The story of Reno is a fascinating one and begins more than a century and a half ago. Soon after the state of Nevada was admitted into the Union, the small community that had grown up around Lake's Crossing on the Truckee River was officially named Reno. It was in 1865 that officials of the Central Pacific Railroad gave it this title in memory of a general who had been killed during the Civil War. Over time, Reno overtook all of the neighboring communities in size and impact. For example, it was Virginia City that was once the most lively and entertaining city between San Francisco and St. Louis, but today Reno is home to some of the nation's most highly rated resorts and casinos. Washoe City was originally the county seat of Washoe County, but Reno took on that role in 1871. The University of Nevada, Reno, was founded here in 1874. Carson City remains the state capital and is a thriving city in its own right, but the population of the greater Reno area that includes the city of Sparks is approaching nearly 10 times that of the capital city.
Reno's Wild Past
For decades in the early 1900s, Reno was known to the nation as the Divorce Capital of the World. Nevada's re-legalization of gambling in the 1930s built onto the city's reputation for a wild and somewhat unsavory lifestyle. By the early 1970s, national divorce reform removed the incentive for travel to Nevada to facilitate divorces, resulting in an economic blow to the economy of the state. But during these decades, other Reno institutions came into existence that would outlive the city's role as a haven for those seeking a divorce. The Nevada Art Gallery was founded in 1931, and Bill Harrah opened his bingo parlor in 1937, the first step toward a world-renown gaming empire. The Air Races and the Balloon Race were started. In the '70s, the Atlantis, the Peppermill and the Eldorado opened their doors.
Recently, the city has experienced a renaissance of sorts. While the gaming and resort industries remain the anchor of the economy, new businesses have made their home in the Reno area. Technology and innovation companies have found a lot to like about the region, and the Truckee Meadows is currently experiencing unprecedented growth and reputation. And ... there's so much more, as we show you in detail in this site.
Reno Events, Things to Do and Activities
With all the change and progress in Reno and the influx of families (and visitors) looking for fun pastimes, it goes without saying that Reno events and activities have increased exponentially. Whether you're looking for a local theater outing, an annual event, trivia nights, casino shows and concerts or most anything else that's happening here, you'll find it all in this site. We also tell you all about golf, sports to watch and to play, classes you can take, attractions, historic sites, activities for families, nature-oriented things to do and so much more. As we've already said, Reno casinos are famous and bring many thousands of people to this area. You'll learn all about them here! These Reno events and activities are constantly updated, so you can be confident that you're in event and things to do central on this site. Following our lead, you can get out there and not miss a single thing to do in Reno!
And What About Reno Restaurants and Reno Shopping?
The Reno of today is a wonderland of fantastically interesting retail opportunities alongside some of the most memorable eateries in the state. Distinct Reno shopping areas such as Midtown and Downtown Reno create venues that are enjoyable to experience on foot and where you also find lots of places to eat, drink and have fun. But the overall Reno shopping scene is spread out from stem to stern in the city, so no matter where you are, you're close to shops you both need and enjoy. The cannabis scene is well known here with many stand-alone shops as well as a well-respected grow/retail operation that's one of the biggest in the region. And then there are Reno restaurants to experience! No matter if you're a gastronomique or just want a basic burger and fries, you're covered in this city. Then, of course, as you'd imagine in a city with a party past, you're also in for a treat with the huge variety of Reno bars – dive bars, distilleries, karaoke bars, speakeasies, pet-friendly bars, wine bars, breweries, sports bars ... – you get the idea.
Reno Hotels, Casinos and Other Accommodations
Of course, locals get a lot of information from this site, but visitors who aren't as familiar with everything offered here especially appreciate our section on Reno hotels and other places to stay. From Mom & Pop motels that have been imaginatively updated to national chains to RV parks to fantabulous casino resorts, there's a perfect place to lay your head. Whether you want to stay close to the airport or right in the middle of the downtown scene, our Reno hotels will give you plenty of options.
