Whether you’re planning your next vacation to Reno Tahoe, or you’re a local in need of a stay-cation, you will love these incredible deals.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Coming for a Special Event? Save with one of the many hotels who offer event packages! To name a few, John Ascuaga’s Nugget has packages for Street Vibrations and the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa has packages for Thunder From Down Under.

ROMANTIC GETAWAY

Maybe a romantic stay in the Biggest Little City with that significant other is more what you’re looking for? If so, these generous offers from the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino and Silver Legacy Resort Casino will sweep you off your feet. Take advantage of these dueling discounts on everything you need for a sizzling stay; including, your room, dinner, chocolate covered strawberries and couples massage.

FAMILY FIRST

Recover from a brain freeze after scarfing down a waffle cone, play in the arcades, or hit the slopes with these unique packages designed for families.

Peppermill Resort Spa Casino We are Family Package

Circus Circus Vacation Ski and Midway Package

SHOW ME SOME LOVE

Eldorado Hotel Casino is offering room packages for those looking to see one of their hit shows Peter Pan or Hairspray!

LAKE TAHOE

Lake Tahoe is a pristine vacation destination where you can enjoy your favorite summer or winter activities among the beautiful surroundings of crystal clear water, towering pine trees and the often snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains. From kayaking and paddle boarding to skiing and spa treatments, there are endless savings in Tahoe.

SKI TAHOE

With an abundance of world-class ski resorts and unsurpassed conditions, Reno Tahoe is one of the most sought-after winter sports destinations on the globe. Now combine our excellent skiing/snowboarding with the pleasure of staying at the luxurious Atlantis Casino Resort Spa and you’re in for a getaway you’ll never forget.  Experience it for yourself with these great ski packages that will get you on the slopes without breaking the bank.

From weekend getaways to week-long retreats, the possibilities for a great time are endless in Reno-Tahoe. Here are few more deals to make your trip even better:

Grand Sierra Resort Golf Packages

Eldorado Hotel Casino Extended Stay Packages

Peppermill Resort Spa Casino Wine and Dine Package

Written by, Cody Haener

The 2^nd annual Torchmate Ultra4 Reno Stampede race will be held this week on September 10 and 11 at Exit 28 Motorsports just outside of Reno, Nevada. There will be multiple parties and events for fans and drivers throughout the week at both Exit 28 Motorsports and the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, NV. The unlimited 4 wheel drive vehicles known as Ultra4 cars have already begun descending upon Reno.  For those that haven’t seen an Ultra4 race in person, this is a great opportunity to see extreme horsepower at its finest. These cars are capable of speeds in excess of 100 MPH and are able to traverse some of the most treacherous rocky terrain, and this year’s race features a brand new short course section to watch these powerful vehicles soar through the air.

The Ultra4 Torchmate Reno Stampede was created by the founders of King of The Hammers, which is regularly referred to as “the hardest one day off-road race in the world.” With more than 120 miles of brutal course laid out and only 8 hours to finish, The Torchmate Reno Stampede will prove to be just as hard, if not harder than this year’s King of The Hammers. Only 19 of 50 cars finished The Stampede last year and this year’s race is nearly double the miles. This weekend’s race will definitely test the limits of both Ultra4 cars and their drivers.

Some of the biggest names in Ultra4 Racing will be on hand this weekend, including this year’s King of The Hammers winner and current Ultra4 Series leader, Monster Energy’s Shannon Campbell and Torchmate Racing’s JT Taylor and Jesse Haines. Last year’s King of the Hammers winner, Loren Healy,  and Aussie Ben Napier who is currently 2^nd in the 2011 Ultra4 series will also be racing this weekend.

Spectators will have their choice of viewing areas. Exit 32’s spectator area offers a short course section, views of the valley for high-speed racing and live action in the pits and concession areas. Exit 28 offers the gnarly rock crawl section known as Giant’s Throne where many spectators saw tons of carnage and rollovers at last year’s event. Spectators are encouraged to bring camp chairs and binoculars and will be able to travel between the two spectator areas. Admission is free on Friday for qualifying rounds and $20 for adults, and $10 for children on Saturday.  Fans will be able to save $5 on admission if they purchase their tickets Friday during the qualifying rounds!

CommRow will celebrate its grand opening on October 1, becoming Reno’s first “Urban Adventure Destination.” This property will inject a sample of the region’s outdoor thrills into the heart of Reno’s downtown corridor.

Towering 164-feet above the landmark Reno arch is the world’s tallest climbing wall on the 16-story building’s exterior façade. Inside, climbing enthusiasts or curious beginners will find a world-class bouldering center, plus event space and slacklines. The entire climbing facility, known as BaseCamp, is built to international competition standards but also first-timer friendly.

CommRow also features a menagerie of culturally-diverse eateries and bars dubbed “TheRow”, which were developed by two seasoned restaurateurs who have worked with such acclaimed chefs as Bobby Flay, Charlie Palmer and Bryan Voltaggio. Guests will find something to tempt any palate, from traditional tacos to fresh tuna tartars. Libations from classic cocktails to a selection of more than 100 tequilas can also be found. On the second floor, watch all of the bouldering action while enjoying either smoothies and housemade granolas, or wines by the glass and draft beers.

Two live entertainment venues known as Cargo and Centric will feature local performers and national touring acts. During the day, the 400-person capacity Cargo will transform into a fitness center with a focus on core training. Additional meeting and event space is also available.

Other attractions are slated to open in 2012, including the pet-friendly HANG Hotel in spring, and an outdoor “Adventure Deck” with BMX and skate parks, outdoor bouldering and more.

CommRow’s developer Fernando Leal of Chicago- and Reno-based L3 Development LLC states, “This is a huge opportunity to elevate Reno’s perception in the eyes of both locals and visitors alike, showcasing it for what it truly is – a vibrant, multi-faceted destination.”

August 29 – September 5, over 50,000 participants gather to create Black Rock City in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, dedicated to community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance. They depart one week later, having created unbelievable artistic experiences, and having left no trace whatsoever.

Live video from your Android device on Ustream

In advance of its Sept. 10 grand opening, the world-class Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum (The Discovery) is auctioning off an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The Discovery will welcome the winning bidder and 24 guests to be the first to spend a ‘Night Under the Clouds’ in the museum. The 25 lucky individuals will experience more than 12 hours of unlimited access to the museum and each of its eight hands-on galleries. The auction will close on Thursday, Sept 1 at 9:20am with 100 percent of the proceeds to benefit the museum’s annual operational costs. Bidding starts at $1,000 and can be entered at http://www.nvdm.org/firstnight/.

The ‘Night Under the Clouds’ will include food, refreshments and an abundance of fun activities throughout the evening, incorporating a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum, uninterrupted play in each gallery and group activities lead by The Discovery’s educators. Each member of the winning bidder’s party will receive a $25 museum store gift certificate and commemorative t-shirt. Additionally, the winning bidder will receive a one-year Traveling Membership for their family.

The Discovery, located in the former Reno City Hall building, is home to eight hands-on learning exhibits that focus on the northern Nevada region, nature, science, art and society. The museum serves children birth to 12 years old and offers a unique educational learning environment that inspires creativity and innovative thinking. For the latest information on The Discovery, to purchase memberships, or to sign up as a volunteer, visit www.nvdm.org or call (775) 786-1000.

ABOUT THE DISCOVERY

The Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum will inspire curiosity, creativity and the joy of lifelong learning for all children and families. Upon opening, the museum will provide opportunities to discover science, art and local history through open-ended, interactive and fun exhibits and hands-on educational programs. Explore a cave, build a house, race across Nevada, and climb into the clouds – these are just some of the many adventures offered at The Discovery.

If you’re heading to the playa for Burning Man and need to know what to bring and where to get it we have you covered. Here is a list of tips and shops in the Reno-Sparks area where you will find the essentials to make your visit to Black Rock City smooth and memorable.

Weather

For those of you who don’t know desert weather, the days are hot and the nights are cold.

Daytime temperatures routinely exceed 100º F. Sunscreen, lip balm and skin lotion are your three best friends on the playa. Drinking up to one gallon of water per person per day is the rule of thumb. Remember to eat proper salty foods to prevent electrolyte imbalance.

Some signs that you may not be drinking enough water:

• You don’t carry a water bottle with you at all times.
• You swill instead of drinking deeply.
• You wait to drink until you’re thirsty – too late!
• Your urine is anything but clear and abundant.
• You become cranky.

Overnight lows in the 40’s can seem exceptionally cold after extensive daytime sun, so you’ll want to bring warm clothing and a good sleeping bag.

High recommendation: bring goggles. Dust storms can prowl the playa in packs or sweep in a broadened front across the plain at any moment.

Clothing

Outfits are crucial on the playa. Burners are encouraged to express themselves and wear what may not normally be accepted around town and at the office – so get creative.  By visiting these clothing stores and costume shops, you will find everything you’ll need from EL-wire kits to exotic fabrics to create the perfect ensemble:

The Melting Pot World Emporium

PolyEsther’s Costume Boutique

Junkee Clothing Exchange

Chocolate Walrus

Prism Magic Clothing & Imports

Bikes

A bicycle (with a bike light) is vital for enjoying the vast and burgeoning metropolis. Remember, Black Rock City turns into a decent size “town” with over 50,000 people. Here are a few shops where you can pick up your playa transportation:

Black Rock Bicycles

Bicycle Bananas

Reno Bike Project

Great Basin Bicycles

Food

It is crucial to bring plenty of food and water with you on your Burning Man journey so stop by these great retailers to stock up before you head out:

Save Mart Supermarket – 525 Keystone Ave.

Trader Joe’s – 5035 South McCarran Blvd.

Whole Foods Market – 6139 South Virginia St.

Simply Water- 1070 Gentry Way

Gear

The only thing sold on the playa is ice and coffee, so don’t forget any camping necessities such as tents, flashlights, batteries, shade, and water containers. Check out:

Cabelas

Scheels

Twin City Surplus

Sierra Trading Post

For more tips, check out the Survival Guide.

Check out our pictures from last year on Flickr.

Grab some Buds because the dam gates are open and the river is rolling. After a long winter with near-record snowfall, the Truckee River has finally opened for safe summer river rafting.

We are going to bypass attempting to explain the unimaginable beauty the Truckee River holds. You’ll need to get your toes wet in order to absorb the true breath-taking scenery and experience the refreshing chill of the Truckee yourself. Two, of many, self-guided rafting companies are Truckee River Rafting and Truckee River Raft Company; both offer five mile floats down the Truckee River.

Most trips are leisurely and take two to three hours to complete, but don’t assume you have to stay in your raft the whole time, jump in and go for a swim! And, if you get hungry, row off to the side and enjoy a picnic lunch on a sandy shore.

When your trip has come to an end, a free shuttle will take you back to your vehicle in Tahoe City any time before 6:00 p.m. Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily (weather permitting) and footwear is mandatory. Trips include parking, shuttle, paddles, life jackets and commercial rafts for 2-20 people.

We know a long day on the river will brew up an appetite and there is no better way to satisfy your hunger than dining alfresco at one of North Lake Tahoe’s premier restaurants. River Ranch Lodge is always a favorite, especially with its outdoor patio that gives guests a front row seat to rafters exiting the Truckee River. Locals rave about the pulled pork sandwich served on ciabatta with bleu cheese coleslaw and southern barbeque sauce. River Grill in Tahoe City is also a hotspot and has one of Lake Tahoe’s best happy hours. Definitely try the macaroni and cheese with applewood smoked bacon, tomato and New York sharp white cheddar. And for some of the best margaritas in town, head to the historic Blue Agave in Tahoe City and take a load off where Baby Face Nelson hid out from the authorities back in Tahoe’s heyday.

For more information about rafting and raft companies go to www.GoTahoeNorth.com or www.VisitRenoTahoe.com.

Experience the history of the Virginia & Truckee Railroad at the 6^th annual Virginia City/Carson City Railfest on Saturday August 13 and Sunday August 14. Step into the shoes of our yesteryears and celebrate by riding the historic rails on a Stream Train from Carson City to Virginia City and back. Train rides are available all weekend and are a great experience for the whole family.

On Saturday, pose for a picture with legendary western characters at the Virginia City Living Legends Photo Op in the Delta Saloon parking lot. After you have your memorable picture taken, stop by the F street Train Depot to experience how the American Civil War helped shape the country we live in today at the Battle Born Civil War Reenactors Educational Booth. For adults 21 and over, escape the Comstock and relax on a romantic full moon evening train on the Moon Over the Comstock V & T Ride. This tranquil journey includes a light box dinner and a glass of wine in a souvenir Railfest wine glass.

Head over to the Nevada State Railroad Museum on Sunday to see and learn all about the trains that traveled along the V & T Railroad, as well as other locomotives and cars made famous in movies and on television.

For overnight accommodations in Virginia City and more information on this and other events happening in Virginia City, log on to www.VisitVirginiaCityNV.com or call the Virginia City Visitor Center at (775) 847-4FUN (4386) or (800) 718-SLVR (7587).

During Hot August Nights, Reno Tahoe has more events happening around town than anyone could ever dream of attending. We know this can be a bit overwhelming, so we’ve made a list to highlight a few of our “do not miss” events each night. For the full event schedule, click here.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

2 pm to 6 pm              Summit Racing Equipment Show-n-Shine – 960 E. Glendale Ave., Sparks

3 pm to 5 pm              Local’s Classic Car Show-n-Shine Competition – Peppermill Resort Spa Casino Reno

Entertainment

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm                            Hairspray – Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

Grand Sierra Resort

8 pm                            Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo – Tickets from $25, $45, $65. Call 800-648-3568 or go to www.grandsierraresort.com.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10

9 am to 4 pm              Grand Sierra Resort Daily Classic Cherry Shown – Shine - Awards presented nightly at 7 pm on the venue stage.

5 pm to 10 pm            Cruise of Champions – Atlantis Casino Resort Spa

6 pm                            Jelly Donut Eating Contest – Atlantis Casino Resort Spa

7 pm to 10 pm            Official Kick-off Cruise- Downtown Reno

7 pm to 10 pm            Controlled Cruise – Downtown Sparks

Entertainment

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm                            Hairspray – Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11

12 pm to 10 pm          Hot August Nights Drags & Burnouts Presented by John Ascuaga’s Nugget & Full Throttle Performance – John Ascuaga’s Nugget. West Parking Lot

3 pm to 5 pm              Peppermill Night Life Show-n-Shine Competition – Peppermill Resort Spa Casino Reno

8 pm to 11 pm            Hot August Nights 25th Anniversary Prom – “Evening Under The Stars.” Sponsored by Circus Circus. Entertainment by Ronny & The Classics. Mandalay Ballroom. Tickets $15 in advance/$20 at the door- Call 800-648-5010 or 775-789-5604.

Entertainment

Grand Sierra Resort

8:15 pm                       HERMAN’S HERMITS STARRING PETER NOONE

Victorian Square – Sparks

8:15 pm                       “OH WHAT A NIGHT” A TRIBUTE TO FRANKIE VALLI AND THE FOUR SEASONS – Stage Presented by John Ascuaga’s Nugget & The City of Sparks.

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm                            Hairspray – Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

Harrah’s Reno

8 pm                            Sammy Davis Jr. Tribute Show. Tickets are $25/$29, call 775-778-2900 for reservations or go to www.harrahsreno.com.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12

2 pm                            Free Classic Film Festival - Rebel Without A Cause. John Ascuaga’s Nugget.  Celebrity Showroom.

7:30 pm to 8 pm         Kids Show-n-Shine Competition – All Ages Welcome. Peppermill Resort Spa Casino Reno.

9:45 pm                       Hot August Nights Fireworks Spectacular – Silver Legacy Resort Casino.

Entertainment

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm                            Hairspray. Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

Harrah’s Reno

8 pm                            Sammy Davis Jr. Tribute Show. Tickets are $25/$29, call 775-778-2900 for reservations or go to www.harrahsreno.com.

Silver Legacy Resort Casino

8 pm                            DOO WOP. The Flamingos featuring Terry Johnson, Barbara Harris & The Toys, The Marcels, The Safaris, Kathy Young, Joe Jones & The Pentagons, & The Olympics. Tickets from $50, $69.50. Call the Silver Legacy Resort Casino at 800-MUST-SEE or ticketmaster.com or silverlegacy.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13

8 am to 10 pm            Hot August Nights Official Classic Car Auction – Reno-Sparks Convention Center.

10 am to 3 pm            John Ascuaga’s Nugget Peoples Choice Award - Pick up judging ballot at John’s Club booth.

10 am to 5 pm            Big Boy’s Toy Store - Reno-Sparks Events Center, Downtown Reno – Presented by the Silver Legacy Resort Casino and the Eldorado Hotel Casino.

Entertainment

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm & 9:30 pm          Hairspray. Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

Harrah’s Reno

8 pm                            Sammy Davis Jr. Tribute Show. Tickets are $25/$29, call 775-778-2900 for reservations or go to www.harrahsreno.com.

Silver Legacy Resort Casino

8 pm                            DICK FOX’S GOLDEN BOYS STARRING FRANKIE AVALON, FABIAN & BOBBY RYDELL. Tickets from $65 & $80. Call the Silver Legacy Resort Casino at 800-MUST-SEE or ticketmaster.com or silverlegacy.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 14

10 am                          Official Parade – Downtown Reno

Entertainment

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm                            Hairspray. Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

Harrah’s Reno

8 pm                            Sammy Davis Jr. Tribute Show. Tickets are $25/$29, call 775-778-2900 for reservations or go to www.harrahsreno.com.

For some, Reno, Nevada is known for the same vibrant nightlife and gambling outlets as Las Vegas – but on a smaller and more intimate scale. Obvious tourist attractions include shopping, restaurants, singers, comedians and magic shows. But beyond the slot machines and flashing lights, there is a plethora of family-fun activities available.

Go just a short distance out of town though and you will find a treasure trove of non-gambling alternatives that are great for all ages. Here are five family-friendly activities you may want to consider for your next vacation to Reno, Nevada.

Lake Activities

Anglers prize the Reno area for some of the best fly-fishing territory around. You can visit one of the many tackle shops in the area for maps of private and public lakes and river access areas. If you are interested in having a true fisherman’s experience, consider taking a class or attending one of the fly tying clinics and tie your own. There is nothing like catching that two-pound trout on a bumblebee you created with your own two hands.

Only 40 miles from Reno is famous Lake Tahoe, which offers spectacular views, clear mountain air and ample fishing holes for privacy or group activities. Guides are available, or you can pack a picnic basket, quilt and fishing gear and head off on your own for an adventurous day on the water. If you have always wanted “to land that BIG one,” consider visiting Pyramid Lake. This lake proudly boasts they have the largest Cutthroat Trout.

Whether you choose Pyramid Lake, Truckee River, Lake Tahoe or one of the other streams, lakes and rivers near Reno, prepare yourself for a day filled with awesome scenery and relaxing outdoor fun.

Hiking and Trails

Many people think you have to go to Lake Tahoe to enjoy hiking trails that offer hikers challenging terrain. Not true! There are numerous trails in Reno parks and just on the outskirts of the city.  Hikers and trail watchers can find easy, moderate and challenging trails to test their skills and that will suit a variety of levels of physical fitness. You will find short trails that start at about 600 feet and have a gentle slope and more challenging trails that test your endurance.

About eight miles out of town in the gorgeous Sierra Mountains that surround Reno, Nevada, you will find the Tahoe Rim Trail in Galena Regional Park. This trail offers a loop that is just over 9 miles of moderate to mostly steep climbing. Hikers can expect to see desert terrain covered with sage, pine, juniper bushes and the occasional waterfall. Bring lots of film or extra chips for the camera. The views are breathtaking. And remember to pack plenty of water and a few energy bars or a lunch.

Golf

If golf is your game–Reno, Nevada is your destination. There are over 50 golf courses within 90 miles of Reno proper. The PGA stops in Reno for the Reno-Tahoe Open, so you know the greens are great. No matter what your level of expertise, you will be able to find a course to fit your skill. Private lessons are available at most of the courses through resident pros and through guest pass arrangements. Since the high altitude gives golfers a natural advantage, you can expect to hit the ball further with every stroke. Get ready to play the lowest score of your life. If you’re a family with younger kids that aren’t ready for the big green yet, check out the many mini-golf options in the area.

Explore the Past

For a relaxing day with some educational benefits, consider visiting one of the numerous museums in Reno. You can find museums dedicated to a variety of topics. An automobile museum, a museum dedicated to Disney and many others call Reno home. The Wilbur D. May museum is an adventure the entire family can enjoy. The artifacts and collectibles gleaned from years of traveling the world offer an exciting, eclectic blend. The indoor waterfall you’ll find there is always a big hit with kids and adults alike. Remember to check days and hours the museum is opened before planning your day. Some museums have limited hours.

Read, Paint, Write

Many artists enjoy the inspiration they absorb from the desert climate and surrounding rivers and mountains. Writers claim to feel the spirit of the nomadic American Indians. Artist carrying pallet and canvas attempt to capture the delicate yellow flower of the desert cactus in the early morning. Students from the college can be seen relaxing near the river as they search for answers to questions posed by Aristotle.

Visiting Reno is an opportunity to enjoy nature with your family, while having fun and learning, too. Enjoy.

This post was written by freelance writer Martha Keagan who is a full time mother, writer and part time real estate agent. Keagan has assisted hundreds of college students find housing and apartments in Reno for years. Reno is a great city, if you are looking to visit or even relocate to Reno, find a short term apartment to stay in before you decide to purchase a house.