Key Takeaways

• Get the most out of your Reno family vacation by attending the Reno Rodeo or the Great Reno Balloon Race. Orient your trip around one main activity and keep it flexible for the rest of your stay.
• Stay at three connected but distinct resorts including Circus Circus, Silver Legacy and Eldorado, that put you right in the center of dining and entertainment.
• Start your day with outdoor exploring in the morning, indoor time during the hottest part of the day and a fun activity and meal in the evening.
• Some easygoing outings in Reno with the kids include the Truckee River Walk, Idlewild Park and Animal Ark.

Reno, the "biggest little city," is a great place to take your little (or not-so-little) ones on vacation. It’s walkable, less busy and stressful than alternatives in the west and the perfect place to bring family members of all ages.

Whether you visit in the summer or any other time of the year, there’s a good mix of family-friendly indoor and outdoor activities to keep the kiddos on the move without spending too much time in the heat.

How To Get the Most Out of a Reno Family Vacation

To get the most out of your family vacation to Reno, build your trip around one main event and keep the rest flexible. That way, everyone has an exciting activity to look forward to without packing your itinerary full.

Among the most popular things to do in Reno with kids is the Reno Rodeo, which has been running for over 100 years. The whole family will love the carnival, kickoff concert and, of course, the main events. Then, take the family to Kids' Day, where they can ride horses and visit the petting zoo.

Although it’s in late summer, the Great Reno Balloon Race, the world’s largest (and free) hot air ballooning event, is a must-see. For three days, you’ll be able to see as many as 100 hot air balloons take flight. If you want to see the event from another perspective, you can even book a balloon ride.

Where To Stay in Reno: Best Resorts for Families

The best place to stay in Reno is three connected but distinct resorts, including Circus Circus, Silver Legacy and Eldorado, that put you right in the center of dining and entertainment.

It’s great for multigenerational families, too: Everyone can stay and play where they want and easily meet up for activities and meals without skipping a beat. With 25 restaurants, there’s a ton of options for mealtimes without the drama.

Out of all three Reno resorts, Circus Circus is a natural fit for families with kids who want connecting rooms. With self-check-in, there's no need to wait in long lines. Get right to your room and start the fun immediately. Plus, standard checkout is at noon, so you don’t have to rush the family out of the room bright and early on that final day. Not to mention Circus Circus is dog friendly. If you don’t want to leave Fido behind, you can add them to your hotel stay for a small fee.

The whole family will love Carnival Midway, where a 5,000-plus-square-foot arcade offers 175 nostalgic and new games, including the world’s largest Pac-Man. Circus performances, including acrobatic acts, take place on-property throughout the day, making you feel like you’re at a real-life carnival.

You’ll never have to figure out what’s next because there’s always something to do steps away from your hotel room. That's even better during midday downtime when summer temps rise or when younger kids need a reset but aren’t ready for a nap.

How To Spend a Day in Reno With the Family

Reno’s compact layout means the city is walkable, so no need for a rental car. You’ll find built-in entertainment everywhere you look without needing to overthink your vacation plans.

An easy way to structure your day without overplanning is to start in the morning with outdoor time. Take a walk up the resort corridor and explore what’s happening in town before settling in for lunch.

After a meal together, come back indoors during the hottest part of the day and hit the arcade and grab a snack before settling in for some downtime (or even a nap). In the evening, head back out for dinner and go to a show, ending the day with some rest and relaxation.

Things To Do With Kids in Reno

Looking for some easygoing outings around Reno for the kids? The Riverwalk District is the perfect place for a casual stroll through shops and dining. Stop for a sweet treat, take in the river and enjoy the fresh air.

At Truckee River Whitewater Park or Idlewild Park, walk the waterside paths, enjoy some downtime with the kids and look out for day and evening events happening in the area. If you’re feeling up for a little history, stop by the National Automobile Museum.

While most activities in Reno can be enjoyed without a car, Animal Ark, a nonprofit animal sanctuary, is a rare gem where you can see bears, wolves, tigers, lions and other animals. It’s about a 30-minute drive outside town but worth it to see unique non-releasable wildlife with the kids in a more natural habitat than your standard zoo.

For even more possibilities, explore the activities offered by your hotel, including boating, fishing and golf packages. It will add a little something different to your itinerary without having to worry about transportation.

Final Thoughts on Family Time in Reno

Reno is much more family-friendly than you might think! The city has something for every age bracket, from animal sanctuaries to car museums and strolls along the river. Staying at Circus Circus gives you and your kids a fun anchor for outdoor activities, midway games and food that will satisfy even the pickiest eater.

FAQs

Is Reno a good destination for families in the summer?

Reno is a well-suited destination for families planning some summer travel. It’s convenient, walkable and full of all-ages fun. It has a strong mix of indoor and outdoor activities so you can enjoy some fresh air while beating the heat.

What is the best area to stay in Reno with kids?

Downtown Reno is the best and most convenient place to stay with kids, with three resorts, 25 restaurants and tons of entertainment options.

Which Reno hotel is best for families with children?

If you’re looking for a family-friendly feel, Circus Circus Reno is a great resort because of the on-property arcade and circus acts taking place throughout the day. With self-check-in, dog-friendly accommodations and standard checkout at noon, you’ll enjoy a convenient stay that’s fun for the whole family.

Is Reno easy to visit with multiple generations traveling together?

Reno is the ideal place to travel with multiple generations of the family or even to meet for a family reunion. Since the resort corridor has three connected properties, everyone can stay and play where they want while easily reconvening for mealtimes and activities.

What are easy, kid‑friendly things to do in Reno during the summer?

• Reno Rodeo (over 100 years running, includes Kids' Day)
• Great Reno Balloon Race (world's largest, free)
• Riverwalk District (walkable, kid-friendly)
• Idlewild Park (riverside paths, events)

The Reno Rodeo is a longstanding, family-friendly summer activity in Reno. Alongside the main events, plan on taking the kids to the carnival or the petting zoo. The Great Reno Balloon Race in late summer is also a great choice, as the world’s largest free hot air ballooning event.