Heading out to Reno for the weekend? This dazzling city in Nevada offers no shortage of exciting activities and attractions to enjoy over your Saturday and Sunday. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences to nightlife entertainment, Reno has something for everyone.
Here are some top things to do in Reno this weekend.
1. Check Out the Reno Riverwalk District
Start your weekend with a stroll through the scenic Reno Riverwalk District, located along the Truckee River. This charming area is full of art galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and museums — all within walking distance.
Snap a selfie under the iconic Reno Arch, browse local shops, or grab a coffee and enjoy people-watching by the water. On weekends, the Riverwalk often hosts events, live music, and pop-up vendors — making it one of the most lively and walkable areas in the city.
2. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Truckee
For some adventurous things to do in Reno this weekend, consider booking a whitewater rafting trip.
Several outfitters like Wild Sierra Adventures offer half-day trips down the scenic Truckee River, taking you through splashy rapids like the Washoe Zephyr, Bulldozer, and Deadman’s.
Along the way, knowledgeable river guides will point out highlights like the riverside homes high atop the cliffs overlooking the river.
If you’re feeling brave, ride the more extreme Class IV rapids on the Upper Truckee for an extra thrill.
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3. National Automobile Museum
Car lovers visiting Reno will want to spend Saturday or Sunday exploring the National Automobile Museum, one of the top attractions in northern Nevada.
This impressive museum has an ever-changing display of over 200 rare and classic cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Check out gems like a 1931 Rolls-Royce Phantom II town car, a 1959 Cadillac Cyclone concept car, and a 24-karat gold-plated DeLorean. While vintage vehicles are the main highlight, the museum also hosts intriguing rotating exhibits on automotive history.
4. Take in the Views from Mt. Rose
Mount Rose is one of the best things to do in Reno with your family. Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Reno leads you to majestic Mount Rose, the highest peak bordering Lake Tahoe.
During the winter, Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe offers slopes and snow play areas. But in the summer, visitors drive the Mt. Rose Highway (Route 431) to take in staggering panoramic views from the summit at nearly 9,000 feet elevation.
Stop at scenic overlooks along the mountain route. Once at the top, stretch your legs along the short hiking trails leading out from the Mt. Rose summit parking area.
On clear days, you’ll be rewarded with birds-eye vistas over Reno down below and the sparkling blue Lake Tahoe in the distance.
5. Go Barhopping on Virginia Street
Reno’s nightlife scene is alive and well on Virginia Street, the city’s central entertainment strip. Here, you’ll find a mix of neon-lit casinos, cozy pubs, live music spots, and cocktail lounges.
Start with a drink at historic Harrah’s, dance the night away at Edge Nightclub, or enjoy live bands at VA Bar+Kitchen. Everything is within walking distance, making bar-hopping safe and easy.
6. Explore Reno’s Craft Breweries
Beer lovers visiting Reno for the weekend will want to sample some of northern Nevada’s top craft breweries, pubs, and taprooms.
In downtown Reno, don’t miss the pioneering Great Basin Brewing Company, which kickstarted the regional craft beer scene back in 1993.
Out in nearby Sparks, the massive Nevada-shaped brewhouse at IMBIB Custom Brews concocts unique small-batch beers and ciders, while behind-the-scenes guided Brew Tours show visitors how the magic happens.
Beer fans can also follow the official Reno Beer Trail hitting top spots like Under the Rose Brewing Company, Pigeon Head Brewery, and Revision Brewing Company.
With so many amazing things to do in Reno breweries now calling Reno home, craft suds lovers will have their hands full.
7. Hit the Tables at the Peppermill Casino
A weekend in Reno wouldn’t be complete without hitting the casino floor. For a classic Vegas-style experience with a twist, head to the Peppermill Resort Casino.
Known for its luxurious yet funky decor (think Tuscany meets neon), this casino offers all the slots and table games you’d expect, along with standout dining and the ultra-cool Fireside Lounge. Grab a cocktail by the fire pit and soak in the retro glamour.