By Isabel Prontes
Reno is in the western part of Nevada and is the state's third-biggest city, after
Las Vegas and Henderson, a suburb of Las Vegas. Reno is known for casinos and gambling, similarly to Las Vegas, but it is significantly smaller. Reno is often called "The Biggest Little City in the World." There are plenty of activities for children while visiting Reno, despite the city's gambling fame.
Great Basin Adventure
Great Basin Adventure is a family theme park that is ideal for kids. There are many rides and attractions that kids will enjoy, including panning for gold, getting up close to animals at petting zoos, riding ponies and going on log flume rides. There is also an interactive Discovery Center that encourages children to use their imagination.
1502 Washington St.
Rancho San Rafael Park
Reno, NV 89503
(775) 785-5961
Wingfield Park
Wingfield Park is an island park that has a central, downtown locale. The park actually comprises five parks: Bennett Park, East Island, Bicentennial Park, Brick Park and West Island. This is an ideal, relaxing place for enjoying recreational activities. There are basketball courts, picnic areas, hiking paths and even an amphitheater on the park's grounds.
Arlington Street, between First and River streets
Reno, NV 89509
(775) 785-5961
Sierra Safari Zoo
The Sierra Safari Zoo is about 8 miles from downtown Reno and is the state's biggest zoo. There are 40 species represented and about 200 animals residing at the zoo. The species include ring-tailed lemurs, two-toed sloths, servals, caracals, bobcats, camels, wallabies and Tibetan yaks. Kids will have a blast at this highly interactive zoo that has hands-on areas.
10200 N. Virginia St.
Reno, NV 89506
(775) 677-1101
Fleischmann Planetarium
The Fleischmann Planetarium looks like a large metallic saddle and is full of astronomy workshops and exhibits. There are full-dome Imax features presented at this planetarium and many permanent exhibits on meteorites and weather devices. One of the most exciting features at the planetarium is a model of the solar system. Be sure to check out the black-hole demonstration, the massive rotating globe and the perceptual relativity exhibit.
1650 N. Virginia St.
University of Nevada, Reno
Reno, NV 89557
(775) 784-4812
Atlantis Family Fun Center
The Atlantis Family Fun Center is full of pinball and video games. This entertainment complex has everything from Daytona Racing and Dance Dance Revolution to South Park, Top Skater and much more. Kids run the show at the Atlantis Family Fun Center, which is sure to provide youngsters with hours of nonstop entertainment and recreation. Kids have to purchase tokens to play the games.
3800 S. Virginia St.
Reno, NV 89502
(775) 825-4700
About the Author:
Isabel Prontes is a freelance writer and traveler residing in Manhattan, NY. She has traveled to five continents and counting. Her work has appeared on a number of websites, such as Travels, eHow.com and "Happy Living Magazine." Prontes has a professional background in public relations; she received a bachelor's degree in communication studies from Pace University.
