Discover new finds off-the-beaten-path in downtown Reno’s corridor.

By Heidi Bethel

Shatter the typical tourist experience by uncovering lesser-known spots and hidden gems tucked inside the Riverwalk District. Whether it’s a shop with some serious personality, a park to swing by, stunning sights or a look back in time, here are a few fun ways to experience all the area has to offer. 

Unique spots abound

Looking for a fun trinket to commemorate the visit? Head to Antique Angel Gifts a.k.a. Reno Gift Shop where the shelves lined with great finds will not disappoint. Check out some of the hand-blown glass pieces, an eclectic collection of hats, jewelry, figurines and more. Located at 1 North Virginia Street, it’s convenient and close to many more fun shopping stops. 

Shim’s Speakeasy

Looking for a secret hideaway? Take a step back in time with one of Reno’s best kept secrets, Shim’s Speakeasy. This Prohibition themed bar offers a roaring good time from live entertainment nightly to your own curtained booth while sipping on handcrafted cocktails made from its classic marble bar. Turn back time today at Shim’s Speakeasy which is located at 125 West 3rd street! 

The Basement 

The Riverwalk District is known for its plethora of vivacious local businesses that give Reno its famous flare. The Basement offers customers and vendors a unique space that celebrates handcrafted products and food for local cultures in the Reno community. Located in the basement of the former iconic Reno United States Post Office, this Art-Deco building is home to numerous local vendors waiting to welcome you! 

Parks worth exploring

Along the riverwalk, there are many fun outdoor spots. Wingfield Park can be the center of the action with special events, but is also a nice spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic lunch. Heading west along the trail, Idlewild Park has a little something for everyone — get in some serious play time on one of the onsite playgrounds, fish from the shores of the Truckee River, play baseball, softball and basketball, swim, stop to smell the flowers and leaf peep, and watch the birds and critters scoot around.

Views that won’t disappoint

From the north end of the Riverwalk District, along First St. the bridge from Lake St. to Arlington St. offers some great overlooks of the river, Wingfield Park and surrounding buildings. Watch as the river rushes below and admire all the Biggest Little City has to offer. 

A nod to history

With many landmarks and buildings spanning the centuries, for those history buffs the Riverwalk District offers some great attractions. Stop by the City Center and view the Historic Street Clock of Reno and head to Lake St. where the Old Reno Arch is still in place. An iconic Reno representation, the Lake Mansion is a historic house that originally stood at the corner of Virginia and California Streets and is now located at 250 Court Street. It was built in 1877 by W.J. Marsh. Take a ride back in time at the National Automobile Museum where vehicles of the past beckon nostalgia. 

There are endless  other finds just waiting to be stumbled upon and that’s the true beauty of the area … you can walk the many paths and streets making up the Riverwalk District letting the adventure guide you. You never know what hidden gem may just be pleasantly surprised by.