Reno is Rad

LOOKING FOR DINING, ADVENTURE OR CULTURE? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN DOWNTOWN AND MIDTOWN RENO.

Spend a day wandering Virginia Street and, if you’re like me, you’ll end the day eager to see more. There’s something for everyone in the area, from thrill seekers to thrifters and foodies to art folk. I myself am a little interested in everything, so it’s the perfect spot to explore with friends or on my own.

Photos this page: West Elm, Natural Selection, Rum Sugar Lime Photos next page: West Elm, Liberty Food & Wine Exchange, Natural Selection, Wild River Grille.

Near the Truckee River, you’ll find the gorgeous West Elm inside an equally spectacular historic Reno building.

Just across the street, be sure to pop in and admire the Sierra Arts Foundation gallery. You will surely find inspiration as you wander through these spots. sierraarts.org; westelm.com

Stop in the many wonderful shops of midtown, further south on Virginia Street, to find potted plants, handmade soaps, unique clothing, and more.

Some of my favorites are all within walking distance. Whenever I have a free day, I love to grab a refreshing iced coffee at Bibo Coffee Co. and get shopping. bibocoffeecompany.com

For stylish, Nevada-chic finds check out Sierra Belle Boutique in The Sticks. If you’re a yogi, you might enjoy shopping at Hello Yoga next door. Around the corner from The Sticks is a new shop that I am particularly excited about — Freestyle Clothing Exchange is a thrift and consignment shop with amazing new and used finds for every aesthetic. shopsierrabelle.com; satoridancewear.com; freestyleclothing.com

Across the street from these shops is Natural Selection, where a friendly and knowledgeable associate can help you find the perfect plant. You might even get to see the shop’s mascot, an adorable, friendly bull terrier. naturalselectionstore.com

DELIGHTFUL DOWNTOWN DINING

The most relaxing, beautiful area for a bite to eat downtown is the Riverwalk District. You can enjoy delightful dining on the beautiful Truckee River at many restaurants. One of my favorites is the Wild River Grille. Grab your friends, your dog, or a date to enjoy inventive appetizers, creative cocktails, and mouth-watering dishes on the patio by the river. On chillier nights, head into their dining room (but leave the pooch at home). wildrivergrille.com

Across the river you’ll find two exciting culinary establishments, Campo and Liberty Food &

Wine Exchange. These restaurants each have unique, decadent menu options from small plates to pasta. Dine at either and you’ll get a real taste of Reno. renorestaurant.wixsite.com/camporeno, libertyfoodandwine.com

To cap off your night, check out Reno’s vibrant nightlife. Reno has a bar for every vibe … laid back, dance, craft, game and more. Some local favorites include Chapel, Rum Sugar Lime, Death and Taxes, The Z Bar and The Glass Die. At each one, bartenders will make you a fantastic drink and you will have a unique, memorable experience. Wherever you choose to indulge in a nightcap, you’re guaranteed to get a delicious drink and make great memories. chapeltavern.com, zbarreno.com rumsugarlime.com, deathandtaxesreno.com, theglassdie.com

Whether you have a free day or just a free couple of hours, downtown and midtown Reno are definitely worth checking out. If you’re into food, thrifting, skincare, art, or adventure, a journey along Virginia Street is sure to be rad.