7 Reasons Reno Tahoe Is the Best West Coast Vacation Spot

Because of its jaw-dropping views, crystal-clear water and well-known reputation, we considered listing “Lake Tahoe” as its own reason to make this your West Coast destination. But visiting Reno Tahoe is about more than what you can see here — it’s about what you can do. And, with an average of more than 300 days of sunshine in a year, we’ve got outdoor adventure to the max.

Mountains, bodies of water and desert converge, meaning you have options when it comes to what terrain you want to conquer during your vacation. Carve through fresh powder at a nearby ski resort or tear up rugged mountain bike trails. Go paddleboarding on the sparkling waters of Lake Tahoe, or ride an inner tube down the Truckee River. Try rock climbing at world-famous spots, like Donner Summit and Big Chief Area.

For a slower pace, cast a line in Lake Tahoe, or explore miles of Reno's scenic hiking trails. You might even stumble across a great vantage point for admiring a vibrant sunset over the Sierra Nevada.

Whatever your style, Reno Tahoe turns every day into an adventure worth bragging about.

Natural beauty is everywhere you look in Reno Tahoe, and so are man-made creations. Public art and open-air sculptures, like the Space Whale and BELIEVE, are guaranteed to spark inspiration. Giant murals splash across the sides of buildings and painted signal boxes. Creative expression is part of the city’s DNA, and it continues well beyond the streets.

The Nevada Museum of Art—the state’s only accredited art museum—sits in the heart of downtown Reno, showcasing various exhibits throughout the year. Local galleries, like The Holland Project in Reno and Stewart Indian School Cultural Center & Museum in Carson City, showcase everything from contemporary pieces to Native American art.

Live music echoes through local venues, from intimate bars to the grand stages. The Pioneer Center hosts Broadway hits and standout theater performances, too.

If you’re planning a West Coast vacation for July, make sure to check out Artown! It’s an annual event that brings a variety of world-class live entertainment, offers hands-on experiences and celebrates all things art.

Forget the crowds and bustle of Las Vegas — go north instead. Reno Tahoe offers a gaming scene that’s big on fun without the hassle.

We’re home to some of the most iconic casinos on the West Coast, where you can hit the slots, play a card game or roll the dice in style. Not only do these venues up the ante when it comes to their games, but they also are packed with vibrant atmospheres, top-notch entertainment, great dining options and luxurious amenities if you plan to stay a few nights. So, roll up and take a seat.

Want the inside scoop on where to play or find the best deals on your West Coast vacation? Check out our casino guide.

Calling all foodies looking for their next favorite West Coast destination! We’re serving up a haven for your taste buds. Whether you're digging into a farm-to-table dish or enjoying a perfectly cooked steak, every meal will be unforgettable.

The diversity of flavors here is unmatched; food trucks, trendy eateries and upscale restaurants are just the start. Here are some restaurants that locals love:

• American food: Austin’s, Playfield 76, Rosewood, Royce, The Spot, Twisted Fork
• Asian cuisine: Bawarchi Indian Cuisine, Kwok’s Bistro, Moo Dang, Thali, Pho 777, SF Kitchen
• Italian cuisine: Calafuria, Johnny’s Ristorante Italiano, The Kitchen Table
• Mexican dishes: Anna’s Taqueria, La Condesa Eatery, Lupita's Mexican Restaurant, Mexcal, Taco Shop, T's Mesquite Rotisserie
• Central European food: Von Bismarck, Edelweiss Pub

Pair your meal with a craft brew from a local brewery, a glass of wine or a cocktail crafted by expert mixologists, and you’ve got the ultimate foodie experience.

Check out more of Reno Tahoe’s delicious restaurants here.

Our events offer something for every type of traveler, from outdoor adventure to cultural celebrations to iconic entertainment. Year-round, Reno Tahoe keeps the energy level high, and every season has its moment:

• Spring rolls in with themed races and action-packed sports events.
• Summer turns the heat up with food festivals, Hot August Nights and the legendary Reno Rodeo.
• Fall is all about Street Vibrations, The Great Reno Balloon Race and football games at University of Nevada, Reno.
• Winter offers a winter wonderland backdrop for activities, like horse-drawn sleigh rides, full moon snowshoe hikes and plenty of live entertainment.

Here are a few events that should definitely be on your West Coast vacation bucket list:

• American Century Celebrity Golf Tournament
• Burning Man
• The Great Reno Balloon Race
• International Camel & Ostrich Races
• Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival
• BBQ, Brews and Blues
• Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook Off

What are you waiting for? Come check them off!

With endless trails and wide-open spaces, your four-legged sidekick can accompany you at nearly every turn in Reno Tahoe, including your hotel room.

Let them run wild at Rancho San Rafael's off-leash dog park, splash in the cool waters of Chimney Beach or Coon Street Dog Beach, or kick up some dust on the Hunter Creek Trail for a scenic hike with a waterfall reward.

After a day of exploring, unwind at a brewery that makes your dog feel like a VIP (Very Important Pup):

• Lead Dog Brewing
• Revision Brewing
• 10 Torr
• Inclined Burgers and Brews
• Bear Belly Brewing Company

With this mix of thrilling outdoor fun, vibrant city life, family-friendly activities and even spaces for your furry companions to roam, you can see why Reno Tahoe is considered one of the best West Coast destinations.

One day here won’t cut it — you crave more of the action. Choose a place to stay, from sleek hotels to cozy lakeside cabins, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.