Best attractions and places to see around Reno include a diverse range of natural features and cultural sites. Situated near the Sierra Nevada mountains and bisected by the Truckee River, the area offers both urban points of interest and extensive outdoor opportunities. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, museums, and various trails for hiking and cycling. This region provides a blend of city experiences and access to natural landscapes.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Short easy ride safely away fromt the road. A great way to see some wild horses and Reno scenery.
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Really cool bridge across the Truckee river. There's picnic tables just off the bridge in a nice shaded area. You can access the river here as well which is a great way to cool off in the summer. The colors in the fall are stunning as well!
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Riverside Drive runs along the Truckee River through a historic neighborhood in West Reno. The treelined paths and sidewalks are stunning in autumn and busy with events and festivals throughout the summer. It can get crowded in summer so going for a morning or evening run will afford you more space.
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Built to honor the history of the many Basque sheepherders who traveled to the Western United States to ply their trade, this monument stands at the head of many trails around Peavine Mountain. It's a peaceful place to stop before or after a ride and learn a little about the local history.
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Really cool bridge across the Truckee river. There's picnic tables just off the the bridge in a nice shaded area. You can access the river here as well which is a great way to cool of in the summer. The colors in the fall are stunning as well!
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This bikeway is great for cyclists of all levels. Set apart from the highspeed traffic on the parallel Veterans Parkway, you can take in the scenery that includes wetlands, mountains, migratory birds, and more often than not wild horses too. The only drawback is the distinct lack of shade so mornings and evenings are best during summer.
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Here, you'll encounter an impressive 30-foot waterfall that offers a refreshing change after tackling a challenging trail. The area is densely shaded, providing a welcome contrast to the previously exposed trail leading up to this point.
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Riverside Drive is the heart of Reno's outdoor loving culture. With towering trees and various forms of public art it's a must for anyone visiting the city. Hub Coffee Roasters sits right in the middle and is basically a required stop for any cyclist passing by. The area is beautiful throughout the year so be sure to check it out no matter when you visit.
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Reno offers a variety of natural features. You can visit Hunter's Creek Waterfall, an impressive 30-foot waterfall at the end of a 6-mile trail. The Keystone Canyon multiuse trail is popular for hiking and biking, connecting to a network of trails from Peavine to Rancho San Rafael. Other notable natural areas include the scenic Truckee River Walk, Lake Tahoe for stunning views and water activities, and Pyramid Lake known for its unique rock formations and cultural significance.
Yes, Reno has several family-friendly outdoor options. The Erica Greif Memorial Bikeway is suitable for cyclists of all levels, offering views of wetlands and migratory birds, often including wild horses. The Truckee River Walk is great for strolls, and parks like Idlewild Park and Wingfield Park along its path provide recreational spaces. Rancho San Rafael Regional Park also features botanical gardens and open spaces for families.
Reno is rich in historical landmarks. The iconic Reno Arch, with its famous slogan, welcomes visitors to the city. The Virginia Street Bridge over the Truckee River has a storied past. You can also explore the historic buildings on the University of Nevada, Reno campus, such as Morrill Hall (1887) and the Mackay School of Mines (1908). The St. Thomas Aquinas Cathedral, built in 1908, is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture downtown.
For cultural experiences, consider the National Automobile Museum, which houses over 200 vintage and classic cars. The Nevada Museum of Art is the state's only accredited art museum, showcasing diverse collections. Families might enjoy The Discovery (Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum) for hands-on STEAM learning. The Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, with its distinctive gold geodesic dome, hosts various shows and concerts.
Absolutely. The Erica Greif Memorial Bikeway is a great option for all skill levels, offering scenic views and a safe ride away from traffic. For more extensive cycling, you can explore various routes detailed in guides like Road Cycling Routes around Reno and Cycling around Reno, which include routes like the Tahoe-Pyramid Bikeway and the Steamboat Ditch Trail.
For easy hikes, the Truckee River Trail, particularly the section from Wingfield Park to Idlewild Park, offers a pleasant stroll. Other accessible options include the Chalk Creek Loop Trail and the Tom Cooke and Steamboat Ditch Loop. You can find more details and routes in the Easy hikes around Reno guide.
Many locations around Reno offer scenic views. The Bridge Over the Truckee River provides lovely river views, especially in the fall. The Las Brisas Trail offers great views towards Peavine Mountain and occasionally back over the city. Lake Tahoe, a short drive away, is renowned for its stunning mountain and lake vistas. Washoe Lake State Park also provides beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada and Virginia mountain ranges.
Beyond the National Automobile Museum and Nevada Museum of Art, Reno offers unique museum experiences. The Wilbur D. May Museum, located in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, houses an eccentric millionaire's personal collection of artifacts. The Nevada Historical Society Museum, the oldest museum in the state, features extensive collections on Nevada's history, including Native American culture and the mining boom.
Reno has several unique points of interest. The National Bowling Stadium, known as the 'Taj Mahal of Tenpins,' is a significant venue for professional bowlers. For adventure seekers, the BaseCamp Climbing Gym at Whitney Peak Hotel boasts 'The Big Wall,' a 164-foot climbing wall. MidTown Reno is also known for its vibrant street art scene, with numerous murals and public art installations.
Yes, Steamboat Hot Springs, just outside Reno, is a historic mineral hot spring known for its health and wellness benefits. It has been a popular destination for relaxation and therapeutic soaks for many years.
The Truckee River offers several activities. The Truckee River Walk winds through downtown Reno, featuring public art, sculptures, and access to parks like Idlewild Park and Wingfield Park. You can enjoy a stroll, bike ride, or even access the river for cooling off in the summer near the Bridge Over the Truckee River. The Oxbow Nature Study Area, a mile from downtown, is ideal for birdwatching and leisurely hikes along the river.
Yes, Virginia City, a historic Old West town, is a short drive from Reno and offers a glimpse into the region's mining past. Carson City, Nevada's capital, is also about half an hour away, featuring mountain views and walkable historic areas.


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