Take a Scenic Stroll Back in Time and Walk the Lands of the Cowboys at Bartley Ranch, Nevada.

6000 Bartley Ranch Road,

Reno, NV 89511

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Park Ranger Office: (775) 828-6612
Pavilion Reservations (775) 823-6501

Bartley Ranch holds a special place in my heart as one of my all-time favorite parks in Reno. Its Western vibe, shaded grassy lawns, natural beauty, amenities, picnic worthy spots, landscaping, nearby eats, events, & concerts make it an absolute must visit. At 56 acres, the park may seem big, but the way it's landscaped and designed make it feel like an intimate & welcoming park.

I love that a visit to the park always feel like a step back in time. The park has vintage tractors, weathered wooden ranch buildings, and the old Huffaker Schoolhouse that give you a glimpse into Reno’s early ranching days. The land was once part of the Wheeler Estate, one of the area’s early farming and ranching properties. In the 1920s, Italian immigrant Demetrio Buscalia purchased part of the estate and operated a small dairy farm here. After World War II, his son, Gus Bartley, transformed the dairy into a horse boarding and training ranch, giving the property the Bartley Ranch name we know today. The ranch operated until 1985, and the land eventually became a regional park in 1995.

The park is also home to the Western Heritage Interpretive Center, largely known for its Come in from the Cold series featuring live music by local musicians mid-January to mid-March, and an amphitheater that can be rented for special occasions. During the month of July, the amphitheater also transforms into one of the main stages for live performances throughout Artown. Just outside the interpretive center, you’ll find pamphlets filled with interesting tidbits about the park’s plants, wildlife, and history.

2024

Bartley Ranch has also traditionally been the home of NYEP’s Annual Fall Harvest Festival, a family friendly fundraiser benefiting the Nevada Youth Empowerment Project. Held here each September, the event has brought the park to life with hayrides, pony rides, carnival games, bounce houses, face painting, live performances, and even baby animals. It’s a fun fall tradition that I’ve always loved seeing here, although the festival has taken a break over the past couple of years. Hopefully, it will make its way back to Bartley Ranch soon because this park is the perfect setting for a good old fashioned fall celebration.

Coming in from the south, you’re greeted with a scenic lookout - Audrey Harris Park (more like a small lookout area) - that offers stunning views before you descend into the park. From here you can spot everything from the white picket fence shaped like Nevada to runners hitting the trails, dog walkers, and people simply soaking in the views from the benches.

Within just a short 30 minute walk in the park, you will encounter wildlife, different landscapes, and a cute nature trail that leads to a charming wooden bridge. From there, a wooden walkway takes you along the gorgeous hills, and a zigzagging trail brings you right back to the heart of the park.

Bartley Ranch Park never disappoints. It’s a place I keep coming back to, and I’m so excited to share it with all of you.

Main Events at Bartley Ranch Regional Park

Come in from the Cold 

Winter Saturday evening concerts (bluegrass, jazz, cowboy poetry) at the Western Heritage Interpretive Center.

Evenings on the Ranch 

Summer Wednesday evening performances on the Plaza lawn (bluegrass, Chautauqua, poetry).

Hawkins Amphitheater Events 

Summer concerts, plays, community performances, Artown events, and special rentals.

Gardening Series 

Spring evening classes on fruit trees, pollinators, and desert gardening.

Junior Ranger Programs & Ranger-Led Hikes 

Educational programs for kids on nature and history.

“Washoe County Rocks!” 

Geology-focused workshops at the Interpretive Center.

Fall Harvest Festival 

Seasonal festival with petting zoo, carriage rides, crafts, and community activities.

Community Gatherings 

Music, potlucks, and local events hosted by groups like the Northern Nevada Bluegrass Association.

Notes

-Plenty of parking available

-For special events, get there early as parking fills up quickly

-Bartley Ranch is a hot spot for photo sessions

-Catch the fun annual festival here benefiting NYEP

-Restrooms available

Nearby at The Shops at Bartley Ranch (All Local)

*Icecycle Creamery

Great spot for adventurous, small batch ice cream flavors and deli sandwiches/soups.

*Kuma Sushi

AYCE sushi in a modern, cozy space.

*Bighorn Tavern

In the Shops at Bartley Ranch; a casual neighborhood tavern with burgers, tacos, wings, and more.

*Smiling with Hope Pizza

Classic New York style pizza. 

Bartley Ranch in Fall

Park at Audrey Harris Park for lookout.

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

Photography

©Katherine Fung,

All rights reserved.

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

Amazing Birth Experience at Renown Medical Center, Reno NV

1155 Mill St.

Reno, NV 89502

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Renown Medical Center brings a crazy number of babies into the world every day (4,063 in 2016 alone), and I was lucky enough to be one of those moms who experienced their care firsthand. It's one of the main hospitals in Reno (right alongside St. Mary's), and I honestly couldn’t have been happier with both of my birth experiences there.

As a mom of three, I had two of my babies at Renown, and both times were nothing short of amazing. From the seamless check-in to the skilled doctors and nurses, to the level of comfort and resources, everything about it made me feel taken care of. And yes, if I ever had another baby, I’d go back in a heartbeat.

For my second child (who you can spot in my photos), things moved much faster than with my first. Instead of 12 hours of labor, it took only six. I was at home when my water suddenly broke, and I knew right away that things were progressing fast. My sister rushed over, and we made it to the hospital just ten minutes before I gave birth. We pulled up to the emergency entrance, and someone whisked me to the delivery room. The nurses literally heard me coming and were ready and waiting.

Once in the delivery room, they quickly transferred me to the bed and paged the doctor. He arrived right away and was incredible—he used a technique that helped me avoid any tears. I was beyond grateful, especially after my first birth, which left me with a third-degree tear. 

Tip: It’s worth asking your doctor about ways to prevent tearing ahead of time.

After my baby was born, they wiped him down, and I got that immediate skin-to-skin bonding moment. It’s amazing how it calms the baby, keeps them warm, and even helps with breastfeeding. They also applied antibiotic eye drops to prevent any infections.

As I held my baby, the doctor made sure the placenta came out with one firm press on my stomach.  The nurses then took my little one to a table right next to me to suction out extra fluids, check his vitals, and take his measurements.

After that, I was moved to my recovery room, where the nurse helped me with my first bathroom trip and gave me all the post-birth care info I needed. The bathroom was stocked with everything—underwear, pads, wash bottles, gowns, & towels. She even offered me an ice pack for my bottom, which was pure relief.

My husband got to be involved too—he went with the nurses for my second baby's first bath, and for our third, I got to watch the bath myself. They kept a close eye on both of us, checking our vitals regularly to make sure we were doing okay, and a lactation consultant came by to offer breastfeeding support. If you can’t breastfeed, they have plenty of other resources available as well.

The next day, my doctor checked in on me and gave the all-clear for us to go home. Renown monitors new mothers for at least 24 hours after delivery.  Most moms stay 24–48 hours. 

Renown exceeded all my expectations. The hospital was beautiful, my husband was able to stay with me overnight, and the snack room (reserved just for new moms) was such a treat. We couldn’t have been happier with the care we received.

Renown Medical Center truly makes the birthing experience comfortable, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to any expecting mom.

Renown has created the ultimate pregnancy guide, including all the information you need to know to have the best pregnancy and birthing experience.  

Contents:

-what to expect

-information on getting sick during pregnancy

-nutrition and how to stay healthy 

-vitamins

-medications

-frequently asked questions

-prep for the big day

-what to expect during pregnancy, pre and post delivery

-nursing tips

-childbirth classes available

-tips for caring for your newborn 

-safety guidelines

-resources

My Top Ten Items to Bring to the Hospital:
1. Car Seat + Car Seat Base installed in car (All 3 of my kids love their Foonf Clek Carseat.  Purchase with Infant Thingy insert for newborns)
2. Slippers
3. Nursing Bra + Pads(washable or disposable)
4. Aquaphor (they have ointment at the hospital, but I brought my favorite because it makes changing diapers so much easier) + Lanolin nipple cream to soothe nipples .
5. Phone Charger
6. Camera
7. Snacks for you and loved ones staying overnight
8. Going home outfit for you and baby
9.  Everything is supplied at the hospital, but I like to bring my own overnight heavy Always pads for maximum comfort.
10.  Toiletries

Tips:

- Dermoplast spray helps with soreness during bathroom breaks

- Ask for ice packs—they’re soothing post-delivery

- Bring a book to help pass the time

- Need a break? They can watch your baby in the nursery

- Perineal wash bottles are a lifesaver during bathroom trips (spraying cold water while going to the restroom may provide relief, especially if you've had any tares)

- Use baby apps to track feedings, diapers, and sleep

- I used the hospital's disposable underwear, which was super convenient as I was able to easily dispose of any mess

- Get as much rest as possible, especially if you plan to breastfeed

Categorized under "Giving Birth at Renown Hospital"

Enjoy a Classic Burger and Milkshake at Five Guys

6395 S McCarran Blvd.

Reno, NV 89509

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The iconic all American burger. Few foods are as classic, comforting, and downright satisfying. Here on the West Coast, one may argue that In-N-Out is the go to fast food burger, but during my two years in New Jersey, I quickly noticed that Five Guys was the go to for many people on the East Coast. It was everywhere, and I soon found out why.

Five Guys is a little different from your traditional fast food burger joint. For starters, they don’t have a drive through, so you’ll have to get out of your car and head inside to place your order. They also don’t have freezers on site, meaning their beef is fresh and their potatoes are hand cut daily. Everything is cooked to order, including their fries, which are cooked exclusively in peanut oil. With more than 15 toppings to choose from, you can customize your burger exactly how you like it. These practices actually remind me a lot of In-N-Out, which also uses fresh, never frozen beef and prepares its fries from fresh potatoes in house. Both take a made to order approach rather than relying on frozen ingredients and pre packaged food, which is part of what makes these two burger chains stand out from traditional fast food.

I remember the first time I finally gave Five Guys a try back in 2015. I was craving In-N-Out, but of course, there were none to be found in New Jersey. So, I figured Five Guys was worth a shot. I wasn’t expecting much, but wow, was I blown away. The burger was substantial, huge, loaded with toppings, and insanely fresh. I never thought I’d find myself craving another burger besides In-N-Out, but Five Guys quickly earned a spot in my burger loving heart.

Need some milkshake inspiration? 

Try one of these popular combinations:

Chocolate + Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Oreo + Peanut Butter
Strawberry + Oreo 
Peanut Butter + Banana + Bacon
Bacon + Salted Caramel
Chocolate + Oreo
Peanut Butter + Chocolate

Chocolate + Malted Milk + Peanut Butter

P.S. If whipped cream is your thing, don't forget to ask for it!

At Five Guys, you can customize your burger to your liking or just “go all the way” with their classic combination of toppings: mayo, lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, grilled onions, and mustard. You can also add jalapeños, green peppers, A1 sauce, BBQ sauce, or hot sauce. The possibilities are pretty much endless.

And just when I thought the burger was the main event, my family and friends were like, “Wait, there’s more!” Their Cajun fries and milkshakes are just as drool worthy. The Cajun fries have just the right amount of spice and are fried in peanut oil. They’re always fresh, although they can be a little oily in the bag, and they always come in hefty portions. Also, their milkshakes are refreshing, packed with flavor, and fun since there are many flavors to choose from that you can mix in different ways.  Hate to say this, but between an In-N-Out milkshake and theirs, they easily take the cake.  

One day, I decided to step away from the burgers and try their hot dogs. Turns out, Five Guys also serves a pretty delicious dog. I had mine “all the way,” and every bite was a “Yum!” moment. I’d definitely recommend giving one a try if you’re looking to switch things up.

Service at Five Guys is on point. The staff has great energy, and they’re always communicating with each other to make sure everything runs smoothly. I love how quickly they prep the food and hand it off with a smile.

Five Guys and In-N-Out will forever be at the top of my burger list. They’re different, but both are so good. Most importantly, they’re consistently delicious and fresh, so you can feel pretty confident that you’re getting your money’s worth every time. Oh, and one last thing: Five Guys has tasty roasted peanuts available for free on every visit. They’re self serve, so grab a handful while you wait for your food. As if burgers, fries, and milkshakes weren’t enough, right?

NOTES
-Place an order online without creating an account. Skip the line, head straight to pickup, and let them know you ordered online. Super convenient.
-They don’t have a veggie patty, but they have enough toppings to build a pretty solid veggie burger. Double up on the cheese.
-Plenty of parking is available
-Complimentary self serve roasted peanuts available
-Mix as many milkshake flavors as you’d like

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

Categorized under "Good Eats" &  "Burgers"

Let You Imagination Run Wild at the Children's Museum of Northern Nevada, Carson City

813 N Carson Street

Carson City, NV 89701

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One of my favorite things about Carson City is how many fun, family friendly places you can discover tucked away in this little capital city. The Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada ranks among the top on my list of family friendly things to do. Geared primarily toward infants through about age 9, it’s a hands on, play based museum where young kids can explore, use their imaginations, and have a whole lot of fun while learning along the way.

The exhibits are thoughtfully designed and super engaging. My kids especially love the role playing areas. In the hospital exhibit, they get busy treating patients, learn how to care for babies, and even practicing their bedside manner. At the mini supermarket, they “budget” their money and whip up gourmet meals for loved ones. And when they’ve got energy to burn and wiggles to release, the indoor climbing structures, tunnels, and slides keep them entertained for hours.  Added bonus: it's all located indoors, weather proof and accessible no matter the weather and season.

Downstairs, there are a few sections dedicated to STEM activities and art projects that switch up from time to time.

One of my favorite things about this museum is their storytime and the special events they host throughout the year. My kids and I absolutely love their annual Chinese New Year Celebration, although the festival has taken a break over the past several years. We engage in cultural activities like calligraphy and origami and get the opportunity to watch traditional Chinese/Asian dances. It’s such a fun experience. Hopefully it'll return soon.  When it does, it usually falls between late January and February, following the lunar calendar.

Encouraging imagination and creative play is a huge deal for me. It’s something I really believe is key to a well rounded upbringing because it helps kids build creativity, problem solving skills, communication, confidence, and empathy. I love that the Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada gives kids a chance to develop these skills naturally through play.

The drive from Reno to Carson City is always a treat, with the scenic pastures, Washoe Lake, and the Sierra Mountains as the perfect backdrop. It’s a quick trip of about 30 minutes, but it always manages to refuel my love for the region and makes me feel so calm and lucky to be living here. 

Did I mention that Carson City is the capital of Nevada? That’s right, our state capital is also this lovely little town full of local gems that make it special. Beautiful landscapes, great restaurants, epic museums, wildlife, community, and so much history, plus the fact that it’s close enough to South Lake Tahoe, make Carson City an easy place to love. Carson City might be small (compared to Reno), but it’s definitely big in its own way.

I know how daunting society and the rise of technology can feel these days, especially when it comes to raising kids. With so many distractions competing for their attention, I think it is more important than ever to be proactive about giving our children opportunities to explore, create, imagine, move their bodies, and interact with the world around them. Hands on and physical activities are so important for healthy development, and visits to places like the Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada can benefit our children mentally, physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. We only get one chance to give our children a childhood, and I believe filling it with meaningful experiences, exploration, and plenty of opportunities to simply play is one of the greatest gifts we can give them.

Other Nearby Attractions in Carson City

Nevada State Museum

King's Canyon Waterfall
Battle Born Hall: Free museum inside the Nevada State Capitol
Nevada State Railroad Museum
Stewart Indian School Cultural Center & Museum
Kit Carson Trail
Bowers Mansion
Carson Hot Springs
Carson City Aquatic Facility
Prison Hill Recreation Area
Mills Park
Governor’s Mansion
Brewery Arts Center

NOTES

-Snacks are available for purchase at check-in

-Toddler section with alphabet toys, books, and a play table available

-Birthday party packages available

-Yearly memberships and volunteer opportunities offered

-Closed on major holidays

-Special field trip rates available

-Elevator access for strollers and wheelchairs available.  Check in with the front desk for assistance.

-Join the museum's mailing list by entering your email at the bottom of their homepage

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

Photography

© Katherine Fung, 

All rights reserved.

Categorized under Museums & Birthday/Event Venues