We loved our visit to the Discovery Museum in Reno! We only had about an hour before closing, so it…read morewas a bit rushed--but even in that short time, we had so much fun exploring all the different areas. Heads up: the gift shop closed before we could grab anything, and the closing announcements were pretty firm--if you weren't already in line, it was a no-go. Totally fair, just something to keep in mind when planning your visit! There are so many exhibits that we definitely had to move quickly, but it was still 100% worth it. Pro tip: save the downstairs water feature for last--it's an absolute blast for the whole family! As a special needs family, we felt really comfortable here. Our 5-year-old loved the freedom to walk and explore, and our 1-year-old had a great time in the littles area and with the water play. The huge cloud play structure looked amazing, but we skipped it since there's only one way in and out--just didn't feel like the right call for us this time. Bonus: let your kids take the stairs to burn off energy! But if you've got a stroller, wheelchair, or just want an easier route, elevators are available too. Overall, such a fun spot--we'll definitely be back (with more time next time)!

I will say the kiddos love this place…read more We have been twice. Before I wanted to get a membership, but now seeing how it is. I am happy thay we just go once in a while. The museum is not very large and most of our kiddos love the Truckee river exhibit as they play there more. It could be the age. Just bring some spare clothes or a towel as they may be drenched. As they get older they may like to do the other exhibits more. They have lego, space, anatomy, physics, and engineering zones. They also have a lab with daily activities. The amazing part is there are plenty of things to do. The downside is the parking lot gets packed fast, but thats a good thing. So give yourself time if looking for a spot. Its super cool for the kiddos and there is even a cute little toddler playground. So please enjoy the space and time.

This museum is a hidden gem. They're constantly bringing new and exciting exhibitions to our…read morecommunity, specifically those that are geared towards our elementary aged kiddos, which I sincerely appreciate. Most recently we visited Toytopia. This exhibit offers the chance to explore a hands-on history of toys from the past and into the future. My kids loved the oversized robotic claw, reminiscent of an amped up arcade machine. It was a blast trying to get the individually articulating fingers to close around the ball in order to lift it into the basket for the big reward. We also enjoyed the oversized battleship game. So fun to play and we spent 20-30 min there. Mr Potato Head was old school fun too. We made a competition out of it to see who could make the wackiest example. I think I won... or maybe my kids let me win. But the favorite had to be the mini arcade they had setup with some of the best old school cabinets. Donkey Kong, DK Jr., Dig Dug and so many more are all here as part of the exhibit and you could spend a long time here without realizing it! Oh and there's even a Zoltar fortune teller too! When you're done at toytopia you can go learn the history of Wilbur D May on the other side of the museum. I personally love exploring the artifacts and treasures he collected from his travels, especially the hunting and fishing trophies! All in all, a great little place to spend a

Wonderful experience for my family. Roaming around the gardens and taking a tour of the museum…read more Plenty of places for a picnic on the grounds. Just understand that May was a "big game" hunter when that was not frowned upon as it is now. Many of his "trophies" are found throughout the museum.

First of the summer concert series and the Eagles tribute band, Life in the Fast Lane, was…read moreamazing!! Although the information suggested low back beach chairs, most people were in higher chairs, so it was a little difficult to see, but the acoustics were great!. The band was excellent, and the venue was good. They could have cleaned off the outside chairs, prior to the event, as there were cobwebs and tree sap all over them. There were three food trucks, and a full-service bar. There was an array of food (burgers/grilled cheese, donuts, and jerked chicken). Unfortunately, the burger and grilled cheese truck ran out of propane, very early, so there was an extended wait for food, while they waited for another propane bottle to arrive. Overall, a great event! If you're looking for a beautiful location on the river to chill and enjoy an outdoor concert, this is the spot! We will definitely purchase more tickets!

This museum was an awesome experience to check out and see all the vintage automobiles. They did…read morea great job setting up the cars based on vintage years and some had theme-oriented displays. There was a kids section that was hands on for those younger generation. Also, a hands on photo station for adults and children with period costumes to wear in the photo. It is un-manned so be prepared to run around to get into position. This venue would be a great opportunity to have a fundraiser or party.

I love First Thursdays with the girls! I love how they have different breweries around the city…read morehost the beer choices! Tonite it was Parlay 6 and Battle Born! Sometimes, I wish they change the music up with other local artists in our town. It's always great seeing friends there especially if you haven't seen them in along time! Tonite I got my friends to go look at some of the art exhibits and we went to my favorite one! See photos!

Visited on a Saturday afternoon at approx. 3pm. The cafe has closed by then, and the museum wasn't…read morebusy. We managed to visit two floors of exhibits in about an hour. There were many thought-provoking and educational pieces. I love that the fruit and vegetables planted on site is accessible to everyone. I also love the floral mural and curtains in the lounge. The retail items in the gift shops are gorgeous as well. Would have been awesome if there were NMA merchandise to purchase for souvenirs!

One of my favorite free things to do! Well maintained grounds, tranquil areas and it's so peaceful…read moreon weekends when there are no events! Such a beautiful place to simply unwind.

Went to Dragon Lights and this event is perfect for all ages! From first dates, young families, and…read moreso on! Spend all day here or kill a couple hours. Every scenery was designed with intention and there were a couple food trucks in case you wanted to grab a snack. Two sections for parking and we went on a Thursday so parking wasn't that bad! Definitely worth going!

Had a great time at the Fleischmann Planetarium. The planetarium part itself was not necessarily…read morethe biggest or most comfortable one we've been in, but the show we saw, narrated by Diego Luna, about the elemental makeup of the universe, was eye-opening. The real highlight of the place, though, was the museum-quality sci-fi movie and TV show displays they had throughout the building. It was like geek heaven. You could tell it was assembled with a combination of passion for the subject matter and a desire to share as much as possible with visitors. There were tons of obscure and iconic Star Wars-and Star Trek-related items in display cabinets everywhere, as well as a lot of interesting information about science-related human accomplishments through time. It's too much to describe . . . I highly recommend a visit if you're at all interested in anything sci-fi-related. It was fascinating for me; I had a really good time taking in as much as I could learning about meteorites, learning about the T.A.R.D.I.S. from Dr. Who, posing next to the R2-D2, etc. etc. It was great. Parking in the West Stadium Parking Complex was super easy; you just park on the third floor (which is the garage-entrance floor off the main street) and the Planetarium is practically connected right to the garage via a very small walkway/bridge right off the third floor.

What a fun place to explore! If you set your expectations that this isn't a huge planetarium, and…read morecheck the showtimes before you go, adults will have a fun time. Little ones (6 and under) will enjoy the age geared show. The sun dome in the center of the planetarium is where the shows are held. It's not huge inside, maybe a dozen rows. Kids won't stay quiet so be prepared for that while you watch the toddler show, but still really fun. Before the actual show starts they show constellations and views of space. Such a cool learning experience for littles and a reminder of how small we all are on this planet. Downstairs there is interactive astronaut stuff and a bunch of movies memorabilia. Upstairs is a beautiful moon display with a lot of American history. Bathrooms clean! Plentiful parking. Pay attention to signs. There's a walkway straight to the planetarium entrance.

In terms of minerals, the Keck rivals the best museums in the world, including the Smithsonian. So…read moremany specimens. Beyond that, their collection of Nevada-specific rocks, minerals and artifacts is outstanding, particularly as relating to the Comstock Lode.

This place rocks ! Okay, I'll see myself out now... Lol…read more This is probably the coolest place on campus. What a great, amazing collection of rocks and history. If thats not your thing... well okay, but I'm telling you, there's a rock in here for everyone! Parking sucks nearby and it's hard to get to... but it's definitely worth it! Rocks rule!

Welcome to the book jungle!…read more This place showcases both library books and live plans in an absolutely amazing display. Does more oxygen help words stick better to your brain, come and find out!

Plot twist: your Washoe County Library card might be the coolest thing in your wallet…read more Forget the credit cards -- this one gets you FREE entry to Nevada State Parks, museum passes around town, and access to 3D printers, workshops, and more. This weekend, Phoenix (age 5) and Willow (age 4) ventured to the Downtown Reno Library, and it's honestly the coziest little jungle of imagination. There's a kids corner with books, an art wall, and even a tower garden where littles can clip fresh herbs and learn where food comes from. Books for the mind, greens for the body -- Reno really nailed it on this one! So yeah... if you haven't been to the library since middle school, consider this your official nudge. Go get your card. It's FREE, it's FUN, and it's basically the secret key to exploring Reno + Sparks in the best way possible! Check out these Washoe County Library Branches in the Reno / Sparks area Downtown Reno Library Duncan/Traner Community Library North Valleys Library Northwest Reno Library Senior Center Library Sierra View Library South Valleys Library Sparks Library Spanish Springs Library

This was such a fun event. I wish I had taken more pictures. Everybody was dressed up and looked…read moreamazing! The mansion was beyond beautiful and each room featured a cocktail from four different bars. They were all delicious and perfectly crafted, it was so hard to choose a favorite. Our night ended with a little crafting where we got to decorate our own candle holder. I hope there's another event like this one. 10/10!!

We came for the free event last week sponsored by Nevada Arts For All. Our 3 yo got to create…read moreseveral Christmas themed art projects, got a free Christmas themed book, and told Santa what he wanted for Christmas. We had a great time watching our boy learn to create, without spending much money. I really love this organization and location and encourage parents to check out their offerings. Truly a blessing to our community.

Student Research Museum. Free admission but check ahead for hours. Great stop during UNRs Day at…read morethe Museum Event. The museum is located on the 5th floor of the Ansari Business Building on the UNR Campus and features rotating exhibits created and curated by students. The artifacts are uaully Nevada oriented and partnof the UNR collection. No nearby parking so be prepared to walk. The museum features about 20 exhibits in a small L-shaped room. Strollers can fit but might be a challenge during busy events.

From the owner: The University of Nevada, Reno Museum of People, Place, and Time explores what it means to be human…read morethrough the lens of anthropology. Founded in 1980 and reimagined in 2025, the museum serves as a dynamic teaching and research center dedicated to the study of Nevada’s diverse communities and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore exhibitions featuring archaeological and ethnographic objects, as well as student-led research projects that illuminate the stories of the Great Basin and beyond. Through its collections, public programs, and the University’s Museum Studies minor, the museum fosters learning, dialogue, and discovery about the people, places, and histories that shape our shared world. Admission is free for everyone.