Best Things To Do In Reno

Explore the Reno Riverwalk District

Along the banks of the Truckee River, the Riverwalk District offers an engaging mix of local culture, dining, and scenic strolls. This walkable neighborhood features locally owned coffee shops, art galleries, boutique stores, and weekly events that reflect Reno’s community spirit. Whether you’re in town for the weekend or a quick afternoon escape, the Riverwalk is ideal for casual exploration or a relaxed date night. Grab lunch at one of the riverside patios or catch live music echoing from corner stages. It’s also a hotspot for seasonal markets and art walks, where local creators showcase their work. Don’t miss Wingfield Park—right in the river—perfect for watching kayakers or just relaxing with mountain views. The district’s public art and murals add creative texture to every corner. As day turns to night, string lights and craft brews take center stage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, this part of Reno feels refreshingly alive, day or night.

Visit the Nevada Museum of Art

Rooted in both regional heritage and global inspiration, the Nevada Museum of Art is the state’s only accredited art museum. Located in downtown Reno, it offers a well-curated blend of contemporary and historical exhibits, with a special focus on art that reflects the surrounding desert and Sierra Nevada landscapes. The architecture itself—designed by Will Bruder—stands as a work of art, integrating clean lines and natural light. Inside, rotating exhibitions ensure there’s always something new, while permanent collections highlight works from the Great Basin and beyond. Special programs include artist talks, hands-on workshops, and First Thursday events featuring live music and food. Families will appreciate the museum’s interactive learning center, while art lovers can dive deeper with guided tours or audio insights. The rooftop sculpture garden adds another layer of visual charm, especially during sunset. It’s a must-visit cultural anchor in Reno, blending creativity, education, and visual storytelling.

Experience the National Automobile Museum

Tucked just a few blocks from downtown, the National Automobile Museum impresses car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike with its massive collection of over 200 rare and vintage vehicles. The layout transports you through time, starting with the early 1900s and moving through decades of automotive innovation. Each section features immersive backdrops—complete with period storefronts and props—that bring the cars’ stories to life. Highlights include Elvis Presley’s 1973 Cadillac Eldorado and a rare 1907 Thomas Flyer, which won the New York to Paris race. The museum goes beyond static displays with interactive exhibits, vintage clothing, and rotating showcases tied to design, technology, and pop culture. Educational programs and guided tours help explain the influence of automobiles on American history. Whether you’re a fan of muscle cars or Model Ts, this museum connects past and present in a way that’s both nostalgic and informative. It’s a top-rated Reno attraction for families and solo travelers alike.

Attend the Reno River Festival

Spring in Reno kicks off with the Reno River Festival—an energetic celebration set along the Truckee River in downtown. Held annually in May, this multi-day event merges adventure sports, music, food, and family fun into one unforgettable experience. Whitewater competitions draw top kayakers from around the country, while live bands energize the crowd with nonstop performances. Food truck courts serve everything from tacos to vegan bites, and the Craft Beer Experience offers over 20 regional brews. Kids can enjoy the inflatable obstacle courses and a dedicated play zone, while shoppers can explore rows of artisan vendors. Fitness classes, like morning yoga and Zumba sessions, encourage locals and visitors to engage with the community in a scenic outdoor setting. The festival’s layout makes it easy to wander between riverbank events and downtown eateries. As one of Reno’s signature events, it combines the natural beauty of the Truckee River with high-energy activities for all ages.

Enjoy the Great Reno Balloon Race

Held every September, the Great Reno Balloon Race is the world’s largest free hot air ballooning event—and a true local favorite. It begins in the early morning hours at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, when the sky gradually fills with vibrant colors as over 100 balloons lift off at sunrise. The highlight for many is the Glow Show and Dawn Patrol, where balloons light up the sky in choreographed harmony before daybreak. Families often arrive wrapped in blankets with thermoses in hand, soaking in the magic. The event includes tethered balloon rides, vendor booths, and live entertainment, making it more than just a spectator sport. Educational zones teach kids about ballooning science, while local food trucks and coffee stands keep everyone fueled. From whimsical character balloons to classic striped domes, the visual spectacle is unmatched. It’s not only a memorable sight but also a cherished tradition that brings Reno’s community together under one pastel-colored sky.

Discover the Midtown District’s Art Scene

Creative energy pulses through Reno’s Midtown District, a neighborhood that thrives on individuality and bold expression. This walkable area blends public murals, independent galleries, vintage shops, and artisan cafes in a layout that feels both eclectic and intentional. Street art is central to the vibe, with colorful facades and rotating mural projects that turn alleys into open-air museums. Local studios often host open houses where you can meet artists and explore behind the scenes. Quirky boutiques and retro shops sell everything from handmade jewelry to antique vinyl, while cafés double as exhibit spaces. Annual events like the Midtown Art Walk showcase live music, pop-up exhibits, and food vendors, creating an electric cultural atmosphere. At night, cocktail lounges and live music venues keep the creative pulse going. For anyone seeking to experience Reno’s grassroots arts movement, Midtown offers a blend of visual creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and offbeat charm all in one neighborhood.

Relax at Idlewild Park’s Rose Garden

Just west of downtown, Idlewild Park provides a welcome retreat into nature, and its rose garden is a serene standout. This beautifully maintained space features over 200 varieties of roses that bloom from late spring through early fall, creating a palette of reds, pinks, yellows, and whites. Benches and shaded paths make it easy to linger and soak up the aroma and color. The garden sits within a larger park that includes a duck pond, bike trails, a skate park, and family-friendly picnic areas. It’s a favorite for afternoon walks, engagement photo shoots, and quiet reading sessions under mature trees. Throughout the blooming season, horticultural volunteers help maintain the beds, ensuring the garden remains a visual highlight. For those interested in botany or simply seeking a peaceful corner in the city, this spot offers a gentle rhythm away from downtown bustle. It’s a hidden gem in Reno that rewards slow moments and visual appreciation.

Tour the Wilbur D. May Center

Set within Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, the Wilbur D. May Center offers a unique combination of museum exhibits, an arboretum, and a botanical garden—all reflecting the legacy of Wilbur May, a world traveler and collector. Inside the museum, rotating displays highlight artifacts from May’s global adventures, including African masks, Egyptian relics, and rare antique toys. The exhibits are curated in a way that makes world cultures feel accessible and engaging for all ages. Outside, the arboretum spans over 13 acres, featuring native and exotic plants, themed gardens, and walking paths that change beautifully with the seasons. Visitors can explore drought-tolerant gardens, a wetland habitat, and a children’s discovery area, offering both beauty and education. The center often hosts seasonal events, plant sales, and guided tours that deepen the experience. Whether you’re interested in history, botany, or just want a break from city life, this multifaceted destination delivers.

Hike the Trails at Peavine Peak

Located just northwest of Reno, Peavine Peak offers one of the area’s best outdoor escapes for hikers, bikers, and off-road enthusiasts. With trails for all skill levels, this high-desert landscape is rich in wildflowers during spring and offers panoramic views of the Truckee Meadows year-round. The Peavine Trail system includes well-marked paths like Halo Trail and the Poedunk Loop, which provide everything from moderate nature walks to challenging summit climbs. Wildlife sightings—like jackrabbits, hawks, and the occasional coyote—add to the sense of natural immersion. Mountain bikers will appreciate the rugged switchbacks and elevation gains, while casual hikers can enjoy mellow routes with excellent photo ops. The terrain ranges from rocky outcrops to smooth dirt paths, making it a flexible option for all types of outdoor recreation. It’s easily accessible from the city, yet remote enough to feel like a true wilderness experience. Peavine Peak continues to be a local favorite for its accessible adventure and scenic rewards.

Catch a Show at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts

Downtown Reno’s Pioneer Center is an architectural icon and cultural cornerstone, known for its gold geodesic dome and impressive lineup of performances. This state-of-the-art venue hosts everything from touring Broadway musicals to local symphony concerts and stand-up comedy. The acoustics and sightlines are top-tier, making it a favorite among performers and patrons alike. With around 1,500 seats, the center offers an intimate experience while still accommodating large productions. The programming calendar features both high-profile national tours and community productions, giving audiences a rich mix of theatrical, musical, and cultural experiences. Educational outreach programs and pre-show talks also make it a hub for arts learning. For those visiting Reno, attending a show here offers a window into the city’s vibrant performing arts scene. Whether you’re drawn by Shakespeare, jazz ensembles, or a lively musical, this venue delivers a night of world-class entertainment in a setting unlike any other in Nevada.

Visit the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum

Families with curious young minds will find endless inspiration at The Discovery, Reno’s hands-on science and learning center. Located downtown, this interactive museum offers over 67,000 square feet of exhibits that blend science, engineering, art, and nature into an immersive experience for all ages. Kids can build and test structures in Da Vinci’s Corner, explore Nevada’s ecosystems in the Cloud Climber, or experiment with energy and motion in Spark!Lab. For toddlers, a safe water play zone keeps them engaged while older children dive into more advanced stations. Educational programming includes STEM workshops, weekend science labs, and school break camps. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful layout and well-supervised zones, making visits smooth and enjoyable. The museum’s focus on critical thinking and creativity positions it as more than just a play space—it’s a true educational hub. With rotating exhibits and frequent special events, every visit brings something new. Whether you’re a local planning a weekend outing or a traveler seeking a rainy-day activity, this museum sparks curiosity and encourages learning through play.

Explore the Sierra Safari Zoo

Tucked just north of Reno, the Sierra Safari Zoo brings visitors up close with over 200 animals from around the world. Spread across several acres, this outdoor facility houses species like lemurs, camels, reptiles, monkeys, and big cats in habitats designed for their comfort and well-being. It’s especially popular with families and school groups thanks to the zoo’s intimate layout and educational signage throughout. Feeding stations and close viewing areas make for memorable encounters, while staff-led presentations offer insights into animal behavior and conservation. Seasonal events, such as Halloween and summer safari days, add interactive fun for repeat visitors. The zoo focuses on providing lifelong care for its animals, many of which are rescues or rehomed exotics. While smaller than urban zoos, its charm lies in its personal atmosphere and hands-on learning opportunities. Located just a short drive from downtown, it’s an easy addition to a day of exploring Reno’s northern outskirts. For those looking to introduce children to wildlife or enjoy a leisurely afternoon among animals, Sierra Safari Zoo delivers a welcoming and educational experience.

Attend Artown Festival in July

Every July, Reno transforms into a month-long celebration of creativity with the Artown Festival—one of the largest multidisciplinary arts events in the country. With over 500 individual performances, exhibitions, and workshops across the city, it showcases local, national, and international talent in music, dance, visual arts, film, and more. Venues range from parks and galleries to unexpected spots like rooftops and public plazas, turning the city itself into a canvas. Most events are free or low-cost, making the arts accessible to all. Families can join daytime programs in Wingfield Park, while adults enjoy jazz concerts, theater shows, and evening wine events. The lineup is curated to highlight both traditional and emerging art forms, supporting diversity and innovation across all genres. Whether you’re into ballet, spoken word, or sculpture, Artown offers something daily throughout July. Visitors are encouraged to explore multiple neighborhoods, engage with artists, and even participate in hands-on workshops. This festival has become a summer tradition that deepens Reno’s identity as an arts-forward city and delivers an unforgettable cultural experience for all who attend.

Experience the Reno Aces Baseball Game

Local sports fans and visitors alike find summer evenings well spent at Greater Nevada Field, home of the Reno Aces—Triple-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks. The stadium, located in the heart of downtown, provides sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada while delivering America’s favorite pastime in a laid-back, fan-friendly setting. From themed nights and fireworks shows to dollar hot dog promotions and family zones, every game offers more than just baseball. The field’s modern amenities include shaded seating, a craft beer garden, and a kids’ play area, making it a great outing for all ages. You can sit right up close to the action or opt for lawn seating for a picnic-like feel. Locals appreciate the accessibility and walkability of the ballpark, while tourists love the relaxed vibe and festive atmosphere. Even if you’re not a die-hard baseball fan, the crowd energy, mascot antics, and in-game entertainment keep things lively. A Reno Aces game combines sports, community spirit, and great views into a quintessential Reno summer experience.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Lake Tahoe

Less than an hour from Reno, Lake Tahoe provides a high-altitude escape into some of the country’s most stunning alpine scenery. This iconic destination is packed with year-round outdoor adventures that cater to every interest and skill level. During warmer months, visitors can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach lounging on Tahoe’s famously clear waters, or tackle hiking and biking trails like the Tahoe Rim Trail for breathtaking panoramic views. In winter, the region becomes a snow-sport haven, with renowned ski resorts such as Mt. Rose and Diamond Peak just a short drive from the city. Scenic drives around the lake reveal picturesque bays, granite cliffs, and cozy lakeside villages. Wildlife sightings, photo ops, and impromptu picnic spots await around every bend. For those who prefer a slower pace, fishing, boat tours, and lakeside dining offer a peaceful way to take in the beauty. Lake Tahoe’s accessibility from Reno makes it an essential part of any itinerary, blending mountain adventure with lakeside serenity.