Discover Reno, Nevada: A Vibrant Destination for Fun and Adventure

Reno, Nevada, founded by Myron Lake in the 1860s, started as a humble toll bridge along the Truckee River. Today, it’s a bustling city filled with dazzling lights and the vibrant energy of commerce. Known as “The Biggest Little City in the World,” Reno has evolved far beyond being Las Vegas’ little sibling.

Reno’s growth is evident everywhere. In 2024, Reno-Tahoe International Airport saw its busiest summer in nearly two decades. The city boasts upscale hotels, world-class dining, and remarkable museums, making it a top destination for travelers seeking fun and sophistication.

Luxury at Atlantis Casino Resort Spa

Atlantis Casino Resort Spa stands out as a premier hotel, rivaling the best on the Vegas Strip. With over 800 recently renovated rooms across two towers, guests enjoy modern comforts like new Sealy mattresses, updated electronics, and contemporary artwork, all framed by stunning views of Reno or the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The resort’s public spaces shine just as brightly. The Shoppes Atlantis, opened in 2023, caters to luxury shoppers with high-end bags and jewelry. The Four-Star Atlantis Steakhouse, with its sleek leather seating, custom ceiling, and 1,100-gallon aquarium, pairs a refined ambiance with a menu featuring salmon and strip loin. Spa Atlantis and the Grand Ballroom continue to impress without needing updates, offering a Four-Star massage sanctuary and a versatile event space.

Diverse Dining Experiences

Atlantis Casino Resort Spa excels in culinary variety. From the lavish Toucan Charlie’s buffet and Purple Parrot’s addictive birria tacos to the refined Chilean sea bass and butter-poached lobster tails at Bistro Napa, there’s something for every palate. The star, however, is Atlantis Steakhouse, where tableside Caesar salads and imported wagyu steaks delight, alongside fresh diver scallops and crab legs despite Reno’s inland location.

Beyond the resort, Reno’s dining scene reflects its diverse influences, from local Nevada farms to the Basque region of Europe, a nod to the gold rush era. Arnie’s Café serves the fluffiest pancakes around, while the Riverwalk District’s Liberty Food & Wine Exchange pairs local ingredients with fine wines. Roxy’s Restaurant & Bar adds European flair, and Sierra St. Kitchen and Cocktails charms with international dishes like bruschetta, Thai shrimp wraps, and tender braised short ribs in a cozy, wine-cellar-like setting.

Exciting Attractions

Reno’s Truckee River sets it apart from Las Vegas, offering scenic walks, thrilling whitewater rafting, or simply a picturesque photo op along its 120-mile stretch. The city’s museums are equally captivating. The Discovery, a STEAM-focused center, engages kids with exhibits like Da Vinci’s Corner and Truckee Connects, plus rotating programs like “Super Human: Power of Technology” (through October 12) and “Brick Master Studio” (January to May 2026).

The Nevada Museum of Art, inspired by the Black Rock Desert’s geological formations, explores art’s connection to the environment through exhibits like “Altered Landscape” and Judith Lowry’s vibrant works. With the upcoming 50,000-square-foot Charles and Stacie Mathewson Education + Research Center, the museum will offer even more exhibit space and educational opportunities.

Vibrant Events Year-Round

Reno’s event calendar is packed with excitement. The Great Reno Balloon Race (September 5-7) fills the skies with over 100 colorful hot-air balloons, drawing 150,000 attendees to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. Dragon Lights Reno (September 26 to November 30) captivates with animatronic displays of marine life and mythical creatures. Year-round, events like the Reno Rodeo, BBQ, Brews and Blues Festival, and proximity to Lake Tahoe’s slopes (just 40 minutes away) ensure there’s always something to enjoy.