Reno, NV Things to Do and Attractions
Located on the University of Nevada-Reno, the ultra-modern Fleischmann Planetarium has been projecting full-dome movies since 1964 in fact, it was the first planetarium in the world to do so. It is also one of the first planetariums in the world to
Located on the University of Nevada-Reno, the ultra-modern Fleischmann Planetarium has been projecting full-dome movies since 1964 in fact, it was the first planetarium in the world to do so. It is also one of the first planetariums in the world to utilize a Spitz SciDome digital projector, which is a high-resolution visualization tool that produces breathtaking three-dimensional images. Fleischmann Planetarium displays public star shows and large-format films on its 30-foot-diameter screen in its 60-seat theater for more than 44,000 visitors each year. The planetarium also features a number of interesting exhibits, including weather instruments, large-scale rotating Earth and moon globes, a black hole demonstrator and dozens of meteorites.
Fleischmann Planetarium can be rented for private events. The planetarium is open Sunday through Thursday, June to August, from 10:30 AM to 8 PM and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 AM to 9 PM. During the fall and winter, it is open Sunday through Thursday until 7 PM. Admission is $4 for children ages 12 and under and $5 for adults. Complimentary on-site parking is available.
Located on the banks of the Truckee River in downtown Reno, the sleek, modern National Automobile Museum is known as one of the world's best museums of its kind. Within its 105,000-square-foot facility, the museum houses more than 200 antique,
Located on the banks of the Truckee River in downtown Reno, the sleek, modern National Automobile Museum is known as one of the world's best museums of its kind. Within its 105,000-square-foot facility, the museum houses more than 200 antique, vintage, classic and special interest vehicles, the majority of which come from the collection of late gaming pioneer Bill Harrah. Even the building's smooth, rounded exterior walls and chrome trim mirror classic automobile styling. The museum offers four period street scenes and galleries that include spectacular displays and interpretations of the automobile industry from the 1890s to the future.
Named one of Car Collector magazine's Top Ten Museums and the Best Museum in Northern Nevada by the Nevada Magazine Annual Reader's Poll, the National Automobile Museum offers superb docent-led tours, audio tours and theater presentations in its 157-seat theater, all of which are included in admission. The museum's striking celebrity automobile collection includes a 1973 Cadillac Eldorado custom coupe owned by Elvis Presley, a 1953 Corvette 2934 convertible owned by John Wayne and a 1949 Mercury Series 9CM six-passenger coupe owned by James Dean, among many others.
The National Automobile Museum can host private events for 50 to 1,200 guests in its banquet area adjacent to the Race Cars and Beyond Gallery and in its theater. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is $4 for children ages 6-18 and $10 for adults. Admission for children under 6 is free. Complimentary on-site parking is available in the museum lot.
The Nevada Museum of Art houses an extremely impressive permanent collection of more than 1,900 works of art. The four-level, 55,000-square-foot museum was re-opened in 2003 after its redesign by internationally-renowned architect Will Bruder. The
The Nevada Museum of Art houses an extremely impressive permanent collection of more than 1,900 works of art. The four-level, 55,000-square-foot museum was re-opened in 2003 after its redesign by internationally-renowned architect Will Bruder. The museum's striking curved exterior was inspired by the geological formations of the desert, and the randomly placed skylights allow for a constant change in light.
The museum's collection is divided into five galleries and topic areas centered on the general themes of land and environment. Guests can explore the Altered Landscape Exhibit, which contains contemporary landscape photographs of the topography of the western United States, or walk through the Contemporary Collection of environmental, pop and installation art. Other collections include Sierra Nevada/Great Basin, Historical and E.L. Wiegand, which explores the theme of the American work ethic through paintings, prints and bronze sculptures.
The Nevada Museum of Art offers private rentals for 30 to 500 people in such spaces as its 8,000-square-foot rooftop sculpture garden and the 4,000-square-foot Donald W. Reynolds Grand Hall, which features a soaring atrium and beautiful skylights. The Nevada Museum of Art is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Thursday until 8 PM. Admission is $1 for children ages 6-12, $8 for students and $10 for adults. Admission for children under 6 is free. Included with admission, guided tours run every Thursday at 6 PM, Saturday at 11 AM and 1 PM and Sunday at 1 PM. Parking is available in the adjacent museum lot.
The city's iconic Reno Arch, located on Virginia Avenue, is one of the most photographed structures in the city. A steel arch was first constructed in 1926 to promote the Reno Transcontinental Highway Exposition, and following a city-sponsored
The city's iconic Reno Arch, located on Virginia Avenue, is one of the most photographed structures in the city. A steel arch was first constructed in 1926 to promote the Reno Transcontinental Highway Exposition, and following a city-sponsored contest for a new slogan for the arch, the phrase "The Biggest Little City in the World" was added in 1934. A second glowing arch, with a sparkling, rotating star, was constructed in 1963. Built in 1987, the current neon arch the third to be added remains one of the most-visited locales in the city.
Located directly across the street from the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, the award-winning Atlantis Casino Resort Spa recently underwent an expansion. The addition of 27,000 square feet brought its total flexible meeting space to 47,000 square
Located directly across the street from the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, the award-winning Atlantis Casino Resort Spa recently underwent an expansion. The addition of 27,000 square feet brought its total flexible meeting space to 47,000 square feet. Future renovations include a skybridge that connects the resort to the convention center. Atlantis features the best in table and slots gaming, including weekly slots, keno and blackjack tournaments. When it's time to relax, guests visit the Atlantis Spa and Salon, which features specialty massages and treatments.
Meeting space at the resort is abundant and includes the 12,160-square-foot Grand Ballroom, three Chianti meeting rooms and the 2,133-square-foot Tradewinds Conference Center. Atlantis is home to seven sumptuous restaurants, including the MonteVigna Italian Ristorante and Lounge, Toucan Charles Buffet and Grill (voted Reno's Best Buffet) and the all-you-can-eat Sushi Bar.
A Reno mainstay since 1937, Harrah's Reno features superb gaming, entertainment, dining and meeting facilities. Harrah's features exciting nightlife and entertainment, as well as a renowned health club and spa. As the birthplace of Reno gaming,
A Reno mainstay since 1937, Harrah's Reno features superb gaming, entertainment, dining and meeting facilities. Harrah's features exciting nightlife and entertainment, as well as a renowned health club and spa. As the birthplace of Reno gaming, Harrah's features 928 guest rooms and suites; 60,000 square feet of casino space; the 300-seat Sammy's Showroom, named after Sammy Davis, Jr.; eight restaurants; and 22,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. The 14,000-square-foot Robert A. Ring Convention Center is located in Harrah's West Wing, while the 62,000-square-foot landscaped Plaza space seats 1,400 people for outdoor events.
More intimate spaces include the luxurious Prospectors Club for up to 250 people and the Sapphire Lounge, which features a stage and space for up to 200 guests. Harrah's dining highlights include the Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar, Andreotti's, and Harrah's Steak House, the only Reno fine dining restaurant to receive a AAA four diamond rating, now for 10 consecutive years.
The Peppermill, regarded as Reno's premiere resort casino, completed a $400 million expansion and renovation in 2008. Expansion highlights include a Tuscan-themed hotel tower made up of 600 suites, bringing the total number of rooms in the resort to
The Peppermill, regarded as Reno's premiere resort casino, completed a $400 million expansion and renovation in 2008. Expansion highlights include a Tuscan-themed hotel tower made up of 600 suites, bringing the total number of rooms in the resort to 1,635; a three-level luxury spa overlooking an infinity pool; new resort pools; and a 21,000-square-foot casino expansion.
The Peppermill offers 102,000 square feet of meeting space, including the new 62,000-square-foot Tuscan Ballroom with a full business center, 12,000-square-foot Naples Ballroom, and Gold, Platinum and Silver meeting rooms. The Peppermill features 10 award-winning themed restaurants, including the White Orchid, Romanza Ristorante Italiano and the savory Steak House. Guests can relax in the Peppermill's 17 lounges or Reno's only high-definition sports theater, or play one of hundreds of video games in its Arcade Xtreme.
Nestled among the streets of downtown Reno, the city-operated Truckee River Whitewater Park is the nation's first urban whitewater park. A big hit since its opening in 2004, the $1.5 million landmark offers 11 pools that stretch a half-mile in
Nestled among the streets of downtown Reno, the city-operated Truckee River Whitewater Park is the nation's first urban whitewater park. A big hit since its opening in 2004, the $1.5 million landmark offers 11 pools that stretch a half-mile in length, perfect for kayaking, canoeing, rafting and tubing. The park has a constant flow of clean, fresh water kept at a temperature of 50°F to 70°F so that it doesn't freeze if the outdoor temperatures cool. The park also features 7,000 tons of smooth, flat-top rocks and boulders installed along the river.
Ideal for kayakers of all skill levels, the pools are placed at Class II and Class III difficulty, with Class I being a lake and Class IV a waterfall. Spectators are welcome to watch the kayakers from the adjacent Wingfield Park. Truckee River Whitewater Park serves as the home to the three-day Reno River Festival, one of the nation's top professional kayaking competitions, held every May.
Truckee River Whitewater Park is open daily year-round. Admission is free. Equipment rentals are available or guests may bring their own equipment. Parking is available at surrounding metered spots.
Serving upscale self-described "California cuisine," 4th Street Bistro uses only fresh, sustainable and seasonal ingredients, with most menu selections featuring local organic farm produce, meats, fish and poultry. The cozy interior is highlighted by
Serving upscale self-described "California cuisine," 4th Street Bistro uses only fresh, sustainable and seasonal ingredients, with most menu selections featuring local organic farm produce, meats, fish and poultry. The cozy interior is highlighted by a fireplace and rich orange walls, while the restaurant's gorgeous patio features crisp white linens among lush, colorful flower plantings. Menu favorites include grilled Moroccan spiced organic chicken breast, wild Alaskan king salmon with corn, organic mushrooms, squash and chervil butter, and filet mignon with green beans, creamy potato gratin and cabernet-shallot butter.
The bistro has several options for private dining. 4th Street Bistro serves dinner Tuesday through Sunday at 5 PM. Entrees range from $24 to $40.
Channeling Old World San Francisco, the interior of Rapscallion Seafood House and Bar features rich mahogany and stained glass an elegant setting a sumptuous meal to follow. Offering more than 20 varieties of fresh fish daily, Rapscallion also excels
Channeling Old World San Francisco, the interior of Rapscallion Seafood House and Bar features rich mahogany and stained glass an elegant setting a sumptuous meal to follow. Offering more than 20 varieties of fresh fish daily, Rapscallion also excels in top-quality certified prime Angus beef. Menu favorites include crab-stuffed monkfish, pecan-encrusted orange roughy, and the Rapscallion mixed grill of grilled swordfish, jumbo prawn and salmon served with lobster bisque on a scallion potato latke. Guests dine in high-backed booths amid white linens, brick walls, low lighting and a cozy fireplace.
Private parties can be held in Rapscallion's three private rooms. Rapscallion serves lunch Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 4 PM and dinner daily at 5 PM. Brunch is served Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM. Entrees range from $15 to $50.
Reno's Silver Peak Restaurant and Brewery is an upscale brewpub that uses all fresh products on its constantly-evolving menu. Silver Peak prides itself on creating "well-known favorites with a twist," including pork tenderloin with espresso chili rub
Reno's Silver Peak Restaurant and Brewery is an upscale brewpub that uses all fresh products on its constantly-evolving menu. Silver Peak prides itself on creating "well-known favorites with a twist," including pork tenderloin with espresso chili rub and Spanish paella with shrimp, mussels, chicken, clams and chorizo baked with saffron rice.
The two-level restaurant is also a popular 15-barrel brewhouse that produces 20 specialty ales and lagers. The barrels, which brew 310 gallons, or 2,480 pints, per batch, are displayed in full view behind glass, so guests can see how their drafts are made. Silver Peak's specialty pizzas which include such favorites as chicken sausage with kalamata olives and mozzarella are crafted with dough made daily from grains in the brewery.
Silver Peak welcomes private events, offering the entire restaurant for 250 guests, a rooftop deck for 100 guests and a semi-private dining room for up 60 guests. The restaurant serves its full menu daily from 11 AM to midnight. Entrees range from $15 to $22.
The award-winning Washoe Steakhouse is a Reno favorite. Voted Best Reno Restaurant and Reno's Best Steakhouse, Washoe has also been featured in publications such as Wine Spectator and Bon Appetit. The comfortable yet elegant restaurant is known
The award-winning Washoe Steakhouse is a Reno favorite. Voted Best Reno Restaurant and Reno's Best Steakhouse, Washoe has also been featured in publications such as Wine Spectator and Bon Appetit. The comfortable yet elegant restaurant is known for its hand-cut aged Angus steaks and fireside dining. Menu highlights include slow-roasted lamb shank with burgundy shallot jus, smoked elk sausage with caramelized onions, and oven-baked salmon with roasted walnut cream sauce.
Washoe Steakhouse offers a cozy private banquet room for 10 to 90 guests. The restaurant serves lunch daily from 11 AM to 2:30 PM and dinner from 5 to 10 PM. Entrees average $20.
The Nevada State Historical Society Museum, housed on the north side of the University of Nevada-Reno campus, is the state's oldest museum. In operation since 1904, the museum features an extensive collection of artifacts dating from prehistoric to
The Nevada State Historical Society Museum, housed on the north side of the University of Nevada-Reno campus, is the state's oldest museum. In operation since 1904, the museum features an extensive collection of artifacts dating from prehistoric to present times that describe Nevada's role as a passageway to the West. Numerous Native American and European settler artifacts are on display along with exhibits on Nevada's gaming culture and silver and gold mining in the region. The museum's library also houses the largest and most complete repository of materials related to the history of Nevada and the Great Basin.
The Nevada State Historical Society Museum's galleries are open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, while its library is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 4 PM. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children under 18. On-site parking is available.
The Reno metropolitan area offers more than 50 golf courses, all with an automatic advantage at Reno's altitude, golf balls automatically fly 10 percent farther than in other destinations. Reno offers courses for every level of play, with some links
The Reno metropolitan area offers more than 50 golf courses, all with an automatic advantage at Reno's altitude, golf balls automatically fly 10 percent farther than in other destinations. Reno offers courses for every level of play, with some links dating back decades to the 1934 Washoe County Golf Course. Other notable courses include the challenging Wildcreek Golf Course, a three-time host to the PGA Senior Tour, and the Northgate Golf Course, beautifully contoured by its many canyons. The lush ArrowCreek Country Club, one of Reno's newest courses, was designed by Arnold Palmer, while the LakeRidge Golf Course's signature hole 15 sits on a rocky ridge 140 feet above Lake Stanley.
Sierra Biplane Adventures offers guests the opportunity to fly in a Waco open cockpit biplane and experience bird's eye views of Reno, Sparks, Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevadas. The restored Waco UPF-7 plane, which was originally built in 1941 as a
Sierra Biplane Adventures offers guests the opportunity to fly in a Waco open cockpit biplane and experience bird's eye views of Reno, Sparks, Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevadas. The restored Waco UPF-7 plane, which was originally built in 1941 as a military trainer, takes off from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport for a gentle ride, though some thrills are available upon request. The plane can accommodate two passengers in its front cockpit, with a weight limit of 330 pounds. The Reno/Tahoe Tour takes passengers on a one-hour trip around Lake Tahoe, Mt. Rose, Slide Mountain, Kings Beach and the Truckee River Canyon. The Reno/Sparks Barnstormer Tour is a lower, slower trip that lasts 25 minutes.
Custom charters are available. Sierra Biplane Adventures offers trips daily, February to November, from 8 AM to sunset. The Reno/Tahoe Tour costs $179 per person and the Reno/Sparks Barnstormer Tour costs $99 per person. Reservations are required.
Sierra Safari Zoo, located eight miles north of downtown Reno, is Nevada's largest zoo. In operation since 1990, the zoo is home to more than 200 animals, including big and small cats, primates, small mammals and marsupials, all nestled among a lush
Sierra Safari Zoo, located eight miles north of downtown Reno, is Nevada's largest zoo. In operation since 1990, the zoo is home to more than 200 animals, including big and small cats, primates, small mammals and marsupials, all nestled among a lush landscape. Visitor favorites include the majestic Siberian tiger and African leopard, as well as the animated baboons and wallabies.
The Sierra Safari Zoo is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, weather permitting. Admission is $6 for children ages 3-12 and $7 for adults. Admission for children under 3 is free. On-site parking is available.
The Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum is an impressive showcase of antiques and collectibles from May himself, a Nevada rancher, businessman and philanthropist who acquired such items during his 40-plus trips around the world. Collection highlights
The Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum is an impressive showcase of antiques and collectibles from May himself, a Nevada rancher, businessman and philanthropist who acquired such items during his 40-plus trips around the world. Collection highlights include rare T'ang Dynasty pottery, Eskimo scrimshaws and luminous Egyptian scarabs. The museum also features re-creations of May's living room, tack room and big game trophy room once housed in his 2,600-acre Double Diamond Ranch.
The adjacent arboretum spans 12 acres and is full of tree groves, wetlands, outdoor courtyards and secluded gardens. The Burke Garden is reminiscent of an English country garden shaded by magnificent elm trees, while the Songbird Garden features aromatic flowers and fruits that attract birds such as hummingbirds, doves, quail and goldfinch. Also located on the grounds is the Great Basin Adventure, where children delight in a petting zoo, pony rides, an old-fashioned log flume and activities such as gold panning.
The museum and arboretum have several spaces for private events: the 1,700-square-foot Garden Court can accommodate up to 220 people, while the 1,350-square-foot Double Diamond Room that overlooks the arboretum can accommodate up to 200 people. The Wilbur D. May Museum and Arboretum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday from noon to 5 PM. Admission is $2.50 for children ages 12 and under and $4.50 for adults. On-site parking is available.
