Going to Reno -- Will I be Bored?

[IcanMakeit 1,318]

My husband and I will be going to Reno next month for a long weekend. It's his choice since it's his birthday. Since I don't really like to gamble, I used to enjoy the buffets and the bars in Reno and call it a fun weekend. Now that I don't drink much (since my WLS 11 months ago I've only had one glass of champagne for New Year's), and I eat so carefully, what shall I do there for fun? We will definitely take a drive into the mountains for a hike. But that only takes care of one day. Any suggestions?

[CanyonBaby 1,852]

Shopping? Tours of museums, historical areas? Lake Tahoe? I don't know the area personally, but I know of touristy-type things (former National Park Interpretive ranger, here!!!)! Maybe google it and see what there, prices, times.... Maybe buy tickets to shows...ahead of time. Have fun and let us know what you did for fun!!!

[IcanMakeit 1,318]

I rarely see shows in Reno or Vegas. The ticket prices are so high and the acts are often people I only enjoy in small doses. But you bring up a good idea. I'll see who's going to be playing that weekend. My husband is a blues fan. Maybe we'll get lucky.

[Debbieduck4 399]

Fun is all about what you make it! You know that already though... If you are thinking you'll be bored, you probably will be. But, if you go in thinking how lucky you are to have a fun weekend getaway planned with your hubby to a sunny spot and just let him run the show... you might have a blast. I've had some of my best days with my hubby just sitting someplace, drinking coffee, people watching, and talking. Enjoy your blessing... a weekend off, a getaway to Reno, and a hunny to share it with!

[IcanMakeit 1,318]

@@Debbieduck4 you forgot to mention the other blessing, I get an extra day off from work. A day strolling around with my husband is by definition better than a day at work.

[Miss Mac 6,262]

Ooh, Ooh, Ooh! I know the answer to this one! I was in Reno in August of 2009, for a week-long business seminar. In between required meeting sessions, three workmates and I found things to do.

We took a tour that went from our hotel (Grand Sierra) up into the mountains, over the state line and around the western shore of Lake Tahoe. Tahoe has to be the most beautiful place on earth! We came back over into Nevada and drove past the ranch where the outdoor scenes of Bonanza were filmed. The ranchhouse is still there, but occupied privately now.

We went on into Carson City and the out past the Bunny Ranch and through its parking lot. Then we headed back towards Reno by going up another mountain, past wild horses and abandoned mines. We stopped at the top of the mountain at Virginia City (also a Bonanza filming location) and had an hour or so to wander aimlessly through the saloons and shops. The we came back on into Reno. The bus made several stops so that we could get out and take pictures. I would post some, but my pictures got lost in a computer crash.

On another day we took a trolley tour that went through town and made many stops so that tourists could get off and on at will. We drove through the grounds of the University of Nevada, too. Reno has many antique shops in vintage buildings.

There is also a beautiful walking trail right in town, that crosses over the Truckee River from the shopping area to a lovely city park. If you are interested, there is Harrah's National Automobile Museum and the National Bowling Stadium where many tournaments are held. Most of the hotels, if not all,

have casinos, theaters for live performances, and restaurants.

At the Grand Sierra, they have ten restaurants. When our meal was not provided, we ate at the Grand Cafe and Johnny Rockets. The Grand Sierra in particular has an upscale shopping arcade and I would not be surprised if the others do, too. You are only limited by your imagination. I am sure you will enjoy your trip. Being Reno, you are not likely to get rained on!

[Miss Mac 6,262]

Darn.......I meant Eastern shore of Lake Tahoe.....Eastern.

[IcanMakeit 1,318]

Thanks @@Miss Mac. I love Lake Tahoe as well and go there a couple of times a year, but Reno has always been about food and drinking for me. They used to have really good buffets at very good prices, and they would give out free drinks to people who play Keno or slots, no matter how little money you were actually spending (and I made it a rule not to waste more than $10.00 on gambling for the whole weekend). Now that those bargains are gone (and I really can't take advantage of them anymore anyway, it's time for me to get out of the casinos and into more interesting activities. I like your suggestions. I'm going to go online and see if I can find the sites you mention.

[MistyAnnMoon829 387]

I was just there a month ago with a bunch of friends, and I still had booze. I don't drink a lot, so that was my splurge, and we spent quite a good amount of time at GSR acting like kids in the arcade. We also walked the river, and ate sushi. if you like Sushi check out Sushi Pier 2. I ate about a half roll but it was delicious! There are a lot of museums out there too.