Geiger Lookout Wayside Park- A Nice Stop with Great Views on the way to and from Virginia City

1990 Geiger Grade Rd. 

Reno, NV, 89521

Old Geiger Grade OHV Trail

Virginia City Website | Instagram

Geiger Lookout is a favorite spot for sunset lovers and curious travelers making their way to and from Virginia City. You’ll find this gem just a bit up the winding road (built in 1862 to haul silver from the Comstock Lode) from the Reno roundabout, with a turnout offering about 11 parking spaces.

One of the coolest things about Reno is how diverse it is, with its river, farmlands, forests, and Tahoe & Old West vibes all within a short drive of each other. At Geiger Lookout, you’ll be treated to rock lined paths, muted nature colors, and vibrant red mineral mountains, creating a truly unique experience.

With multiple lookout points, you’ll soak in sweeping views of Mt. Rose, the Sierra Mountains, and Downtown Reno. Sitting at about 1,000 feet above the Truckee Meadows, you’ll feel like you're on top of the world being surrounded by stunning scenery.  The park also features the remnants of 1938 barbecues, wells, and even a “love seat,” bringing visitors back in time and sparking curiosity about its history.

Just a quick 15-minute drive up a scenic, winding road will lead you to Virginia City, a charming town steeped in rich mining history and that classic “old west” feel.  Can you believe that it once inhabited about 25,000 residents at its peak during the 19th century mining bonanza?  That population has dwindled down drastically to 690 in 2026 (source). 

Throughout the year, Virginia City comes alive with annual events, parades, and tours, making it a hotspot for tourists.  With ghost tours, saloon crawls, restaurants, unique boutiques, holiday happenings, tons of historical buildings, and even sleepovers, there’s no shortage of exciting experiences waiting for you in the "Wild Wild West."

Together, Geiger Grade Lookout and Virginia City offer the perfect day trip.  I can't tell you how many times I've found myself wandering around this area.  Sometimes I'll photograph random scenes and places on the way to VC and at VC itself, and sometimes I'll just come for lunch or chat with a VC local (they're always so kind and welcoming).  And at the end of every single trip, I sit back and think about how lucky I am to be living next to a true "Frontier Land."

Whether I'm soaking in the sunset from the lookout or wandering the streets of Virginia City, I always leave with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and history that surrounds Reno.

Fun Facts: Geiger Grade was once a crucial route for miners traveling between Reno and Virginia City during the Comstock Lode boom.  

Virginia City still preserves many buildings from this era, some over 150 years old.  Check out the stunning Mackay Mansion, the oldest building in VC (1860). Tours available. WEBSITE

Notes 
-A plaque at the stone stairs commemorates Dr. Davison M. Geiger, a local physician who helped finance the original Geiger Grade Road. The stairs lead to the lookout and a cozy “love seat” where you can relax and take in the views.
-The park covers approximately 2 acres.
-Partial shade is available under the trees.
-There are no functional restrooms on site.
-It can get super windy at higher elevations.  Stay on top of hourly weather and dress accordingly 

Categorized under "Parks and Playgrounds" & "Scenic Overlooks"

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

Photography 

©Katherine Fung

All Rights Reserved

Enjoy Scenic Walks and Wildlife at Virginia Lake Park in Reno

1980 Lakeside Dr
Reno, NV 89509

Website

Rentable Shelter

Yelp

Virginia Lake Park is a beautifully landscaped 32-acre park featuring a serene man-made lake surrounded by charming houses and vibrant wildlife. Here, you can spot various birds, including pigeons, geese, crows, double-crested cormorants, snowy egrets, and California gulls. The park offers a relaxing atmosphere, reminiscent of a beach setting, with the soothing sounds of fountains and the gentle rustle of nature all around.

Every since becoming a mom 11 years ago, I made it my life's goal to take my kiddos to the parks as much as I can & as much as my will allows (LOL) while also finding ways to entertain myself.  If you're a parent or guardian, I'm sure you can relate when I say that parks can get a little... boring, LOL.  So when you see me writing about a specific park (or any spot, really), it means I'm genuinely into it in some sort of way and want to share it with you.  I freakin got chu! LOL  We're in this together, right?!!

The park is also just a short walk from South Virginia Street where you'll find tons of dining options and shops to browse and take advantage of.  My personal suggestions - RED District (includes Cinemark Century Park Lane Theaters, a small playground, Country Creamery, HUB Coffee, and more), and Reno Public Market - a uniquely local food hall.

Park Features

-1-Mile Loop Trail:  A short, flat trail lined with parking and houses, perfect for walking year-round. There's also a concentric dirt trail that circles the lake.

-Play Areas: Enjoy grassy areas with two play structures, swings, and a small stage for performances.

-Pavilions: Rent a pavilion with BBQ facilities that can accommodate up to 100 people.

-Restrooms: Available year-round

-Exercise Area (Lymbery St.): Stay active with an exercise zone located right next to the park's parking lot

-Fishing Pier: Spend a relaxing day fishing from the pier. Fishing permit.

-Benches: Plenty of seating along the lake for bird watching and enjoying the scenery.

-Dog Park (south side of lake on Eastshore Dr.): Gated & off leash.  Muddy when wet.

-Picnic Areas: Plenty of shaded spots under trees for ideal for picnics.

Notes

*If you’re sensitive to bird droppings or have a dog that tends to eat them, you might want to consider visiting another park, as they can be common on the trail.

*An ice cream truck frequently parks in front of the playgrounds during the summer months. 

*An island in the center of the lake is home to a variety of birds.

*The park is dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash. 

*The trail around the lake is paved, making it accessible for everyone. Biking and horseback riding are not permitted on the paths. 

*Enjoy a smoke-free environment throughout the park. 

*Explore a charming stone-bench garden area near the pier and take in the diverse plant life that enhances the park's beauty. 

*Designated feeding areas for wild birds are located at both ends of the lake.

*Virginia Lake Park is within walking distance of the Peppermill Casino.

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

Photography

©Katherine Fung,

All Rights Reserved.

Categorized Under "Parks and Playgrounds," "Family Friendly Trails," "Picnic spots," & "Event/Birthday Spots"

Aladdin's Market & Kitchen - A Magic Carpet Ride to Amazing Middle Eastern/Mediterranean Homecooked Food

Chicken Shawarma Plate

MIDTOWN

1180 Holcomb Ave 

Reno, NV 89502 

Website | Instagram

Menu

Click to Enlarge

If you've ever wandered the streets of New York with a growling stomach and a love for good eats, chances are you know about the legendary Halal Guys' food carts. They're hard to miss, with lines stretching down the block and the smell of grilled meats wafting through the air.

People flock to these carts for their mouthwatering dishes - grilled meats, rice, hummus, and veggies all smothered in a delicious tahini/hummus sauce that brings everything together in perfect harmony.

But if you're in Reno and craving that same flavor without the wait, look no further than Aladdin's. Tucked away in a local Mediterranean market, Aladdin's Market & Kitchen is the creation of a friendly owner, Radi.

I tried their sampler and chicken kabob plate (a personal fave) and immediately found myself doing a happy dance after the first bite. The chicken kabob plate was pure perfection made of juicy chicken, a kickass garlic tahini sauce, and tzatziki that was finger licking good. Don't be shy about asking for extra sauce, or else risk suffering from regrets.  You've been warned.  

The beef kabob (or kofta) could've used a bit more oomph in the flavor department, but it was still pretty darn good, especially considering how fresh it was.

Now, let's talk desserts. Some of them were a tad too sweet for my liking, but hey, if you've got a sweet tooth, give 'em a shot. They're popular for a reason.

Their tabouli salad was a refreshing side dish, packed with parsley, tomato, cucumber, bulgur wheat, and a zesty citrus dressing.  This is a must and a great side to any dish.

And the grocery side of the market is chocked full of Mediterranean goods and unique items.  I love walking down the aisles and checking everything out while waiting for my order.  One time, one of their loyal customers talked me into getting a pack of Turkish coffee & a long handled pot (cezve, LOL.  Best decision ever.  If you unfamiliar with Turkish Coffee, it's a method of brewing finely grounded beans, creating a thick & aromatic drink served with the grounds (most of them sink to the bottom).  And guess what?! The grounds are commonly used for fortune telling.  I know... super cool!

I'd like to take a moment to appreciate Radi. He moved to Reno four decades ago and saw a gap in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food scene. I'm so glad he took the leap of faith and brought us this gem of a spot. Here's to good food and following your passion.

Aladdin's Sampler

What You Will Find at the Market:

Fresh Food Made to Order

    Kabobs

    Sandwiches/Wraps

    Appetizers (Dolmas, Hummus, Fries, Flatbreads)

    Shawarma Plates (thinly sliced meat, stacked, and roasted)

    Vegetarian and Vegan Options (Falafel Plates, Hummus, and Sides)

    -Confections & desserts like Baklava

    -Specials

-Grocery Items - Frozen and Pantry (No Fresh Produce), Snacks, and Drinks

-Teas & coffee

Their Tabouli Salad is the BOMB

NOTES

-While waiting, feel free to browse the grocery side for some added excitement.

-Customizing your meal is a breeze.  Just give them your preferences.

-For ultimate convenience, order online for pickup or delivery via their website (link provided above).

-Depending on the time of day, the parking lot might be packed, but you can usually find street parking nearby.

-A few tables are available for dining

-Their food and products are Halal Certified, meeting Islamic law standards.

-Don't forget to check out their selection of prepackaged sides and desserts for sale.

Falafel Wrap

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

Categorized Under Good Eats and International Markets