Showy desert sunsets, the glitz of Harrah’s and Circus Circus illuminating the night sky, hundreds of hot air balloons racing to the finish line – Nevada’s “Biggest Little City in the World” is a jackpot not to be missed. Most associate Reno with trying their luck at a slot machine or feeling the rumble of Hot August Nights beneath their feet, but behind all the vivid neon glamour is a culturally rich, highly livable city abundant in natural beauty. An ideal city for any age, Reno is a fantastic spot for retirees, or empty nesters to take a vacation or perhaps find the home of their dreams in a 55+ community, but whatever brings them to this buzzing little metro they’ll discover it’s not just about cashing in their chips.
As far as desert destinations go, few can say they’ve skied the forested slopes of the Sierra Nevadas and explored Virginia City’s Wild West on horseback all in one day. Reno’s biggest best-kept secret is the gorgeous mountain terrain and beloved Lake Tahoe recreation area. Located 30 minutes from the city, Lake Tahoe glitters against the evergreen landscape of Tahoe National Forest and the alpine cobblestone sidewalks of Heavenly Village feel worlds away from the bright lights of Reno. An incredible location for everything from water skiing and sailing in the summer, to boarding a ski lift in the winter, this stunning getaway is where Reno’s city folk go to breathe the crisp air and take their favorite activities to new heights.
Downtown Reno has so much to offer, that many live a perfectly blissful lifestyle without ever setting foot in a casino. Visitors are always surprised to find so much scenic beauty amidst a seemingly concrete jungle, particularly the Truckee River that flows gently through downtown – hugging up against tree-lined walking trails, inviting outdoor lovers to sink their oars or fishing lines into its glimmering depths. It’s a foodie city, it’s a vibrant college town (home to the University of Nevada), it’s an event every day of the week kind of city, but what Reno is best known for is being one of the best art cities in the country. From the Reno Philharmonic, and the Nevada Museum of art, to the number of galleries, and concert venues scattered throughout downtown, the cultural scene is one that most don’t expect to find at first glance. Endless year-round events, and festivals, pro-sports, and shops and restaurants of literally any and every type imaginable, this is a city to grow (young) in!
