The Best Things to Do in Reno, Nevada for First-Timers

Reno is one of the top tourist destinations in Nevada. Known as 'The Biggest Little City in the World', there are plenty of things to see and do in this city, regardless of whether you like spending time outdoors or you prefer to learn more about the history of an area while you are on vacation. There are also activities to suit people of all ages. You should plan your activities before embarking on your trip to get the most out of your Reno vacation. To help you decide which attractions and activities to include in your vacation itinerary, here are some of the best attractions in Reno, Nevada for first-timers.

Nevada Museum of Art

The best attraction to visit in Reno is the Nevada Museum of Art. It is the only accredited art museum anywhere in Nevada. Located in downtown Reno, this art museum covers four stories. It is a themed attraction that focuses on the interaction between humans and the environment. There are more than two thousand exhibits in the permanent collection, plus there are temporary collections throughout the year.

Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center

If you are passionate about science and astronomy, you will find the Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center fascinating. This attraction is part of the University of Nevada. Visitors can enjoy a digital show in the planetarium's dome theater. The purpose of the facility is to educate the public about space and other science topics.

Animal Ark

If you are visiting Reno with children, an excellent attraction to visit is the Animal Ark. This attraction is a wildlife sanctuary and education center. Its purpose is to provide a safe habitat for wild animals that cannot rehabilitate back into their natural environment. The enclosures provide the animals with plenty of space and an environment that reflects their natural habitat as closely as possible. The design of the habitats means that visiting this attraction is very different from visiting a regular zoo.

National Automobile Museum

Although there are several fascinating museums to visit in Reno, one of the best is the National Automobile Museum. There are more than 200 vehicles at this museum, which range from celebrity cars to horseless carriages. Many of the exhibits are from the personal collection of Bill Harrah, one of the pioneers of the city's casino industry. Although this attraction will appeal most to car enthusiasts, the displays are impressive enough for all visitors to enjoy.

Mount Rose Ski Resort

Reno is known as an excellent destination for enjoying outdoor pursuits, especially outdoor pursuits such as skiing. One of the top places to enjoy such activities is at Mount Rose Ski Resort. There are both accessible and challenging slopes at this resort, so there is something suitable for experienced skiers and novices. Some of the resort's most popular activities are only available seasonally. However, you can hike around the resort at any time of the year.

Pioneer Center for Performing Arts

If you want to watch live entertainment during your visit to Reno, the best place to head for is the Pioneer Center for Performing Arts. The center is a geodesic dome that has the nickname the 'Golden Turtle.' There are 1500 seats in the theater that are over two levels. Some of the city's most renowned performing arts companies perform at this theater, so there is a very varied schedule throughout the year. It is advisable to check the performance schedule before your trip. You can then book tickets in advance if there is a performance that appeals to you.

Reno River Walk District

A pleasant way to see the city's sights and get a feel for Reno is to walk through the Reno Riverwalk District. The walk takes you along the scenic banks of the Truckee River between Lake Street and Arlington Avenue. Besides admiring the landmarks you will see on the riverwalk, you will find other things to enjoy along the walk. Events, temporary attractions, and festivals take place at various spots along the trail. Walking along the Reno Riverwalk District is a free activity.

Rancho San Rafael Regional Park

Reno Great Balloon Race

Although many of the attractions in Reno are indoors in an urban setting, there are also some fantastic outdoor spots to explore. One that you should try to include in your itinerary is the Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. From this park, you can enjoy both desert and mountain views. Most of the park is a natural wetland habitat, so it is an excellent place for birdwatching. In the past, this park was a ranch, and two of the original ranch houses remain on the site. There are picnic tables to sit and grab a bite to eat, and playgrounds for children. This park is also home to the William D. May Museum and Arboretum. Therefore, there is plenty to keep you entertained. Park entry is free, but you may need to pay for some of the park's attractions.

Bartley Ranch Regional Park

Those who enjoy spending their time outdoors and want to feel close to nature should spend some time at Bartley Ranch Regional Park. This 56-acre park has picnic pavilions, pastureland, an outdoor amphitheater, historic buildings, walking trails, and a horse arena. It is used as a venue throughout the year for various events and outdoor performances. Visiting the park is free, so it is a good option for those with a limited budget. However, there is a cost if you are watching a performance during your visit.

Reno Rodeo Cattle Drive

Rodeos have an atmosphere that is unlike any other kind of event. If you want to enjoy the fun of the rodeo during your stay, head to the Reno Rodeo Cattle Drive on Orth Wells Avenue. The rodeo venue opened in 1919, and it hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as steer wrestling, bull riding, cattle roping, and barrel racing. There are many family-themed activities throughout the year, such as parades and carnivals. If you plan to attend a rodeo event during your visit, then you should book in advance.

Galena Creek Park

This natural recreation area is next to the Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest. It is an amazing place to spend some time enjoying activities such as horse riding, hiking, or cycling. There are miles of trails that cover both high desert and alpine ecosystems. There is also a visitor center that educates people about the plants, birds, insects, and animals living in the park.

McKinley Arts and Culture Center

Located on Riverside Drive, the McKinley Arts and Culture Center is home to both the Reno Chamber Orchestra and the Reno Philharmonic. It is also the base od the Reno Pops Orchestra and the Masterworks Chorale. There are various musical performances held at this venue throughout the year. Visitors can take guided tours of the center or view the artwork on display in the galleries. If you plan to watch a performance, it is best to buy your tickets online before arriving in Reno to ensure that seats are available.

The W.M. Keck Museum

An unusual museum to visit in Reno is The W. M. Keck Museum. It is the second-oldest museum in Nevada, and it showcases the geological and mineral variety of the state. The exhibition consists of minerals and geodes, including silver, copper, amethyst, gypsum, and quarts. Nevada's mining history is another topic of the museum, with a display that exhibits maps and tools relating to mining. The 1250-piece collection of silver that belonged to John W. Mackay, one of the Bonanza Firm founders, is one of the most significant exhibits.

Peppermill Casino

One of the top casinos in Reno is the Peppermill Casino. It is a casino resort that is one of the most popular accommodation options in the city as it boasts luxury rooms. Some of the facilities for guests include multiple restaurants, a spa, and two nightclubs. However, it is the casino at this hotel that is a big attraction for many people. There is everything that you would expect to find in a casino, such as table games, slots, and poker.

Reno Philharmonic

The Reno Philharmonic is the most famous musical performing group from this city. Their repertoire includes both classical music and interpretations of modern music and music from the musicals. Throughout the year, Reno Philharmonic performs at various venues across the city, including outdoor performances in the summer months. If you want to hear them play when you visit Reno, you should check where they are performing and book your tickets to avoid disappointment.

Lake Tahoe

Just outside Reno is Lake Tahoe, which is considered one of the most beautiful spots anywhere in the United States. Although it is not directly in Reno, it is worth taking the time to make a day trip to this picturesque location. Set against the mountains' backdrop, some of the most popular activities at the lake are hiking and skiing. Take along your camera because there are many excellent photographic opportunities as you walk around the lake.

Casino at the Eldorado

Another fantastic casino to visit is the Casino at the Eldorado, one of the most notable venues in the city as neon lights illuminate the building. It is not only a casino but also a luxurious resort that offers high-end accommodation with lots of facilities. It is home to award-winning restaurants, a Broadway-style theater, and multiple other guest facilities. However, you do not need to stay in the hotel to enjoy the fun at the casino. There are table games, slots, poker, card games, and sports betting in the casino. Various tournaments take place at the casino throughout the year.

Atlantis Casino

Reno is a city that is known for its vibrant nightlife, which includes its casinos. One of Reno's best casinos is Atlantis Casino. The casino is within the Atlantis Resort & Spa, which has everything you could want to enjoy your stay in Reno. The spacious and comfortable rooms have modern amenities. This hotel also boasts live entertainment, a luxurious spa, and award-winning restaurants. Even if you and your fellow travelers are not guests at this hotel, you can still access everything in the casino, including poker rooms, table games, sports betting, poker, and card games.

The Discovery Museum

If you have traveled to Reno with children, then one of the attractions you should visit is The Discovery Museum. It is an attraction that provides an interactive experience for all the family as it encourages learning about the sciences through play and a variety of hands-on activities. Some of the topics this museum covers include astronomy, biology, chemistry, math, geography, art, and paleontology. It is a fantastic attraction to visit on a rainy day.

Basecamp at Whitney Peak Hotel

A fun activity to try during your stay in Reno is Basecamp at Whitney Hotel. An interesting fact is that this attraction holds the Guinness World Record for being the tallest climbing wall. The wall is fixed to the side of the Whitney Hotel and rises 164 feet overlooking downtown Reno. If you have enough courage to climb to the top of the climbing wall, you can enjoy spectacular views. At night, the views are particularly impressive as the lights of the city are shining.

Regardless of whether you enjoy outdoor activities or you are interested in history and culture, you will find plenty of things to enjoy during your time in Reno, Nevada. Hopefully, these suggestions will help you plan your vacation itinerary and make the most of your time in this diverse city. If you’re looking for more things to do in Reno, consider booking a local on Hellocity.

20 US Backpacking Trips to Add to Your Bucket List

The United States is legendary for its breathtaking scenery, fascinating wildlife, and sheer variety of opportunities. America’s national parks and protected lands offer chances for exploration unlike any other. This can be your guide to choose the ultimate adventure for your next backpacking trip. From the landmark Grand Canyon, to more off-the-beaten-path locations, the US is a wonderland for travel, hiking, biking and all kinds of adventure to add to your bucket list.

1. Grand Canyon National Park

There’s no adventure more iconic than hiking the Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim Trail at Grand Canyon National Park. This hike is serious business, and less than one percent of the park’s visitors actually descend into the canyon. The strenuous path takes you 6,000 feet down into the canyon, up the other side, and back again. What makes the experience even more special is backcountry camping at the bottom of the canyon. You’ll just have the company of the night sky, the Colorado River, and the two-billion-year-old massif around you. It’s one of the best ways to see every vantage point of America’s iconic canyon.

2. Acadia National Park

The first park east of the Mississippi, Acadia is well-known for its beautiful scenery and high-society vibe. The park doesn’t have many multi-day hiking trails, but the real joy in Acadia is the sheer variety in experiences available. There are dozens of day hiking trails, from oceanside to mountainside, like the adrenaline-pumping Precipice Trail, which hangs off the side of Champlain Mountain. There’s also opportunities for biking, horseback riding, and kayaking. The best way to experience Acadia is to camp overnight and take advantage of as much as possible.

3. Zion National Park

No other national park can quite match the otherworldly landscape of Zion. Crowned by Zion Canyon, the park branches out into rocky cliffs, desert vistas, and mountain-lined alleyways. The best activity for adventure-seekers is traversing The Narrows. This 16-mile gorge squeezes a flowing river between its walls, and though at times the trek can get claustrophobic, it’s always exciting. Most visitors hike bottom-up, but experienced hikers can get a permit to trek top-down. Hikers can also take advantage of Angels Landing, one of the country’s best day hikes.

4. Glacier National Park

 Once advertised as “America’s Switzerland”, Glacier National Park is mainly known for its scenic drives, but it’s also an excellent backpacking spot. The park’s extensive back country camping is divided in two halves by the Continental Divide. The west side is more forested and therefore isolated, but the east side is known for its mountain vistas. Some of the best backpacking journeys are the Dawson-Pitamakan Loop, for its panoramic views, and the trail up to Goat Haunt, which continues into Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park.

5. Denali National Park

Denali is one of America’s legendary backpacking spots. Popular activities include biking the Park Rd, 92 miles of tundra, mountains, and meadows, bringing you all the best scenery of the park, or hiking the Kesugi Ridge to Mt. Denali. The real joy, however, is wandering off-the-beaten path, literally, with the park’s trail-less hiking. The park maintains quotas for backcountry camping, ensuring that Denali’s pristine isolation remains. Keep an eye out for the park’s incredible wildlife: foxes, moose, wolves, and grizzlies are all residents.

6. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is surely already on every backpacker’s bucket list. The legendary California landmark has been a mainstay for wilderness-seekers since settlers went out West. Most visitors head to Yosemite Valley, where you’ll find El Capitan and the Half Dome. These are absolute musts, but most of these areas are no-camping zones. Backpackers instead should head up to Clouds Rest. This trail gives panoramic views of the entire park, including the entire Yosemite Valley.

7. Yellowstone National Park

While most travel to Yellowstone for its geysers, there’s another star in the park: the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River is a 20-mile-long canyon topped by a majestic waterfall. Go backcountry camping at one of the sites along the Yellowstone River, and make a journey of the different day hikes in the area. After conquering the Grand Canyon, head to the less-visited Black Canyon. From the Yellowstone River Trail or Hellroaring Creek Trail, you can merge onto the Blacktail Creek Trailhead, and transfer your tent here. It’s well worth it to see an untouched side of the park.

8. Redwoods National Park

Redwoods National Park isn’t just home to some of the tallest trees on earth; it also features some gorgeous coastline. One of the best full-day hikes is the Fern Canyon Loop, which takes you through the forest, and out to the sea. Once you’ve been acquainted, pick one of the park’s backcountry sites and set up camp. The only real multi-day hike in the park is the Coastal Trail; you can set down this path, or take up one of the many bike paths. After exploring here, branch out to the park’s surroundings. Redwoods National Park is also shared with nine different state parks, among the best of which are Humboldt and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Parks.

9. Arches National Park

Arches is a unique backpacking experience. The terrain is decidedly inhospitable, with many trail-less sections, and no sources of freshwater. Backpackers here need to be experienced and plan well ahead. However, that shouldn’t discourage you, because backpacking here is an unforgettable experience. Take a sunrise hike on the Devil’s Garden Trail, which is a veritable showcase of the park’s best arches. Another can’t miss is the Delicate Arch Trail, home to the park’s most photogenic structure. Along the way, you’ll also see ancient Native American petroglyphs, a fascinating shot of history into your adventure.

10. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Even as the most visited national park in the country, Great Smoky Mountains still has plenty to discover. Visitors flock to the park in autumn to see the incredible changing leaves, and that’s the time to make the most of your trip. Some of the best multi-day hikes are on the Newfound and Davenport Gaps. The former leads up to the Chimney Tops, a viewpoint accessible to any hiker. The latter, however, is the longer and more challenging journey. It’s part of the Appalachian Trail, so it is great if you’d like to add sections of it to your backpacking resume. On the way, you’ll not only see mountain vistas, but historic homesteads, one of the most charming aspects of the park.

11. Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is one of America’s foremost wilderness paradises. With snow-capped mountains, colorful valleys, and pristine lakes and waterfalls, it’s got everything a backpacker could ask for. The park’s biggest trail is the massive 40-mile Teton Crest Trail, stretching 10,695 feet above the wilderness at its highest peak. It’s perfect for seeing everything the park has to offer, like Marion; Phelps Lakes, and numerous canyons, like Granite and Cascade. Grand Teton also offers chances for world-class biking, elk-spotting, and rafting down the Snake River.

12. Big Bend National Park

One of the most isolated US National Parks, Big Bend is a unique landscape right at the edge of the country. The Outer Mountain Loop is the most popular multi-day hike here, and winds 40 miles through all the park’s different landscapes. First, you’ll walk through Laguna Meadows, for your first glimpses at the mountain tops, then ascend the canyon rim, with views over the Chihuahua Desert. Be sure to catch sunrise here; it’s absolutely unmatched. You’ll hike in and out of canyons to historic ranches and caves, all with some of the country’s best stargazing views. Close off your visit with some rafting down the Rio Grande.

13. Isle Royale National Park

Moving on to another extreme of the country, Isle Royale is tucked away in northern Michigan. The park is renowned for its wooded solitude and aquatic activities in Lake Superior. It’s also the least-visited park in the contiguous 48 states, making it a great opportunity for backpackers. The park’s best trail is the multi-day Greenstone Ridge, that runs the island end-to-end, including stopping at the highest point, for vistas over Lake Superior. There’s also plenty to explore, off-shore, like scuba diving the island’s ten shipwrecks, and cabin-spotting from a kayak.

14. Olympic National Park

The Pacific Northwest is known for its dreary weather, but for Olympic National Park, it’s its greatest asset. The wet climate has spawned untouched rainforest and an eerie coastline, and there’s three main choices when backpacking here: coast, forest or mountains. The North Wilderness Trail runs 20 miles along the beach, and in some places it’s the only way to get to the ocean. The path runs past the coast’s rocky outcrops, with misty rain and crashing waves, and also runs further into the forest, so you can see the park’s famous moss-covered greenscape. Finish off your hike with a visit to the hot springs. You can even book a massage here.

15. Rocky Mountain National Park

There’s no US mountain range more legendary than the Rockies. The park is a year-round playground for adventurers and backpackers. Other than mountain-climbing and winter snowshoeing, there’s numerous hiking opportunities. One favorite is the Thunder Lake hike. Taking only about two days, the path takes you through the Rockies best landmarks, like Copeland and Ouzel Falls, and of course Thunder Lake itself, the park’s most famous lake. Afterwards, you can continue hiking to the Lake of Many Winds, or turn back.

16. Gates of the Arctic National Park

This is the number one least-visited national park in the United States. It’s also one of only two national parks located above the Arctic Circle. If you’re looking to really get away and experience nature, there is truly no better place. With no roads, the only way to get in is by floatplane or hike, and the park is completely trail-less. Travel here in the summer for the midnight sun, and just explore. Find landmarks like the Thunder Valley or Arrigetch Peaks, and spend your time crossing rivers and mountains, wandering past turquoise lakes, and spotting everything from caribou to mountain sheep.

17. Lost Coast Trail

Running 25 miles down the northern California coast, the Lost Coast offers stunning views of black-sand beaches, golden cliffs, and meadows, unlike anything else in the state. This hike is challenging because of the terrain; much of the mileage is covered on wet sand and rocks. Hikers also have to negotiate the dangers of high tide, which can sometimes cover the whole beach up to the rock. Some backpackers also bring along surfboards to take advantage of the water. This corner of the state is isolated and off-the-beaten-path, but the reward is well worth the effort.

18. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

A quintessential symbol of the Utah wilderness, Grand Staircase-Escalante is a varied landscape of deserts, canyons and rivers. One of the most famous paths is Coyote Gulch. For experienced hikers only, the trail runs past some of the monument’s best landmarks, with massive arches like Stevens Arch and Coyote Natural Bridge, and canyons like the Dry Fork. Another option is the Main Fork Red Breaks Canyon, with incredible slot canyons. Hiking Zebra Canyon and The Tunnel is a less strenuous hike, with no less spectacular experiences.

19. Haleakalā National Park (Sliding Sands Trail)

People don’t usually think of Hawaii as a backpacking destination, but these islands have some of the most unique and interesting landscapes in the US. Haleakalā is called “The House of the Sun” by Hawaiians, and is centered around a dormant volcano. The colorful sands and ash make a surreal volcanic landscape, which is best visited on the Sliding Sands Trail. It takes you past craters, volcanic pits, and striking colors. The park also has a coastal forest, with lush plant life and stunning waterfalls.

20. White Mountain National Forest

New England’s premier backpacking destination, White Mountain is perfect for skiers, mountain climbers, rafters, and those just looking for some fall scenery. The biggest trail here is the Pemigewasset Loop, which tops eight 4,000ft+ mountains, but there’s also shorter journeys. Popular adventures include summiting Mts Washington or Madison, or heading into Franconia Notch, up to Mt Lafayette. No matter what path you choose, you’ll see some of the most electric fall colors in the country.

As you plan your next backpacking trip across the United States, remember that the real magic often lies beyond the trailhead. While guidebooks and maps are helpful, nothing compares to the knowledge and insight of someone who actually lives there. That’s where Hellocity comes in.

By booking a local guide through Hellocity, you gain access to hidden trails, secret campsites, cultural insights, and real-time tips that you just can’t find online. Whether you're exploring the depths of the Grand Canyon, trekking through the wilds of Denali, or discovering a lesser-known gem in your home state, a local can enhance your journey, keep you safe, and turn an ordinary hike into an unforgettable adventure.

Don’t just check places off your bucket list—immerse yourself in each destination. Connect with a local on Hellocity and experience backpacking in the U.S. the way it was meant to be: authentic, informed, and totally unforgettable.