Ways to Spend Your Memorial Day Weekend in Reno Tahoe

Even though it is technically still spring, Memorial Day weekend always feels like a kickoff to summer. It wouldn’t be the same without a little sun, BBQ and making memories with family and friends. Whether enjoying a long weekend or trying to make the most of the usual two-day break, Reno Tahoe has just the ticket to creating an epic weekend.

Honor the Fallen

First and foremost, Memorial Day is a holiday to remember those who lost their lives fighting for our country. Nearby Virginia City is host to the Celebration of Heroes Parade on Saturday, May 27. While you’re there, explore antique shops, take an old-time photo and mingle with the characters of this historic mining town.

Ride the Rails

Memorial Day weekend is the season kick-off for the V&T Steam Train, which takes passengers back in time with a 35-minute scenic ride from Virginia City to Gold Hill.

Sun and Sand

How does a day at the beach and a night at an award-winning hotel casino sound? This is just one of the many perks to visiting our neck of the woods. Lake Tahoe is less than an hour drive from downtown Reno and one of the hottest spots to visit over the holiday weekend. Popular beaches include Sand Harbor, North Tahoe Beach and Kings Beach for a good time with friends and family. Try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking, or just kick back and relax in the sun.

Arts & Culture

Make the most of the late spring weather and plan to take a walk to see the sights, and experience the region’s arts and culture scene. With a wide variety of public art, from sculptures to murals, a walk through downtown or MidTown can feel like a stroll through an art gallery. Get a taste of Northern Nevada’s rich history with a trip to Virginia City or Carson City. If you’re looking for ancient rock art, check out Grimes Point or Hickison Summit. 

Bring Your Appetite

Reno and Sparks are home to plenty of restaurants and breweries, ensuring you don’t leave hungry or thirsty. Around here, we can’t get enough of our plentiful sunny days, and the number of restaurants with patio seating makes it easy to make the most of the sunshine, all while enjoying your favorite meal. Looking for dinner and a view? Check out one (or more!) of the area’s restaurants with waterfront dining options. And of course, you can’t kick off summer without a refreshing beer at one of Reno Tahoe’s local breweries. From pilsners to pale ales, and everything in between, it’s time to raise a glass to the summer season!