Close your eyes and think about the city of Reno. What do you see?
If you’re like most folks, you’ll probably think of casinos, the sign for the “Biggest Little City in the World,” or maybe some desert surrounding town.
But did you know that the city of Reno has grown far beyond its little brother to Vegas days?
In recent years, visitors to this town on the northwestern edge of Nevada have discovered what locals have always known yet managed to keep pretty quiet. That Reno is a gateway to adventure.
Here, you can spend the day carving turns in the snow at Mt. Rose, tossing a line in the Truckee River, or paddling on crystal-clear waters at Lake Tahoe and still have plenty of time to come back to town for an evening of entertainment and fine dining.
How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Reno
If you’re looking to spend the perfect weekend in Reno, Nevada, then here are our recommendations for the best places to eat, stay, and play.
What To Do
Kick Back at the Spa
What better way is there to spend a relaxing weekend away than at the spa? Luckily for you, Reno is home to some incredible spas that will pamper you in a way that you didn’t think was possible. Our favorite spa in town is at the Atlantis Resort.
As one of just over 200 spas worldwide to hold a four-star distinction from Forbes Travel Guide, you know you’ll be stepping into a world of luxury and relaxation during your visit, with an aqua lounge, steam room, sauna, and relaxation room, there are plenty of places to kick back while waiting for your spa service.
Float the River
Floating the Truckee River is a rite of passage for residents of Reno. The approximately two-hour float into town will take you over small rapids, past sometimes submerged and sometimes not-so-submerged rocks (the river level fluctuates throughout the summer), and along tranquil stretches where you can lay back and soak in the desert sun.
Luckily for visitors, you don’t need to lug a tube in your suitcase. There are local companies that will get you set up with a high-quality tube (cheap inner tubes will almost definitely pop on the river rocks) and shuttle you back to the start, so you don’t have to worry about shuttling two cars.
Ride the steam train in Virginia City
Just 30 minutes from Reno is the historic mining town of Virginia City. Spend an afternoon taking in the sights of what life was like for miners back in the 1800s by visiting the saloons, shops, and hotels.
To really cap off the experience, book a ride on the V&T Railroad. This short-line railway is one of the most famous in the country, and visitors can experience the thrill of train travel behind an antique steam engine on their 35-minute excursions.
Paddle (or ski!) at Lake Tahoe
No trip to Reno is complete without taking a drive up the hill to Lake Tahoe. This mountain destination is filled with activities for outdoor lovers of all types.
During the winter, you can carve turns at the numerous ski resorts that dot the mountains surrounding the lake. The closest option to Reno is Mt. Rose, which sits only 30 minutes from downtown!
During the summer months, rent a paddleboard and explore the lake’s crystal clear waters, or hit the mountain bike trails and explore this stunning region.
Where to Stay
Reno is known for its casino resorts, but those aren’t the only game in town. Here are our favorite places to stay in the biggest little city.
Peppermill Resort
Ask any local where to stay in Reno, and 99% of the time, the answer will be the Peppermill. The hotel is nice, the pool outside is even nicer, and the resort has plenty of things to do to keep the whole family entertained.
If you are bringing the kids, don’t miss the game room, which is filled to the brim with arcade games, both new and old.
Atlantis Casino Resort
For a couple’s getaway it is hard to beat the Atlantis. With a world-class spa, a wonderful sushi restaurant, a pools and cabanas perfect for lounging the day away you can’t go wrong here.
Whitney Peak Hotel
If a stay at one of the casino resorts isn’t your thing, then look to the Whitney Peak Hotel, which puts you right in the center of downtown Reno. From the hotel, it’s only a couple of blocks to the Truckee River and Riverwalk, as well as the famous Reno arch.
Where to Eat
Visitors to Reno are often surprised by the impressive variety of food options in town. If you’re looking for the classic casino prime rib buffet you can certainly find them but the best eats are located outside the casinos.
101 Taiwanese
This downtown stop serves up authentic Taiwanese food and is a local favorite for its street dish-style plates.
Oyster & Sushi Bar on Sky Terrace
One of the most popular AYCE (All You Can Eat) sushi spots in town is located within the Atlantis Resort. The sushi is top-notch for the price.
Midtown Taco Shop
If you’re not a fan of cheeseburger tacos, you will be after a visit to the Midtown Taco Shop. The best part is that a visit here gets you out of the hustle of downtown and into a more local neighborhood.
R Town Pizza
R Town Pizza may not win the award for the best ambiance as it is located in a strip mall by the airport. But once you’re staring at one of their Detroit-style pizzas, you’ll forget all about the location.
