7 Perfect Days in Reno and Beyond

Reno may have earned its nickname as “The Biggest Little City in the World” for gambling, quick divorces, and neon lights, but spend a week here and you’ll see there’s so much more. Nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada, Reno is a city with a colorful past, a lively present, and endless adventures waiting just beyond its borders. I recently spent seven days exploring Reno and its surroundings—and came away completely charmed.

Day 1: Dive Into Reno’s Colorful History

Reno’s early history is as vibrant as its neon signs. In the 1920s through the 1950s, it was the divorce capital of America. People would flock here to take up the mandatory six-week residency (staying in ranches on the outskirts of town) before they could file for what was then considered a scandalously quick divorce. Later, Reno became a gambling hot spot—flashier Vegas stole the crown, but Reno still has its casinos, and if you enjoy a flutter, you’ll find plenty of options.

But Reno’s history isn’t just about cards and divorces. I spent my first day exploring some of the city’s heritage spots:

• National Automobile Museum – A remarkable collection of classic cars, from celebrity-owned convertibles to antique horseless carriages. Even if you’re not a gearhead, it’s fascinating.

• Historic Riverside Hotel – Once a divorce ranch, later a hotel, and now apartments. Standing by the Truckee River, it’s a symbol of Reno’s ever-changing identity.

• Nevada Historical Society – A treasure trove of exhibits on everything from Native American history to the divorce trade.

Day 2: Strolling Downtown and Quirky Stops

Downtown Reno has grit, charm, and a quirky undercurrent. I wandered along the Truckee Riverwalk, where art sculptures line the water and locals sip coffee at riverside cafés. Don’t miss:

• The Reno Arch – Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s iconic. You can’t come to Reno and not get a photo under those famous words.

• The Basement – A collection of indie shops and eateries tucked under the historic post office. I found everything from handmade jewelry to artisan ice cream.

• Midtown Murals – Midtown has blossomed into Reno’s arts district, and its colorful street murals make for a fun, meandering afternoon.

Day 3: Gentle Hikes Near Reno

Reno is surrounded by natural beauty, and I made time for gentle hikes that offered big views without requiring a sherpa. My favorites:

• Hunter Creek Trail – A moderate but very doable hike along a shaded creek to a small waterfall. Just enough effort for a satisfying reward.

• Rancho San Rafael Park – A lovely city park with wide trails, desert gardens, and views of the mountains. Easy to wander without breaking a sweat.

• Galena Creek Regional Park – Gentle wooded trails, fragrant pines, and plenty of picnic spots.

Day 4: Quirky and Offbeat Reno

I love discovering the offbeat, and Reno doesn’t disappoint. A few oddball gems worth exploring:

• The Reno Rodeo Cattle Drive Monument – A massive bronze sculpture that pays tribute to Reno’s cowboy spirit.

• Wilbur D. May Museum & Arboretum – May was a wealthy eccentric who traveled the world, and his museum is packed with everything from African tribal masks to Egyptian artifacts. Outside, the arboretum is a peaceful, flower-filled retreat.

• Neon Line District – A newer development showcasing restored neon signs from old casinos and motels. It’s like stepping back into vintage Reno.

Day 5: Eating Around Reno

Foodies will be pleasantly surprised here. I sampled five diverse restaurants that truly highlight Reno’s eclectic palate:

1. Campo – On the riverfront, with wood-fired pizzas and fresh Italian dishes that felt both rustic and refined.

2. Great Full Gardens – A healthy, cheerful spot for locally sourced bowls, wraps, and smoothies.

3. Louis’ Basque Corner – A Reno institution, serving hearty family-style Basque meals with garlic soup, oxtail stew, and plenty of wine.

4. Süp – A casual café serving rotating gourmet soups, fresh salads, and sandwiches. Comfort food with flair.

5. Pignic Pub & Patio – Quirky, laid-back, and fun, with great barbecue and local beers on tap.

Day 6: A Day at Lake Tahoe (Summer)

Reno is just 45 minutes from Lake Tahoe, and no trip here is complete without a day at the lake. In summer, I drove up the winding mountain roads and was rewarded with turquoise waters that look almost tropical. My day at Tahoe included:

• A dip in the lake at Sand Harbor Beach, with its soft sand and clear water.

• Renting a kayak to paddle among the granite boulders.

• A scenic drive around the lake, stopping for ice cream in Kings Beach and photo ops at Emerald Bay.

• Dinner on a deck in Incline Village, watching the sunset paint the water pink and gold.

Day 7: Winter in Tahoe

If you’re visiting in winter, Tahoe transforms into a snowy wonderland. Ski resorts like Northstar and Heavenly are within easy reach, offering everything from beginner runs to challenging slopes. If skiing isn’t your thing, there’s snowshoeing, cozy firelit lodges, and even sleigh rides. I spent one winter day tubing on gentle hills before warming up with hot chocolate by a roaring lodge fire—it was pure mountain magic.

Insider Tips

• Best time to visit – Late spring and early fall are ideal. Summer weekends can be packed, while winter is wonderful if you’re prepared for snow and ski traffic.

• Where locals go – The Truckee River Whitewater Park downtown is a favorite hangout in summer. Bring a picnic, watch kayakers, or just soak up the sunshine.

• Hidden gem – Just outside of Reno, Virginia City is a preserved Old West mining town where wooden sidewalks creak underfoot and saloons still serve sarsaparilla. It’s kitschy, yes, but delightfully so.

• Parking & getting around – Downtown has plenty of garages, but if you’re staying central, walking along the Riverwalk and Midtown is half the fun. For Tahoe, always check weather and chain requirements in winter.

• Pack layers – Reno’s high desert climate means warm sunny days and surprisingly chilly evenings, even in summer.

Final Thoughts

Reno is far more than slot machines and neon signs. It’s a city with a colorful past, a growing arts scene, quirky surprises, and quick access to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the West. Whether you’re strolling downtown, eating Basque cuisine, hiking to a waterfall, or basking by the shores of Lake Tahoe, Reno rewards those who look beyond the casino floors.

After seven days here, I left with the distinct feeling that Reno doesn’t need to be the “Biggest Little City” anymore—it’s simply a city worth knowing.