Pass under the “Biggest Little City in the World” arched sign to enjoy the exciting activities of downtown Reno, Nevada. Drive less than an hour south of the city to appreciate the beauty of Lake Tahoe and summer and winter thrills at fantastic mountain resorts.
Just a 15-minute drive east of the California border, Reno offers opportunities for legal gambling, similar to its bigger southern Nevada sister city of Las Vegas. More than a dozen casinos offer slot machines, table games and video betting. Plan a full evening, with some games of chance, a delicious meal and live entertainment at one of the casinos in Reno itself or others in neighboring Sparks or Washoe.
Reno developed as a river crossing along the western migration path of pioneers in wagons and on horseback for the California Gold Rush. By the late 1800s, transcontinental railroad tracks ran along the river. The transcontinental highway followed a similar path in the first quarter of the 20th century. In the National Automobile Museum see more than 200 historic vehicles, some from that era and others owned by celebrities or appearing in films.
Outdoor fun opportunities here are unlimited. Play golf at Reno’s 10 courses or travel within a 60-mile (100-kilometer) range for 50 more. Walk or bike along the Raymond I. Smith Truckee River Walk in the city and stop for a meal or watch whitewater kayakers. Drive from Reno southwest along the twisting Truckee River to enjoy pretty views of the rushing waters and old railroad structures.
Lake Tahoe is a beautiful emerald green in summer, with opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, paddleboarding and more. Multiple resorts around the lake offer summer hiking and mountain biking and winter skiing and boarding. Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe is about a 30-minute drive from Reno. Go a bit farther to ski at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, which hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics.
