Reno

Reno – the Biggest Little City in the World – isn’t little anymore. Population of the Greater Metropolitan Area is fast approaching a half million. Growth has brought a new sophistication, with more emphasis on culture. Nevada Museum of Art and commercial galleries like the Stremmel mount exhibits featuring regional and internationally known artists. The Nevada Opera, Reno Philharmonic and Reno Chamber Orchestra perform from October to May. In July, Artown – one of the most comprehensive festivals in the country – features more than 400 events. Other annual celebrations are impressive, too: the Reno River Festival in May; Reno Rodeo in June; ...

Reno – the Biggest Little City in the World – isn’t little anymore. Population of the Greater Metropolitan Area is fast approaching a half million. Growth has brought a new sophistication, with more emphasis on culture. Nevada Museum of Art and commercial galleries like the Stremmel mount exhibits featuring regional and internationally known artists. The Nevada Opera, Reno Philharmonic and Reno Chamber Orchestra perform from October to May. In July, Artown – one of the most comprehensive festivals in the country – features more than 400 events. Other annual celebrations are impressive, too: the Reno River Festival in May; Reno Rodeo in June; Hot August Nights; the Great Reno Balloon Race and Reno National Air Races in September. Ethnically diverse, the area celebrates with Basque, Celtic, Mexican and Italian festivals. Other attractions include the Wilbur D. May Museum, triple-A Reno Aces baseball in the new downtown stadium and everything from rock concerts to regional gymnastic championships at Lawlor Events Center. Outdoor recreation options abound with kayaking on the Truckee River, 15 golf courses, and 140 miles of hiking trails. And although the number of casinos has decreased substantially in the last two decades, their lights still shine brightly along Virginia Street.

About the Expert

Connie Emerson is the author of more than a dozen books, including The Cheapskate's Guide to Branson, Missouri and Eyewitness Top Ten Travel Guide – Las Vegas.