The name Reno suggests casino gaming, celebrity performances, and 24 hour entertainment. High wire artists entertain nightly as do the country's top comics. Guests can watch live elephants perform and can dance into the early morning hours to the beat of their favorite rock group. A variety of activities are available around the clock, but the most spectacular events require no advance bookings. They are the sunrises and sunsets which are exhibited daily against the backdrop of the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. The colors of the mountains and the sky are beyond description. They leave the viewer breathless with wonder, and with a feeling of exhilaration at the same time. Even the most ardent devotee of western films shot on location, is amazed at the first sight of the "real thing." The camera lens has not been able to capture the essence of the profound beauty of these masterpieces of nature.
Exploring the Reno area takes patience of a kind that, once practiced, can yield tremendous benefits to the traveler. Much of our 21st century family travel involves attendance at mega attractions where the only thing standing between the visitor and a total assault on the senses via Imax, theme rides, and action figures is an hour or two of waiting in line for admission. The Reno experience is entirely different!
It begins with the approach to the city rising out of the desert. Prepare ahead of time for what will be a journey through land that was once at the bottom of an inland sea. Look around for the fertile farms, the snow capped mountain peaks, the lush valleys. Watch for the herds of wild horses and for the families of tortoises making their deliberate way. Stop at a park for a picnic and discover pines, firs, and wild strawberries. Enter into the spirit of the wild west by visiting Ponderosa Ranch in Incline Village and recalling the drama of episodes of the Bonanza TV show.
The main route across Nevada, I-80, runs from Salt Lake City to Reno, skirting dozens of small towns with names like Winnemucca, Elko, and Battle Mountain. The other main route, US 50, is older and slower than I-80, but highly rated in terms of scenic beauty. It follows much the same route as did the riders of the Pony Express in the 1860s. Many of the towns along it have faded away, and some have been entirely abandoned. Yet, these pioneers made their mark, and the imagination is stirred by memories of their accomplishments. Take a day trip to Carson City, the state capitol of Nevada. There you will find the Nevada Railroad Museum. Visit the Stewart Indian Museum or take the walking tour and see all the historic buildings. There is a wide choice of restaurants and lots of shopping. US 50 comes into Carson City as Williams Street.
From there it joins I-80 at Reno, and then veers off to the southwest to circle magnificent Lake Tahoe. The view of Lake Tahoe as approached from the mountain is incredible! If peaceful sight-seeing is your desire, you might want to venture out for the 72 mile drive around Lake Tahoe. Summer is the best time for this, as snow blocks some of the roads at other times of the year. On the drive, the diversity of the area is apparent. Snow capped mountain ranges (some peaks are 14.000 feet high) rise above magnificent beaches, and enclaves of multi-million dollar homes. Lake Tahoe offers a variety of winter sports such as alpine skiing and snowboarding, ice skating, cross-country skiing and dog sled rides. There is horseback riding, gambling, cruises on Lake Tahoe, and a chance to ride the cable car to the top of Squaw Valley.
Virginia City, not far from Tahoe, is an unusual place, and still has some musty corners that evoke its heyday, when it was far larger and a history-making mining town. Virginia City is on the side of a mountain, and elevated, providing a great view of the desert and surrounding hills.
One last main route, US-95, links Reno and Las Vegas, passing near Death Valley as well as Nevada's best known ghost town, Goldfield.
If you fly to Reno, a car won't be necessary in town. Everything is within a few blocks as far as casinos go. The casinos on the outskirts of town have shuttle service every half hour at no charge. For fun for the whole family, take a trip to Circus Circus Midway Stage. Young and old alike get caught up in the excitement of the carnival style arcade at the Midway where there is a chance to win stuffed toy animals and other prizes at the more than 30 games available. Wild Island Family Adventure Park, has eight water adventures, two miniature golf courses and a variety of racetracks in its Formula K Raceway.
In order to take advantage of the many outlet stores and do a little sightseeing around the area, rent a car for a day or two and explore. Reno is a beautiful city with much to see and do. It extends out toward the smaller city of Sparks. Reno and Sparks are one continuous urban area, but Sparks has its own separate character. Established in 1901 as a railroad maintenance depot, residents and businesses of Victorian Square in Sparks have created a turn-of-the century atmosphere with Victorian storefronts and a gazebo highlighting an entire area of shops, casinos and restaurants for visitors who enjoy the old time appeal.
The recent census reported an increase of over 23 percent in the population of Reno in the last ten years! The Biggest Little City in the World is, understandably, continuing to grow.
Since Reno and Sparks get much less snow than the Lake Tahoe Basin (usually not more than a total of two feet for the whole winter season), it's not unusual to play golf in Reno or Sparks and ski in the nearby mountains in the same day.
Today Reno is considered by many to be America's most complete vacation destination. The area's unique combination of indoor and outdoor attractions draws visitors from around the world.
Animal Ark 1265 Deerlodge Rd., Reno take U.S. Highway 395 north to the Red Rock Road exit, turn north on Red Rock Road and drive 11.5 miles to Deerlodge, turn right and continue for 1 mile. (775) 969-3111 The Ark is open daily from 10 - 4:30 April 1 - October 31. Admission charged Animal Ark is a wildlife sanctuary and nature center that shelters animals that don't have the skills to survive on their own. Disabled and orphaned animals such as gray wolves, bobcats, bears, snow leopards and Arctic foxes live in natural surroundings at the Ark. Aside from the animals, the educational displays scattered around the grounds make it an especially appealing learning experience for children. Although most people can't own a wild animal as a pet, they can do the next thing by adopting one at the Ark. Through their adoption program, they can help pay for the care and feeding of such residents as Mignon, the kit fox, or Shere Khan, the tiger, or Whoopi, the peregrine falcon.
Circus Circus Midway Stage 500 N. Sierra St., Reno, Nev. (800) 648-5010 When Circus Circus Hotel/Casino opened in Reno in 1978, casino patrons were astonished to see trapeze artists and high-wire walkers performing right above their heads as they placed their table bets and pulled the handles of slot machines. The age of the total entertainment concept had been born, complete with an enormous clown as a logo and a pink-and-white-striped circus tent enveloping portions of the building. Although structural changes during the years have made the circus acts less visible from the casino floor, they can be optimally viewed from the Midway section of the casino. Young and old alike are drawn to the carnival-style arcade at the Midway where they can win stuffed toy animals and other prizes at the more than 30 games available. The circus acts are free and can be seen daily throughout the year from 11 AM to midnight.
Fleischmann Planetarium 1650 N. Virginia St., Reno, Nev. (775) 784-4812 the telescope of the public observatory is available on clear Friday nights throughout the year from 8:30 to 9:30 PM. Admission to the museum, gift shop and observatory is free. There is an admission charge at the Theater. The building is open Monday through Friday, except holidays, from 8 - 8 . call for listings and schedule. Located on a knoll overlooking the campus of the University of Nevada, Reno, Fleischmann Planetarium looks like a saucer-shaped spaceship that has just touched down. Its curious shape is actually a hyperbolic paraboloid canopy that covers the elliptical interior of the building. Inside you can see all three meteorites found within Nevada, or find out what your real weight would be on the planet Venus, or see how a black hole acts in space. These and many other exhibits are on display in the Astronomical Museum. For many visitors, the real space experience takes place in the domed theater on the lower level where you can see spectacular films about nature and the universe. Lean back and relax in the reclining loge chairs while the show unfolds all around you on the Skydome 8/70 screen
Mining Machine at Silver Legacy Resort Casino 407 N. Virginia St., Reno, Nev. (775) 329-4777, (800) 687-8733 Admission is free. Showcasing Nevada's silver mining heritage, the automated mining machine at Silver Legacy Resort Casino is a working model of how ore might have been processed in the 1800s. Towering 120 feet above the main casino floor, the machine is continuously in motion with pumping bellows, steam engines and running ore wagons. Designed so that human hands wouldn't touch the metal throughout the process, the finished product is coins spewing out near the Silver Baron's Bar and Lounge. Although the resort created a fictitious tale of a miner named Sam Fairchild to explain the development of the machine, it doesn't have to be historically accurate to be appreciated. From an engineering standpoint alone, it's fascinating to see all the parts working together. >From noon - 11 Ppm daily, the dome is the backdrop for the Legend of the Legacy Laser Show, a spectacular, but also whimsical production of how the West was won, Reno-style.
Mount Rose Highway Nev. Hwy. 431, from Reno to Incline Village, Nev. In Reno take U.S. 395 south to the junction of Nev. Highway 431 (Mount Rose Highway) and follow the signs to North Shore Lake Tahoe. Beginning at an elevation of 4,498 feet, the road gradually climbs for a few miles through the desert on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada mountains. But at about 6,000 feet in elevation, the terrain changes dramatically from high desert to alpine forest. Huge conifer and red fir trees dominate the landscape as the road begins to twist and turn toward the summit. As you climb higher, you are treated with magnificent views of Reno and Sparks to the north and Washoe Lake to the south. Near the summit is the Mount Rose-Ski Tahoe ski resort with a base elevation of 8,260 feet. You are rewarded with your first glimpse of Lake Tahoe several miles farther as you pass the sign that reads, "Mt. Rose Summit, Elevation 8,900, Highest Year-Round Sierra Pass." Surrounded by snowcapped peaks, the size and beauty of the lake can take your breath away. As the road descends to lake level at 6,225 feet you'll drive through the Tahoe Meadows, an alpine paradise for hikers, skiers and snowmobilersThe road is narrow and dropoffs on the sides can be very steep. Since driving in the mountains in winter can be hazardous, it is always wise to call ahead for road conditions. For the most updated information on Nevada roads call (775) 793-1313.
National Automobile Museum 10 Lake St., Reno, Nev. (775) 333-9300 Housing the most comprehensive public display of cars in the western hemisphere, the museum presents a singular history of the automobile and its role in American society. Four authentic street scenes representing each quarter of the 20th century take visitors back in time to experience American history. The real-life scenes are complete with the cars, architecture and memorabilia of the eras. On Turn-of-the-Century Street you can see a realistic blacksmith's shop, illustrating the gradual change in transportation from horses to cars. On the 1930s Street you can watch Milton Berle and Ronald Reagan on a vintage television set. Adjoining galleries contain the remainder of the more than 200 antique, vintage, classic and special interest cars in the collection. Of particular interest to many visitors are the cars previously owned by celebrities, such as Elvis Presley's 1973 Cadillac Eldorado Coupe, John Wayne's 1953 Corvette and James Dean's 1949 Mercury.
National Bowling Stadium 300 N. Center St., Reno, Nev. (775) 334-2695 Described by the American Bowling Congress as the "Taj Mahal of tenpins," the National Bowling Stadium is the world's largest bowling facility. Used primarily for ABC and other tournaments, this ultramodern stadium has 80 Brunswick lanes and state-of-the-art scoring equipment and acoustics.
Nevada Historical Society 1650 N. Virginia St., Reno, Nev. (775) 688-1190 Monday - Friday from 10- 5 and the library is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 4. Admission to the museum is charged for adults. As Nevada's oldest museum, the Nevada Historical Society provides ongoing support and preservation for the state's fabulous heritage. In its newly renovated building near the Fleischmann Planetarium, you can take a walk on the historical side through fascinating displays of how such things as mining, gaming, ranching and various ethnic groups molded the state's unique society. Of special interest is the million-dollar exhibit of rare baskets made by famous Washoe basket maker, Dat-So-La-Lee. There is also a diarama of a typical general store, complete with all the goods stocking the shelves.
Pyramid Lake Take a drive out to Pyramid Lake, roughly 26 miles north of Reno on a fast road (no mountain roads with twists and turns to negotiate). It's a vestige of Lake Lahontan, an ancient lake that filled much of northern Nevada a very long time ago. It is spectacular, and a great contrast to Tahoe because it is a desert lake. It's a thrill to experience the vista into which the road curves just before it descends to the lakeshore.
Reno Arch N. Virginia St. and Commercial Row, Reno, Nev. Blazing with 800 feet of neon tubing and 1,600 lights, it welcomes visitors in grand style to "The Biggest Little City in the World." The slogan was the result of a 1929 contest conducted by the mayor to publicize the city. The slogan stuck and the Arch has been the identifying landmark for Reno ever since. It has been redesigned and replaced several times; the present structure was erected in 1987. An older arch constructed mainly of steel and lit with neon is at 10 Lake Street next to the National Automobile Museum.
Reno Tahoe Gaming Academy 215 S. Wells Ave., Reno, Nev. (775) 329-5665 Visitors are welcome after 1 PM Monday -Thursday throughout the year, but are requested to call ahead for reservations. Do you want to play craps, 21, roulette or poker, but don't have a clue how to place a bet or what the rules of the games are? For a fee and two hours of your time, you can learn the basics behind the scenes where dealers are trained. At the Reno Tahoe Gaming Academy, student trainees practice newly acquired skills in game settings (putting just chips, not money, on the line). Under the supervision of the training director, visitors can learn to play in a comfortable, risk-free environment. Then, armed with the strategies of the games, you can hit the casino tables with more than just your pocketbook and a desire to win.
Sierra Safari Zoo 10200 N. Virginia St., Reno, Nev. (775) 677-1101 take the Red Rock Road Exit off U.S. 395 about 8 miles north of Reno. Turn left and go underneath the underpass to the second road and then turn left again. Daily April - October 10 - 5 Admission charged. Nestled at the base of Peavine Mountain, the zoo offers a rare "up-close and personal" opportunity to interact with more than 200 exotic animals, all in a natural setting.Free to roam behind security fences, most of the animals have been born and raised in captivity. Many are exceptionally gentle and tolerant to human touch. Visitors can view 40 different species from around the world, including muntjacks (deer from India), rheas (flightless birds from Argentina), audads (sheep from the Middle East) and servals (cats from the African savannas). Children especially enjoy the petting section of the zoo, where they can wander among the animals to pet and feed them. Dedicated to the propagation and preservation of animals, the zoo is nonprofit and staffed almost entirely by volunteers. Zoo workers have named all the animals, such as Elvira, the North American alligator who is affectionately known as "the lizard with an attitude."
The Wilbur May Center 1502 Washington St., Reno, Nev. (775) 785-5961 The Wilbur May Center in Rancho San Rafael Park has something for everyone. It's a museum, an arboretum and an adventure park. The son of David May, founder of the May Department Stores Company, Wilbur D. May lived in Reno from 1936 until his death in 1982. A philanthropist dedicated to the welfare of children, Wilbur D. May's legacy lives on through the foundation that built and maintains the center. Designed as a comfortable ranch-style home, the Wilbur D. May Museum showcases May's eclectic collection of memorabilia gathered from his more than 40 trips around the world. An avid art and antique collector, May acquired such treasures as rare T'ang Dynasty pottery, primitive African artwork and Egyptian scarabsThe Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Garden contains pools, waterfalls and a xeriscape garden of plants indigenous to the high desert climate. Designed especially for children ages 2 through 12, the Wilbur D. May Great Basin Adventure has a petting zoo, pony rides and a log flume ride. Admission to the museum is charged. Hours are 10 AM until 5 PM Tuesday through Sunday during the summer and Wednesday through Sunday during the winter. The adventure park is open from 10 AM until 5 PM daily, except Monday, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Admission charged. There is no charge to view the botanical garden.
Truckee River Walk Arlington and Island aves., Reno, Nev. On its route from Lake Tahoe to Pyramid Lake, the Truckee River flows through Reno, bringing much-needed water to the desert environment. The river provides a fertile habitat for a wide variety of wildlife as well as a delightful place for residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors. One of the easiest ways to enjoy the river is to take the Truckee River Walk in either direction from Wingfield Park on Arlington and Island avenues. Heading west, the walk meanders past old Victorian homes shaded by huge elms and cottonwoods and then enters Idlewild Park with its rose garden, children's playland and ponds full of waterfowl. From here it continues on for several miles past Oxbow Park to Chrissie Caughlin Park on W. McCarran Boulevard. Going east through the business section of downtown, the path wanders through a variety of other small parks to finally end near Vista Boulevard east of Sparks. The distance from Chrissie Caughlin Park to Vista Boulevard is about 10 miles. As you walk along, look for the many birds that live here, such as flycatchers, mallards, belted kingfishers, hawks and Canada geese. And don't be surprised at the number of fishermen trying their luck, as the Truckee is considered a premium fishing stream. Bikes and RollerBlades are welcome on the path, but motorized vehicles are not. Dogs need to be leashed, and owners are expected to clean up after them.
Sparks
Sparks Museum 820 Victorian Ave., Sparks, Nev. (775) 355-1144 11- 4 Tuesday - Friday and 1 - 4 Saturday and Sunday. admission to the museum is free; donations are welcomed In 1904 Sparks was the busiest railroad terminal between Ogden, Utah, and Sacramento, California. Its location near the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains was strategic for the large steam engines that pulled trains over the mountain passes to the valleys in California. Much of the city's early history is tied to the railroad, including its nickname, Rail City. The Sparks Museum allows visitors to step back in time and experience those turn-of-the-century railroad days. Much of the memorabilia is railroad oriented, such as the model train collection that begins with the DeWitt Clinton and ends with the last of the steam-driven engines. Other displays include a barbershop with a collection of 200 razors and a full-sized Amish-type carriage, circa 1910. While the displays are not elaborate, history buffs will love the variety and attention to detail.
Victorian Square Victorian Ave., Sparks, Nev. take Interstate 80 east and exit on Rock Boulevard. Turn left on Rock and then right on Victorian Avenue. When the citizens of Sparks decided to revitalize their downtown area some years ago, they selected a colorful turn of the century theme appropriate to the Rail City's history. The result was Victorian Square, a four-block area featuring a bandstand gazebo, Victorian-style storefronts and streetlights, park benches, a fountain and a 14-screen movie theater complex. Also in keeping with the historical theme is the Glendale School at the east end of the square. Constructed in 1864 on a nearby ranch, it is the oldest remaining school building in Nevada. It was relocated to the square in 1993. Victorian Square is the place to be for special events, such as the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-off, Hot August Nights and the Hometowne Christmas.On Thursdays from June through September you can buy fresh produce and enjoy cooking demonstrations and musical events at the Hometowne Farmers Market 4 - 9 June through August and 4-8 in September.
Wild Island Family Adventure Park 250 Wild Island Ct., Sparks, Nev. (775) 359-2927 Wild Island Family Adventure Park has more than enough excitement to keep the family entertained all day long. With eight exciting water adventures, two miniature golf courses and a variety of racetracks in the Formula K Raceway, it's hard to decide which adventure to tackle first. Admission is charged. Hours are 10 AM until 5 PM Tuesday through Sunday during the summer and Wednesday through Sunday during the winter. The adventure park is open from 10 AM until 5 PM daily, except Monday, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Admission is charged. Children younger than 3 are admitted free. There is no charge to view the botanical garden.
Highlights: Hot August Nights (usually in early August), when rooms in some gaming resorts are sold out a year in advance; the Reno Rodeo, the last week of June; the Nevada State Fair, the third week of August; the Nugget Best in the West Rib Cook-off, Labor Day weekend; the National Championship Air Races, the Great Reno Balloon Race, Street Vibrations and the Virginia City International Camel Races in September; the National Senior Pro Rodeo Finals in November.
Veteran's Day Parade Downtown Reno 775-356-3176 November 11 The City of Reno has joined with the Veterans of Foreign Wars to offer the community a Veterans Day Parade along Virginia Street. Together, they are working to ensure this tribute to all veterans continues for many years. They encourage the participation of all organizations and groups to help honor Veterans on this special day.
Turkey Trot Sparks Marina Park 775-353-2291 November The City of Sparks invites you to burn off those extra helpings of mashed potatoes at this 10K run or 2-mile walk or run. Every registered participant will receive a Turkey Trot Sweatshirt.
Sparks Hometowne Christmas Victorian Square, Downtown Sparks 775-353-2291 December The 14th annual Christmas celebration featuring a parade, tree lighting, caroling, crafts, entertainment and food.
Reno's River Holiday Downtown Reno 775-334-2417 Thanksgiving weekwnd-Dec. 31 The holiday season officially gets underway with entertainment, children's activities, street performers, Christmas crafts, holiday lights, festival trees and the arrival of Santa.
ABC Senior Masters Bowling Tournament National Bowling Stadium 775-348-2232, 775-334-2600 January The prestigious annual Senior Masters Tournament features the best professional and amateur bowlers over fifty competing for a prize purse worth approximately $150,000.
PNA National Senior Mixed Doubles Bowling Tournament National Bowling Stadium 775-334-2600 January Top senior duos pair up and square off in this exciting tournament.
Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration John Ascuaga's Nugget Hotel Casino 800-648-1177 January A four day celebration honoring the birhtday of this civil rights leader. Highlights include a dinner with special guest speaker and entertainment.
Annual ABC Championships National Bowling Stadium 775-348-2232 February Professional and amateur bowlers from across the country return to Reno for four and a half months of bowling excitement.
St. Patrick's Day Celebration Fitzgerald's Casino Hotel, downtown Reno 775-785-3300 March A three-day celebration of all things Irish in the heart of downtown Reno. Traditional Irish food, live music and an arts and crafts fair are features of this annual event.
Pro Shuffleboard Tournament Sands Regency Hotel Casino 775-348-2232 March The Sands Regency Hotel Casino hosts the cream of the shuffleboard crop.
Reno Jazz Festival Various locations 775-784-4046 April The Annual Reno Jazz Festival hosts over 300 performances and clincis featuring the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, 40 jazz artists from around the nation, and approximately 280 middle school, high school and college groups from throughout the West.
Sparks Hometowne Farmers Market Victorian Square, Downtown Sparks 775-353-2291 June-Aug. Get if fresh at this weekly summertime celebration of food. The market features more than 100 vendors offering fresh-picked produce, breads, pastries and gourmet foods. Cooking demonstrations, live entertainment and unique items for home and garden are also highlighted. Thursday evenings, 4-9 p.m.
Cool Caddy Nights John Ascuaga's Nugget Hotel Casino/Victorian Square 800-223-3971, 925-634-1188 June A Cadillac and custom car show with awards presented to winners in several different classes, live entertainment and a Mobile Radio Station.
Toast of Victorian Square Victorian Square, Downtown Sparks 775-353-2291 June Enjoy a taste of Victorian Square as you stroll through art booths, sample teas and wines and listen to a variety of music from light jazz to big band.
Reno Rodeo Reno Livestock Events Center 775-329-3877, 775-688-5751 June The annual installment of the ""Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West"" features the best Rodeo athletes from around the world, as weel as a parade, a carnival and craft booths.
Artown Festival Various locations 775-332-1538 July Reno's annual summer arts festival features 200 performing and visual arts events in dozens of locations city-wide. Highlights include: music, dance, theater, opera, children's workshops, movies in the park, cowboy poetry, historical walks and visual art.
Skyfire Rancho San Rapael 775-322-3333 July 4 It wouldn't be Independence Day without fireworks, but this show takes pyrotechnics to a whole other level
The Big Easy Victorian Square, Downtown Sparks 775-353-2291 July Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulet - ""Let the Good Times Roll."" The Big Easy is a festival bringing the spirit of Louisiana to the West, featuring some of life's most pleasurable pursuits: food, music, dancing, parades and shopping.
The Great Eldorado BBQ, Brews & Blues Festival Eldorado Hotel Casino/Virginia Street 775-786-5700, 800-648-5966 July Nothing washes down a good barbeque like a cold brew and cool blues. Live music, great food and microbrews are featured just outside the Eldorado Hotel Casino.
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival Sand Harbor State Park 800-747-4697 July - Aug. Lake Tahoe becomes the backdrop Shakespeare's greatest dramas.
John Ascuaga's Nugget Amateur Open John Ascuaga's Nugget/various courses 800-648-1177 July Nevada's only amateur golf competition are played on eight of the Reno/Sparks area's premier golf courses. The event includes three days of tournament play, nightly parties, golf exposition and $250,000 in prizes
Hot August Nights Throughout Reno-Sparks/Lake Tahoe 775-356-1956 Early Aug. This yearly celebration of vintage music and autos returns for another lap down Virginia Street and Victorian Square. Featuring top entertainers of the 50's and 60's as well as car auctions, poker runs, show 'n' shines and parades.
Reno Basque Festival Wingfield Park/Reno 775-787-3039 Celebrate Reno's Basque heritage at this annual event featuring traditional food, dancing, a Basque Mass and games for children and adults.
Reno-Tahoe Open Montreux Golf & Country Club 775-322-3900 August A top field of PGA professionals faces off with one of the area's toughest and most scenic golf courses. The week-long event features a pro-am tournament.
Nevada State Fair Reno Livestock Events Center 775-688-5767 Late August Everything that makes the Silver State great is featured at this annual event. Livestock exhibits and events, entertainment, rides, carnival rides & games, corn dogs and more!
Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off Victorian Square, Downtown Sparks 800-648-1177 Late August The biggest and most prestigious rib cook-off competition in the United States features 24 cookers, 125 craft booths, free entertainment including headliner acts nightly on the main stage.
Bullnanza Reno Livestock Events Center 800-595-7433, 775-688-5751 Early Sept. Top professional bull riders compete for thousands of dollars in prize money at this thrilling events that pairs courageous cowboys and fearsome bulls.
The Great Reno Balloon Race Rancho San Rapael 775-826-1181 September More than just an exhibition of these gorgeious flying machines, the Balloon Race features the nation's top balloonists competing in events like the Hare and the Hound, Target Drop and Key Grab.
Virginia City Camel Races Virginia City 775-847-0311
September While not known for their speed, these desert troopers hit the racetrack as a nostalgic reminder of the Comstock Lode's bonanza days. This family event features camel, ostrich and water buffalo races, specialty acts, daily parades as well as food and beverages.
National Championship Air Races Stead Airport 775-972-6429 September The world's longest running air race is an international event featuring a variety of race classes, military and historic airplane displays and aerobatics exhibitions.
Street Vibrations Various locations 775-329-7469 September Get your motor running' with three days of motorcycle tours, live concerts and entertainment, ride-in shows, a parade, poker run/walk and vendors. An official event of the Harley-Davidson Dealers Association of Northern California. It's HOG heaven!
Great Italian Festival Eldorado Hotel Casino/Virginia Street 775-786-5700, 800-648-5966 October The annual installment of this proud celebration. Activities include a grape stomp, spaghetti eating contest, Italian food booths and entertainment.
National Senior Pro Rodeo Finals Reno Livestock Events Center 775-323-8842 Late October The nation's top cowboys and cowgirls, 40 and older, compete in all of the traditional rodeo events.
Sparks Hometowne Christmas Sparks Victorian Square 775-353-2291 December This annual celebration showcases a colorful holiday parade, family entertainment, photos with Santa, arts and crafts and a spectacular tree-lighting ceremony. It is a true Nevada tradition to warm the winter.
Wingfield Park/Reno 775-334-2414, 775-337-3044 December The holiday season begins with the Festival of Trees decorating contest, complete with prizes for the most creative. Refreshments are provided by downtown businesses. The Festival includes the Tree Lighting Ceremony as the Community Christmas tree lights up the night in Wingfield Park.
: Pacific Time (Three hours behind Eastern Standard time: when it is 12:00 noon in New York City; it is 9:00am in Reno) Daylight saving time observed April-October.
13 miles east of the California border along Interstate 80.
Substantially reduced fees at many tourist attractions are available for children, students, and senior citizens.
Average Temperatures:
Month
High
Low
January
47F
17F
February
51F
21F
March
57F
25F
April
65F
30F
May
73F
34F
June
81F
39F
July
91F
45F
August
90F
43F
September
83F
37F
October
71F
29F
November
58F
21F
December
49F
17F
When to go
: this depends on whether you want to enjoy summer or winter sports; or plan to do sight seeing; or hope to spend most of your time in the casinos and at the shows. There is something to do in every season. Be prepared with warm clothing (layers) year around. The temperature in Lake Tahoe will be cooler at any time of the year than in Reno. Summer and winter are the optimal times to visit the Lake Tahoe area. Reno is full of activity year round.
Gambling Age:
Persons under 21 years of age are not permitted by law to gamble. They can walk through the casinos, but cannot stop at any of the games. They are allowed to wait in line for a show or a restaurant table with their parents.
Public Holidays:
Jan. 1 New Year's Day
February (3rd Monday) Washington's Birthday
May (Last Monday) Memorial Day
July 4 Independence Day
September (1st Monday) Labor Day
October 31 Nevada Day
November 11 Veterans' Day
November (4th Thursday) Thanksgiving Day
December 25 Christmas Day
What to pack
: When packing for a Reno vacation, prepare for changes in temperature. Take along sweaters, jackets, and clothes for layering as the best way to cope with temperature variations. Include shorts or cool cottons as well.
Emergencies
Ambulance ( 911). Fire ( 911). Police ( 911).
ATM
s are readily available throughout the area.
Electricity
The U.S. electrical standard is 110 volts/60 cycles AC. Foreign visitors traveling with dual-voltage appliances will not need a converter, but they will need a plug adapter. The standard U.S. electrical outlet takes a plug of two flat pins set parallel to one another.
How to Travel to Reno
By Air
The Reno/Tahoe International Airport is served by 13 airlines and 7 commuter airlines
and is located a couple miles southeast of downtown; a twenty-minute ride on local bus #24. 15 minutes East of Reno near I-395 and I-80. It is about 45 minutes from North Lake Tahoe and 90 minutes from South Lake Tahoe.
By Bus
Greyhound
( 800/231-2222) provides service to Reno from points within Nevada, the U.S., and Canada. Greyhound buses use the terminal at 155 Stevenson St. Buses depart for the west approximately 24 times a day, and for the east a little less frequently. K-T Bus Lines runs to Las Vegas once a day at 7am.
By Car
Reno is 10 miles east of the California border. I80 crosses the country from San Francisco to New York, and has a Reno exit. US395 also has access to Reno. US395 runs from southeast Oregon through Nevada and then though part of California to Los Angeles.
By Train
Amtrak ( 800/872-7245)
daily Amtrak trains arrive and depart at 135 E Commercial Row downtown. There is one eastbound and one westbound train daily. The vintage train station was built in 1925, and is not the place to wait in comfort for any length of time for a train.
Travel within the area:
Reno's local bus system, Citifare, operates 24 hours a day on 24 routes all the way to the four corners of Truckee Meadows. Fares (exact change required) are $1.25 one way with reduced fare for seniors. All routes begin and end at 4th and Center Streets at the CitiCenter Transit Center.
To Tahoe:
Tahoe Casino Express (1-800-785-2424) provides transportation to Lake Tahoe's south shore casinos from the airport.
Animal Ark 1265 Deerlodge Rd., Reno. take U.S. Highway 395 north to the Red Rock Road exit, turn north on Red Rock Road and drive 11.5 miles to Deerlodge, turn right and continue for 1 mile. (775) 969-3111 The Ark is open daily from 10 - 4:30 from April 1 to October 31. Admission is charged. Animal Ark is a wildlife sanctuary and nature center that shelters animals that don't have the skills to survive on their own. Disabled and orphaned animals such as gray wolves, bobcats, bears, snow leopards and Arctic foxes live in natural surroundings at the Ark. Aside from the animals, the educational displays scattered around the grounds make it an especially appealing learning experience for children. Although most people can't own a wild animal as a pet, they can do the next best thing by adopting one at the Ark. Through the Ark's adoption program, they can help pay for the care and feeding of such residents as Mignon, the kit fox, or Shere Khan, the tiger, or Whoopi, the peregrine falcon.
Circus Circus Midway Stage 500 N. Sierra St., Reno, Nev. (800) 648-5010 The circus acts are free and can be seen daily throughout the year from 11 AM to midnight. When Circus Circus Hotel/Casino opened in Reno in 1978, casino patrons were astonished to see trapeze artists and high-wire walkers performing right above their heads as they placed their table bets and pulled the handles of slot machines. The age of the total entertainment concept had been born, complete with an enormous clown as a logo and a pink-and-white-striped circus tent enveloping portions of the building. Although structural changes during the years have made the circus acts less visible from the casino floor, they can be optimally viewed from the Midway section of the casino. Young and old alike are drawn to the carnival-style arcade at the Midway where they can win stuffed toy animals and other prizes at the more than 30 games available.
Fleischmann Planetarium 1650 N. Virginia St., Reno, Nev. (775) 784-4812 the telescope of the public observatory is available on clear Friday nights throughout the year from 8:30 to 9:30 PM. Admission to the museum, gift shop and observatory is free. There is a charge at the Theater. The building is open Monday through Friday, except holidays, from 8 - 8 . call for listings and schedule. Located on a knoll overlooking the campus of the University of Nevada, Reno, Fleischmann Planetarium looks like a saucer-shaped spaceship that has just touched down. Its curious shape is actually a hyperbolic paraboloid canopy that covers the elliptical interior of the building. Inside you can see such curiosities as three meteorites found within Nevada, or find out what your real weight would be on the planet Venus, or see how a black hole acts in space. For many visitors, the real space experience takes place in the domed theater on the lower level where you can see spectacular films about nature and the universe. Lean back and relax in the reclining loge chairs while the show unfolds all around you on the Skydome 8/70 screen.
Wild Island Family Adventure Park 250 Wild Island Ct., Sparks, Nev. (775) 359-2927 Wild Island Family Adventure Park has more than enough excitement to keep the family entertained all day long. With eight exciting water adventures, two miniature golf courses and a variety of racetracks in the Formula K Raceway, it's hard to decide which adventure to tackle first.
The Wilbur May Center 1502 Washington St., Reno, Nev. (775) 785-5961 The Wilbur May Center in Rancho San Rafael Park has something for everyone. It's a museum, an arboretum and an adventure park. The son of David May, founder of the May Department Stores Company, Wilbur D. May lived in Reno from 1936 until his death in 1982. A philanthropist dedicated to the welfare of children, Wilbur D. May's legacy lives on through the foundation that built and maintains the center. The Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Garden contains pools, waterfalls and a xeriscape garden of plants indigenous to the high desert climate. Designed especially for children ages 2 through 12, the Wilbur D. May Great Basin Adventure has a petting zoo, pony rides and a log flume ride. Admission is charged. Hours are 10 AM until 5 PM Tuesday through Sunday during the summer and Wednesday through Sunday during the winter. The adventure park is open from 10 AM until 5 PM daily, except Monday, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. charged. Children younger than 3 are admitted free. There is no charge to view the botanical garden.
