Nevada Reno
Moving to Reno, Nevada
Reno, Nevada, blends high-desert beauty with easy access to world-class outdoor recreation and a growing, opportunity-rich city center. Just a short drive from Lake Tahoe via I-80 or Mt. Rose Highway, the city offers welcoming neighborhoods like Midtown, Somersett, and Caughlin Ranch, strong public schools through the Washoe County School District, and an energetic, outdoors-minded vibe. Residents enjoy more than 90 parks and green spaces, expansive regional trails like the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail and the Steamboat Ditch Trail, and year-round hiking, biking, skiing, and paddleboarding minutes away at Rancho San Rafael Park, Galena Creek, and the wider Sierra Nevada. A lively downtown and Midtown district deliver eclectic dining, local breweries, art galleries, and events like the Reno River Festival, Artown, and Hot August Nights—along with a cost of living that remains below many major West Coast cities. With quick access to the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, RTC transit service, and growing bike and trail networks, Reno offers strong community spirit, stunning natural surroundings, and the perfect balance of relaxed Western living with the convenience of a thriving metro area.
Reno by the numbers
City population
Median home price
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Discover Reno: Top Attractions and Things to Do
Local Experiences
Local Experiences
Reno, Nevada, blends high-desert charm with invigorating outdoor adventure and a strong, close-knit community energy—all with the vibrancy of a growing city at your doorstep. Locals love wandering the trails at Galena Creek Recreation Area, paddleboarding or kayaking on the Truckee River, trekking the scenic Thomas Creek and Hunter Creek Trails, or cycling the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail. Midtown and Downtown Reno fuel the social scene with eclectic eateries, craft breweries, and year-round events like Artown and the Reno River Festival, keeping the city lively and connected.
Hiking, Biking & Trails
Reno offers more than 70 miles of trails and greenways, including favorites like the Steamboat Ditch Trail, Evans Canyon Trail, and the expansive Tahoe-Pyramid Trail. These routes weave through sagebrush hills, pine forests, riverfront stretches, and sweeping mountain views—linking neighborhoods to parks, wildlife areas, and the wider Sierra Nevada.
Family-Friendly Activities
Families flock to Idlewild Park for its lakes, rose gardens, and seasonal events; the Discovery Museum for hands-on exhibits; and Rancho San Rafael Park for its playgrounds, wildlife center, and the sprawling Arboretum. Seasonal farmers markets across the city offer local produce, crafts, and food trucks with the Sierra as a backdrop.
Local Breweries & Dining
Reno’s craft beer scene thrives at spots like The Brewer’s Cabinet and Lead Dog Brewing, both with welcoming taprooms, patios, and rotating small-batch pours. For food, Midtown staples like Huntsman Brewing serve creative, locally sourced fare, while long-time favorites like the Gold ’N Silver Inn offer classic comfort dishes with a nostalgic Reno feel.
Reno Parks & Recreation
AllTrails: Best Trails in Reno
Reno Farmers Markets
Sports and Recreation
Sports and Recreation
Reno is a haven for active lifestyles and sports enthusiasts, fueled by the Washoe County School District’s energetic athletics programs and endless outdoor pursuits across Northern Nevada’s parks, trails, and the nearby Sierra Nevada, all within a short drive to Lake Tahoe.
While Reno doesn’t host major league professional teams, fans have plenty of big-league action nearby: catch the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights, MLB’s San Francisco Giants or Oakland Athletics, or MLS soccer matches in the Bay Area or Las Vegas. For minor-league fun, the Reno Aces (AAA baseball) and Reno 1868 FC (soccer) offer thrilling local sports entertainment. High school sports are a point of pride too—Reno’s schools like Reno High and McQueen High deliver exciting football, basketball, and swimming competitions at their stadiums and natatoriums, with a rich history of championships and playoff runs.
Reno shines in both top-tier facilities and wild outdoor escapes. The Reno Recreation Department and local gyms like the Regional YMCA of Northern Nevada feature climbing walls, courts for basketball and pickleball, group classes, and youth leagues. Families and athletes head to Idlewild Park for baseball, soccer, and softball tournaments, or to the Rancho San Rafael splash pad for summer fun. Beyond the city, trails at Galena Creek Recreation Area, Peavine Mountain, and the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail offer hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing; kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are available on the Truckee River or at nearby lakes. With sunny desert summers, snowy winters, and crisp mountain air in between, Reno inspires an active, adventure-filled lifestyle year-round.
Adventures
Adventures
Reno, Nevada, is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise set against the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Nevada and just a short drive from Lake Tahoe. Hike or bike the scenic Tahoe-Pyramid Trail and Steamboat Ditch Trail, paddle or kayak on the Truckee River or Wingfield Park Lagoon, or tackle rugged granite routes at Galena Creek Recreation Area and Peavine Mountain. Thrill-seekers enjoy rock climbing, mountain biking, and paddleboarding, while families love disc golf at Idlewild Park, wildlife spotting at the Rancho San Rafael Arboretum, and playground adventures at Wingfield Park.
History and culture enrich every outing. Discover regional heritage at the Nevada Historical Society with its pioneer artifacts and mining-era exhibits, explore the legacy of the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, or stroll downtown Reno to admire public murals, historic architecture, and art galleries.
Year-round events—from the Reno River Festival and Artown to Hot August Nights and the Downtown Sparks Winter Wonderland—keep the city’s energy vibrant. Whether chasing adrenaline or seeking quiet mountain escapes, Reno delivers unforgettable outdoor and cultural adventures for all ages.
Reno Parks & Recreation: Outdoor Adventures
Nevada Historical Society
Reno & Sparks Events Calendar
Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events
Reno celebrates year-round festivities that highlight its vibrant community spirit, Western heritage, and lively cultural scene.
Spring
As wildflowers bloom and temperatures rise, Reno buzzes with outdoor markets and cultural kickoffs. The Riverside Farmers Market opens its seasonal run with fresh local produce, artisan goods, and live music along the Truckee River, while Artown workshops and pop-up events bring art, poetry, and crafts to parks and galleries downtown. The Reno Spring Arts & Crafts Fair draws crowds with vendor booths, family activities, and interactive sessions across Midtown and downtown venues.
Summer
Summertime in Reno pulses with music, festivals, and outdoor adventure. Food Truck Fridays energize the Riverwalk District with live bands and local eats, while community events fill parks like Idlewild Park and Rancho San Rafael with games, artisan booths, and family fun. Independence Day celebrations dazzle with fireworks over the Truckee River, parades, concerts, and races, while nearby Lake Tahoe, the Truckee River, and local trails invite boating, biking, swimming, and picnicking amid Sierra Nevada scenery.
Fall
With crisp air and vibrant autumn hues, Reno embraces harvest vibes through fairs, craft shows, and outdoor gatherings. The Reno Autumn Arts & Crafts Festival spotlights local artisans with street vendors, live music, and events in downtown Reno, while the Reno Pumpkin Fest celebrates the season with family-friendly activities, pet parades, and seasonal treats. Trails at Peavine Mountain and along the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail provide scenic spots for hiking, biking, and cozy outdoor get-togethers.
Winter
Reno’s winter sparkles with holiday markets, performances, and community cheer. The Riverside Winter Market runs on weekends with seasonal produce, crafts, and festive treats, while local high school basketball games bring energy to gyms with cheering crowds and spirited tailgates. Theaters and galleries host holiday shows, art walks, and concerts, creating warm, joyful moments during the snowy season.
Throughout the year, Reno’s calendar overflows with farmers markets, art walks, music series, and neighborhood celebrations that reflect its welcoming, spirited character.
Reno Events Calendar
Riverside Farmers Market
Food Truck Fridays
Reno Autumn Arts & Crafts Festival
Reno Winter Market
Community Resources
Reno, Nevada, offers residents access to a strong, comprehensive healthcare network — from full-service hospitals to specialty clinics and primary care providers, all serving Northern Nevada and nearby communities.
Renown Health is Northern Nevada’s leading not‑for‑profit integrated healthcare system, and includes several key facilities: its flagship Renown Regional Medical Center at 1155 Mill Street is the region’s only Level II Trauma Center for adults and children, with advanced services in cardiac care, neurosciences, cancer, women’s & children’s health, and more.
Renown has been ranked the #1 hospital in Nevada by U.S. News & World Report.
Also serving Reno is Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center (235 W. Sixth Street), a full-service acute care hospital with emergency services, surgical care, and a long-standing presence in the community.
For newer capacity, Northern Nevada Sierra Medical Center was opened to help address the region’s growing healthcare needs. NNBW
When it comes to primary and family care, Reno has a wide range of options:
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Community Health Alliance operates clinics including one at 1055 S. Wells Avenue. Washoe County
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University Health System (affiliated with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine) runs a Family Medical Center for ongoing care. Washoe County
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There are also specialty pediatric practices through Renown Health Pediatrics. Washoe County
Together, these hospitals and clinics ensure Reno-area residents have reliable access to emergency care, primary and specialty health services, and community-based wellness support.
Reno, Nevada, is a dynamic family hub celebrated for its commitment to education across all ages. From highly rated public schools and specialized private options to accessible higher education and lifelong learning programs, Reno fosters a comprehensive academic ecosystem that nurtures curiosity, growth, and achievement.
Public Schools & Education
Reno is served by the Washoe County School District, one of the largest districts in Nevada, covering PK–12 and emphasizing academic excellence, equity, and holistic student development. Flagship high schools such as Reno High School and McQueen High School offer rigorous curricula, athletics, and arts programs, with strong graduation rates and opportunities for Advanced Placement (AP) courses and career-focused pathways.
STEM programs, gifted education, and arts enrichment empower students to tailor their learning to personal and professional goals, preparing them for college and beyond.
Private & Alternative Education
Reno families have access to a variety of private and faith-based schools emphasizing individualized instruction and character development. Options include Coral Academy of Science (K–12 public charter with STEM focus), Sacred Heart School (preschool through grade 8 with Catholic values), and Incline School (Montessori-based early childhood and elementary education). These schools offer small class sizes, hands-on learning, and creative curricula that encourage curiosity and self-expression.
Higher Education Opportunities
Reno is home to University of Nevada, Reno , a public research university offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as business, engineering, health sciences, education, and the arts. Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) provides associate degrees, workforce training, and continuing education, forming a supportive network for degree pursuits, certifications, and career advancement.
Reno, Nevada, operates under a council-manager form of government and is supported by local departments that provide essential services to residents and businesses.
Law Enforcement
Public safety in Reno is provided by the Reno Police Department, which emphasizes community-oriented policing, crime prevention, and responsive emergency services to maintain a safe environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.
Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services
Fire and EMS services are managed by the Reno Fire Department, which includes professional firefighters and paramedics providing fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical care throughout the city.
Weather & Climate
Reno experiences a high desert climate, with hot, dry summers and snowy winters. Average temperatures range from approximately 29°F in January to 92°F in July, offering year-round outdoor recreation and seasonal community events.
Transportation & Mobility
Reno is conveniently located along Interstate 80 and U.S. Route 395, providing easy access to Northern Nevada, California, and surrounding regions. Public transportation is offered through RTC Washoe, connecting residents via bus routes and paratransit services. For air travel, the Reno-Tahoe International Airport provides regional, domestic, and international flights, while private and charter flights operate from nearby general aviation facilities.
Utilities & Waste Management
Essential services in Reno are managed by the Public Works Department, overseeing water, sewer, stormwater management, and curbside trash and recycling collection. Electricity is primarily provided by NV Energy and natural gas services by Southwest Gas (swgas.com) The city promotes sustainability through recycling programs, yard waste collection, and other environmental initiatives.
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This city guide is provided as a service by Atlas Van Lines.