdoor activities and Lake Tahoe excursions, while winter (December to March) attracts visitors seeking skiing and snow sports.

Three to five days is ideal for exploring Reno's attractions and taking day trips to Lake Tahoe. Visitors interested in outdoor adventures may wish to stay longer.

Reno offers accommodations and activities for a wide range of budgets. Visitors can find affordable hotels and dining options, while luxury resorts and premium experiences are also available.

Yes, downtown Reno is walkable, and rideshare services are widely available. However, renting a car is highly recommended if you plan to visit Lake Tahoe or explore the surrounding mountain areas.

Absolutely. Reno offers family-friendly attractions including museums, parks, science centers, outdoor recreation, wildlife experiences, and easy access to the natural beauty of the Lake Tahoe region.