A hidden speakeasy, loads of extraordinary murals and sculptures, and fabulous outdoor beer gardens … where? Reno! We’ve said it before; we’ll say it again: The biggest little city is quickly on the rise for its burgeoning art scene, artisan beer and food, and a beautiful riverwalk. Indulge in it all on a fabulous 3-mile walk.
Start at Bicentennial Park on the Truckee River. The park has rotating sculptures, but one that’s always on display is the “Portal of Evolution,” a massive butterfly and flower sculpture that moves with the wind. (For more information on any of the pieces, visitors can dial the number located at the base of the sculptures.) At the corner of Arlington and 1st Street, cross the bridge that leads to Wingfield Park, an island in the middle of the Truckee River.
Here you can watch surfers and kayakers enjoying the city’s Whitewater Park. Next, head east down Island Avenue to The Eddy, an open-air community space made from repurposed—beautifully painted—shipping containers. Inside you’ll find bars, food trucks, and games like corn hole. While it’s easy to spend a whole afternoon at The Eddy, when you’re ready, the urban art walk continues north to Virginia Street.
Cross the river and meet the Space Whale, a life-size stained-glass statue of a mother and calf humpback whale. Follow Virginia Street another 0.2 mile to the iconic Reno Arch. Look up and try not to get vertigo watching as gutsy people scale the world’s largest outdoor artificial climbing wall. Continue on Virginia Street another 0.2 mile to the Playa Art Park, where you can play on interactive art pieces from previous Burning Man Festivals. From the Playa Art Park walk half a mile down Center Street.
At the corner of Center and Mill, you’ll reach a 1933 post office building. Hidden underneath is The Basement, an underground venue with local vendors and a speakeasy serving local spirits. Keep heading down Center Street and cross into Reno’s hip Midtown District, with murals everywhere you look. Some of our favorites include tributes to historical figures painted on the back side of Junkee Clothing Exchange (Center St. & Virginia St). and the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (at Virginia St. & Cheney St.). Believe in Reno!
BEER BONUS: Finish your walk at Piñon Bottle Co. (777 S. Center St.), with 36 beers on tap.
Bicentennial Park is located at 10 Ralston Street, on the corner of Ralston and 1st St. Dogs allowed, except for inside The Basement.
