Reno's Best Budget-Friendly 3 Day Adventure

Discovering the hidden gems of Reno without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visit Reno on a tight budget and enjoy the city's lively nightlife, casinos and outdoor activities. Take advantage of free attractions like walking tours of downtown, hiking in the surrounding mountains and visiting the National Automobile Museum. Stay at affordable accommodations like hostels, budget hotels or Airbnb properties.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Reno

  • Check into your budget-friendly hotel in downtown Reno, like the El Cortez or Nugget Casino Resort.
  • Walk down to the Truckee River Walk and explore the public art installations along the way.
  • Visit the National Automobile Museum to admire cool vintage cars.
  • Grab lunch at Great Basin Brewing Company for delicious beer and burgers.
  • Test your luck at one of the many casinos in downtown, like the Eldorado or Silver Legacy.
Day 2

Outdoor Adventure in the Sierra Nevada Mountains

  • Enjoy breakfast at Peg's Glorified Ham n' Eggs before heading out to the mountains.
  • Drive up to Mount Rose Summit and go on a scenic hike for beautiful views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierras.
  • Stop by Tahoe City for lunch at Fire Sign Cafe, famous for their signature California breakfast burrito.
  • Head back to Reno for a relaxing afternoon at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park and visit the free indoor animal exhibits.
  • Dinner at Campo, a farm-to-table restaurant and local favorite.
Day 3

History and Artsy Vibes

  • Have breakfast at The Daily Bagel, popular with locals.
  • Visit the Nevada Museum of Art and admire their exhibitions and installations, including the Sky Room with panoramic views of Reno and the Truckee River.
  • Have lunch at The Grateful Gardens, a quirky vegetarian restaurant with outdoor seating.
  • Explore Virginia City, an old mining town that's now a tourist destination with historic shops and saloons.
  • For a unique dinner experience, try Louis' Basque Corner, a family-owned restaurant serving traditional Basque cuisine.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Reno, United States is by plane. The nearest airport to Reno is the Reno-Tahoe International Airport which is serviced by several airlines including American, Delta, Southwest and United.

Car

Driving to Reno is a great way to see the beautiful scenery of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. From San Francisco, take Interstate 80 East for about 218 miles.

Train

There is no direct train service to Reno. However, there are several Amtrak stations nearby including the Truckee station which is about 30 miles away.

Boat

There are no boat services that go directly to Reno since it is not a port city. The closest ports are the Port of Sacramento, which is about 133 miles away, and the Port of San Francisco which is about 218 miles away.

Bus

Taking the bus is an affordable way to get to Reno. Greyhound offers service to Reno with several stops along the way including Sacramento and San Francisco.

More travel plans

Reno: The Wildest Little City Adventure Guide

A family friendly trip to Reno, United States offers a variety of exciting activities for everyone to enjoy. Explore the city's vibrant downtown, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visit the National Automobile Museum, ride the scenic gondolas at the Grand Sierra Resort, or take a day trip to the nearby Lake Tahoe for outdoor adventures and stunning views.

Reno on a Budget: 2 Days of Adventure

For a budget-friendly trip to Reno, check out affordable accommodations like the Circus Circus Hotel or the Peppermill Resort. Take advantage of free attractions like the Reno Riverwalk District and the National Automobile Museum, and explore the nearby hiking trails for some outdoor fun without breaking the bank. Lastly, don't miss the chance to try your luck at the local casinos for some thrills and entertainment.

Discovering the Wild and Neon Side of Reno

Reno, known as "The Biggest Little City in the World," offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its array of attractions. Visit The Discovery, a hands-on science museum that will captivate kids and adults alike. Take a scenic drive to the nearby Lake Tahoe, where you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and kayaking, while breathing in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

4 Days of Reno: Culture, Adventure, and Revelry.

A trip to Reno, in the state of Nevada, promises a cultural experience blended with outdoor fun. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant nightlife, top-notch casinos, and gourmet dining while exploring the fascinating landmarks, such as the National Automobile Museum and the Nevada Museum of Art. The scenic beauty of Lake Tahoe and the stunning landscapes of the nearby parks, such as the Great Basin National Park, offer ample opportunities for wilderness trekking and adventure sports.