This little city with big entertainment is a playful, spirited place with as much to do outdoors as inside. Here, you can hit the slopes or the links (there are 50 golf courses). As for nightlife, Reno overflows with options. Head to a saloon, go on a themed bar crawl or try some Latin dancing at one of many clubs, where closing time is flexible. Shop the bargains at the Outlets at Sparks or get yourself to The Summit, an open-air lifestyle and shopping plaza. From downtown entertainment to white-water rafting on the Truckee River, Reno’s diversions all have excitement in common.

The Riverwalk District

Set along the Truckee River, Reno’s revitalized downtown is bursting with activity. This pretty shopping, eating and entertainment area has plenty of green spaces and a well-maintained bike path (and offers bike tours, too). Find intimate Italian dining, Irish pubs and upscale lounges for cocktails. Shop the boutiques or explore several art galleries. See live theater, catch a show at the Reno-Tahoe Comedy Theater or settle in for a more dramatic performance at Pioneer Center for Performing Arts.

 

Attractions of Note

Animal Ark, a wildlife sanctuary, hosts lots of family-friendly events and has cheetahs, bears, birds of prey and other exotics. At Sierra Safari Zoo, you’ll see everything from tigers to parrots. If classic cars are more your thing, take a day to visit the 220 on display at the National Automobile Museum, which also hosts scavenger hunts for younger car enthusiasts. The Wilbur D. May Center, named after a Reno adventurer and philanthropist, has an arboretum, botanical gardens and museum featuring art and artifacts picked up from May’s 40 trips around the world. To get a real sense of Reno urban culture, head to MidTown District, where you’ll find funky indie stores, artisanal shops and plenty of innovative dining.

 

Mountain Adventures and Resort Fun

The Sierra Nevada Mountains are never far away, promising lots of rugged alpine fun when you’re done enjoying the city. Peavine Peak, the most prominent on the skyline, rises 1,158 meters over Reno. Its two summits can be hiked or biked. Otherwise, take in the landscape by horseback riding, hang gliding or hot-air ballooning. The Truckee River, Lake Tahoe’s only offset, is perfect for white-water rafting, kayaking and fly-fishing. If you’re visiting in winter, 15 ski areas are accessible from many area ski resorts. As resorts go, Reno has plenty, including Atlantis, Harrah’s and Sands Regency, all of which offer great dining, fabulous spas and lots of nightlife.

Credit: Visit The USA