City Guide: Reno, NV
Reno is aptly named “The Biggest Little City In The World” as it has a lot to offer for a city of its size. You and your family will not run out of entertainment during your visit with many unique festivals, close proximity to top-notch skiing in the winter, and unmatched lake life in the summer.
Reno/Tahoe Airport (RNO)
Reno is serviced by the Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO). Check-in and the TSA line are usually very short and quick as the airport is small, with only two concourses and a total of 23 gates. Our family is usually out of our car and sitting at our gate within 15 minutes. However, please allow extra time during holidays and throughout the winter as the airport gets busy during the ski season. The walk from TSA to your gate is straightforward but long without any moving walkways. If you have a stroller with you, I suggest using it.
There is no specific toddler play area at the airport, though the slot machines may catch your toddler’s attention!
Transportation
Though it might be possible to enjoy Reno by some combination of public transportation and hotel shuttles, I highly suggest renting a car when you have a toddler-in-tow. The public transportation system is not robust, and it would take considerable time to get across town. Furthermore, if you plan on hiking or skiing, you will want to have a car as your home base for your equipment and fit your fluid schedule. Finally, while there is a lot to do in Reno, the stunning views of Lake Tahoe (just about 1 hour away) are not to miss!
Strollers & Carriers
A stroller would be helpful on paved walks in the summer (sidewalks can be icy in the winter) and at museums. However, if you will be partaking in some of the many outdoor sports in the area, a hiking backpack-style carrier would be a better use of space (assuming you have someone able to carry your toddler).
Packing Suggestions
Lotion, chapstick, and sunscreen are necessary year-round due to the area’s high altitude and low humidity. Bring snow gear (including boots if you plan to go sledding) in the winter. In the summer, short sleeves and shorts work well. There are usually indoor pools at hotels and outdoor splash pads, so bring swim gear!
Unable to purchase the gear you need where you live? Buy or rent it in Reno. Once Upon a Child is a fantastic children’s resale store where you can get deeply discounted clothing, shoes, and (to some extent) sports clothing. Rent ski gear from a local outfitter like BOBOS Ski & Board Patio.
Toddler Rental Equipment
If you wish to rent baby or toddler gear in Reno, check out BabyQuip’s inventory! Carseats, cribs/pack-n-plays, hiking backpack carriers, beach toys, sound machines, and more! They can even meet you at the airport!
Babysitters
Unfortunately, there are not many easy-to-navigate drop-in/vacation childcare options for those visiting the Reno area.
In Reno, your best bet is College Nannies + Sitters. Though you can make last-minute requests, it is best to reach out in advance if possible. If you have never used their services before, there will be several intake questions to determine the best sitter for your family and some forms to fill out. They can accommodate one-off babysitting requests for visitors both at hotels and Airbnbs. If you are already hooked up with their services, you can use the app to schedule a sitter on your visit to Reno!
Otherwise, check to see if your hotel has any recommendations, or look into Lake Tahoe Sitters, Care.com, or SitterCity.
We have compiled our top choices for toddler-friendly fun in Reno, NV. To make your life just a little easier, we have also added every location mentioned on the interactive google map at the very bottom of this page.
Best Places to Stay in Reno with a Toddler
South Reno - If you are renting a car, I would suggest staying in south Reno, near where the 580 and McCarran meet. There are many great toddler-friendly things to do in this immediate area, and it is a quick drive up to Incline Village at Lake Tahoe. Nothing in Reno is more than a 20-minute drive, so it's just a short jaunt even if you want to do something on the other end of town.
Suggested Lodging in this Area: Atlantis Casino Resort or Hyatt Place Reno-Tahoe Airport
MidTown -The most quaint area and walkable to parks and the best restaurants in town. If you would be happy walking up to a mile in any direction and not visiting the lake or going on nature hikes, you could potentially get away without a car as there are a lot of excellent local restaurants and accessible public transportation in this area.
Suggested Lodging in this Area: Marriott Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel or one of the many great Airbnb options.
A note about downtown: I would not suggest staying downtown, near THE ROW. Like most downtowns, it is a little seedy, dirty, and unsuitable for kids. However, if you choose to stay downtown, my suggestion would be the Silver Legacy for a few reasons. First, it is a major hotel with all the amenities and multiple restaurants, just an elevator ride away (no car seat required!). Second, it is connected by Skywalks to both the Eldorado Hotel and Circus Circus, so you can go for a walk without venturing into the busy streets. Finally, just a short walk from your hotel room, you will find the Carnival Midway at Circus Circus, complete with arcade and carnival games, midway acts, and circus shows.
Fair warning: In Nevada, areas restricted to guests over 21 (such as bars and casinos) may allow smoking and vaping. Thus, the casino floors often carry a powerful smoke smell, which can seep into other areas of the hotel. If you or your toddler are sensitive to second-hand smoke, keep this in mind.
Best Indoor Activities with a Toddler
Wonder and Unwind ($) - Close the baby gate, and let your toddler run free in this fantastic indoor play center for kids 0-6 years. Each of the four rooms has a different theme and fosters development and play. Caregivers can join in on the fun with their kids or put their feet up in the caregiver lounge with a complimentary coffee or tea. Either way, your toddler can explore the space under the supervision of the on-site team. Caregivers are not allowed to leave the building, however.
Discovery Museum ($ 1+) - This museum is geared toward school-aged kids but has a specific area for toddlers to play and learn simultaneously! Their indoor jungle gym, The Cloud Climber, is a big hit for all the kids looking to get some energy out. Do big kids tend to scare your little one? Wednesdays 9-10am, the museum is specifically open to kids under five before it opens to the public at 10am. Check their website for specific events during your visit. Babies under one year are free!
National Automobile Museum ($ 5+) - If your toddler is especially interested in cars, they might enjoy looking at (but not touching) the National Automobile Museum. Kids under 5 are free!
Libraries (Free) - The local libraries host Toddler Time and Family Story Time, interactive storytelling, and sing-along sessions. The Northwest Library and the South Valleys Library are our favorites for their designated toddler/kid areas, but the Downtown Library is also worth checking out for its abundant indoor plants!
Reno Sparks Scheels (Free) - This giant store has all the gear you could dream of for any outdoor sport, but it also has a hidden gem and a lifesaver for parents like you and me - an indoor play space and Ferris wheel! These amenities are a ton of fun on their own but especially great if someone in your group needs to get some shopping done. The Ferris wheel costs $1 per person and has a height requirement of 36”.
Coconut Bowl at Wild Island ($) - There is so much to do at this adventure park heaven! If you have older kids, they will enjoy bowling, laser tag, glow carts, and mini-golf. Your toddler will love “High Ballocity,” a three-story climbing area with foam balls that you can shoot with air cannons. The park is pricey for kids over 36” or 5+ years, but very reasonable for those under 36”. Take a look at their calendar, offerings, and pricing before your visit.
Cinemark Movies ($) - Each Wednesday, mid-June through mid-August, enjoy Cinemark’s “Summer Movie Clubhouse.” The lineup features kid-friendly movies for just $1.50 per person and a $1 discount on some refreshments. There are three Cinemark locations in Reno - Century Riverside 12, Century Summit Sierra, and Century Park Lane 16.
Best Outdoor Activities with a Toddler
Year-Round
City Playgrounds (Free) - Our family has been on a mission to visit every playground in the Reno area! In doing so, we have come across our favorites: Las Brisas Park, Whitaker Park, Village Green Park, and Comstock Park. You can check out all of the features of these parks by using the Playground Buddy app.
Idlewild Park (Free) - Not only does this expansive 49-acre, centrally located city park has a rose garden, a pool, a skate park, two playgrounds, and a duck pond, but it also has a toddler train. This miniature train is seasonal and only costs $2/person - cash only (kids under two years are free)! The city hosts many events throughout the year, like Earth Day celebrations and Food Truck Fridays.
Andelin Family Farms ($ 3+) - Pumpkin patch and corn maze in the Fall, tulips and baby animals in the Spring, and Sunflowers in the Summer. This enormous farm is just northeast of Reno and celebrates the best of the seasons. Your toddler will love seeing and petting the animals, playing with child-sized tractors, jumping on a giant trampoline, and so much more as you explore the farm.
Hiking (Free) - If you ask a local what they like to do for fun, 99.9% of them will mention hiking, and for good reason. You can see some stunning views by taking the road less traveled. I’d suggest the urban hike along the Truckee River Trail or through Caughlin Ranch for their accessible locations, low-level difficulty, and most importantly because they are entirely stroller friendly and have some protection from the road. If you are visiting in the Fall, these are ideal for checking out the vibrant leaf colors! If you wish to venture into the mountains and want a wilderness hiking experience, check out the Huffaker Hills Trail, a 1.8-mile loop with easy (but unpaved) terrain with views of Reno and the Sierra mountains.
Seasonal - Spring/Summer
Splash Pads (Free) - There are a few seasonal splash pads throughout Reno, including splash pads at Legends Mall (located outside Express Factory Outlet), Victorian Square (in front of the Century Theaters) in the Sparks area, and Yori Park in south Reno. They are fun for toddlers, kids, and adults who wish to cool off! Those who wish to stay dry can sit along the benches on the perimeter, but it’s best to wear water-friendly shoes.
Wild Island Waterpark ($) - Enjoy a day of fun in the sun at Wild Island! This waterpark is perfect for the whole family, with a few rides specific for toddlers as well as a splash pad play area and shallow pool. There is always a dedicated lifeguard in the toddler area but keep an eye (or a hand) on your toddler for extra safety in the water. Children under three years are only $2, but the rest of the family will pay $30-$36/person.
North Valleys Splash Park ($ 2+) - This aviation-themed water park has over 20 water features and over 60 spray heads! At under $5 per person (under two years is free), it is definitely worth the drive!
Sparks Marina (Free) - Enjoy fun in the sun in the city! This large pond is safe for toddlers still discovering the water, and the beach, grassy area and playground give your family plenty of options, so no one gets bored! There is a paved walking path all around the pond if you feel like you need to get your bodies moving!
Seasonal - Fall/Winter
Sledding - Reno doesn’t get a ton of snow that lasts, so you will want to take advantage of it while it is on the ground! There are several paid sledding areas in Tahoe and Donner/Truckee, but those places are usually a bit too rough for toddlers. Save yourself the drive and the price tag by sledding the gentle slopes here in Reno. My recommendations are McQueen High School, the Village Green park, or Mogul Park (just east of town). Just be sure to bring your own sled, as these locations do not provide them. You can find a sled almost anywhere once the snow lands, but Costco, Scheels, and even some gas stations are sure to have them.
Skiing/Snowboarding - Our best recommendation would be to ski or snowboard Diamond Peak in Incline Village - just over an hour from Reno. Not only does Diamond peak allow kids to ski for free until seven years (huge savings!), but they also have an Interchangeable Parent Ticket, so managing childcare doesn’t have to be financially burdensome. Because Diamond Peak is on the smaller side as far as Tahoe ski resorts go, it is generally less crowded. Kids new to skiing will have the space they need to maneuver with confidence. But don’t think that this means the ski resort is ‘just for babies’ - Diamond Peak also has a number of black diamond runs for any dare-devils in your group.
Toddler-Friendly Restaurants
Perenn Bakery - Flaky, buttery, decadent pastries and coffee! This bakery serves grab-and-go croissants and sweets and a handful of delicious dine-in entrees. There are two locations, but our favorite is the one at Rancharrah for its natural light and warm atmosphere. The restaurant has a handful of high chairs, otherwise, take your treats outside to the central courtyard and let your toddler play with the giant chessboard, roll in the grass, or pick up the bocce balls.
The Eddy Reno - Take your family to this outdoor community space where three restaurants/bars share a communal area with yard games, live music, and a friendly atmosphere. The space is kid and dog friendly until sunset.
Von Bismark - Delicious German fare, best enjoyed by a group as the food is meant to be shared. There is a gated area with a small sandy cove for kids to enjoy while you wait.
Best Date Night Ideas
If it’s in the cards to get a babysitter for your kid(s), check out these 21+ or otherwise not suitable for toddler restaurants and experiences:
Rum Sugar Lime - No matter where in the world I find myself, I am always looking for a tiki bar. RSL is as close as you get in Reno with its perfect mixology and well-garnished cocktails. Instead of a thatched roof, you will find a modern vibe with exposed brick walls and clean elegant space. Bonus: Live music every third Thursday of the month.
Death and Taxes - This place goes all out to make their drinks from scratch - and their work pays off! This all-black interior bar is small and cozy, allowing the expertly crafted cocktails to be front and center! Check out their stunning drinks on Instagram.
Liberty Food & Wine Exchange - The perfect combination of truly delicious yet casual date night. Literally, everything on the menu is tasty! Close to the casinos downtown if you want to try your hand at Roulette or Blackjack.
Atlantis Steakhouse - Recently voted the best steakhouse in Reno, this restaurant has a modern and moody vibe and seriously tasty eats. Not into red meat? The menu has plenty for seafood lovers and even a handful of vegetarian options. Enjoy a long relaxing meal in big plush chairs, and time to focus on your meal without distractions.
Spa Day - My personal favorite way to spend a day! My top suggestion for couples would be the Atlantis Spa because they have many shared amenities, including two relaxation rooms, hot tubs, and indoor and outdoor pools. You can order “room service” to be brought to the pool for lunch without getting out of your soft robe. If you want space away from a hotel/casino, I suggest Dolce Vita Spa, a modern-style spa with a beautiful view of a pond and the old Harrah’s mansion from a communal hot tub.
Live Shows and Entertainment - A massive perk of having a handful of major hotels in town is the high-quality entertainment they attract - comedians, magicians, broadway shows, concerts, and more.
Extras
Reno is one of those places that get all the seasons, and the city really celebrates each of them! There are celebrations all year long. Maybe you will be lucky enough to be in town during one of them! Below are our favorite toddler-friendly celebrations.
Mid-June
Reno Rodeo: Professional rodeo performances each night, and additional events that you can participate in like the cattle drive, special kids rodeo, mutton bustin’, and carnival rides.
July
Reno is Artown, including Dragon Lights: This month-long festival comprises over 500 individual free or low-cost events, with a goal to encourage local arts and creative participation. Check the calendar for age-appropriate events! Dragon Lights takes place at the Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Gardens and boasts forty-two larger-than-life LED lantern sculptures. Toddlers will love the new interactive playground with displays they can touch and play with!
Late July/Early August
Hot August Nights (Free Admission): Classic cars, rock n roll, and all things 50s and 60s! Just be aware that these suped-up vehicles can make deafening noises! Bring noise-canceling headphones!
Late August/Early September
Nugget Rib Cook-Off (Free Admission, Free Parking): Twenty-four of the country’s best BBQ teams serve up their best ribs in hopes of winning $20k! This six-day festival brings in a lot of people! Go early if your toddler is not a fan of crowds. Parents may enjoy the beer garden, and kids will enjoy the dedicated Kids Area.
Mid-September
The Great Reno Balloon Race (Free Admission, Parking extra): A very early morning, but an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience! It is cold before the sun rises, so bring blankets and wear layers. Strollers with big wheels or wagons are recommended! There will be a bit of a walk from the parking area to the view site.
Duck Race & Festival: 20,000+ “adopted” rubber ducks are dumped into the Truckee River and “race” to the finish line. Winning ducks get their owner one of a handful of great prizes! Proceeds support the Nevada Humane Society.
October
Pumpkin Palooza: A family-friendly way to kick off Halloween! Show off your princesses and ghouls at the costume contest, play homemade carnival games, grab a giant corn dog, and listen to live music, all within a few blocks.
We have compiled the interactive google map with every location listed in this blog to make your trip just that much easier. Be sure to save the link to this page or save the map to “Your Places” in Google Maps.
Toddler-friendly places in Reno, NV
What do you think of this list? Any place you would add? Share in the comments!
