Reno is known for its neon lights and Sierra Nevada skyline, but its urban parks are where the city catches its breath. Whether you want riverfront relaxation right in the city or a patch of wilderness in the suburbs, Reno’s green spaces offer a wonderful mix of nature, entertainment and local flavor. Here’s your guide to the Biggest Little City’s best urban parks.
Photo: View of the Duck Pond Under Shady Overgrowth in Idlewild Park
Idlewild Park – Riverfront Charm with a Vintage Vibe
Just west of downtown along the Truckee River, Idlewild Park is full of giant shade-giving trees, blooming rose gardens and the ever-present sound of rushing water. Amid the riverside trails that swirl throughout the park, you'll find a duck pond, a skate park, multiple playgrounds and even a small train that loops around in summer. The weekly farmers’ market brings the bustle of shoppers and local artisans, joggers and cyclists swing by rhythmically at every hour of the day, and armies of ducks and geese strategically compete for resources across the large ponds.
Photo: Westbound View of the Truckee River from Wingfield Park in Downtown
Wingfield Park – The Heartbeat of Downtown
In the center of Reno’s Riverwalk District, Wingfield Park is the city’s most urban oasis — literally sitting on an island in the Truckee River. All summer long, this park is abuzz with activity: kayakers navigate the whitewater rapids, musicians fill the air with live tunes, and festival-goers dance in the evening heat. Meanwhile, in all directions you have views: of the river, of downtown high-rises, of the Sierra Nevada mountains in the distance.
Photos: Above, The Rancho San Rafael owl relaxing in a tree. Below, the Reno Basque Monument.
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park – Reno’s Backyard Playground
Just north of the University of Nevada, Rancho San Rafael is Reno’s most expansive urban park. One minute you’re exploring the lush Wilbur D. May Arboretum, the next you’re hiking sagebrush trails with sweeping views of the city. Its wetland areas are a sanctuary for birds, such as the infamous Great Horned Owl. There’s also a dog park that’s a canine paradise, and there are open fields where the iconic Great Reno Balloon Race takes place each fall. Rancho is wild, open and a good representation of Nevada itself. The Reno Basque Monument is here, the work of Basque sculptor Nestor Basterretxea to honor the region's Basque history.
Photo: Walking my baby around Virginia Lake in winter
Virginia Lake Park – A Lakeside Loop in the Middle of the City
Surrounded by Midtown homes interspersed with casino-hotels, Virginia Lake Park is a slice of lakeside calm. Locals love the paved walking loop around the water, which is perfect for stroller-pushing parents. It’s a mini getaway without leaving town.
Reno’s parks offer a little something for every kind of urban explorer. These green spaces don’t just add beauty to the city — they give it a chance to breathe and replenish the city dwellers’ energy, creativity and love for the outdoors. Pack a picnic, grab your sunglasses and go get lost in Reno’s urban oases.
All photos by Dan Bablinskas
About the Author Dan Bablinskas
Dan Bablinskas is a relentlessly curious person with a passion for travel, foreign languages, affordable food and lodgings, well-fashioned cappuccinos and refreshing craft brews. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in creative writing, he traveled through Europe and South America while working as an English teacher and travel blogger. After trying a number of different careers, he settled into technical and content writing for his day job. In his spare time, he enjoys exploring the Reno-Tahoe area by foot, car, bike and ski. He lives in Reno with his wife and two kids. 
