Things to Do in & Near Reno, Nevada

If you’re looking for an adventure you just may be looking for Reno. Northern Nevada has a lot to offer active, health-conscious, fun-loving tourists. For starters, the area’s mountains, waterways and parks are a perfect playground for sport enthusiasts. And when you’re ready to refuel there are some wholesome foods options and plenty of one-of-a kind restaurants that are worth a try.

Camping

You'll find plenty of camping sites along Washoe Lake and in northern Nevada’s regional parks. Rugged types can pitch their tents lakeside, in nearby forests or in the valley where they’ll be surrounded by majestic mountain views. RV camping sites with full hookups are also available for vacationers that love to combine camping with creature comforts.

Farmer’s Markets

Rural growers frequently come to Reno and nearby Sparks to sell their crops. Every summer, farmers markets spring up at malls, in church parking lots and other places around town. The weekly bazaar at downtown Reno’s West Street Market and the Spark’s Hometown Farmer’s Market on Victorian Square are two of the bigger and better ones. Shoppers will find a wide selection of seasonal fruits, locally grown vegetables and other nutritious eats.

Sporting Events

Baseball buffs can root for the local Triple-A baseball team. The Reno Aces play right in the heart of downtown. If you catch a weekend night game, fireworks often follow the end of the game. If you prefer to watch a round of hoops, the Reno Bighorns have you covered. This NBA development league team holds court at the Reno Event Center.

Extreme Sports

Gambling isn’t the only way to get your heart pumping. Sky diving, windsurfing paragliding, whitewater rafting and hang gliding are just a few ways you can pass the time and get an adrenaline fix around town. Rock climbers are in luck too. There is a series of climbing sites west of Reno near Truckee. Beginning and intermediate climbers will be right at home hanging from the bolted walls and slabs.

Winter Sports

Lake Tahoe offers world-class skiing less than an hour away from Reno, and you don’t even have to worry about the drive. Complimentary shuttles pick skiers up in the morning and drop them off in the afternoon when the resorts close. Ice skating is also popular with the locals. When winter rolls around, the city sets up an ice skating rink downtown. You can also go a few rounds on the small pond at the Davis Creek Regional Park if it’s cold enough.

Local Eats

There are a lot of dining options available if you’re willing to venture past the casinos. Reno is home to some amazing authentic Pho (Vietnamese soup), Mexican food and sushi restaurants. Pickings may be a little slim for folks that don’t eat meat but all is not lost. The Pneumatic Diner offers a strictly vegetarian menu and quite a few vegan dishes as well.

References

Article reviewed by Kelly Short Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

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