Parents, it’s 2025, and we’re swapping the usual scramble to plan every. single. detail of every trip for a destination that makes family fun effortless—because who’s got time for stress when there’s adventure to be had?
If you’ve never considered the Reno Tahoe region for a family getaway, it’s time to take a closer look. This northern Nevada gem is a cultural haven that offers more than just outdoor experiences; it’s packed with hands-on museums, a thriving food scene, action-packed entertainment centers, epic sports, and shopping your kids will actually enjoy.
Even better? It promises 300 days of sunshine and everything is close by, so you can pack in a full day of fun without worrying or hearing “I’m bored” 50 times.
Read on for ten activities that’ll transform your Reno Tahoe vacation into a culture crawl the whole family will love, with plenty to explore, learn, and experience together.
1. Slip in some playful learning
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Looking for a place where your kids can climb, create, and tinker without realizing how much they’re learning? The Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum is a hands-on wonderland where science, art, engineering, and history come to life. With over a dozen interactive exhibits, toddlers to tweens can scale a multi-story, cloud-inspired jungle gym, build towering LEGO creations, and even step into the shoes of an inventor in a Smithsonian-designed lab. It’s part indoor playground and part museum, making the Discovery the perfect spot to mix up your vacation routine with fun, creativity, and a little sneaky learning.
2. Catch a baseball (game)
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For a local experience that’s not only affordable but chock full of fun, head to the Greater Nevada Field. Home to the Reno Aces, the area’s Minor League Baseball team, this family-friendly ballpark offers more than just a great game. From April through September, catch a home run from the grass berm, let little ones roam the on-site playground, indulge in classic ballpark bites with a twist (like a nacho dog!), and watch a free fireworks show (on Friday nights). It’s the perfect way to enjoy America’s favorite pastime, Reno style.
3. Skip your itinerary & spend a whole day at this hotel
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Whether you’re looking for some downtime or want to keep your kids entertained for as long as possible, the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno has it all. With a bowling alley, arcade, movie theater, escape room, and even a virtual reality arena, your family will be begging to stay in the hotel. There are also plenty of on-site restaurants serving up burgers, pizza, and tacos, along with an all-day buffet, so you’re covered for every meal of the day.
4. Feast on street bites at a food truck festival
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Food trucks have made quite a name for themselves in the Reno Tahoe area, so much so that summer boasts several popular festivals dedicated just to these mobile eateries. Feed The Camel is a hometown favorite happening every hump day, starting in June. Food trucks from all over the region convene at the McKinley Arts Center to dish out a diverse mix of street food, desserts, and personal entrees, like elote fries, noodle bowls, double-stacked burgers, fried shrimp skewers, and ice cream tacos. Parents looking for some adult-only fare will find cocktails and craft beers too.
5. Get some serious air
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If there’s one activity guaranteed to tire out your Energizer bunnies while keeping their spirits high, it’s a trampoline park. And Spark’s go-to, DEFY at Legend Towers, takes it to the next level. That means a ninja obstacle course, a dodgeball arena, a zipline, and even a stunt fall where thrill-seekers can test their skills. Little ones will love the wall-to-wall trampolines, while older kids (and parents!) can challenge themselves on the aerial silks or battle beams.
6. Rise & dine at a local gem
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Early risers with big appetites? Squeeze In is calling your name. This Nevada breakfast chain serves up next-level brunch fare, like giant teddy bear-shaped pancakes for little foodies, super stuffed omelets (with bottomless toast!), jumbo breakfast burritos, and zesty benedicts. With plenty of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, there’s something for everyone at the table. Did we mention scribbling on the walls is encouraged here? Add a message to their signature wall covered with heartfelt notes from past visitors.
7. Snag unbelievable outlet bargains
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If shopping is your “me time,” we’ve got three words that’ll get the whole family on board: Indoor Ferris wheel. The Outlets at Legends is home to SCHEELS, the world’s largest all-sports store, that boasts a 65-foot Ferris wheel, two 16,000-gallon aquariums, a candy factory, in-store cafe (hello, snack break), and an arcade. While the kiddos are occupied, you can sneak away to score big at popular outlet stores like Adidas, Carter’s, OshKosh B’Gosh, Gap, Nike, and more. A stress-free shopping spree? Sign us up.
8. Have a drink while the kids play
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Unwind with a flight of Schussboom Brewing Co.’s craft brews—because let’s be honest, you’ve earned it. This family-friendly brewery is designed with parents in mind, offering an indoor kids’ corner where busy bees can play and watch TV, plus a picky eater-approved menu. Its laid-back vibe makes it the perfect spot to hit pause on sightseeing, while giving you a moment to enjoy a cold one and fuel up with tasty pub bites, like the fan-favorite Schuss Poutine—crispy fries or tots loaded with beer braised short ribs, savory shiitake mushrooms, gooey cheese curds, and crunchy fried onion strings.
9. Beat out bad weather with brainy fun
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Yucky days, meet your match with the Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada. Located within a historical building in Carson City (a short 30-minute drive from Reno), this kid’s museum is packed with plenty for young children to do. Tots will love the mini doctor’s office and Capitol building that’s perfect for pretend play, while big kids can get lost in a foosball and air hockey match. The museum also features educational exhibits on Nevada’s rich history and weekly art, STEM, and reading workshops for more hands-on fun.
10. Lose track of time at Reno’s epic entertainment center
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Wrap up your culture crawl at South 40, an all-in-one entertainment venue for family fun. Kids can spend hours in the state-of-the-art arcade, packed with everything from Skee-Ball and claw games to Mario Kart and a virtual reality room. But the fun doesn’t stop there! South 40’s indoor backyard has mini bowling, axe throwing, ping pong, cornhole, a dedicated play area for kiddos, and even live music on the weekends. When hunger strikes, head to the grille for a bite, no matter the time of day. It’s the kind of place where everyone in the group will find something to love.
From bouncing off the walls (literally) to chowing down on street food and catching a baseball game under the stars, Reno Tahoe is big on culture and family fun. Start planning your trip now and get ready for a getaway that has no limits. For more family-friendly Reno Tahoe ideas, head to visitrenotahoe.com.