Heading out to Reno for the weekend? This dazzling city in Nevada offers no shortage of exciting activities and attractions to enjoy over your Saturday and Sunday. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences to nightlife entertainment, Reno has something for everyone.
Here are some top things to do in Reno this weekend.
1. Check Out the Reno Riverwalk District
The Reno Riverwalk District along the Truckee River is one of the city’s top spots for fun.
Take an afternoon stroll along the riverfront park areas and pedestrian bridges, stopping to shop and dine at the various restaurants, galleries, museums, and boutiques.
Don’t miss the iconic Reno Arch, a classic symbol of the biggest little city. During your riverside explorations, keep an eye out for vibrant street art, regular summer events, and charming riverside views. The Riverwalk District is home to many of the most fun things to do in Reno.
2. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Truckee
For some adventurous things to do in Reno this weekend, consider booking a whitewater rafting trip.
Several outfitters like Wild Sierra Adventures offer half-day trips down the scenic Truckee River, taking you through splashy rapids like the Washoe Zephyr, Bulldozer, and Deadman’s.
Along the way, knowledgeable river guides will point out highlights like the riverside homes high atop the cliffs overlooking the river.
If you’re feeling brave, ride the more extreme Class IV rapids on the Upper Truckee for an extra thrill.
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3. National Automobile Museum
Car lovers visiting Reno will want to spend Saturday or Sunday exploring the National Automobile Museum, one of the top attractions in northern Nevada.
This impressive museum has an ever-changing display of over 200 rare and classic cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Check out gems like a 1931 Rolls-Royce Phantom II town car, a 1959 Cadillac Cyclone concept car, and a 24-karat gold-plated DeLorean. While vintage vehicles are the main highlight, the museum also hosts intriguing rotating exhibits on automotive history.
4. Take in the Views from Mt. Rose
Mount Rose is one of the best things to do in Reno with your family. Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Reno leads you to majestic Mount Rose, the highest peak bordering Lake Tahoe.
During the winter, Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe offers slopes and snow play areas. But in the summer, visitors drive the Mt. Rose Highway (Route 431) to take in staggering panoramic views from the summit at nearly 9,000 feet elevation.
Stop at scenic overlooks along the mountain route. Once at the top, stretch your legs along the short hiking trails leading out from the Mt. Rose summit parking area.
On clear days, you’ll be rewarded with birds-eye vistas over Reno down below and the sparkling blue Lake Tahoe in the distance.
5. Go Barhopping on Virginia Street
Downtown Reno along Virginia Street is the city’s central hub for entertainment and nightlife.
Start your Saturday evening by mixing and mingling with locals by barhopping your way down this iconic street.
Tucked between the neon-lit casinos are dozens of lively pubs, bars, lounges, and nightclubs, many with a unique Reno vibe.
Sidle up to gaming machines at historic Harrah’s Bar, join the lively dancing at Edge Nightclub, catch live music at VA Bar+Kitchen, or sit fireside with a craft cocktail inside the hip Liberty Food & Wine Exchange.
With so many options within a few-block radius, it’s easy to bounce between watering holes.
6. Explore Reno’s Craft Breweries
Beer lovers visiting Reno for the weekend will want to sample some of northern Nevada’s top craft breweries, pubs, and taprooms.
In downtown Reno, don’t miss the pioneering Great Basin Brewing Company, which kickstarted the regional craft beer scene back in 1993.
Out in nearby Sparks, the massive Nevada-shaped brewhouse at IMBIB Custom Brews concocts unique small-batch beers and ciders, while behind-the-scenes guided Brew Tours show visitors how the magic happens.
Beer fans can also follow the official Reno Beer Trail hitting top spots like Under the Rose Brewing Company, Pigeon Head Brewery, and Revision Brewing Company.
With so many amazing things to do in Reno breweries now calling Reno home, craft suds lovers will have their hands full.
7. Hit the Tables at the Peppermill Casino
You can’t visit Reno without doing some casino gambling on Saturday night. While downtown and Virginia Street offer many iconic gambling halls, venture a little way south to experience the legendary Peppermill Casino.
This Reno institution dazzles guests with its unique Tuscany meets Vegas decor.
In addition to all your favorite table games and slots, be sure to poke your head into the Fireside Lounge, where scantily clad cocktail waitresses serve drinks to gamblers cozying up next to the oversized fire pit.
The perfect blend of kitsch and luxury, the Peppermill is a can’t-miss when looking for some classic Reno casino fun this weekend.
