Unplug. Reconnect.
Christian Schaffer
Christian Schaffer is an outdoor adventure, lifestyle and travel photographer and filmmaker.
Being overbooked is overrated
Craving some time to relax and recharge? While there are plenty of fast-paced options when it comes to things to do in Reno Tahoe, may we suggest something more laid back? Check into a luxurious hotel room, explore downtown at your own pace and connect with the serenity of nature, all in one vacation. Travel blogger and photographer Christian Schaffer took a low-key approach to her time in Reno Tahoe, and we think you’ll be inspired to follow in her footsteps.
Slow it down
Day 1 at 9 a.m.
Room service anyone?
When was the last time you picked up a book? And no, reading a news article or inspiring Instagram post on your phone doesn’t count! Turn off the alarm, sleep in and then order some room service so you can enjoy a leisurely morning in bed getting lost in that novel everyone but you seems to be reading. The real plot twist is that you really do deserve this time to unplug! With more than 15,000 hotel rooms to choose from in Reno Tahoe, there’s something for every budget and desired level of luxury. A stay at the Eldorado Resort Casino at THE ROW means you’re close to the action in downtown, with plenty of dining options and a brand-new spa just an elevator ride away.
Day 1 at 11 a.m.
A self-guided art walk
The streets of downtown and Midtown are filled with unexpected treasures. Where else would you find a life-sized humpback whale made of stained glass right next to a sculpture inspiring you to BELIEVE? City Plaza is home to these two iconic pieces of Burning Man art, but the arts scene in Reno doesn’t stop there. Bicentennial Park, also filled with large-scale sculptures, is a short walk along the Truckee River, and some of Reno’s newest art can be found along the Neon Line, near the Sands Casino. Go at your own pace with a self-guided tour of the arts scene in Reno.
Day 1 at 1 p.m.
Grab some lunch by the river
After all that walking, you’re going to want a break and some tasty bites. Head to the core of downtown along the Truckee River to check out some of Reno’s best restaurants and bars.
Day 1 at 3 p.m.
Overflowing with creativity
Can’t get enough of the local art scene? Get ready to warm up indoors at the Nevada Museum of Art, Nevada’s only accredited art museum.
Day 1 at 7 p.m.
Midtown eats
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, head just South of the museum to one of Reno’s fastest growing areas: Midtown. With rad new restaurants, quirky thrift stores, and local favorites, you’re sure to find something to fill your belly, glass, and soul.
Day 2 at 8:30 a.m.
A cozy, local cup of joe
Not many things are cozier than a coffee shop on a chilly day. Lucky for you, there are plenty of local coffee spots to choose from, serving up everything from a cup of pour-over to Instagram-worthy lattes with seasonal twists to treat your taste buds. Pangolin Cafe in the Midtown District is a local favorite, and for good reason – they make Turkish Delight in-house (no trip to Narnia required), along with other sweet and savory treats. No matter where you find yourself in Reno Tahoe, a good cup of coffee is never far away. Whether you like to discover a favorite and become a loyal fan or prefer to take yourself on a caffeine cruise around town, our coffee scene is a can’t-miss.
Day 2 at 11 a.m.
Shoreline views
Sure, a strenuous hike will often reward you with panoramic views, but sometimes all you really want is a nice, easy stroll. The Tahoe East Shore Trail lets you have the best of both worlds – a wide, paved trail that winds along the shoreline of Lake Tahoe, offering you constant breathtaking views of the lake. The trail is open to those on foot and on bikes, and runs between Tunnel Creek Cafe and Sand Harbor State Park with plenty of places to stop along the way. Pack a picnic and take in the views at Sand Harbor while you’re there, you won’t regret it!
Day 2 at 2 p.m.
Find wide open spaces
Northern Nevada is brimming with wide-open spaces begging to be explored. From hiking and biking trails to off-road areas that let you leave the city limits far behind, it’s easy to unplug from the daily grind and reconnect with yourself.
Day 2 at 6 p.m.
Unwind with dinner at the lake
After your day at the lake, check out local favorites such as T’s Mesquite Rotisserie or Inclined Burgers & Brews.