30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Reno (Nevada)

The city of Reno is known for its great vacation spots, and there is no shortage of entertainment and fun tourist attractions to see, experience, and enjoy.

If you’re going to be in the Biggest Little City in the World for a holiday, you’ll probably want to know about the things to see and what to do in Reno.

If that’s the case, then you’re in luck!

We’re here to help you narrow down the most exciting and tourist-worthy activities, places, and sights for tourists of all kinds and people of all ages.

Here are 30 things to do in Reno, Nevada.

1. Fleischmann Planetarium & Science Center

The Fleischmann Planetarium & Science Center was first built in the year 1963, as part of the University of Nevada, Reno.

It is located on campus grounds but is open to the public for a relatively cheap price, with observatory viewing, field trips, and tours available to show you the area.

The center is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings, not only for its educational value but for its unique architecture, which is in a hyperbolic paraboloid design created by Ray Hellman.

That’s what makes it among the most stunning Reno attractions.

Inside, you can see all kinds of hands-on and information exhibits that will teach you about outer space.

Within the center, you’ll be able to watch fun and interesting digital planetarium shows within a large, grand dome theater using a Spitz SciDome digital projector.

It’s one of the first planetariums to use this technology, which uses bright 3D images in vivid and jaw-dropping colors.

The shows educate the audience on the solar system and planets.

You can also opt to book a classroom for events, visit the Science Store, or check out the exhibit Hall.

In addition to all that, there’s a publically-run stargazing program to join if you’re drawn to the heavenly bodies!

Address: 1664 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89557, United States

2. Rancho San Rafael Park

Looking for free things to do in Reno? Well, you can’t go wrong with a park!

The Rancho San Rafael Park is the largest of its kind in all of Reno, spanning across hundreds of acres.

It offers different natural areas, including a xeriscape, mountain landscapes, desert landscapes, huge lakes, wetland habitats, and more.

The park’s life began as a cattle ranch but was purchased by the County of Washoe in 1979 and converted into the park we are familiar with now.

You can still find two ranch houses on the park’s grounds, which you can view to get a glimpse of what once was.

While in Rancho San Rafael Park, you can play volleyball, go fishing, walk through the trails, have a picnic, or just explore the surroundings.

There are countless places to go to.

Head to the Arboretum to witness gorgeous feats of landscaping and enjoy your time among trees and nature.

Just behind it, the Great Basin Adventure awaits, which is a great place for kids to visit thanks to the expansive nature discovery center, petting zoo, flume ride, and museum.

Address: 1595 N Sierra St, Reno, NV 89503, United States

3. Nevada Museum of Art

The Nevada Museum of Art is the only accredited art museum not just in Reno, but in the whole state.

It is one of five in America and is housed in an imposing and impressive building of four stories, designed by well-known architect Will Bruder.

It is one of the points of interest that art and history-lovers just can’t miss.

The museum primarily focuses on the environment and its relationship with humankind.

There are four different themed areas packed with art, from outer sculpture gardens to static and rotating exhibits in interior galleries.

More than 2,000 pieces of art live in the Permanent Collection of the museum, some dating back to the 19th century, with the main theme being centered on virtual, manmade, and natural environments.

This museum also has a Contemporary Collection, which provides mixed-media installations, paper works, photography, sculptures, digital media, and paintings to enjoy.

If you like, you can even visit the museum’s Center for Art + Environment, which is their department of research.

An Archive Collections exhibit here showcases over 12,000 different items.

Opening in 1931, this museum is one of the oldest, most crucial, and arguably best ones that you can find in this part of the United States.

An early 2000s redesign had it modeled after the Black Rock Desert.

You can go on a guided tour to learn more about the art or explore by yourself.

There are even special live music events, with drinks and food, once a month.

Don’t forget the climb the suspended staircase to see a spectacular view of the city skyline!

Address: 160 W Liberty St, Reno, NV 89501, United States

4. Circus Circus Casino

We would be remiss if we talked about Reno and its many sights if we didn’t talk about one of this Nevada city’s main sources of tourism: casinos!

The Circus Circus Casino is a fun resort that isn’t just catered to gambling and excitement at night, but to the whole family.

As long as you’re not aiming for a cheap stay, you and your family will enjoy your time here.

The resort offers kid-friendly choices of entertainment, ranging from animal shows, concerts, and acrobats.

Daily circus acts are available, as well as tons of carnival games that your children can participate in to win prizes like huge stuffed animals.

There are also six different restaurants on-site, with a popular favorite being the Dos Geckos Cantina, which is spruced out in vivid, bright decorations and a lively, exciting vibe.

For adults, you can enjoy the greatest that Reno has to offer in sports bettering, table games, card games, slots, and more.

The casino boasts high-class, impeccable customer service from hosts, and tournaments are present to join.

Address: 500 N Sierra St, Reno, NV 89501, United States

5. Mount Rose Ski Resort

If you’re looking for some fun of a more physical kind in Reno, the Mount Rose Ski Resort is a great option.

The resort finds its home in the center of the beautiful Toiyabe National Forest, and it spans a whopping 1,200 acres, housing over sixty runs and eight lifts, growing in size since its 1963 opening.

Mount Rose is actually the highest resort you can find in the area with its 8,000-foot height, providing 1,800 vertical feet of terrain you can ski on.

There are plenty of different spots to enjoy skiing activities, and there are three different terrain parks to choose from: the Double Down, the Badlands, and the Pondo Park.

The resort’s longest run measures an awesome 2.5 miles, but there are plenty of less intimidating slopes, too.

Essentially, both highly-skilled, experienced skiers and beginners can enjoy their time on the slopes.

You can stay in the city and travel in for a day of skiing for some exciting things to do in Reno this weekend, or you can stay at the Mount Rose Ski Resort’s own Winter Creek Lodge.

Ski season doesn’t occur year-round, but usually approximately half the year is available, so chances are you’ll have no trouble getting there at the right time.

Address: 22222 Mt Rose Hwy, Reno, NV 89511, United States

6. Pyramid Lake

If you want to go sightseeing in Reno, one of the tourist attractions you should drop by is Pyramid Lake, Nevada.

Deemed as one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US, the area is so picturesque that it’s among the default background wallpaper options on an iPad.

The lake earned its name from the pyramid-like, conical formations of rock that you can see poking out from the water.

These formations are limestone tufa rocks, which rise over the still, dark waters, and they began to show when the water of a much older, ancient lake receded over time.

The lake is rife with a local legend.

According to such myth, the Paiute tribe of the Native Americans would throw babies who were deformed or unwanted into the lake as part of the tradition.

The legend says that this was done in order to maintain strength in the numbers of the tribe.

However, it’s worth noting that the actual tribe has a different version of the legend.

It speaks of a man of the tribe who fell in love with a woman who was part mermaid, part serpent, but the tribe rejected her cruelly, so she placed a curse over the lake.

A serpent would then shapeshift into a baby and attack a mother who attempted to feed it, refusing to release the mother until the mermaid serpent was allowed to live in the lake.

There’s no doubt that this myth makes this Reno lake among the spookiest in the area, especially since a few fishermen meet their end here every year in its 350-foot depths.

But, on a lighter note, a rare breed of pelican also calls the lake its home.

If you’re lucky, you may be able to spot it!

7. Wilbur D. May Museum

The Wilbur D. May Museum is actually located in the Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, but even if you have no interest in the park itself, the museum is definitely among the top 10 spots to drop by in Reno, Nevada.

It features the large, personal collection of intrepid adventurer, explorer, and millionaire Wilbur D. May.

Born in 1898, Wilbur was the heir to a chain of department stores.

He attempted to the reins of the family business from his father many times, but the routine work greatly bored him and he eventually began to turn to travel to hunt game in Asia and Africa.

He also worked as a World War I volunteer ambulance driver.

After earning a large sum in the 1929 stock market crash and investing wisely in oil businesses, his fortune rapidly increased.

As Wilbur gained more and more wealth, he traveled more and more.

He flew airplanes, bred racehorses and terriers, sponsored travels for youth groups, and, as many eccentric millionaires often do, he became a collector.

He picked up a wide range of fascinating artifacts throughout his travels, which are now all collected in this fun and unique museum.

Among the things you can find within are a shrunken human head, artifacts from Egyptian tombs, fertility statues from Polynesia, elephant tusks, tribal masks from Africa, taxidermy animals numbering 200, snuff bottles, antique firearms, fine silver, fine China, American Western art, swords from Japan, and many, many more.

It will feel like you’re traveling through the continents of Asia, Europe, Africa, and the South Pacific through Wilbur’s many possessions, making this among the coolest places to visit in the area!

You can even go to view special art shows or exhibitions depending on the time of year.

Address: 1595 N Sierra St, Reno, NV 89503, United States

8. National Bowling Stadium

You may recognize the National Bowling Stadium from the 1996 film Kingpin by the Farrelly Brothers, which starred Woody Harrelson and Bill Murray.

Murray himself earned three strikes straight in this Reno, Nevada location, which has been dubbed the Taj Mahal of Tenpins.

The stadium was built in 1995 and features five stories with 78 lanes, space for 100,00 participants, and a shocking 8 acres of wide-ranging, waved floor space.

It also boasts a movie theater and some clubs themed around bowling.

And, of course, it’s called a stadium for a good reason – it isn’t a standard bowling establishment for a bunch of friends to use for a few casual rounds when they’re in search of what to do.

Instead, the National Bowling Stadium features all 78 lanes for tournaments and professionals, but that doesn’t mean you can’t play a game there if the lanes are open.

A Computer-Aided Tracking System will even help critique your form and give you advice on how to improve.

The International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame also has a satellite branch here, which showcases bowling memorabilia and information.

Entry is free of charge.

Worried you might not be able to find the stadium? Don’t be!

A huge bowling ball made from aluminum, spanning 80 feet, sits on the roof.

So if you’re near Reno and want to check out this slice of movie and sports history, just look out for the gigantic bowling ball.

Address: 300 N Center St, Reno, NV 89501, United States

9. The Riverwalk

The Riverwalk is, without a doubt among the best free locations in Reno, Nevada.

It follows along the path of the Truckee River, showcasing a wide range of cultural sights, sounds, and exploits.

The urban renaissance has never been more alive than in the Riverwalk District.

There’s always some form of exciting event occurring, like concerts on the street, Dine the District tours, wine walks, face painting competitions, and more.

Plus, there’s so much to see – grab a bike or take a long walk through the whimsical area.

A wide range of guided tours can show you through this downtown Reno location, but you’re more than welcome to explore it on your own.

Quaint restaurants serving delicious fare, local art galleries and studios showcasing stunning works, fascinating and interesting museums, exciting theaters with and wine shops offering amazing blends of scrumptious drink await you!

10. Animal Ark

This wildlife sanctuary in Reno, Nevada first opened its doors in 1981.

Since its conception, Animal Ark has been dedicated to being an education center as well as a safe, caring home for wild animals who cannot be released or rehabilitated.

It covers 38 acres of ground and features many different kinds of animals, including those indigenous to the city.

Each animal is amazingly well treated, with huge enclosures for each, surrounded by vegetation and boulders that match the animal’s original habitat.

They also regularly engage in activities that keep them happy and occupied.

They are all able to stay in the lovely sanctuary for all of their lives, and there is no captive breeding.

When you walk in, you’ll be able to view all the animals living in their comfortable habitats.

It feels a bit like a zoo, but it’s nowhere close to the same, you’ll be able to tell the difference immediately.

You will be able to learn the tale of each animal and how they all came to live in the sanctuary.

Most of the animals within Ark are predators native to North America, but the different animals you’ll see are fairly diverse, making visiting the Animal Ark one of the most fun things to do in Reno.

Bears, foxes, cheetahs, coyotes, bobcats, raptors, wolves, and lots of reptiles call the place their home.

Events are also planned throughout the year like the famed Cheetah Runs where you can watch these wildcats dash and zoom through desert terrain!

Address: 1265 Deerlodge Rd, Reno, NV 89508, United States

Planning to visit other parts of Nevada? Don’t miss our list of things to do in Las Vegas!

11. Great Reno Balloon Race

One of the most famous Reno attractions is undoubtedly the Great Reno Balloon Race, which provides an average of 120,000 spectators with unique and visually stunning entertainment every year.

The event is meant to draw in tourists and is totally family-friendly, with no charges for attendance, and it’s the largest event of its kind not just in Nevada, but all across the world!

The race first began in 1982 with a mere 20 balloons and has since grown to include about 100 balloons on an annual basis.

The event has won multiple awards under the special events category and it continues to gain popularity among spectators of all ages.

The event occurs in early September over three or four days, so plan accordingly!

When you’re there, grab lawn chairs and lean back and relax!

The event starts at 6.45 in the morning on the first day, and you’ll be able to watch the balloons in bright, beautiful colors sail overhead.

They will keep going until the third day when the first winning balloons will land as the sun goes down.

Throughout the competition, plenty of other exciting things will be happening.

Photo ops will be aplenty, as well as other smaller competitions and events for adults and kids alike, so you won’t just have to wait while the balloons fly!

Address: San Rafael Regional Park, Rancho, Rancho Connector, Reno, NV 89503, United States

12. Idlewild Park

Parks and other natural sightseeing spots are always among the best things to do in Reno, primarily because they’re free, but also because they’re beautiful!

Idlewild Park is definitely among the most impressive in Reno, and it lives next to the Truckee River and covers 49 acres of land.

This Nevada park was first built in 1927 and, since then, it has only become more and more popular.

Among its biggest draws is the stunning Rose Garden, the lap swimming pool complete with diving boards, the duck ponds, and the skate park.

There’s so much to do in Idlewild Park.

It has lots of play areas for kids, including the Lions Club park which has lots of play items and a little train for children to enjoy.

To add to all that, there are also tennis courts, picnic areas, water features, a bicycle trail, river access, and a few lakes.

Go on a Friday evening to check out Food Truck Friday and get some yummy foods to go with your relaxation.

Address: 2055 Idlewild Dr, Reno, NV 89509, United States

13. W. M. Keck Museum

The W. M. Keck Museum is the second oldest museum in the state of Nevada, but its age doesn’t stop it from being among the top most unique points of interest in Reno!

Its full name is the W.M. Keck Earth Science and Mineral Engineering Museum, dedicated to showcasing the geology and mineral variety in the state.

The museum showcases a beautiful and astonishing collection of silver, owned by one of the Bonanza Firm founders behind Comstock Lode, John W. Mackay.

There are 1,250 pieces in that single silver collection.

Apart from that, there are many beautiful geodes to gawk at, like gypsum, copper, amethyst, and quartz, and there is plenty of gold and silver, too.

Information provided by the museum also educates visitors on the mining history of Nevada through maps, tools, and more.

If you’re near the area, why not drop by and have a look?

Address: 1664 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89557, United States

14. Art Walk Reno

Art Walk Reno is a two-hour guided tour that happens once a month and brings you through the downtown area, led by volunteer organization Art Spot Reno.

The art scene in this Nevada city is quite impressive, and the organization curates all street art that colors the lovely streets.

A few hundred street murals can be found throughout the city, a cool 60 of which were done by Erik Burke.

When they first began to sprout, they were dismissed and considered unworthy graffiti, but since then, the town has begun to embrace the style of Burke’s art, often incorporating it into their own businesses.

If you want a more educational experience, a guided tour is pretty cheap at just $10 per person

Not looking to spend any money on tours?

Another one of the coolest art walks in the city is the Midtown Art Walk, which mixed local merchants and artists together to provide an experience of live performances, art, great food, unique stores, kid’s activities, drinks, poetry, and more.

Both of these art walks are certainly among the things to see you can’t miss!

15. Greater Nevada Field

Yet another location found next to the Truckee River, the Greater Nevada Field is a stadium for Minor League Baseball, and it’s among the best.

Since its opening in 2009, it has been the home of the Pacific Coast League’s Triple-A Reno Aces.

It’s a gorgeous stadium with mountain views along its back and a natural grass surface.

The ballpark is designed with 6,500 fixed seats and is meant to house a whopping 9,100 spectators.

Standing room is aplenty in a berm just behind the right field, and picnic tables and benches are available in two different party areas.

There are also two dugout suites behind the home plate that can house 30 individuals in total, 22 skyboxes, and a club suite that can fit 150 people.

Even if you’re not a baseball fan, visiting this park is still among the coolest things to do in downtown Reno.

Ballpark tours are available to teach you all about the history of baseball within the city, and there are beer gardens, restaurants, luxury suites, and a play area for kids to enjoy.

While you’re there, you also might as well visit Aceskating, an ice skating rink that is fully equipped and open for business during the winter.

It’s right in front of the ballpark!

Address: 250 Evans Ave, Reno, NV 89501, United States

16. McKinley Arts & Culture Center

The McKinley Arts and Culture Center is located in what was once the McKinley Park School.

The building was renovated and converted in 1999 in order to house this center and its auditorium, boardroom, workshops, galleries, and offices.

Many of these spaces can be rented out.

Plan a trip and while you’re here, have some fun taking a guided tour to learn more about the city’s culture and art or explore on your own to check out the wealth of art on display in the galleries.

If you’re also looking for some entertainment this weekend, you’ll be pleased to note that the McKinley Arts and Culture Center also houses the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Reno Chamber Orchestra, too.

The Reno Pops Orchestra and Masterworks Chorale also have their home in this impressive and immersive location.

The Reno Philharmonic Orchestra, in particular, is a true treat to watch, with a wide mix of different pieces performed every season from the standard but enchanting classical fare to more modern Hollywood, Broadway, and pop music works.

The orchestra first began performing in 1969 and has since become a Northern Nevada staple, and one well worth seeing!

Go in the summer to watch Pops on the River, or in December to watch Spirit of the Season.

Address: 925 Riverside Dr, Reno, NV 89503, United States

17. National Championship Air Races

The National Championship Air Races – known also as the Reno Air Races – take place every September, on a lot that was once the Stead Air Force Base but is now the Reno Stead Airport.

Thousands of spectators rush to the scene annually to have fun watching the week-long races.

The race first came to life in 1964, organized by Bill Stead, and have gone on every single year since then, aside from in 2001 in respect for 9/11.

Air racing is regarded as the fastest motor sport in the world and never fails to get the audience pumped thanks to its high-stakes, adrenaline-rushing event.

Six different racing classes participate in these races, some of which date back to World War II, and others which are self-built by participants.

You’ll be able to view different aircraft displays in a huge exhibition and witness some flight demonstrations of a military and civil variety.

You will also be able to enjoy some shopping at stalls and eating yummy meals from food vendors.

The National Championship Air Races are the last of their kind in the entire world, meaning there’s nowhere else that you can find an event even remotely similar.

It’s a great option if you’re there at the right time and looking for the most interesting kinds of stuff to do today!

18. Atlantis Casino Resort

Some of the most fun and exciting places to visit in Reno are casinos, and that’s why the Atlantis Casino Resort makes this list.

It is a 4-Diamond establishment rated AAA and can be found right in the heart of this Nevada city.

It’s one of the most well-known of its kind in Reno, and for good reason.

The Atlantis opened in 1972, and its casino area takes up 60,000 square feet, with lots of different games to participate in.

The beautiful building looks absolutely stunning and, as its name suggests, it, in many ways, will conjure imagery of Atlantis for you, and it may even

Within the Atlants, you can find high-class luxurious accommodations, live entertainment in the form of cabaret shows and concerts, opulent restaurants that have won awards, and even a spa covering 30,000 square feet.

And, of course, naturally, there are also plenty of casino gaming opportunities to be had tonight.

The casinos here are well-staffed and offer luxurious, 5-star service.

If you’re someone who enjoys a little gambling now and then, you’ll probably love what this location has to offer.

Address: 3800 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89502, United States

19. Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts

The Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts was finished in 1967 and boasts some of the most beautiful must-see architecture in downtown Reno.

It is built in a jaw-dropping gold-anodized geodesic dome, which you may have guessed is inspired by Buckminster Fuller’s Casa Mañana Theater design.

In fact, it was designed by one of his students, Don Richter.

Its iconic appearance has earned it the nickname The Golden Turtle within Nevada.

Originally, the center was supposed to be named the Apollo Theater, but instead it earned its name from a statue in front of the Old State Building that depicts a pioneer family.

The statue now sits in the Pioneer Underground venue of the center, which also is its main floor and serves as the weekend comedy club.

Many different events happen from the beginning to the end of each year.

Stage and even Broadway shows are showcased, as well as public lectures with highly acclaimed speakers, Nevada Opera shows, Reno Philharmonic shows, and more.

If you’re especially curious, you can take a peek at the elevators on the southeast side of the grounds, which is where the equipment is brought up from the ground to the stage.

Address: 100 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89501, United States

20. Tahoe-Pyramid Trail

The Tahoe-Pyramid Trail runs from Lake Tahoe to the Truckee River, to the downtown area, to Sparks, and finally, to Nevada desert’s Pyramid Lake.

The trail descends approximately 2,000 feet within 116 miles, and it is only partially finished.

Paved and dirt trails alike make up the long stretch’s run, some of which were made with donations.

You can easily get to the Bikeway of the trail from the downtown portion of the city, and it’s up to you whether you want to head east or west.

You can bring your own bike or rent one from the many waiting shops.

Access points and maps can all be found on the website for the Tahoe-Pyramid Bikeway.

Traveling along it is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable free things to do in Reno!

The trail itself was first devised by Janet Phillips, who was a city official, and she spent two decades running promotional campaigns and advocating for this interesting and unique, fun trail.

The bikeway has five different sections, each with their own difficulty levels.

If you plan to bike the whole trail as one of your activities, make sure you’re ready to really rough it out!

Address: Mystic Rd, Floriston, CA 96111, United States

21. National Automobile Museum

The National Automobile Museum is one of the must-see Reno attractions for any car or vehicle enthusiast.

This Nevada museum has everything from race cars to carriages to those once owned by celebrities!

It houses more than 200 different cars, with some dating all the way back to the 19th century, and plenty of famous and well-loved automobiles that you may recognize.

Among the cars, you’ll spot a Mercury Series 9CM from the year 1949 – the one driven heartthrob actor James Dean himself in his movie Rebel Without A Cause.

You’ll also meet the Thomas Flyer, which is the car responsible for taking home first place in the around-the-world race of 1908.

Of course, one of the museum’s most interesting items is the Dymaxion Car, designed by Buckminster Fuller as one of his dymaxion inventions – which stands for dynamic maximum tension.

The car was designed specifically to improve the state of humanity and looks very unique, with Isamu Noguchi, the sculptor, aiding in creating an aerodynamic appearance that looks like it was ripped right out of the year 3000.

The vehicle in question has a teardrop shape, with room for 11 passengers carried on three wheels.

Its gas mileage totals 30 per gallon and it can travel up to 90 miles per hour.

Sadly, bad PR ruined the car’s reputation, as a fatal car accident involving one of its prototypes was broadcasted for all curing the Chicago World’s Fair of 1933, even though another car was to blame.

A total of four prototypes – one destroyed, one lost, one in this museum, and one remade in 2010 – were ever made.

Address: 10 South Lake St, Reno, NV 89501, United States

22. Sierra Safari Zoo

The Sierra Safari Zoo is a fun place to go if you’re around Reno, especially if you have kids in tow and have your travel hacks in order!

It originally opened in the 1980s and has since grown into the biggest zoo in Nevada.

A lot of the animals it houses come from the city or state, but many more are also from all across the world.

Visitors can enjoy the diverse range of animals living happily in their showcases.

There are primates, wild cats, reptiles, and more.

There are also a number of aquariums featuring marine life of all kinds and a very popular dolphinarium where you can catch glimpses of the intelligent and adorable marine mammals.

All in all, visiting the Sierra Safari Zoo is certainly among the top things to do while you’re in this city.

Whether you’re bringing along kids or just want to see the lovely animals yourself, it’s a great place to go!

Address: 10200 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89506, United States

23. Basecamp

Basecamp is rather interesting and unique among points of interest that you can find in downtown Reno.

It is located at the Whitney Peak Hotel and is the tallest – and perhaps the best – artificial wall for rock-climbing in not just Nevada, but the whole world.

It’s in the Guinness Book of World Records and reaches a 164-foot height.

The wall is great for both experienced climbers and newbies to the sport, and the wall is often seen as a challenge to scale even in a multi-pitch fashion.

It’s open late after dark, often until 10pm, when the bright lights of its surroundings light it up in an ethereal fashion.

The wall also has some great views, including the iconic Reno Arch (which we’ll talk even more about later!).

If you like, you can also attempt their speed wall, which is certified and measures 15-meters.

For a harness-free experience, head indoors to Basecamp’s bouldering area, which is full of artificial rocks and requires no harness to climb.

You can buy a full-day pass with gear for $22 for grown-ups while children pay $12, and if you stay at the hotel, you get a discount!

Who knows? You might just become one of the establishment’s 500 regular visitors!

Address: 255 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89501, United States

24. Natural Selection

Natural Selection isn’t your standard entertainment fare, but it is certainly worth dropping into while you’re in Reno.

This rustic, quaint, and charming store is full of greenery and a menagerie of taxidermied animals, interspersed by beautiful plants of all kinds.

This rather odd shop encourages you to look at, touch, and truly experience all its strange and unique display items.

There are succulents, bones, carnivorous plants, moss balls, preserved insects, small fossils, minerals, and more among the taxidermy.

Natural Selection is run by Emily Felch and her daughter.

Emily developed a love for taxidermy when she was very young, and today, she stocks the store with ethically sourced specimens only.

She also has great respect for each animal and tries to learn about their history, and she and her daughter hope that the shop will encourage others to be respectful of nature.

Address: 39 St Lawrence Ave, Reno, NV 89509, United States

25. Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum

Visiting the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum is one of the most fun things to do in Reno, especially if you have kids!

It is a science center that spans 67,000 square feet and offers tons of hands-on exhibits of all kinds.

Located in the downtown area of Reno, there’s no end to the exciting things that can be done here.

Kids at the museum can take part in many different games.

They can explore mineshafts and caves shrouded in mystery.

They can scramble up three stories to get among the clouds in the Cloud Climber.

They can visit the past and the future of engineering, technology, science, math, and more as much as they want and learn about construction, destruction, paleontology, history, zoology, science, astronomy, and more.

Many children especially enjoy Da Vinci’s Corner, an 80-foot long interactive replica of the Truckee River, the invention-encouraging Spark!Lab Smithsonian, a human anatomy experience, a night gallery, and more.

They can watch live performances, visit The Shop, join a day camp, view permanent, rotating, and interactive exhibits, or take part in a special event.

This whimsical museum first opened in 2012 and has since become an incredible spot for children to have the greatest day ever.

There’s no end to what your child may learn and discover here!

Address: 490 S Center St, Reno, NV 89501, United States

26. The Eldorado

Once again, we’re pivoting to the standard entertainment fare for adults that you can get at night: a famed casino known as The Eldorado.

It first opened in the 1970s and has become a staple of the city, maintaining much of its old-fashioned period opulence till now.

It is decked out in numerous bright lights and looks simply incredible – just what you’d expect from a building named after the lost city of gold!

The casino is well-equipped with slot machines, table games, sports betting, and more.

Within the hotel grounds, there are more than 10 different dining establishments, including restaurants, bars, and cafes, some of which are award-winning.

There are tournaments held for hard-going gamblers, as well as credit application options from plenty of friendly casino hosts.

Not much for gambling? You can still have some fun at the Eldorado this weekend!

There may be live concerts, events, and more happening depending on the time, and it’s also just a lovely place to go for its sheer atmosphere.

You can also just stay at the Eldorado, which has “best room” list-topping accommodations galore.

Don’t forget to stop by the theatre, too, which showcases Broadway-style performances.

Address: 345 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89501, United States

27. Galena Creek Park

If you’re looking for places to visit that evoke serenity and peace, the Galena Creek Park is among the best that you can find in Reno.

It is located next to another calming Nevada location, the Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest.

Throughout the park, you’ll be able to find miles and miles of different trails, some of which enter the forest and lead you back out again.

You can go on horse trails, hiking trails, or bicycle trails to explore all the different areas and ecosystems that the park showcases, including high desert, Alpine, and more.

If you like, you can stop by the park’s Visitor Center to learn interesting facts regarding the different flora and fauna you’ll find in the park, whether they be insects, birds, plants, or mammals.

If you go at the right time, there may be special children’s events like summer camps or science camps happening.

Address: 18350 Mt. Rose Highway, Reno, NV 89511, United States

28. Peavine Peak

Peavine Peak is famed for being the highest peak in the Peavine Mountain range, and it serves as one of the most iconic and loved sights and locations in all of Reno, so it’s definitely one of the places to see while you’re in this Nevada city.

The mountain range earned its name from the many, many pea vines that flourish in the area.

The Peavine area is packed with archaeological sites, evidently left behind by Northern Paiute and Washo tribes.

In recent times, it has become a common draw for tourists in Reno thanks to the different geographies and terrains that pose challenges to hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

There is no shortage of what to do while you’re here.

Explore using off-road vehicles, hike through trails, and enjoy the wonders of nature.

The Peavine Peak Trail itself is a looping one that measures approximately 8.9 miles, and it’s perfect for bird watching, nature treks, or just good old-fashioned hiking.

It brings you through a 2,600 feet upward climb into the sky to the two peaks, both of which are over 8,100 feet in height.

The climb is exhausting but rewarding.

Once you reach your goals, you’ll be greeted by Verdi Peak, Mount Rose, and Truckee River Valley views, and you will even be able to see the bright city lights and casinos from the city.

29. Sparks Heritage Museum and Last Chance Joe

The Sparks Heritage Museum is one of the top most fascinating historical sites to visit in Reno.

It covers 4,000 square feet indoors for exhibit room.

It tells the tales of the state and this city, giving you insight into mining, ranching, immigrant settlers, and more.

The museum provides visitors with a unique look into the past of Truckee Meadows and Sparks.

It shows the use of permanent indoor exhibits, large rotating outdoor exhibits, dioramas, reproduction buildings, artifacts, materials, railroad items, an immigrant-built railroad bridge, a memorial, a Pullman car, and a steam engine.

There is also an additional fun attraction known as Last Chance Joe, which is a gigantic statue of a cartoon character prospector and cowboy.

He was actually originally made by Roscoe E. “Duke” Reading for Last Chance Café and its owner, Richard L. “Dick” Graves.

After many successful casino businesses, Dick gave character rights to Duke and Last Chance Joe became best selling toys for a toy manufacturing company.

This huge figure was attached to the front of one of the casinos owned by Graves in 1957, but when new owners took over in 2014, they planned to have the figure removed.

Then the citizens of Sparks fought back against the destruction of what was now a beloved fictional icon to them, and the statue found its way to Sparks Heritage Museum.

Address: 814 Victorian Ave, Sparks, NV 89431, United States

30. Reno Arch

The Reno Arch is situated over Commercial Row and Virginia Street in this city, and it’s so iconic that if you’re looking for what to see while you’re here on vacation, you absolutely can’t leave it out of your plans!

The arch was first erected in 1926 as a tribute to the Nevada Transcontinental Highway Exposition, and it has since moved location twice before coming to rest here in the downtown area.

A city slogan competition was held shortly after its creation, where the famed slogan for the city was made: The Biggest Little City In The World.

In order to be more environmentally friendly, the city decided to swap the incandescent light bulbs used for the landmark – all 2,076 of them! – to LEDs in 2009.

Now, these lights change regularly, in tune with the city and its happenings, events, and seasons.

This arch is among the best photo opportunities in the country, and it’s among the world’s most commonly photographed structures of all time.

As such, it’s only right that you stop by, even just to see it in person as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Address: 155 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89501, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Reno

No matter what you want to do while you’re in this Nevada city, there’s sure to be fun things to do in Reno that cater to your preferences!

There’s no shortage of cool things to do in this amazing city.

With all the options that you have, you can cater your journey to your tastes, whether your order history, nightlife, nature, art, or oddities.

Hopefully, this list of the best and most loved tourist attractions that this city has to offer will help you plan your vacation, whether you’re going today, next week, or next year!