Even though summer is here, Reno weather deities don't always get the memo, it seems, after this spring’s extended string of thunderstorms that have spoiled outdoor plans. Luckily, you can enjoy plenty of fun indoor activities in Reno-Sparks when it's too hot, too cold, too rainy, too smoky, or just generally too Reno.
Check Out a Museum
Reno-Sparks is home to fantastic museums, and perhaps the best of the bunch is the National Automobile Museum. The downtown Reno fixture features 225 vehicles covering over a century of automobile history and rotating displays like Cars of the Stars, the 1989 Michael Keaton Batmobile Exhibit, Thomas Flyer Exhibit, and more.
Also in downtown Reno, spend hours gazing inside the Nevada Museum of Art, which is anchored by four permanent collections: the Robert S. and Dorothy J. Keyser Art of the Greater West Collection, Carol Franc Buck Altered Landscape Photography Collection, Contemporary Art Collection, and E. L. Wiegand Work Ethic in American Art Collection.
The Discovery is a children’s-themed museum near Reno’s Midtown district that’s equally enjoyable for parents. Through hands-on galleries and exhibitions, The Discovery connects learners with options to explore various ever-changing topics, all designed to inspire curiosity and further investigation.
A few miles east, the Sparks Museum and Cultural Center is home to engaging displays that connect locals and visitors to the rich heritage and diversity of Sparks and the Truckee Meadows. Book a free guided tour — you won’t be disappointed.
Photo provided by Stuart Murtland for The Discovery
Bounce Around
Take indoor activities in Reno-Sparks to new levels at one of the region’s fantastic trampoline parks, including DEFY Sparks Trampoline Park. From trampoline basketball to extreme dodgeball to zip lines and trapeze aerials, this popular spot at the Outlets at Legends will keep everyone entertained for hours.
Closer to central Sparks, Fly High Trampoline Park accommodates everyone from beginners to the most seasoned jumpers. It’s also one of the best places to host an event or party, a perfect way to play inside when Sparks weather isn’t cooperating.
Push your limits at Urban Air Adventure & Trampoline Park, located near Reno-Tahoe International Airport. Urban Air is considered one of the best adventure parks in the country, featuring attractions fit for all ages and an unforgettable destination for birthday parties.
Life in the Fast Lane
From exciting race tracks to spacious bowling alleys, Reno-Sparks is a hotbed for indoor fun, and it doesn’t get much better than the Grand Bowling Center at Reno’s Grand Sierra Resort, which includes 50 lanes for all-day-and-night bowling. Just a few paces away, Fun Quest at Grand Sierra features 40,000 square feet of arcade games, laser tag, a special play area for little ones, and more.
In downtown Reno, the world-renowned National Bowling Stadium boasts 78 lanes that host high-profile professional tournaments. But it’s not all about competition; the stadium’s Kingpin Club is open to the public, featuring ten lanes, a full bar, and multiple HD flat screens.
When Sparks weather gets you down, head to Wild Island Family Adventure Park, a 2022 IAAPA Brass Ring Award winner for Top Family Entertainment Center of the World. From 46 bowling lanes to 100-plus arcade games, blacklight go-karts, mini golf, an XD adventure theater, and beyond, you’ll be hard-pressed not to spend the whole day at Wild Island.
Speaking of go-karts, Need 2 Speed in central Reno operates Italian electric karts that provide maximum torque for rapid acceleration, with karts capable of speeds up to 45 MPH. Need 2 Speed also offers slower karts for younger riders, virtual reality experiences, and blacklight mini golf.
Sweet Escape
Escape unpredictable Reno weather and try your hand at the many puzzle rooms dotted across Reno-Sparks. Here are three of our favorites:
- Puzzle Room Reno: Tackle one of five mysterious themes at this downtown Reno escape room if you dare — Valley of the Kings, Below Ground, The Asylum, Lost Cabin, or Blackbeard’s Treasure.
- The Immersium: Not your typical puzzle room, The Immersium’s adventures are part movie, part escape with intriguing puzzles and expertly crafted storylines. Before you know it, you’ll be quickly lost in the game.
- Key and Code Escape Rooms: With multiple locations in Sparks and Reno, Key and Code offers a fun and challenging indoor respite during less-than-ideal Reno weather conditions.
Whether escaping the weather or reliving our region’s rich heritage, endless indoor activities in Reno and Sparks offer fun for everyone.
At Dickson Realty, our team of local experts knows about the best activities and places to live, including the best things to do indoors when Reno weather doesn’t cooperate. Contact one of our realtors today to learn more about how to enjoy the Northern Nevada region.
