Top Free Things to Do in Reno, Nevada

Reno is endowed with some of the most beautiful parks. Perfect for spending a day outdoor, these parks offer a host of activities including hiking, biking, jogging, and indulging in sports, etc.

While Wingfield Park has a river where you can indulge in water activities like fishing, swimming, etc.; the Idlewild Park has a train park, swimming pool, skate park, a lawn, walking trails, public art and a rose garden.

Some other parks you must visit in Reno are Virginia Lake Park, Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, Bartley Ranch Regional Park, Huffaker and Mayberry Park.

Each of the parks gives you the chance to spend a glorious day outdoors enjoying the beautiful nature, and some adventurous and fun activities.

A popular free thing to do in Reno, the Hunter Creek Trail is a well-marked hiking trail endowed with some beautiful scenery.

You would get a chance to view the skyline of Reno, local flora, the Hunter Creek and some amazing pine trees while hiking. However, the best reward lies at the end of the trail - you get to witness the most stunning waterfall!

A hot air balloon floating in the sky is watched with wonder. Imagine viewing hundreds of them, all at once!

The Great Reno Balloon Race is held at the Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, every September. It is a three-day event, where the balloons take off at dawn on the first day and land at dusk on the last day.

While you are not busy watching the flight of the balloons, you can indulge in several other interesting activities, most of which are kids-friendly, at the park as well as around the city. Do not forget to take a garden chair or blanket so that you can relax on the lawn to enjoy this unique event.

Although 40 miles away from Reno, Lake Tahoe is a must-visit place if you are in the city. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe with the mighty mountains in the background make a beautiful picture, where you can relax and enjoy its tranquility.

Apart from this, it has great beaches and offers boating, fishing and other water activities. Moreover, the presence of the mountains makes it a great spot for some breathtaking hiking trails. An important thing to remember is that visiting Lake Tahoe is free of cost, but you may be required to pay for some activities.

Spread around 60,000 square foot area, the Nevada Museum of Art is an interesting structure, both inside and out. While the building of the museum is unique, the exhibits are quite interesting as well. Apart from the permanent exhibits, the museum holds several temporary and rotating exhibitions.

Visit to the Nevada Museum of Art is free on the 2nd Saturday of every month. On this day, you would also be a part of the 'hands/ON! Family Program', where families would be able to participate in gallery activities led by docents, art projects, performances, storytelling, etc.

Located at the heart of Downtown Reno, the Reno Riverwalk and Arts District is a great place to hang out in the city. Complete with bars, restaurants, shopping areas, museums, and sightseeing attractions; it is one of the most vibrant spots in the city. You can stop at places to admire the Truckee River or to check out the Burning Man art of the city.

Another outdoorsy activity that you can enjoy at Reno is biking or hiking on the Tahoe Pyramid Trail.

This trail starts at Lake Tahoe and ends at Pyramid Lake and covers 116 miles. You can either bike or hike on this trail, which includes both paved and dirt roads. Whichever mode you choose, you would be rewarded with some splendid views of the place.

Located in downtown Reno, The Discovery is a museum where fun meets education. A place loved by both, the parents and kids alike, it is a museum with over 120 interactive exhibits spread over 8 galleries, where kids get to learn about science, history, art, etc.