Family Friendly Fun in Reno
To outsiders, the Biggest Little City in the World appears to be a vacation playground for adults only. Seen as Las Vegas’s little brother, Reno is best known for its hotels, casinos, bars and nightclubs - all places children tend to be unwelcome in. However, many local parents would argue that Reno is much more family friendly than meets the eye. Not only are there tons of activities for adults, there are loads of places both in town and around for children to enjoy. During the upcoming break, be sure to take your crew and enjoy some of the best family friendly activities Reno has to offer. And who knows - grown ups may even enjoy themselves better than the kids!
Indoors
If you’re looking to spend a more educational afternoon with the kids, Reno has got you covered. Start with a visit to the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum. The Discovery Museum is a great place for children to learn all about S.T.E.M. related topics, with exhibits focusing on Da Vinci, the anatomy, and even local geography like the Truckee River.
Although the museum is open year round, it’s not uncommon to show up during a discounted admission period. During Spring Break, the museum offers cheaper admission after 5 pm on Wednesdays. The museum’s regular hours start at 10 a.m. Monday to Saturday, 12 a.m. on Sunday, and closes at 5 p.m. each day, and 8 p.m. on Wednesday.
Next, check out the Nevada Museum of Art. Home to a variety of creative collections, children can experience a more thought-provoking experience as they learn more about contemporary and classic art through one of the many classes and tours. Show up on the second Saturday of each month for the Hands ON! program to make art at different all-age stations throughout the museum. Admission is free, and creativity is endless. While young children may find the museum difficult to become engrossed in, older children and teenagers who have a creative streak would love to spend the day critiquing, discussing and experiencing the artwork.
For those looking for a less educational activity selection, check out one of many indoor playgrounds, such as the
. The Fun Center is home to a number of inflatable climbing features, arcade games, and even a laser maze. But this indoor playground is not alone.
is another fun, physical activity center. Not only is this trampoline park open to all ages, but it has a climbing wall and a laser maze, too! These centers are the best places to take the crew to tire them out.
Outdoors
Another great family-friendly attraction in Reno is the Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is a non-profit wildlife preserve that cares for non-release animals while simultaneously aiming to educate visitors all about animals and their native environments. The sanctuary is home to a variety of animals such as bears, big cats, and wolves. Be sure to check out their events and demonstrations, both seasonal and daily! Look online to see what time to watch the staff feed the bears, or sign up for the Wolf Howl Night and Cheetah Runs
Just a half hour up the mountain from Reno lays the world-renown Lake Tahoe. Not only will your children marvel at the majestic mountains, fertile forests, and crisp clean air, but the clear, rich blue of the lake is guaranteed to make nature lovers from those of every age. Visit one of the many lake beaches and spend the day BBQ-ing, fishing, or playing volleyball. Or spend the afternoon checking out the local restaurants and shops. There are even a number of mini-golf courses all around the lake and neighboring towns.
One of the more popular summer traditions in Tahoe is the summer Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. Audiences of all ages come during July to watch the players perform rotating selections of Shakespeare’s greatest works as well as a number of other enchanting performances. Enjoy the beautiful night air as you sit on Sand Harbor and become swept away in the magic of theater.
Back in town, one of the more exhilarating attractions right in one of Reno’s resorts is Grand Adventure Land. The main attraction at this family friendly theme park is their go-kart races, suitable for a variety of ages. They also boast of an exciting mini-golf course for those ready to take their time while having fun. And for the more brave of heart, try the Free-Fall Swing, a swing that flies passengers (4’2” and above) through the air in a pendulum-like motion.
So don’t stay in all break, enjoy the fresh air and explore the Biggest Little City in the World! Try a museum, go for a hike, and experience the joys of spring and summer break. Nothing teaches children better life experiences than engaging activities, and there’s nothing more engaging than fun!
Submitted to Joanna's Nannies by Guest Blogger Lexi Carr