Often overshadowed by Las Vegas, Reno is the perfect alternative for those wishing to experience all of the thrills of Vegas life, without all the crowds. Reno lies 26 miles north of Nevada's state capital, Carson City, and is situated just 22 miles north-east of the beautiful Lake Tahoe. Its position on the western edge of the Great Basin and in a bowl of the Sierra Nevada Mountains means that it is the perfect base for exploration of these national highlights.

Reno is a world-class tourist destination with a rich arts scene and year round outdoor activities. It is most famous for its casinos and is the birthplace of the famous gaming corporation, Harrah's Entertainment. It is the perfect destination for a couple's getaway or holiday escape for the whole family. The endless activities on offer will never leave you searching for something to do and there is sure to be something here to please everyone.

Essentially, the best way to get to, from and around Reno is with a rental car. There are multiple locations across the city from which you can pick up your rental vehicle which will make the process simple and easy. A rental car will give you the freedom to explore Reno at your own pace and to do whatever grabs your eye's attention.

1. Great Basin Adventure

For a day of old fashioned fun that the whole family can enjoy, you simply cannot go past the Great Basin Adventure Park. The park is home to traditional park rides including a log ride, and you will also find a mine where you can actually pan for gold. While visiting the park, be sure to take a stroll along the many nature trails, where you will be able to view a multitude of flowers and plants or find the waterfall to relax by. Great Basin Adventure is also home to Wilbur's Ranch, which is full of animals who love to be petted, making for a unique experience that the kids will remember forever.

2. Nevada Museum of Art

The state's museum of art showcases Nevada's unique landscape and is the oldest cultural institution within the state. The museum exhibits some of the state's most interesting artworks, allowing visitors to enjoy a diversity of art experiences.

3. Lake Wild Park

This beautiful tree-lined park is home to several interconnecting lakes, making it the perfect escape to nature. The highlight of the park would have to be the Municipal Rose Garden, which is home to more than 2,400 plants. This garden is simply spectacular and the gorgeous smell of the roses alone will allure you. The park is also equipped with many picnic facilities, with plenty of park benches and BBQ's to make your day here even more enjoyable.

4. Reno Riverwalk

For an intertwined outdoor and cultural adventure, take a stroll along the river on the Reno Riverwalk. Savour Reno's exciting urban renaissance and discover the thriving cultural and arts scene right from the heart of it. The Reno Riverwalk is home to unique shops and boutiques, restaurants, bars, taverns and never-ending entertainment, making it the perfect place to spend an evening or two.

5. Animal Ark

The Animal Ark is a wildlife sanctuary that looks after animals that can't fend for themselves in the wild. This enchanting environment truly is a sanctuary of life and is the residence of animals of several different species of North American predators and some exotic species from other geographic areas. The variety and diversity in the animals that call this place home means that the whole family can enjoy a unique animal experience.

6. National Automobile Museum

For all those classic car lovers out there, Reno has a splendid treat for you! The National Automobile Museum is home to one of the largest collections of antique automobiles in the world. Visitors can discover the cars that were originally part of the Harrah collection, including a very special Cadillac that belonged to Elvis Presley.

7. McKinley Arts and Culture Centre

Housed in the historic McKinley School, which was built in 1910, the McKinley Arts and Culture Centre is an interesting building that tells the story of Reno's history. Marvel at the architecture of long ago and take some time to view the rotating gallery which is offered free to the public. Take a stroll across the street and walk along the scenic, tree-lined edge of the Truckee River. Or, put your rental car to good use and take the scenic drive along the river banks; a guaranteed memorable experience.

The city of Reno offers everything you would want in Vegas without the hassle of too many people. The variety in indoor and outdoor activities means that you will be constantly entertained and the freedom that your rental car will give you will be totally worth the effort!

Christine Barton