For a place that calls itself the Biggest Little City in the World, Reno isn’t all that large. Measuring roughly 100 square miles in Nevada’s high desert, the midsize town punches well above its weight class, with world-class galleries and museums, of-the-moment restaurants, and an entertainment industry that feels quaint compared to Nevada’s other big tourist draw. And it all happens in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

To get your bearings, take a stroll down Reno’s Riverwalk, the heart of downtown, dotted with wine bars, bistros, clothing boutiques, and open spaces perfect for stretching out. Better yet, head to Truckee River Whitewater Park to dip your paddle in Class II rapids. For even more fun on the water, the glistening shores of Lake Tahoe are less than an hour away. One of the biggest and most beautiful lakes in the United States, Tahoe attracts visitors year-round to its sandy beaches and iconic ski resorts.

The closest airport to Reno is the Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO). It is just a 10-minute drive from Downtown Reno, and you can rent a car at the airport. This may be the most convenient option if you're planning on traveling outside of the city center. There is also a public bus that runs from the airport to the RTC 4th Street Station. From there, it is just a few minutes on foot to the Riverwalk District. Frequent bus connections allow you to travel within many areas of the city, as do taxis and ride-booking options.

The Reno-Lake Tahoe region becomes a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and other cold-weather sports during the winter months. As the snow melts, the lush greenery and beautiful foliage take center stage. Spring is a great time to visit as the crowds have thinned out, making it easier to get vacation rentals in Reno. With so many warm-weather outdoor activities on offer in the late spring and summer, the city takes on a vibrant energy as people rush in to enjoy the hiking, paddling, and biking in the area.

A calmer atmosphere settles in during fall, making it an excellent time to explore Reno's rich nature as the leaves change from emerald green to a sea of red, orange, and yellow. And in October, Reno transforms into Little Italy, as a festival celebrating Italian culture brings live entertainment, a sauce-cooking competition, grape stomp, and an Italian-themed farmers’ market to town.

Downtown Reno Riverwalk

This lively district nestled along the Truckee River in Downtown Reno is the city’s cultural hub, featuring dozens of boutiques, art galleries, eateries, and bars. The area hosts an array of special events, including open-mic nights and the beloved Wine and Art Walk, put on by local merchants on the third Saturday of every month.

National Automobile Museum

With 200 cars set amongst realistic street scenes, this place is a dream for gearheads. The museum opened to showcase the auto collection of a local gaming and casino pioneer who had managed to collect more than 1,400 cars in his lifetime. Highlights include the 1907 Thomas Flyer, winner of the 1908 New York-to-Paris auto race.

Truckee River Bike Path

Extending more than 12 miles, the Truckee River Bike Path takes you along the river in Downtown Reno and past beautiful marshland as you make your way to the neighboring city of Sparks. The trail is part of the longer Tahoe-Pyramid Trail connecting the source of the Truckee River to Lake Tahoe.