
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Reno, Nevada, United States
1. National Automobile Museum
Explore over 200 rare and classic cars spanning over a century of automotive history.
- Historic Vehicles: See some of the first cars ever made, as well as concept cars and racing vehicles.
- Interactive Exhibits: Engage in interactive exhibits explaining the history and evolution of the automobile.
- Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to gain unique insights into each vehicle's story.
2. Reno Mural Murals
Discover the largest collection of murals in Nevada, showcasing local artists and themes.
- Artistic Diversity: Appreciate a variety of artistic styles, from realism to abstract.
- Historic Landmarks: Find murals adorning historical buildings and spaces throughout the city.
- Self-Guided Tours: Explore on your own with a guidebook or map, or join a guided walking tour.
3. Reno Arch
An iconic neon-lit arch welcoming visitors to Reno since 1926.
- Historic Landmark: Marvel at the original structure, beautifully restored and maintained.
- Photo Opportunity: Capture unique photos against the ever-changing neon backdrop.
- Local History: Learn about Reno's history and its significance as a gambling mecca.
4. Great Basin National Park
Visit one of the least-visited national parks in the U.S., featuring Wheeler Peak and Lehman Caves.
- Natural Wonders: Hike through diverse landscapes, including forests, alpine lakes, and desert.
- Dark Sky Preserve: Stargaze at some of the darkest night skies in North America.
- Cave Exploration: Explore Lehman Caves, home to unique formations like stalactites and flowstones.
5. Reno's Street Art Alley
Experience a vibrant outdoor gallery showcasing local street art in the heart of downtown.
- Street Art Variety: Discover various styles, including graffiti, murals, and 3D sculptures.
- Frequent Updates: Return often to see new pieces created by rotating artists.
- Community Engagement: Support local artists and contribute to the continuing evolution of this unique space.
6. Reno Depot Cultural Center
Step inside a beautifully restored 1905 train depot now housing local history exhibits and art galleries.
- Historic Architecture: Admire the beautiful Beaux-Arts style architecture of the building.
- Local History: Learn about Reno's rich railroad and gambling history.
- Art Galleries: Enjoy rotating exhibits featuring local artists and artisans.
7. Pumpkin Hollow
Explore an enchanting pumpkin patch filled with giant pumpkins and unique sculptures.
- Giant Pumpkins: See some of the largest pumpkins in the world, up to 2,000 pounds.
- Sculpture Garden: Wander through a whimsical sculpture garden created from pumpkins and gourds.
- Seasonal Attraction: Plan your visit during the fall season to fully enjoy the pumpkin festivities.
8. Reno's National Truck Day Parade
Celebrate the unique culture of Reno as thousands of trucks roll through downtown in a dazzling display.
- Customized Vehicles: See some of the most extravagantly customized trucks you've ever seen.
- Local Pride: Participate in or simply enjoy the camaraderie and spirit of the event.
- Community Event: Take part in food vendors, live music, and activities throughout the day.
9. Reno's Fleischmann Planetarium & Science Center
Learn about space, astronomy, and scientific phenomena at this educational and entertaining venue.
- Star Shows: Experience immersive shows on the planetarium's digital dome theater.
- Interactive Exhibits: Explore hands-on exhibits exploring various scientific topics.
- Educational Programs: Attend workshops, lectures, and camps to expand your knowledge.
10. Tahoe-Pyramid Bikeway
Cycle along a scenic 450-mile trail connecting Lake Tahoe and Pyramid Lake.
- Scenic Routes: Enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and lakes along the way.
- Active Adventure: Take a day trip or plan an extended bike tour to explore the region.
- Historic Sites: Discover historical landmarks and local culture along the route.
11. Reno's Artown Festival
Celebrate arts and culture during this month-long festival featuring performances, exhibits, and workshops.
- Diverse Arts: Experience a wide variety of artistic genres, including music, dance, theater, and visual arts.
- Community Involvement: Support local artists and engage with the community during events and workshops.
- Cultural Exchange: Learn about different cultures and artistic traditions from around the world.
12. Fleischmann Planetarium's Dark Skies Festival
Join stargazers for a weekend of astronomical activities and presentations under the clear Nevada sky.
- Stargazing Opportunities: Learn about constellations, galaxies, and other celestial bodies through telescopes.
- Expert Presentations: Listen to talks by astronomers and astrophysicists on various cosmic topics.
- Community Engagement: Engage with other stargazers, artists, and scientists during workshops and activities.
13. Reno's Taste of Downtown
Savor culinary delights from downtown Reno's top restaurants during this annual food festival.
- Local Cuisine: Experience a variety of dishes, from gourmet to comfort food.
- Culinary Demonstrations: Learn tips and tricks from local chefs during cooking demonstrations.
- Wine Tasting: Sample wines from local wineries, pairing them with your favorite dishes.
14. Reno's Hot August Nights
Step back in time during this annual event featuring classic cars, music, and memorabilia.
- Classic Cars: Admire the sleek lines of vintage cars and learn about their history.
- Live Music: Dance to tunes from the '50s, '60s, and '70s at various venues throughout the city.
- Memorabilia Exhibits: Explore exhibits showcasing memorabilia from classic cars and music stars of the era.
15. Reno's World Famous Coffee Shop
Experience a piece of Reno history at this iconic coffee shop serving breakfast and lunch since 1948.
- Historic Landmark: Dine in the same location as celebrities, politicians, and local legends.
- Homestyle Meals: Savor delicious breakfasts and lunches made with fresh ingredients.
- Warm Atmosphere: Feel the welcoming vibe of a local favorite, perfect for casual gatherings or quiet reflection.