Everything to Know About Reno
Here's how to plan the best possible trip to this western Nevada hub.
Overwhelmed with artsy Burning Man attendees in one season and beanie-boasting snowboarders the next, Reno retains its hipster feel the rest of the year, with thriving craft beer and local art scenes.
When to Go
The best time to go depends on what you want to do. Winter is best for skiing, and it’s when most tourists touch down in the Reno/Tahoe area. Even for travelers venturing to the California side of Lake Tahoe (famous for ski resorts like Heavenly and Squaw Valley, where the 1964 Olympics were held), Reno is the easiest access point and a fun place to spend a few days sampling the local offerings before heading into the mountains. Don’t discount the benefit of visiting in the summer, though. Hot temperatures are tempered by a complete lack of humidity (after all, even at 5,000 feet, you are still in the desert) and easy access to world-famous lakes. Whether you’re interested in testing your skills on downtown Reno’s white-water kayaking course or lazily paddleboarding or sailing around Pyramid Lake, summer is a beautiful time to visit.
Celebrate
Artown in late July and Burning Man in September are easily the most popular reasons to visit Reno. The closest city to the Black Rock desert where Burning Man is held, Reno is an easy jumping-off point to stock up on supplies, and the local art scene doesn’t disappoint.
Souvenir to Take Home
Stroll through downtown Reno’s art galleries while drinking coffee from a local café. While it has always existed in Reno, the revitalization of downtown in the past several years has led to more celebration of local artists.
- Nat Geo Expeditions
Instagram-Worthy View
Sunsets in Nevada are like nowhere else in the world. Make your way up Peavine Mountain for a view of the city as the sun goes down.
