Bus to and from Reno, NV from $4.99

Known as the “Biggest Little City in the World”, Reno is a surprisingly versatile city that allows you to experience the glitz and glam of casinos one night, then switch it up completely and spend the next day in the middle of the great outdoors. Over the last couple of years, Reno has undergone a massive revitalization to get rid of its gritty reputation, and has come alive with new eateries, breweries and boutiques popping up all over the city. Whether you are looking to spend the day shopping, eating or hiking up the side of a mountain, Reno is the destination for you. Throughout the year, Reno hosts a variety of special events and festivals such as the Great Reno Balloon Race, Hot August Nights and is even the gateway for the Burning Man Festival. So, make sure to check what is happening in Reno during your trip and get your camera ready for some prime Instagram opportunities! 

Start your morning in Midtown checking out the locally owned cafes, vintage stores, and murals that attract both tourists and locals to the up-and- coming neighborhood. Reno is known as being the gateway to the Burning Man Festival, one of the weirdest and coolest art and music festivals in the world. So, a trip to Midtown would not be complete without heading to the Junkee Clothing Exchange and trying on some funky festival outfits. Walk along the Midtown streets and explore the largest public art collection in the US. Over 60 stunning murals have been created throughout the neighborhood by local and international artists alike and if you want to know more about these paintings, just join one of the art tours offered around the area.

Home to the casinos, the iconic arch and an array of activities, Downtown Reno is the entertainment center of the city. Take advantage of the beautiful Nevada weather and explore the Riverwalk District and Truckee River. There is nothing better to do on a hot day than to spend some time at the Whitewater Park and go kayaking or tubing in the river. Wine lovers must check out the monthly Wine Walk, and try some of the best wines from the region, while getting a taste of the restaurants in the area.

For art fans, a visit the award-winning Nevada Museum of Art should be on your itinerary. Enjoy the range of contemporary and traditional art through interactive exhibits, or even join a guided tour for a more detailed view into the artworks on display. Make sure to check out some of the crazy art installations from the nearby Burning Man Festival. 

Only 40 miles southwest of Reno, Lake Tahoe is the perfect place for a day trip during your vacation. Lake Tahoe is widely known as one of the most beautiful places in the US, with its stunning mountains and crystal-clear waters drawing in thousands of visitors each year. 

During summer head to one of the many magical beaches like Sand Harbour or Zephyr Cove, where swimming, boating, kayaking and other water sports are the most popular activities. For the best view of the lake, explore one of the many hiking trails around Lake Tahoe, which vary both in difficulty and duration. There are several easier trails to choose from, including the Floating Island Trail and Tahoe Meadows Trail, while some of the more skilled hikers might try the Mount Tallac Trail or the Tahoe Rim Trail. 

Some of the country’s best winter resorts call Tahoe home, particularly on the lake’s north shore. The area receives between 300 and 500 inches of snow annually, which is perfect for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and more. Squaw Valley, the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics, is the ultimate playground for snow lovers and offers a range of activities including tubing and dogsledding. Make sure to check out their supersized hot tubs on the side of the mountain and have a drink overlooking the incredible view!