Top Tips to Save When Visiting Reno
As Reno’s popularity continues to grow, so are the number of ways to save when visiting. Boasting access to pristine national parks and decadent casinos, Reno offers the best of both worlds. Their diverse lineup of attractions allows them to cater to both punters and outdoor enthusiasts. Every year over five million people visit Reno, which makes it one of America’s most treasured tourist destinations. Despite having the world at its fingertips, Reno maintains its small town charm. Its nickname, “The Biggest Little City in the World” reflects this rare duality.
By providing a welcome alternative to Sin City, Reno is quickly becoming a favorite amongst tourists. Between its close proximity to Lake Tahoe and affordable venues, there are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Reno. The city is home to 22 major casinos that range from larger than life to humble venues. There are also plenty of entertainment options that are more affordable than similar options in Vegas. Lake Tahoe is less than an hour outside the city, which makes Reno the perfect place to explore breathtaking national parks.
Despite being noticeably cheaper than Las Vegas, there are plenty of ways to maximize your savings in Reno. From taking advantage of free entertainment to strategically planning travel dates, frugal visitors have various options. To showcase what’s available, we compiled a list of the best ways to save money in Reno. This vibrant city has a staggering amount of attractions, so learn how to indulge without blowing your budget!
Tips to Save When Visiting Reno
Tip #1: Choose Your Dates Carefully – Just because this city is nowhere near as expensive as Las Vegas doesn’t mean proper planning isn’t a priority. Hotel rates skyrocket downtown during high season, so if you can plan around it. To get the most out of your trip, attempt to visit in spring (April to May) or fall (October to November). On top of beating the crowds, these seasons are filled with discounts to attract more business. Reno’s main charm is not being as hectic as Las Vegas, so plan your trip strategically to highlight this feature!
Tip #2: Take Advantage of the Amenities – Unless you are traveling to Lake Tahoe, there’s no reason to rent a car. Unlike most of the U.S., Reno has a robust public transportation system. Out of all the options, The Sierra Spirit bus line steals the show. Aside from covering all the main attractions downtown, this service is completely free. Few American cities have a better public transportation system than Reno, so take advantage of this surprise perk!
On top of superb public transportation, there are also free movie venues scattered throughout the city. The University of Nevada, Washoe County Library, and Wingfield Park all offer free movie nights throughout the week. The Fleishmann Planetarium and Science Center offers full-dome movies at discount prices, which is a surprisingly novel option. These cheap ideas are the perfect way to spice up any night, so treat the family to these quality entertainment options!
Tip #3: Visit the City’s Parks – Even though Lake Tahoe steals the show, there are plenty of gorgeous parks inside Reno. For those who want to experience what the Truckee River has to offer, the Wingfield Park can’t be beaten. Visitors can indulge in a series of water sports that range from kayaking to tubing. For those who like hiking, the Virginia Lake Park boasts miles of walking paths that cut through some truly breathtaking scenery. During the winter, free ice skating lessons are offered at the Rink on the River. Reno’s natural attractions are just as impressive as their casinos, so don’t hesitate to take a break from the city!