Reno offers a more laid-back alternative to the restless vibe of Vegas, as well as a greater variety of natural sights than its Nevada neighbour. Nicknamed the ‘Biggest Little City in the World’, Reno sits at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and offers over 20 casinos, numerous world-class ski resorts, nature walks and lots of lakeside scenery.
It wouldn’t be a visit to Reno without at least stepping foot inside one of its many casinos. Most are dotted around Downtown on Virginia Street and top picks include the Peppermill Resort, Silver Legacy and the quirky Circus Circus. The city also offers some great cultural offerings in the form of the Nevada Museum of Art and the National Automobile Museum. The Discovery centre is also worth a visit and features interactive exhibitions designed to inspire kids and adults to delve into the world of science.
Reno’s eclectic blend of landscapes makes it a hotspot for hikers, skiers and water sports enthusiasts. The city has the highest concentration of ski resorts in North America, with Sky Tavern and Mount Rose both around 30 minutes’ drive from central Reno. Mountain bikers should make use of the picturesque trails which snake through the open desert terrain to the northwest of the city. For a more tranquil activity, explore the Truckee River Walk or the dramatic scenery of the Hunter Creek Trail.