The Insiders Guide to Awesome

That giant, capital “N” high above the University of Nevada, Reno? It’s not just for show. Scramble up this moderate climb for rewarding views of the University, Rancho San Rafael Park and downtown Reno.

Named after the infamous Donner Party, Donner Memorial State Park is home to recreational activities like fishing, camping and swimming. Stop by the Visitor Center for a history lesson of the area including Washoe life and the Chinese railroad builders.

The National Automobile Museum in downtown Reno houses some of the rarest cars known to man. Admire yourself in the side of a copper and teak Rolls Royce or check out celebrity rides like The Duke’s ‘53 Corvette while in downtown Reno.

We firmly believe in “you grow old once you stop playing,” so that’s why we recommend The Discovery. Downtown Reno’s exploratorium is an everyday science and learning center for kids and an after-hours special event space for young-at-heart adults.

If you ask us, every day is a perfect day for baseball. But no day is quite like Sunday, when the Reno Aces sling $1 hot dogs all afternoon long. Take the family (heck, might as well invite extended relatives at that price) and gain some serious MVP status (Most Valuable Parent).

The drive-in movie theater is one of America’s longest standing institutions and it's still going strong at West Wind El Rancho in Sparks. Pro tip: save cash and bring all the snacks you want from home. And don’t forget extra pillows.

Whether you’re a rock star on the ropes or a casual climber, you need a place to hone your skills for the real deal. Train safely on the next closest thing at Mesa Rim, Reno’s indoor climbing Mecca.

Keep it cool on a hot Reno Tahoe summer day with a poolside cabana at the Peppermill Spa and Pool. Lay low in the shade, dip your toes in the shallow end or head to Sole Poolside for a drink with a little umbrella in it.

One of Midtown’s long standing cultural institutions is Junkee Clothing Exchange, a one-of-a-kind store that’s part costume shop, part thrift store and part vintage shop. Don’t be surprised to find yourself leaving the parking lot with a truck load of goods from the undisputed champion of eclectic Midtown vibes.

When in Reno Tahoe, right? Head over to Home Means Nevada for Silver State-themed shirts, hats, and souvenirs before checking out the Reno Tahoe Visitor Center. You'll be looking Battle Born-and-raised in no time.

Natural Selection is a store of conversation starters for any space. Lush exotic plants and natural oddities adorn the shelves. Think ethically-sourced taxidermy, antlers, skulls, insect displays and, in their own words, “all things glorious and natural.”

Out-of-towners might not believe it, but Reno's become one of the biggest coffee cultures in the West. Our pick is one of the oldest and most loved: Hub Coffee Roasters. Come for the meticulously brewed pour-overs and latte art, stay for the river views and dog-friendly atmosphere.

Of course, Nevada’s oldest brewery would sell a flagship beer named after a dinosaur. Thus, the Icky IPA (short for Ichthyosaur, Nevada’s state fossil) was born and, subsequently, loved by Reno’s original craft beer scene. Don't leave Reno without trying this quintessential Northern Nevada brew.

Reno’s first combined brewery and distillery is also one of the more beautiful places to grab brunch. Originally the main stop on the NV-CA-OR Railway, the Depot now serves comforting American fare and their own brand of craft beer and spirits.

Opened more than four decades ago, the Fireside Lounge is continually voted Reno’s best bar and lounge year after year. This storied watering hole is adored for its vintage vibe, plush booths and an iconic fire pit.

Part shipping container park, part beer garden, all kinds of fun. Since its inception, The Eddy has been the Riverwalk’s go-to for all the cheers and lawn games you’d expect – and the art exhibits, fitness classes, and other events you wouldn’t.