Reno Weekend with Kids

Think Reno, Nevada isn't for kids? Time's are changing! Every time we visit, this 'biggest little city in the world' has added more family friendly attractions with increasing appeal to kids. Reno is fun, bustling, and situated right next to the Sierras for lots of outdoor adventure!

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John Ascuaga's Nugget
With a newly remodeled wing, lots of family dining, and a huge video arcade/play area, the Nugget is our favorite place to stay in Reno with kids. By far the best feature, its indoor pool and hot tubs are located in a beautiful atrium, making you feel as though you're outside. It overlooks Mt. Rose and has a full poolside menu/bar.
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Circus Circus Reno Hotel
We prefer to stay at the Nugget, but that doesn't mean we can't divide up our fun at two locations. Circus Circus is great place to spend a cold (or hot) afternoon or evening indoors. The midway can get pricey if you're not careful, but the circus acts at the main ring are free to the public and quite impressive! Our kids like the moto... More >
We prefer to stay at the Nugget, but that doesn't mean we can't divide up our fun at two locations. Circus Circus is great place to spend a cold (or hot) afternoon or evening indoors. The midway can get pricey if you're not careful, but the circus acts at the main ring are free to the public and quite impressive! Our kids like the motorcycle acts best!
Their family fun center is no larger than that of the Nugget, but we liked their card payment system (parents load a swipe card with credit instead of kids using tokens).
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Mt. Rose Wilderness
Easily accessed off I-80, Mt. Rose Wilderness is a great place to escape the summer heat on the high desert floor. Several hikes begin at the same network of trailheads; for intermediate hikers, our favorite is the Jones-White Creek Loop trail, starting at Galena Creek Regional Park.
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North Tahoe Marina
Take a day trip out of the city to nearby Lake Tahoe. Once there, stop by this bustling marina area to sign up for a boat tour, parasailing, or just lounge on the beach and let the kids swim!
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May Great Basin Adventure
Located in San Rafael Park in downtown Reno, Great Basin is a nice outdoor respite from neon and casinos. Kids can pan for gold, try to find the exit in a mine maze, take a log flume ride, and play on extensive playground equipment. Admission is reasonable for a mid-sized amusement park.
Easily accessed off I-80, Mt.
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Atlantis Family Fun Center
We've spent a few nights at the Atlantis, and appreciate their indoor/outdoor pool and huge arcade. Their family fun center is no larger than that of the Nugget, but we liked their card payment system (parents load a swipe card with credit instead of kids using tokens). It was very clean and well-managed, too! More
We've spent a few nights at the Atlantis, and appreciate their indoor/outdoor pool and huge arcade. Their family fun center is no larger than that of the Nugget, but we liked their card payment system (parents load a swipe card with credit instead of kids using tokens). It was very clean and well-managed, too!
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About the Author

Amy Hagstrom Whitley
Amy Hagstrom Whitley
If you're looking for the professional me instead of the personal me, visit http://www.pitstopsforkids.com for travel writing, and http://www.nevertruetales.com for updates on novels, essays, and day-to-day tales.
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