Things To Do In Reno For Families
Reno has a reputation that involves neon, quick weddings, and buffets that could feed a small army. But here’s the plot twist: this city is secretly a family fun zone. You jus...
Reno has a reputation that involves neon, quick weddings, and buffets that could feed a small army. But here’s the plot twist: this city is secretly a family fun zone. You just have to know where to look.
Below are the best ways to wear out your kids, educate them a little, and still have energy for a margarita after bedtime. Everyone wins.
Get Wet and Wild Along the Truckee River
The Truckee River runs right through downtown Reno, which means you can combine a nature walk with a chance to lose a flip-flop in the current. The Truckee River Walk is stroller-friendly, shady in spots, and full of ducks that have clearly never missed a meal.
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In summer, families float the river in tubes, splash at Wingfield Park, and pretend they’re not secretly jealous of the kids’ waterproof shoes. Pro tip: bring sunscreen, water, and a spare sense of direction.
Idlewild Park is the classic choice for playgrounds, picnics, and wide-open grass where kids can run like tiny tornadoes. It also hosts summer events, so check the calendar before you go.
The Discovery Museum: Where “Don’t Touch” Goes to Die
The Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum is basically a giant permission slip to make a mess. Kids can build, climb, experiment, and push buttons that make loud noises—so many loud noises.
Parents often start by saying, “I’ll just watch,” and end up building a foam castle with the intensity of an architect. No judgment.
Surprising fact: The Discovery sits in a renovated downtown space and has become one of Reno’s most beloved family attractions. It’s also a lifesaver on rainy or smoky days.
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Animals, Cars, and Outer Space (Yes, All in One Day)
Animal Ark is a wildlife sanctuary north of town where you can see bears, wolves, cheetahs, and other animals that would definitely win a staring contest. Many residents are rescued or non-releasable, so the place has a genuine conservation mission.
Then head to the National Automobile Museum, which has more than 200 vehicles and enough chrome to blind a seagull. One highlight is the 1907 Thomas Flyer, which won the 1908 New York-to-Paris race—because apparently people used to be wildly optimistic about road conditions.
If your kids are space nerds, the Fleischmann Planetarium at the University of Nevada, Reno offers star shows and dome experiences. It’s dark, cool, and quiet—three things parents dream about.
Parks, Playgrounds, and Pretend Cowboy Towns
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park is huge, with trails, playgrounds, and the Wilbur D. May Museum. Bring a kite, a ball, and snacks, because this place can swallow an afternoon whole.
For a day trip, drive to Virginia City, an old mining town with wooden sidewalks and enough candy shops to cause a small sugar riot. The Virginia & Truckee Railroad runs seasonal steam train rides, which is way cooler than another episode of whatever cartoon is currently haunting your living room.
Lake Tahoe is only about 45 minutes away, so you can add beaches, paddleboarding, and mountain views to your Reno family adventure. Just remember: the water is cold, and your kids will not believe you until their toes go numb.
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Rainy Day Backup Plans (Because Reno Has Weather)
Reno gets snow, rain, and wind, so smart families keep a few indoor tricks up their sleeves. The Nevada Museum of Art offers family programs and a rooftop view that makes kids say, “Whoa,” before they ask for a snack.
Bowling alleys, arcades, and movie theaters are scattered around town, ready to absorb your family’s energy when the sky decides to misbehave. Never underestimate the power of a bowling alley hot dog.
And yes, you can still walk through some casino resorts with kids—just stick to the shops, restaurants, and arcades. Reno’s family side is real, even if the neon tries to distract you.
Final Reno Family Wisdom
Reno is not just a pit stop on the way to Tahoe or a place where people gamble away their grocery money. It’s a big little city with museums, rivers, animals, trains, and enough sunshine to make you forget your phone charger.
Plan a mix of outdoor time, indoor backup, and at least one snack break every 45 minutes. Do that, and your family might just vote Reno as the surprise MVP of your vacation.
Just don’t blame me when your kid asks to move into the Discovery Museum. They have a point.
