Explore Reno’s Heritage: A Visit to the Historic Lake Mansion (Built in 1877)

250 Court St. Reno, NV 89501

Directions

Website

Instagram

Step Back in History at the Lake Mansion

This beautifully preserved gem, dating all the way back to 1877, is one of the oldest buildings in town. It’s got that perfect blend of historical charm and cultural significance that makes it a must-see.

While the mansion isn’t open to the public, they do host some awesome art programs for kids—workshops and camps all year long. Plus, they open up during Artown offering tours to the public and the holidays for their Holiday Arts Festival and Fundraiser in October!

Why Visit the Lake Mansion?

-Historical Significance: Built in 1877, the Lake Mansion is a piece of Reno’s early days, offering a rare chance to step into the city’s heritage.

-Architectural Beauty: This place is a charmer with its Victorian architecture—intricate details and period-perfect furnishings that transport you straight back to the 19th century.

-Cultural Hub: Today, the Lake Mansion isn’t just about history. It’s a lively cultural center hosting art exhibits, workshops, and amazing community events. 

-A Building with a Story: The Lake Mansion was originally located next to the Truckee River but was moved to its current spot to preserve its historical value. 

2024 Annual fall fundraiser - Ghostly greeting, spooktacular cocktails, creepy crafting, silent auction, live music & delightful bites.
TICKETS

Plan Your Visit

-Location:  Located in the heart of Reno, the Lake Mansion is super easy to get to and makes a great stop on any tour of the city’s historical sites.

-Hours and Admission: Make sure to check their website for the latest on hours and admission, since they might change depending on the season.

-Nearby Attractions: After you’ve soaked up the history, take a stroll around the area. There are plenty of other local spots to explore, plus great places to eat and shop.

Nearby 

(within walking distance)

*Great Basin Food Co-op  

240 Court St, Reno, NV 89501

Right across the street from the mansion, you'll find Reno's beloved local grocery store—a true community gem. This amazing spot is not just a place to shop but also a great place to hang out and connect. You'll find everything from groceries to health and beauty products, plus an incredible upstairs food shed offering smoothies, bowls, wraps, soups, sandwiches, a hot buffet, and so much more.

Menu as of 9/2024

*Barbara Bennette Park 

 400 Island Ave, Reno, NV 89501

Just down the street from Great Basin Co-op, Barbara Bennett Park is a perfect place to unwind in Reno. The beautiful Truckee River flows through the center, making it a favorite for locals who love to splash around in the summer or simply sit and admire the view in the winter. The park offers plenty of perks, including year-round restrooms, a tennis court, a playground, a basketball court, and lots of grassy areas with shade trees. Plus, it's just a short stroll to the downtown Riverwalk, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the city.

Categorized under "Artown" and Birthday/Event Venues"

*Information subject to change.  All opinions are my own. 

Photography

©Katherine Fung

All rights reserved.

Visit Huffaker Park in Reno for Scenic Trails and Fun Playgrounds

1160 E Huffaker Ln.

Reno, NV 89511

Yelp

Huffaker Park is a fantastic find tucked away in a charming Reno neighborhood, and it truly has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly day out or a peaceful hike with stunning views, this park is a must-visit.

What You’ll Find at Huffaker Park:

-Scenic Loop Trails:  The park features a .75 or a 1.7-mile looped trails.  The longer trail begins with a bit of a challenging upward slope. Don’t let the initial climb discourage you; it’s short-lived and rewards you with magnificent views of Reno. The trail then levels out, making for a pleasant and easy hike with scenic vistas and plenty of nature to enjoy.

-Gazebo and Views:  At the top of the hill, you’ll find a lovely gazebo, perfect for a break and taking in the panoramic views.

-Playgrounds and Pavilion: The park offers two playgrounds shaded by large trees, which are perfect for kids. Adjacent to one of the playgrounds is a spacious covered pavilion with a BBQ grill—ideal for picnics and gatherings.  Tall trees around the tables and playgrounds provide ample shade and enhance the park’s natural beauty.

-Sports Facilities:  Enjoy a game of basketball, baseball, or tennis at the park’s courts and fields. There’s also an exercise area with various bars for those who want to keep fit.

-Wide Open Spaces:  Huffaker Park is perfect for sports, running, and playing with your dog. 

-Amphitheater and Nature:  An amphitheater at the top of the trail adds a unique touch. The park also features a small creek and interpretive signs about local flora and fauna. 

-Seasonal Highlights:  In spring, the park bursts into color with blooming flowers, adding to its charm. The trail’s dirt and rocky path is well-suited for jogging and mountain biking, and there are benches scattered around for relaxing and enjoying the view, including a great spot for a picnic up on the hill.

Notes:

-Restrooms: The park features restrooms that are open seasonally, along with a water fountain for convenience. There is also ample street parking available.

-Sun Protection: The trails are fully exposed, so be sure to wear sun protection and stay hydrated, especially on hot summer days.

-Dog Etiquette: Please remember to adhere to leash laws for dogs and clean up after your pets to keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

"Categorized under Parks and Playgrounds, Family Friendly Hiking and Picnic Spots"

Experience the Wild West: Ride the Historic Virginia & Truckee Railroad in Virginia City

166 F Street

Virginia City, NV 89440

(775) 847-0380

Virginia City Visitor Center

86 South C Street

Virginia City, NV 89440

(775) 847-7500

Website

Instagram

YELP

2024 Virginia City Event Brochure

If you’re planning a visit to Virginia City, the Virginia & Truckee Railroad is an absolute must-experience. This charming town, just a short drive from Reno, makes for the perfect day trip.  I'm here so often that I practically feel like a local!  Throughout the year, the railroad offers a variety of awesome event trains, including:

-Pumpkin Patch & Electric Train O' Lights (October)

-Father's Day Train (June) & Mother's Day Train (June)

-Murder Mystery Train (August)

-The Polar Express & Candy Cane Express (December)

-Gold Hill Excursions (May - October)

Rates as of 8/2024

Virginia City is like stepping into the "Wild Wild West." This charming little town is packed with wooden pathways, historic saloons, and that rich history that just pulls you in. I fell in love with it the first time I visited, and the railroad has always felt like the cherry on top of this already incredible place.

If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss out on all the amazing things Virginia City has to offer. From the lively cowboy culture to the unique shops and year-round attractions, including beloved annual events, there’s so much to explore. Be sure to stop by the visitor’s center to get all the info you need for your trip, including lodging, restaurants, tours, and more.

Source

My family has taken the Candy Cane Express several times, and we’ve also loved the everyday 35-minute round-trip ride up to Gold Hill. You even have the option to hop off and explore the hotel before catching another train back to the station. Each ride is an absolute blast, with the staff going above and beyond to make everyone feel the magic—especially during the holiday season.

On the everyday rides, the friendly conductor narrates the journey, sharing the rich history of the V&T Railroad as you pass by old mines on the way to Gold Hill. Keep an eye out for the possibility of spotting wild mustangs along the route—they add an extra touch of excitement to the breathtaking views. The scenery is stunning, no matter the season.

Candy Cane Express Train

-50-minute round trip to Gold Hill with a brief stop at the "North Pole" to see Santa and his elves in action.

-During the ride, they read *'Twas the Night Before Christmas.*

-Enjoy hot cocoa or apple cider, cookies, and candy canes.

-Snap pictures with the cheerful Candy Cane Sisters.

-Santa comes out for photos at the end of the ride.

-Sing along to Christmas carols, and they even give a shout-out to December birthdays.

-The train cars and depot are beautifully decorated, and the indoor cars are heated for comfort.

-They keep things fresh by changing up the ride every year.

I absolutely LOVE the Candy Cane Express because it’s pure holiday magic. The Candy Cane Sisters are always full of cheer, and the whimsical train and depot are impossible to skip during the holidays. 

Notes

*Before you head out, check AccuWeather for weather updates— 40°F with wind can feel pretty biting. Dressing the right way can be the determining factor for a good trip.

*For train rides, arriving about 15 minutes early is usually enough time to check in at the gift shop, but make sure to call ahead for train schedules since they operate seasonally.

*There’s also a longer 1.5-hour ride to Carson City if you’re up for more adventure. 

*Purchase tickets in person to avoid online fees & save money

*Subscribe to Virginia City's newsletter to stay up-to-date with all the latest events and happenings. A sign-up window should pop up on their website.

*Information subject to change.  All opinions are my own.

Categorized under "Day Trips From Reno"

Take A Beautiful, Short and Educational hike at Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop

*DIRECTIONS

*Track your position on the trail with AllTrails (reception needed):

Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop

*Reviews on Yelp

Snapshot

Tahoe Meadows Interpretive Loop is a must-visit for its easy, family-friendly trail with stunning views and plenty of wildflowers in the spring. The flat, stroller-friendly path makes it perfect for everyone, and the fresh mountain air just fills your lungs with life. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind, let the kids explore, and soak in the natural beauty—all just a short drive from Reno just past Mt. Rose Summit parking lot.

After having my first baby, I was on a mission to find the perfect spot for a family walk—somewhere beautiful in nature with great views, a short and stroller-friendly trail, some shade, and easy access. I was thrilled when I discovered Tahoe Meadows, and over the years, it has remained one of our favorite family hikes.

Tahoe Meadows offers a trail that's not only enjoyable but also packed with nature for the kids to explore. The interpretive signs add a nice educational touch, and in spring, the wildflowers are in full bloom, accompanied by the soothing sounds of babbling brooks and chirping insects.

Getting There:

Parking is available just past the Mt. Rose Summit Trail parking lot on the left as you head toward Tahoe. If the gates are open, drive downhill until you see the restrooms. If the gates are closed, you can park in the lot just outside the gates, closer to the street, which is a short walk from the entrance.

Best Time to Visit: 

Tahoe Meadows is best enjoyed from May until October, as snow accumulation in winter can make the trail difficult to navigate. 

Nearby:

For those seeking a more intense hike, the Mt. Rose Summit Trail (10.7 miles) is just a few minutes back toward Reno and is well worth the effort for its stunning views.

Notes

-About a 30-minute scenic drive up the mountain toward Lake Tahoe from South Reno.

-Stroller, kid, wheelchair, and dog-friendly.

-Fairly flat, 1.3-mile loop with a 49-foot elevation gain.

-Restrooms available seasonally.

-Partial shade.

-Great for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter (check weather and road conditions before heading out; chains may be needed).

-Popular spot for photoshoots due to its picturesque views.

-Family-friendly sledding spot across the street in winter.

-The AllTrails app is a great resource for information, directions, and reviews.

-Paths can get muddy when the weather is wet.

Recommended Gear

-Sunscreen (after trying so many options, this is my family's favorite)

-Water Bottle (definitely a must in Reno's dry climate)

-Portable potty & Liners (priceless gadget that makes any hike with kids a breeze)

-hiking backpack (great view for kids, storage, nap friendly, shade)

-carrier (more afordable, light weight, shade, storage for keys)

*As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Categorized under "Family Friendly Hikes"

Explore Galena Creek Regional Park: Complete Guide to Trails, Activities, and Attractions

Catch the gorgeous sunrise

Mt. Rose Highway

18250, 18350 Mt Rose Hwy

Reno NV 89511

Visitor's Center Website

Directions to Jones Creek Loop
Directions to Galena Creek Short Loop

Trail Map & Trail Descriptions

Fishing Permits

Christmas Tree Permits

Instagram

Reviews on Yelp

Snapshot

-10 minutes from South Reno – quick and easy escape into nature!

-Year-round fun – hiking, fishing, picnicking (with BBQ), sledding, and more!

-Beautiful scenery – perfect spot for weddings or just soaking in the views.

-Family-friendly trails – from easy loops to adventurous hikes.

-Towering pine trees – cool off in the shade & creeks on hot summer days.

-Awesome visitor center – learn about the local ecosystem and snag some souvenirs.

-Perfect quick getaway – no long planning needed, just go!

Why Galena Creek Regional Park is Special

Galena Creek Regional Park is the kind of place people would happily drive long distances to reach.  Lucky for us in Reno, it's just 10 minutes up Mt. Rose Highway from South Reno - practically in our backyards. 

It’s a year-round gem with something for everyone—hiking trails for all levels, family-friendly picnic spots, stunning scenery, a wedding-worthy venue, and even fun sledding hills in the winter. While it feels like a getaway, the park is well-developed with plenty of amenities to keep you comfortable while you enjoy the beauty.

The standout features of Galena Creek Regional Park are its easy proximity to Reno, accessibility, activities and events, and natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a quick nature escape, a venue for a family gathering or special event, a chance to connect with the community, or simply a spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors, this park has it all.

The abundant shade from the towering pine trees make it a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day. And if you're into learning more about the area, the park's visitor center is amazing. It has educational exhibits that dive into the local ecosystem, history, and wildlife, plus a cute gift shop where you can pick up some souvenirs. 

Explore the Park

Visitor's Center

Check out their Instagram page for the latest updates on events and more!

Galena Creek Visitor Center is a must - see for nature enthusiasts. Check out the cool exhibits about the local ecosystem and wildlife, then step outside to explore a beautiful nature trail with a bridge and creek—all on a paved path. The center also hosts special events throughout the year, and with a couple of picnic tables out front, it’s a great spot to relax, enjoy the scenery, and have a laid-back lunch after your visit.

2024

Family-Friendly Trails

Here, I’ve highlighted a couple of trails my family and I frequent. For a more comprehensive list of hikes, check out the visitor center's trail guide.

Galena Creek Visitor's Center Nature Trail

This paved trail is right next to the Visitor Center. It’s more of a leisurely stroll, but I visit often to enjoy the changing aspens along the creek in fall. The bridge adds a bit of fun, and the paved path makes it super accessible for everyone. Plus, the area often hosts fun events, adding a lively touch to your visit. It’s a great spot to relax, soak in the beauty of nature, and enjoy local happenings.

Jones Loop 

Jones Loop (1.5 miles, 259 ft. elevation gain) is short and sweet with much to offer.  There’s a little climb at the beginning of the trail, but it’s enjoyable, featuring beautiful views and soothing sounds from the creek that runs parallel. You can complete the loop or branch out to more difficult trails like the Jones Whites Creek Loop (10 miles, 2,450 ft. elevation gain). Even just the first quarter-mile of Jones Whites offers stunning views.

Tip: Use AllTrails to get directions to the trailhead and stay on course during your hike. As long as you have reception, you can easily track your position on the trail map and ensure you're heading in the right direction.

Nature Trail by the South Entrance

I’ve hiked this trail countless times, and its magic never gets old. The trailhead is right next to the parking lot, where you’ll be greeted by the soothing sounds of the roaring creek as soon as you open your door. Hike a couple of minutes up the main path (it’s easy to find) and you’ll reach a bridge with stunning views of the creek.  Just across the bridge, you’ll find the well-marked and well-developed loop trail. Bonuses include a restroom with running water, picnic tables with BBQ grills, and nearby Marilyn’s Pond. 

Tip: Bring a good book and relax on a bench by the bridge and creek. To find the parking lot for this trail, search "Galena Hatchery" on Google and park in the first lot on the right as you enter.

Other Highlights

Galena Fish Hatchery (reservations)

The Galena Fish Hatchery is often overlooked since many visitors enter the park from the other side, where the Visitor Center is. I absolutely love this part of the park because it’s scenic and fun to explore. You can stroll around the charming stone building (perfect for weddings) and enjoy the surrounding areas, including Marilyn’s Pond (1 acre, 10ft deep stocked pond. Permits) and Camp Wechme.

Creek Next to the Parking Lot (South Entrance)

I’ll never forget the first time I opened my door and heard the soothing sounds of the creek right next to the parking lot. Then I noticed the picnic table and BBQ grill right in the middle of the lot, with restrooms conveniently located nearby. I knew I had found one of my favorite picnic spots in Reno. 

Tip: I love bringing my kiddos here on hot days because it’s always a few degrees cooler in the park. With plenty of shade next to the creek, it’s the perfect summer spot to cool down and wade in the water.  Don't forget the Crocs!

The Lodge Bar & Patio

How often can you enjoy all the comforts and joys of life in a stunning forest setting with mountain views?

The Lodge is one of my absolute favorite spots in Reno. It’s conveniently located right off Mt. Rose Highway next to Galena Park and offers amazing entertainment, breathtaking views, excellent service, and a market trailer with farm fresh produce in their parking lot.

Address:

17025 NV-431, Reno, NV 89511

What I love about The Lodge:

-Full espresso bar with top-notch coffee from local roaster @nocityreno. Boozy coffee, anyone?

-Quality syrups from Monin

-Daytime bar hours for a rare chance to enjoy a drink during the day

-Relaxing outdoor patio

-Tasty bites like charcuterie, sandwiches, and pizza

-Year-round live entertainment from local artists

-Various classes and workshops

-Wide array of drinks, including cocktails, wine, and beer

-Local art on display and available for sale

-Conveniently located right off Mt. Rose

-Next to Galena National Forest—perfect for hikes and picnics

-Cooler temperatures in the summer for a refreshing retreat

-Breathtaking silhouettes of trees and mountains

-Kid- and dog-friendly

-The owner, Carly, is one of my favorite people in Reno. She’s kind, funny, and always attentive and welcoming.

Trailhead parking for Jones Loop

a little ways from Jones Whites trailhead

All Pictures Below- Bitterbrush & Nature Trail Loop

"Categorized under Parks and Playgrounds, Family Friendly Hiking and Picnic Spots"