How to Find Ski Lodge Speakeasy at Cosmopolitan Las Vegas (+ Review)

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Requiring little more than a sense of adventure and tidbit of insider knowledge (like what you’ll get in this post), the Ski Lodge at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas is a cozy, low-key cocktail lounge with a members only vibe (though everyone is welcomed).

Drawing inspiration from the coziest alpine ski bars of the world, Ski Lodge transports it guests from the blazing heat of the desert sun to a winter lodge, complete with a window overlooking a forest snowfall and crackling fire blazing.

Between the smooth and well-balanced cocktails, the flavor-packed pizza squares from neighboring restaurant, Superfrico, and self-toasted marshmallows over an open flame, Ski Lodge is unlike anything else on the strip. You just need to find it!

In this review of Ski Lodge Las Vegas, I’m going to articulate exactly how to find this speakeasy with photos and turn-by-turn directions, as well as what to expect once you’re there. Let’s get into it!

What is a Speakeasy?

As stated above, Ski Lodge is a themed speakeasy, cheekily “hidden” in a way to feel secretive and needing to be “in-the-know”. Speakeasies originated during the Prohibition era (1920 - 1933), when alcohol was deemed illegal.

Largely fueled by mob influence (and other underworld organizations), hidden bars and establishments popped up all over major cities and rural areas alike, providing spaces for folks to consume their favorite pour of choice (for a price, of course).

Since alcohol was illegal, people needed to “speak easy” when discussing these underground operations with each other to avoid unwanted attention from law enforcement. From there, the term “speakeasy” was coined to identify these establishments during conversation and reference.

With prohibition now a bygone era, modern speakeasies have been trending upwards in popularity. They aim to invoke that hidden, old school atmosphere while operating as stylish (and legal) cocktail lounges. Essentially, the term “speakeasy” is in spirit (and fun) rather than practice.

How to Find Ski Lodge Las Vegas

There are several points of entry when beginning your search for Ski Lodge. First things first, you’ll need to make your way to Cosmopolitan (Cosmo) Las Vegas, as Ski Lodge is located within it. Cosmo is located center-strip, on the west side, between Aria and Bellagio Hotels.

The Las Vegas Monorail doesn’t go to Cosmo, as the monorail is contained to the strip’s east side. However you can take the monorail to the Flamingo stop, which is the closest to Cosmo (roughly a twelve to fifteen minute walk away).

Once you’re at Cosmo, you’ll want to make your way to the second level. If you enter Cosmo walking from Flamingo you would have do so via the sky bridge over Harmon and thus, would already be on the second level. Entering from street level? Take the escalators.

Detailed Directions to Ski Lodge

• You’ll want to follow signs to their restaurant row. It isn’t officially called this, but it’s where many of their eateries, such as Eggslut, are located. When you come to “Block 16” (pictured above) continue left

• After turning left from Block 16, you’ll come into this long and wide hallway with colorful, patterned carpeting. Go all the way down, veering right towards the end

• You’ll know you’re going in the correct direction if you see these creepy-ass dog statues. They’ll be at the end of that hallway after you veer right (There’s a rather nice bathroom here, by the way)

• Facing the dog statues, look left and you’ll see yet another hallway with a directional sign hanging above pointing the way to mega-popular restaurant, “Superfrico”. Go down that hallway, keeping the dog statues on your right

• At the end of said hallway, you’ll come to a set of tall, purple doors behind the check-in desk for Superfrico. This is not where you’ll check-in for Ski Lodge, though

• Facing the purple doors, look left and you’ll see a mostly nondescript black door. The identifying symbol that you’re in the right spot is the golden emblem of a skier in the center of that door. Congratulations, you’ve found it!

• There may or may not be a queue of people during your visit. I’ve seen both cases online. On the day of my visit there was a small line to get in. Our wait wasn’t very long, though. Maybe twenty minutes. Your milage will vary, of course

If you’re staying in Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Tower, you’ll take the elevator to the second floor. Coming out of the elevator, continue walking straight until you see Block 16 on your right and then follow the directions listed above.

If you’re staying in their Chelsea Tower you’ll also take the elevator to the second floor but you’ll simply walk left when exiting the elevator. You’ll almost immediately see Superfrico’s check-in desk.

Now, let’s get to the experience and my review!

Ski Lodge Las Vegas Review

As stated above, we did arrive to a small queue of people excitingly waiting to be seated. To contextualize, my wife and I were here on a weeknight during the second week of May. So your experience will vary depending on day of week, season, etc.

There was a gentlemen in a suit letting groups in one at a time, presumably as availability allowed. I’ve seen clips online of people entering Ski Lodge through the black door but when our turn came, we were guided through Superfrico’s purple doors.

From there we entered an atrium with patterned marble flooring, beautifully illuminated in a blue hue and an artsy, peacock-style colored chandelier hanging above. For a moment, my decision to skip Superfrico this time around became regrettable.

If you did have a reservation for Superfrico, you would enter through one of two sets of doors on the right. For Ski Lodge, we entered through the door second to left and came into a foyer.

I was doing my best not to get left behind as we were being swiftly led through the foyer. There wasn’t much time to look around or attain many photos, unfortunately. The foyer was similarly illuminated, but with red, purple and pink hues.

It portrayed a funky vibe that, in my opinion, was more in line with that of Superfrico rather than a lodge. I momentarily wondered if the gentlemen guiding us made a mistake and was taking us to the restaurant (honestly, I wouldn’t have been upset by that).

Alas, through another door on the other side of the room, just past an old Vegas-style neon sign, we entered a dimly lit room with the heavily-recognizable “window” behind the bar, showcasing a forested winter wonderland. We officially made it to Ski Lodge.

Seating and Atmosphere

My wife and I were seated at the back corner of the bar (perfect for incognito photo gathering). Looking around, you’ll immediately take note of all the quirky and pun-filled skiing and outdoor-themed decor plastered all over the walls.

They come across as randomly placed and a bit dis-organized, but that’s part of the charm. I’ve personally never been to a mountain ski lodge but I would imagine that this speakeasy’s portrayal leans accurate, at a minimum.

Actual skis are displayed along the ceiling near the speakeasy’s entrance. Additionally, you’ll likely take notice of the dozen or so pine trees hanging upside down. This was an aesthetic choice to match the bar’s eccentric mountain vibe.

On the other side of the room from where I was sitting was a warm, crackling fire (the appearance of such, anyway). A strange feeling it was to leave the warm atmosphere of the strip and enter such a cozy, snowy vibe-filled space.

A blend of modern hits and nineties-era classics bellowed through the speakers, filling the room with feelings of nostalgia and excitement. The noise level was on the higher side, but not so high that I couldn’t hear my wife speak.

Space is a premium inside Ski Lodge, but they make good use of it. Aside from the bar, which itself is capable of seating around a dozen or so guests, there are half a dozen tables in the main room that’ll sit four to five each, in addition to several duel-seating tables.

Near the back of the room is a social space complete with couch and coffee table. Beyond that is a separate room additional tables. It appeared as though that space was mostly utilized for larger parties.

Drinks and Food

The sole food item listed on Ski Lodge’s menu is the famous pizza squares from neighboring restaurant, Superfrico. There are three variations listed - The OG (their vegetarian offering), Ultimate Pepperoni (pictured above) and one rotating (currently Pistachio Mortadella).

We had already enjoyed an early dinner at How Ya Doughin Pizza, just down the strip from Cosmo, prior to Ski Lodge but in the name of research, we decided to split the Ultimate Pepperoni. It’s essentially a Detroit-inspired-style pizza turned up a notch (or three).

A thick, airy crust with crispy, caramelized cheese along the edges serves as the pizza’s foundation. Look closely and you’ll notice the frico-style cheese baked into the crust, giving the square an extra layer of savory crispness.

The toppings, which include Superfrico’s house-made mozzarella, tomato sauce, spicy ‘nduja, ezzo pepperoni, pickled chilis, Sicilian oregano and a drizzle of honey brings an explosion of bold, yet balanced flavor.

The salty smokiness of the pepperoni, in concert with the slow-building heat of the ‘nduja and tanginess of the pickled chilis, is already indulgence at its finest. Then that drizzle of honey arrives and contributes just enough sweetness to balance the spice.

It’s stated on the menu to expect a bit of a wait, as these pizzas are made fresh to order. We ordered ours almost immediately with our cocktails and it took roughly twenty minutes to arrive. Trust when I say - even a thirty-plus minute wait would be worth it.

Of course, Ski Lodge serves a variety of craft cocktails as well. My choice was the “Niseko Old Fashioned”. Made with a legent bourbon and suntory AO whiskey blend and finished with spiced coconut, it wholly fits with Ski Lodge’s intimate atmosphere.

Rich whiskey notes lead the way, followed by subtle hints of sweetness and spice that adds depth without overwhelming the drink. It’s well-balanced, easy to sip and crafted with enough complexity to keep it interesting and pairs perfectly with the savory pizza squares.

Next up is “Slava’s Snowstorm”, my wife’s drink of choice. As one of the most popular drinks at Ski Lodge, it can be found in the “Gnar Classics” section of the menu. It’s the kind of cocktail that makes an impression even before taking your first sip.

A blanket of warm toasted coconut cardamom foam sits atop the chilled drink, creating a unique contrast that immediately sets it apart. The rich cold brew comes through first, delivering the familiar comfort of an espresso martini, while subtle notes of spice and sweetness add extra depth.

The coffee flavors are bold without being bitter, the foam adds a silky texture and the cardamom lingers pleasantly on the finish. Creative, smooth and easy to drink, Slava’s Snowstorm feels right at home in Ski Lodge’s cozy, fireside setting.

The sole dessert item on Ski Lodge’s menu is the S’mores Mountain Campfire Kit. It’s a fun addition to the Ski Lodge experience, especially if you’re leaning into the mountain-lodge vibe.

Roasting your own marshmallows at the table adds a playful, interactive element, and the finished s’mores are genuinely tasty. Gooey marshmallows, melted chocolate and crisp, penguin-shaped graham crackers come together just as you’d expect.

That said, the price feels a bit steep for what you actually receive. At $30 (at the time of this review’s publishing), it feels like you’re paying more for the experience, rather than the dessert itself. Which, to be fair, is a frequent characteristic in Las Vegas.

The quality is there and the experience is surely enjoyable, however the portion size left me questioning the value. It’s worth an order if it’s your first time and you want the full Ski Lodge experience, but it likely wouldn’t warrant an order on subsequent visits.

I didn’t do this myself, but I have been told that you can order most entrees off of Superfrico’s menu at Ski Lodge. Either use your phone to scan the menu or ask the bartender to supply you with one.

Does Ski Lodge Las Vegas Take Reservations

Unlike neighboring restaurant, Superfrico, where reservations are not only accepted but highly suggested, Ski Lodge does not accept reservations. It’s first come, first serve seating and crowds are controlled via a queue outside of the speakeasy.

Would I Recommend Ski Lodge?

In short, yes. Highly, in fact. I first heard about Ski Lodge in 2024 when my wife sent me a Tiktok about it. Since then, it’s been at the top of my must-do list for our next visit to Las Vegas. Recently, that chance came.

The excitement and anticipation of merely looking for and finding Ski Lodge, in concert with the vibe-filled experience inside made the wait worthwhile. The crafted cocktails were amazing, the pizza was succulent and the service was exceptional.

In a city densely packed with bars, lounges and speakeasies, Ski Lodge sets itself apart with its unique theme and creative menu. No matter where you’re staying on the strip (or off) you should make Ski Lodge a part of your itinerary.

If you’ll still be up for more fun, you can walk over to Flamingo Hotel and experience their Bugsy Siegel-themed speakeasy, “The Count Room”. Or walk a bit further to Linq Promenade and take a “Happy Half Hour” ride on High Roller.

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My Review of How Ya Dough’n Pizza in Las Vegas

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Nestled on the top level of the BLVD complex on the Las Vegas Strip, directly across from the soon-to-be christened three-story In and Out Burger, sits one of the strip’s newest eateries - How Ya Dough’n Pizza.

What originally began as a pandemic-era home business in a Boca Raton backyard eventually blossomed into a burgeoning family owned and operated business with several locations throughout Florida.

What sets How Ya Dough’n apart from other pizza joints (which Vegas has no shortage of) is their use of sourdough crust. Due to its long fermentation process, the crust results in a near-perfect crisp that’s packed with flavor.

In this How Ya Dough’n pizza Las Vegas review, I’ll provide details as to its location and what my experience was like when my wife and I came here for the first time on our most recent visit to the strip. Let’s get into it!

How Ya Dough’n Pizza Location

As stated above, How Ya Dough’n is located on the top level of the BLVD complex. If you don’t know what that is it’s a new, still in progress 400,000 square foot retail, dining and entertainment center in the heart of the strip.

It’s on the east side of the strip closest to the southern end (though it’s also an easy walk from many mid-strip locations). To contextualize, my wife and I stayed at the Flamingo which is practically the strip’s mid-point and we walked to How Ya Dough’n in about fifteen minutes.

Given the strip’s often disorienting complexity to newcomers, it can be challenging to pin down its location. It can be found between Planet Hollywood and the MGM Grand and across the street from Park MGM, Aria Hotel and Cosmopolitan.

When you arrive to the Adidas store at BLVD, you’ll see a green and black escalator nearby. Take it to the second level. At the top, go left and take the second escalator to the third level. When you get to the top, turn around and you’ll see How Ya Dough’n.

My Experience at How Ya Dough’n Pizza

My wife and I stopped here for dinner on the first day of our visit. We had a reserved time at Flyover and How Ya Dough’n was the perfect choice as it was on the way to Flyover and was a quick walk from our hotel.

I first heard of How Ya Dough’n through Las Vegas influencer, Vegas Starfish, on TikTok (she has fantastic content that’s worth a follow, by the way).

We arrived to an empty yet beautifully lit interior as the sun was setting. There were only two others present, so we practically had the place to ourselves. I didn’t view this as a bad thing, though, as I feel it had more to do with “the secret not yet being out” more-so than a problem.

We were greeted by friendly staff right away and were given a quick explanation of the menu. She also gave recommendations as to the most popular pizzas on the menu, as well as her personal favorites. After a quick debate, we ultimately decided on the Spicy Goose.

The Spicy Goose is topped with a blend of mozzarella, provolone and pecorino cheeses, pepperoni, soppressata, Calabrian chili, garlic and oregano. Of course, their signature sourdough crust contains it all, along with their flavorful, sweet-leaning tomato sauce.

We took a seat in their exterior space while we waited for our pizza. At this time of day, the sun had already settled behind the looming towers of the hotels across the street, providing a much needed reprieve from the Las Vegas sun.

Before long, our pizza was brought out to us. Under most circumstances I’m a straight up pepperoni pizza guy. The Spicy Goose was surely a departure from my usual, but not too much as to “shock the system”, so to speak.

The sourdough crust was the first element to stand out. They’ve perfected that fine balance of crisp edges while remaining slightly chewy, which gives the whole pie a deeper flavor than your standard slice.

The aforementioned toppings blended together to bring a slow-building heat that complimented the flavor rather than overwhelming it. While noticeable, the spice level remained well balanced thanks to the richness of the trio-blend of cheeses.

The cured meats brought a rich, salty bite with just enough grease to re-create that classic New York style slice, while the Calabrian chilies added a sharp, almost fruity heat that slowly builds the longer you chew.

The roasted garlic came through in the background, rounding everything out with a mellow and welcoming sweetness. Add to that the slightly tangy finish the fermented sourdough crust brings and that’s a recipe that kept bringing me back bite after bite.

If you’re a fan of spice, I would recommend ordering the Spicy Goose. Conversely, if you’re not, stay away. In that case, perhaps the “OG”, which is basically a Neapolitan style pizza, is more your speed. Or the “Cremini Special”, which is their veggie-forward offering.

If you find yourself on the Las Vegas Strip, definitely give How Ya Dough’n pizza an opportunity to satisfy your hunger. From here, enjoy a post-meal activity at Flyover Las Vegas just a few minute walk away.

Or, walk south a bit further to the Luxor and tour the “Titanic: The Artifact Expedition” museum. If one or two post-dinner drinks is more what you’re looking for, head north to Cosmopolitan and relax at The Chandelier or catch the vibes at the Ski Lodge speakeasy.

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Sorry Not Sorry Creamery in Las Vegas

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With temperatures often reaching three digits fairly often, Las Vegas is the one of the few places where an ice cream shop could flourish all year long. With several locations in the area, Sorry Not Sorry Creamery had long ago earned a reputation as a shop that serves the best ice cream in Las Vegas.

Using quality ingredients, including dairy from grass-fed and hormone-free cows, Sorry Not Sorry Creamery serves several creative ice cream flavors made up of the highest percentage of butterfat legally allowed (16%).

It may not be the healthiest thing you’ll ever eat (quite the opposite, actually), but this ice cream in Vegas is not to be missed. No matter the weather, a visit to try a scoop (or several) of ice cream at Sorry Not Sorry is a must.

Sorry Not Sorry Creamery on Flamingo

The chain has several locations, but the closest to the Las Vegas Strip is their shop on Flamingo. This is the one I went to and it was about a twenty-five minute drive away. There’s a way to avoid that lengthy Uber ride, though.

Sorry Not Sorry offers delivery through app services like DoorDash and UberEats. The downside to this (aside from the inflated cost), is you can only order pints. If you had your heart set on trying multiple flavors, it could get expensive.

The other way is to go to Fremont Street to a place called We All Scream, which is an ice cream themed nightclub. There’s a Sorry Not Sorry walk up window located on the right of the club’s entrance. Otherwise, the Flamingo location is your best bet if you’d rather visit a proper shop.

The Flamingo location opens daily at noon and closes at 11pm on most days, except on Fridays and Saturdays when they close at midnight. Time your visit strategically to avoid crowds, because it isn’t unheard of for a massive line to form, causing a wait upwards of an hour to order. This is particularly true on weekends.

I came on a weekday and arrived shortly after they opened. I was able to walk right up to the counter with no wait. Fifteen minutes later, though, it started to get packed as a line began forming. So be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Sorry Not Sorry Creamery Ice Cream Flavors

Sorry Not Sorry Creamery features many unique flavors. Their menu advertises sixteen classic favorites that are always offered, in addition to four additional flavors that rotate based on season (they also vary by location as well).

In addition to the traditional dairy-based ice cream, Sorry Not Sorry also offers a handful of flavors made with an oat milk base and vegan ingredients, making them vegan friendly.

The sixteen classic flavors you can enjoy throughout the year are:

• Bumbleberry Cheesecake Crumble

• Campfire S’mores

• Cinnamon Snikerdoodle Cookie (vegan)

• Coffee and Doughnuts 2.0

• Cookie Butter Swirl

• Double-Stuffed Cookies n’ Cream

• Honey Lavender

• Milk & Cereal

• Mint Chocolate Chunk

• O.G Buttercake

• Rocky Road (vegan)

• Salted Pistachio Brittle

• Sea Salt + Caramel

• Strawberry Shortcake (vegan)

• Triple Chocolate Chunk Brownie

• Ube Honeycomb

• Blackberry Basque Cake (Downtown Las Vegas location exclusive)

Their wide variety of unique, creative flavors help to maintain their status as the best ice cream in Las Vegas. Just like at other ice cream shops, you can order their flavors in single or double scoops in a freshly made cone or cup, or go with a pint size if you favor a specific flavor.

If you’re new to Sorry Not Sorry and can’t decide on a single flavor, you can order the flight and receive four scoops in any combination of the classic or seasonal flavors. This option is also good for those who came with a group and wish to split their order.

Since it was my first time at Sorry Not Sorry, I decided to go with the four scoop flight ($14). In my flight, I went with the Ube Honeycomb and Bumbleberry Cheesecake Crumble flavors (pictured above in order) and the Cream Cheese Cinnamon Roll (fall seasonal flavor) and Double-Stuffed Cookies and Cream flavors pictured below in order.

Of the four, the cinnamon roll flavor, which was a fall seasonal exclusive, was my least favorite as I found it to be way too sweet. My favorite was the Ube Honeycomb, with the Bumbleberry Cheesecake Crumble coming in at a close second.

You will definitely taste the difference. I found their ice cream to be rich, creamy, and thicker than any other ice cream I’ve ever tried. This is due to the high amount of butterfat content, which Sorry Not Sorry touts as the, “highest legally allowed”, at 16%.

If you’re looking for the best ice cream in Las Vegas, look no further than Sorry Not Sorry Creamery. It may be a lengthy Uber ride away from the strip, but you could always head to the Fremont Street pick-up window for quicker access to it. You won’t regret trying it.

Luke 1:37

Enjoy a Drink at Genoa Bar & Saloon: The Oldest Bar in Nevada

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Genoa Bar and Saloon History

Genoa Bar and Saloon opened back in 1853, a whopping eleven years before Nevada even became a state, making it the oldest bar in Nevada. It was opened in Genoa city, Nevada, which two years prior in 1851 became the first settlement for white settlers in Nevada.

Thousands of people from all walks of life enjoyed a drink (or two) on its historic bar top, from early locals such as Snowshoe Thompson, Genoa’s mailman who delivered mail over the mountains between Genoa and Placerville, California, to well-known celebrities and dignitaries such as actor John Wayne, President Teddy Roosevelt, and author Mark Twain.

Even the prohibition era couldn’t stop the bar, as it managed to survive the devastating years (for alcohol) between 1920 and 1933 by operating under the guise of a soda fountain shop. You have to give the owners at the time points for creativity.

Genoa Bar Hours, Drink Menu, and Food Offerings

The Genoa Bar in Nevada operates every day of the year, opening at 10am with no set closing time, simply stating they’ll, “close when the last patron leaves”. That could be 5pm or 2am. If you’re here during Genoa’s peak season, I wouldn’t worry too much about showing up and finding a locked door (unless you show up during Vegas hours).

However, if you’re visiting during their off season, I would recommend showing up around opening time or soon after if you had your heart set on visiting. While there are plenty of locals in Genoa to keep the bar busy, I’m sure their traffic ebbs and flows with tourism levels, so they likely close earlier than usual during that time.

Their drink specials menu is posted on both the outside and inside of the bar. Many of these drinks are crafted cocktails, including their famous Bloody Mary. Their prices are actually reasonable, as I’m used to seeing prices for cocktails reach the $20 mark and their most expensive (listed) drink costs $11.

During my visit, they had a food truck parked outside of the bar near the parking lot. I’m not sure if this is a regular thing or not but if it is, I’d imagine it’s only during the peak tourism season. There is no food served at the bar itself, just drinks.

I didn’t eat here as my friend and I were holding out for lunch at The Pink House, but I looked them up and it appears as though they offer a variety of burgers and sandwiches, along with optional sweet potato fries.

Genoa Bar and Saloon Interior

As you walk up to the front door, you’ll see historical markers proudly displayed on the brick walls, as well as old signage with vague directions to various places such as Virginia City, Dayton, and Hangtown (Placerville). This is in addition to the, “No Horses Allowed”, sign that’s hung in the window.

Once inside, you’ll immediately take note of the cluttered (in a good way) walls. The historic bar top will be to the left and to the right is some additional seating, a pool table, and select merchandise for sale.

Aside from the collection of random decor on the walls, another thing you’ll take notice of is the smell. It isn’t a bad smell, but you’ll immediately know you’re in a very old building. If I had to describe it, it smells like old cedar wood. Again, not a bad smell, just a distinctive one.

Looking around the walls, you’ll see taxidermist deer and buffalo heads, old clocks, signage with quirky quips, old black and white photos, chandeliers with obvious patina, faded but still very visible boudoir paintings, and more.

They don’t charge you to enter the bar, but it’s always good idea to support local businesses, so my friend and I decided to try one of their featured drinks. I went with the Lavender Lemon Fizz ($9). It’s made with Tahoe Blue vodka, lavender syrup, fresh lemon juice, and lavender aroma sugar.

I’ve been into lemon and lavender drinks lately and considering this was already a hot day, I found it deliciously refreshing. I’m definitely going to come back, though, as I live relatively close by and there’s a couple other drinks I want to try. When I do, I’ll be sure to update this post.

You don’t have to order one of the featured drinks if you don’t want to. They have a full bar and can make just about anything. My friend ordered a simple vodka cranberry, for example. They also have most of your usual beers on tap as well.

Even if you’re not a drinker, I highly recommend paying Genoa Bar and Saloon a visit for the historic value alone. While you’re there, be sure to visit the historic Mormon Station across the street, the Genoa Courthouse Museum down the street, and enjoy lunch at the historic Pink House nearby.

PSALM 91

Enjoy a Post-Hike Meal at Tunnel Creek Cafe

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When searching for the best places to eat in Lake Tahoe, many will point to the south shore and for good reason, there are a lot of solid options over there. However, there are many delicious options on the north shore near Incline Village as well.

One such option is the Tunnel Creek Cafe. It’s the sole restaurant situated near near two mega-popular hiking trails on the Nevada side of the lake. Those two trails are Monkey Rock and the Tahoe East Shore Trail.

If you’re planning to hike one of these trails during your visit to Lake Tahoe, and depending on when you plan to start and finish, Tunnel Creek Cafe is an excellent option for a pre or post-hike meal, as the food will fill you with the carbs needed to crush your hike and you can enjoy said meal in a relaxing, forest atmosphere.

Tunnel Creek Cafe Location and Parking

As stated above, Tunnel Creek Cafe is located in Incline Village on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. If you’re coming from the direction of Mount Rose Highway, you’ll turn left onto Highway 28 to reach it. From Carson City or South Lake Tahoe, travel south on Highway 28.

When you get to Tunnel Creek Cafe, you’ll notice two sets of parking lots located right off of the highway. These lots are for the hiking trails and there’s a fee to use them. Tunnel Creek Cafe has its own, rather large (and free) lot you can use since you’ll be dining there.

People who use their lot to access the hiking trails are subject to being towed. I’m not sure if they’ll allow you to leave your car there to go hiking after your meal. You can ask, but if you are planning to hike before or after your meal, it’s best to play it safe and use the Tunnel Creek lots.

Parking here is charged by the hour and the amount changes according to day of week, time of day, etc. You can view current rates here. As stated above, you can access the Monkey Rock trail, which begins behind Tunnel Creek Cafe and the famed Tahoe East Shore Trail.

From the paid parking lots, there’s a side entrance near the bicycle rental place to the restaurant that provides quick access to the many outside seating options.

The Restaurant

The restaurant sits on a quiet edge of Incline Village and Lake Tahoe, surrounded by towering pines. It gives the feeling of dining in an old lakeside cabin and blends in with its surroundings quite nicely.

They have both indoor and outdoor seating. The interior portion is minimal and honestly, feels a bit cramped. However, between the multi-leveled decks and ground-level tables, outside seating is not only plentiful, but preferred by most (based on what I’ve observed).

This is one of those restaurants where you order and pay first, and then find a seat. They’ll assign you a number to place on your table and your food will be brought out to you. You’ll queue up through the main entrance and order from the sole register.

Tunnel Creek Cafe Menu

I’ve been to Tunnel Creek Cafe a few times and each time I’ve gone, I’ve always found the food to be pretty good. I wouldn’t rate it as amazing or anything like that, but it does the job. This is especially true if you’ve been hiking and need to replenish.

For the most part, you’ll find a number of burger, sandwich and salad options for lunch. For breakfast, I can personally recommend either the breakfast burrito or the Creme Brulee French Toast. Both of these are solid choices.

The breakfast burrito is decently sized and is filled with your choice of protein (I went with bacon), two eggs, hashbrowns, black beans, and cheese with a side of salsa and piece of watermelon. It’s filling for sure, but I wish it had more flavor.

During my lunch visit, I ordered a cold beer (they have a variety on tap) and their Hoss Burger, which was topped with gouda cheese. Interestingly, fries were not an option as a side. However, you do get a serving of their house-made potato chips, which are delicious.

The burger itself was decent, as the gouda cheese gave it a distinct flavor from the usual American or cheddar cheeses. Unfortunately, the patty was a bit overcooked, though this seems to be the exception and not the rule as past reviews give their burgers high praise. You can view the full menu here.

In conclusion, Tunnel Creek Cafe is a great place to eat on this side of the lake. It’s hard to beat its convenient location next to numerous hiking trailheads and its serene environment. Be sure to give it a shot.

Planning a visit to Lake Tahoe? If so, read my comprehensive guide on Emerald Bay to help ensure a smooth visit. For fantastic pizza on the California side of the lake, read about my experience at Base Camp Pizza. If you’re visiting in spring or early summer, check out these 5 beautiful waterfalls. Lastly, if you’re looking for a beach day, consider Round Hill Pines Beach Resort.

PROVERBS 3:23

Round Hill Pines: An Excellent South Lake Tahoe Beach

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers.

When researching the best beaches in Lake Tahoe, popular options such as Sand Harbor, Baldwin Beach, and Emerald Bay often come up. While those are all solid options worth exploring, there’s another beautiful beach you may want to consider - Round Hill Pines.

Located on the famed south shore of Lake Tahoe (on the Nevada side), Round Hill Pines offers its visitors a pristine beach, the same incredibly clear water Tahoe is known for, a beach-side bar, an on-site restaurant, water vessel rentals, and more.

My wife and I recently spent the day at Round Hill Pines for her birthday. I wasn’t planning on posting about this place, so I left my camera at home. I ended up liking it so much I ended up scrambling to get photos with my cell phone so I could share it with you.

In this post, I’ll discuss topics such as how to get to Round Hill Pines, how it costs to visit, the food/drink situation, and more. Let’s get into it.

Getting to Round Hill Pines and Parking Prices

Getting to Round Hill Pines is fairly straight forward, as the entrance to the parking lot is right off of Highway 50 and is well signed. If you’re coming from the Sand Harbor or Carson City area, the entrance will on your right, just a few miles after passing Zephyr Cove.

From the direction of Sacramento or Emerald Bay, you’ll arrive to the exit on your left about 8-10 minutes after crossing the state line into Nevada.

Round Hill Pines’ parking lot is fairly large and multi-tiered, with spaces for many vehicles. The day-use/parking fee is $12, cash only (as of our visit in August 2024). That fee covers your parking and beach access only. Note that if you arrive after 5pm, the parking fee is waived.

As is the case with most things in Lake Tahoe, the earlier you arrive, the better. We arrived right at 8am (when they open) and were one of just a few vehicles. When we left around 2pm, the parking lot was nearly full. This was in August, which is a busy time for Tahoe. If you’re here during the outside months, you’ll have more leeway.

Round Hill Pines Restaurants and Bar

Round Hill Pines has an on-site restaurant called Beach Bums Bar and Grill and Rum Bar on the Beach, a beachside bar. Beach Bums is situated to the left of the main path leading to the beach from the parking lot and Rum Bar is to the left of the stairwell, in front of the restaurant.

The restaurant is walk-up and order style, where they’ll then bring your food out to you. There’s ample seating in the restaurant’s outdoor deck, but if you prefer, they’ll also bring your food to you at your spot on the beach. Simply tell them and they’ll give you a numbered flag to place at your spot.

Rum Bar on the Beach Drinks

Both of the establishments open at 11am. While Beach Bums closes at sunset, Rum Bar doesn’t have a specified closing time. The website states that hanging out at Rum Bar during sunset is can’t-miss (I’m paraphrasing), so it likely stays open well past that.

While Rum Bar serves many specialty cocktails and classic drinks, their two most popular choices are the Pain Killer and Rum Rummer drinks. The Pain Killer is a slushy concoction of pineapple and coconut, topped with a variety of rums and fresh nutmeg.

The Rum Runner is a unique blend of tropical fruit juices, rum, and Round Hill Pines’ signature rum floater. They’re both fantastic and stand out from one another. The Rum Runner packs more of a punch with rum flavor, while the Pain Killer’s flavor favors more of the sweetness from the pineapple and coconut.

Personally, my favorite was the Pain Killer (I ended up downing a few of these). If you’re someone who likes your drink on the stronger side, you’ll likely favor the Rum Rummer. Honestly, you couldn’t go wrong with either option. They’re both great.

Beach Bums Bar and Grill Menu and Food

Unfortunately, the great drinks at Rum Bar is where my excitement ends as it pertains to the food and drink options. The resort’s on-site restaurant, Beach Bums, offers many selections for all sorts of palettes but the items we tried left much to be desired.

For starters, we ordered the chicken wings with guava habanero sauce ($11.75). I have to be honest, these were the worst wings we’ve ever had. The chicken itself was so bland the sauce couldn’t save it. There was no seasoning at all, and it tasted as if the chicken was boiled, instead of baked or fried.

For our entrees, I ordered the Smoked BBQ Bacon Burger ($24.75) and my wife ordered the Mahi-mahi Tacos ($21.75). The burger came doused in bbq sauce and topped with applewood-smoked bacon, white cheddar, muenster, and an onion ring.

It was decent, but nowhere near worth $25 and had way too much cheese on it. Additionally, the bun was practically worthless as the burger itself was more than twice its size. Additionally, I paid an extra $2.00 for sweet potato fries that were bland and soggy.

My wife said her Mahi-mahi tacos were just ok, as the fish had decent flavor, but there were two different sauces on the tacos and way too much of it. So much so, that the sauces practically drowned out the flavor of the seasoned fish.

Of the three offerings, the tacos were the winner, but only by a slight margin. As stated above, my burger was decent, but definitely not worth $25. The soggy fries only made it worse. They deliver your food to you in these plastic containers which to be fair,, does trap the heat, but often results in soggy food.

Your milage may vary, but my recommendation is to pack a picnic and enjoy that with a Pain Killer (or two) on the beach. My opinion of the taste of the food is my own and a matter of perspective, but the prices are far and away what I would consider “par for the course”…even by Tahoe standards.

Round Hill Pines Beach and Rentals

There are many activities to partake in at Round Hill Pines. The favorite among many being just hanging on the beach itself. In comparison to other South Lake Tahoe beaches, it’s on the smaller side, but spacious nonetheless. Sand Harbor has it beat as far as visual standards go, but that’s about it.

As stated earlier in this post, we arrived early (8am) to secure our choice of beach space. There was only one other person here when we arrive but as the morning progressed, it became more and more populated. In the photos below, the first one was shortly after we set up (about 8:30) and the second was around 10am.

While this fairly minor by Lake Tahoe standards, it just goes to show how quickly the crowds at these beaches get dense. I forgot to take another photo of the same angle, but the below photo was from the dock and was taken shortly after 12pm. Again, I stress to you the importance of arriving early. Especially in July or August.

Aside from hanging out on the beach, there’s a hut near the marina where you can rent a variety of water vessels. Round Hill Pines recommends securing your rentals online ahead of time. You can do at this link. Rentals include:

• Boats

• Sea Doos

• Kayaks and SUP Boards

• Pedal Boats

• and more

Additionally, you can book a cruise around Lake Tahoe (including Emerald Bay) on a 63-foot yacht, called the Tahoe Serenity. Cruises are 2.5-hours long and include snacks and beverages. If you place an order ahead of time from Beach Bums, you can enjoy an onboard lunch. You can book cruises here.

Lastly, further down the beach is a volleyball net available for all guests to use. Pretty sure you’ll need to bring your own volleyball, but it doesn’t hurt to ask one of the employees if they have any on-hand. By the way, the photo below showcases our beach set-up. I’ve provided Amazon links to nearly everything in the photo if you’re interested.

• Beach Tent (Sun Shelter)

• Beach Blanket (Water and Sand Proof)

• Beach Chairs

• Portable Camping Table

• Hanging Fan with LED Lantern

• JBL Bluetooth Speaker

• OOFOS Sandals (the most comfortable sandals I’ve ever worn)

• Citronella Spray (a DEET-free way to keep bugs away - bees are everywhere in Tahoe)

Round Hill Pines Common Questions

Does Round Hill Pines Beach allow dogs?

No, dogs (or any pet) are not allowed.

Is there a lifeguard on the beach?

No.

Can I BBQ on the beach?

For the protection of the surrounding environment, gas and charcoal grills are not allowed on the beach.

PROVERBS 3:23

My Experience at Jade Asian Kitchen & Noodles in Las Vegas

Disclaimer: I am not a professional restaurant critic, nor has this restaurant offered me any incentive to write this post. My opinions are my own and are based on my personal experience only.

In Las Vegas, there is no shortage of amazing places to eat. People from all over the world and all walks of life come to Vegas so thus, there are many restaurants serving a wide variety of delicacies.

While many websites focus on places to eat on or near the Las Vegas strip, I feel there isn’t enough representation of great places to our outside of the stip.

During my recent visit of Valley of Fire State Park and Red Rock Canyon, I stayed at the JW Marriott in the community of Summerlin. If you’ve ever stayed at a JW, you’ll know they’re known for being large properties with many restaurants and other offerings.

One such restaurant at the JW Las Vegas is Jade Asian Kitchen & Noodles, located behind the hotel’s palms tower, down a beautiful marble floored hallway, right across from Starbucks.

I was famished after spending half the day exploring Valley of Fire and was looking to replenish those lost calories. After a quick Yelp review search, I decided to book a table at Jade.

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Disclaimer: I am not a professional restaurant critic, nor has this restaurant offered me any incentive to write this post. My opinions are my own and are based on my personal experience only.

Restaurant Info

• Location: JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa

• Address: 221 North Rampart Blvd.

• Cost: $$$$

• Food: Fresh sushi, Teppanyaki and other Asian dishes

• Open: 5pm - 10pm (Wed, Thurs, Fri) & 4pm - 11pm (Sat & Sun). Closed Mon & Tues

• Seating: Mostly indoor. Some outdoor seating on the patio

• Alcohol: Full bar - extensive beer and cocktail menu

• My Visit: August 2023

• Rating (out of three): 👍🏼👍🏼

As stated above, Jade Asian Kitchen is located inside the JW Marriott in the Las Vegas community of Summerlin, behind the hotel’s Palms Tower.

If you’re not staying at the hotel, your best bet is to park in the self parking area of the hotel, just outside Rampart Casino. You’ll find the restaurant outside of the berm of the casino area, adjacent to Starbucks.

You can make a reservation for the regular menu at Jade through the OpenTable app, or by calling them directly. Though it isn’t required.

If you’re wanting to enjoy Teppanyaki, though (like I did), then reservations are required. When arriving, be sure to specify to the host/hostess about your Teppanyaki reservation.

The dining room is beautifully lit in a contemporary setting. There are touches of Asian culture decor mixed in as well. Jade does a great job of honoring Asian culture without coming across as cliche.

The Teppanyaki counters are located in the rear of the dining room, near the entry doors to the outdoor patio. If I remember correctly, there were four grills set up.

For those who’re unaware of what Teppanyaki is, it’s a post-World War II style of Japanese cuisine in which an iron griddle is used to cook food. The word is derived from teppan (the metal plate) and yaki, which means pan-fried, grilled or broiled.

Once everyone at your table has been seated, your chef will come out to make their introduction and explain the process to you. It’s around this time when your waiter or waitress will take your food and drink orders.

The protein options on the Teppanyaki menu include the usual that you’d find at most restaurants. These include; chicken, shrimp, salmon, filet mignon, ribeye, sea scallops, lobster, wagyu and vegetarian.

Prices range from $29 (chicken) to $136 (wagyu ribeye) and includes a soup starter and a side of fried rice. They also offer combo options where you can get two proteins if you’re having a difficult time deciding.

Your chef will leave again to obtain the necessary ingredients. When they return, they will begin cooking your food right in front of you, all while telling jokes, making quips and lighting up an enormous flame of fire (or two).

As you can see in the photo above, I went with the New York strip/chicken combo ($59), as I wanted to try both. While both were good and had great flavor, I personally enjoyed the chicken more so than the steak.

I also received a side of grilled vegetables and three difference dipping sauces. I don’t recall what the sauces were, but I do remember the only one I liked was the dark brown one in the middle.

Additionally, I ordered one of their specialty cocktails with my meal. I’m a whiskey guy, so I went with their “Jade Old Fashioned” ($25). It’s made with barrel aged Toki whiskey and angostura bitters. While it was a fine old fashioned, I felt it wasn’t special enough to warrant a $25 price tag.

All in, including tax and tip, my final bill was $108. It officially became the most expensive meal I’ve ever paid for, for just myself. Was it worth it? That all depends on perspective.

I came here because I’ve always enjoyed Teppanyaki, I was starving, it was conveniently located in my hotel and I was gathering content for this website. Would I, under normal circumstances, spend that much money for dinner on just myself? Probably not.

Looking at the regular menu, they have many entree options that I feel are reasonably priced. So if you can live without doing the Teppanyaki option, a family can dine at Jade and not spend much more than they would at most Las Vegas restaurants.

Smoky Delights: Experience The Phoenix BBQ in Sparks (CLOSED)

Unfortunately, this restaurant has permanently closed. I wish the owners the best in their future endeavors.

When you’re thinking about great BBQ, Nevada typically doesn’t come up in conservation. States such as Texas and Tennessee are what you’ll usually think of.

While those states certainly deserve their status as BBQ GOATs, that doesn’t mean Nevada doesn’t have a few hidden gems of its own. Enter, The Phoenix BBQ Restaurant.

Located in, The Outlets at Legends, in Sparks and directly adjacent to Sheels, Phoenix provides its diners a wide variety of finely smoked meats, burgers, and classic sides.

My wife and I recently (finally) made our way to Phoenix and our experience with the food and service was nothing short of spectacular (albeit with one exception).

Let’s get into it.

Restaurant Info

• Location: Sparks, NV at Legends

• Address: 1310 Sheels Drive

• Cost: Moderate

• Food: Smoked BBQ, burgers, etc.

• Open: Weds - Sun (closed Mon & Tues)

• Seating: Indoor, outdoor and bar

• Alcohol: Full bar

• Website/Menu: ww.phoenixatlegends.com

• My Visit: July 2023

• Rating (out of three): 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

Disclaimer: I am not a professional restaurant critic, nor has this restaurant offered me any incentive to write this post. My opinions are my own and are based on my personal experience only.

You can find The Phoenix sandwiched between Sheels and Freshberry Cafe. It’s fairly easy to miss as half of the restaurant’s exterior is obstructed by trees.

If you happen to walk by on a weekend evening, there’s no way you’ll miss it as they have live musical acts performing Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.

The interior is warm and inviting, with the color of the walls resembling that of the Golden Gate Bridge (it looks more on the red side in the photos).

There are more booths than open-floor tables, with bar seating available. There’s also an abundance of outdoor seating on the patio, with plenty of shade and a mister.

The menu is heavy in smoked meats and burgers, but they offer a few seafood, salad, and soup options for anyone who doesn’t care for BBQ.

Shockingly, there were no desserts listed on the menu, as well as specialty cocktails. They have a full bar so I’m sure they’ll make your choice of drink, though.

They do have an extensive wine selection, though, thanks to their, “Village Vintner”, wine bar located in the same building (separated by a wall).

For our appetizer, we ordered the waffle fries topped with bacon, green onions and a gorgonzola cheese sauce. Honestly, it was, “meh”.

This was the one and only let down of the entire experience, as it just fell flat to me. The fries didn’t maintain their crisp and there wasn’t nearly enough bacon.

For my entree, I opted for the, “That’s 1 Hellova BBQ Sandwich”, with pulled pork as my meat of choice and sweet potato fries as my side.

Put simply, the pulled pork was delicious. A lot of places smoother their pork in sauce, masking the lack of flavor in the meat. Here, that isn’t the case. The meat, by itself, had excellent flavor and was smoked perfectly. The sauce did what its supposed to; it complemented it.

The sweet potato fries more than made it for the waffle fries earlier. They were precisely seasoned and had a great crisp to them.

My wife went with the BBQ sampler, which included:

• Two drumstick chicken

• Two pork ribs

• Two brisket sliders

• A side of their, “Million Dollar Mac”

The rib was tender and had excellent flavor. There was just enough of that “pull” off the bone. The brisket wasn’t the best i’ve ever had, but it was great regardless.

To us, the clear winners of the sampler were the chicken and the mac. Both were out-of-this-world and would be deserving as a stand-alone entree.

I hope you’ll consider giving The Phoenix a chance, as my wife and I had a great experience. The smoked meats are the hero here, so our less-than-steller waffle fries made little difference to our opinions. If you love BBQ, we’re confident you’ll enjoy it.

Disclaimer: I am not a professional restaurant critic, nor has this restaurant offered me any incentive to write this post. My opinions are my own and are based on my personal experience only.

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Sassafras Eclectic Food Joint: A Quirky Eatery In Carson City

2 minute read | may contain affiliate links

Welcome to Carson City's deliciously hidden gem - Sassafras Eclectic Food Joint! In this article, we delve into the vibrant world of dining at this local’s favorite.

From the moment you step through our doors, you'll be greeted with a captivating atmosphere that sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience.

Discover the creatively curated menu that showcases a fusion of flavors, expertly prepared by talented chefs. Join us as we showcase a few of their many delicious offerings.

Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a curious traveler looking to dine with the locals, prepare to indulge your senses and savor the unique delights that await you in Carson City, NV.

Restaurant Information

• Location: 1500 Old Hot Springs road, Carson City, NV

• Cost: Mid range

• Food: Globally inspired menu

• Seating: Indoors. Wait to be seated

• Alcohol: Full bar

• Website/Menu: www.sassafrascarsoncity.com

• Our Visit: June 2023

Whether you’re a local or you’re visiting from out of town and are looking for a locals spot to eat in Carson City, this is your sign to try Sassafras.

Their full name is, Sassafras Eclectic Food Joint, and they’re located directly adjacent to the historic Carson Hot Springs.

When you walk up, there will be two entrances. One for the bar and one for the restaurant. During my visit, the entrance on the right was closed off.

Interesting wall art adorns nearly every square inch of the bar and dining areas. Speaking of the bar, they offer draft beers and crafted cocktails.

Their entree and appetizer options are extent. From pork belly stir fry and cheeseburgers to salads and fish tacos, there’s something for everyone on this globally inspired menu.

Whenever my wife and I eat out somewhere we usually go all-in and order more food than we should (YOLO). We ordered the following dishes:

• Baked Cheese Curds w/ Chorizo (appetizer)

• Pork Belly Stir Fry Bowl (entree)

• Salmon Tacos (entree)

• Deep Fried Ice Cream (dessert)

• Lemon/Strawberry Cheesecake (dessert)

Honestly, we didn’t have many complaints about the food. My pork belly was cooked perfectly, was packed with flavor and had a great crisp to it.

She loved the flavor of her salmon tacos, but did mention that she wished the salmon pieces were smaller so they’d be easier to eat. Aside from that, she enjoyed them.

Both desserts were delicious but the lemon/strawberry cheesecake was the clear winner. The flavor combination was out of this world.

They were tremendously generous with the portion size of the deep fried ice cream, though. I paid $9 and it could’ve easily been split between two, maybe three people.

If you’re a fan of quirky, outside-the-box restaurants you can’t try anywhere else, I encourage you to give Sassafras Eclectic Food Joint a shot.

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7 Things You Will Love About Reno: Family Friendly Things To Do

3 minute read | contains affiliate links

Reno was long known as a miniature version of Las Vegas, but it hasn’t always had the greatest reputation. The downtown area, specifically, was associated with seedy hotels, rampant crime and homelessness.

While some of those elements still exist, there’s been a solid effort in recent years to spruce up the area and make it more appealing (and safe) to visitors.

Additionally, city officials have been making moves to market the city as a place for families and adventurers, not just those who like to partake in the casino lifestyle.

That topic is what this post will focus on. Nothing listed here has anything to do with gambling or bars. They’re all 100% family friendly.

So if you’re contemplating a vacation to Reno but you’re not sure what activities there are to do with you’re family, read on.

*NOTE: This is the newest installment of our “7 Things” series. At the end of the post, we’ve listed the other ones currently live on the website. Be sure to check them out!

Exciting news for our readers!

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Discover a range of unique designs that capture the spirit of wanderlust, from cozy hiking-themed t-shirts to charming accessories that make your wanderlust spirit soar!

Visit our online store today and start your journey of style and adventure. Happy exploring!

1) Proximity to Lake Tahoe

One of Reno’s biggest claims to its, “outdoor recreation haven” banner, is its proximity to Big Blue herself; Lake Tahoe. In fact, the downtown area is just about an hour’s drive from South Lake.

It’s also the closest city with a major airport to Tahoe so if that’s where you’re ultimately ending up, Reno is likely where you’ll be flying into.

Getting to Tahoe’s most beautiful state park, Emerald Bay, is a simple 1.5-hour drive from your downtown hotel. If you’ve never been to Emerald Bay, you need to add it to your list, pronto.

READ: “Emerald Bay State Park Guide: Hiking, Camping, Vikingsholm, Kayaking and More”

2) Hunter Creek Waterfall Trail

You won’t need to travel to Tahoe in order to partake a blissful stroll through nature. There are many hiking trails in Reno with a wide variety of difficulties and features.

Of all the said trails in Reno, the Hunter Creek Falls trail is probably the best known to locals and visitors alike.

The trail is 6.5 miles, roundtrip, and is considered moderate. It terminates at the beautiful, 30-foot Hunter Creek Falls.

While it’s rocky, narrow and fairly lengthy, if you and your family have experience hiking, you shouldn’t have any trouble. It’s dog friendly as well.

READ: “Hunter Creek Falls: An Epic Hike Just Outside Of Reno”

3) Local Restaurants

Reno is filled to the brim with dozens of great, non-chain local eateries offering a wide range of cuisine for all kinds of palates.

A few examples of Reno’s fine dining options include; Bricks Restaurant & Wine Bar, Atlantis Steakhouse, Sierra Street Kitchen & Cocktails and Marolina’s Italia Restaurant.

A few examples of mid-range sit-down restaurants include, Arario Midtown, Wild River Grille, Washoe Public House, Great Full Gardens and Old Granite Street Eatery.

You’ll find great eateries all over the city but some of the best ones are found in either Midtown or Sierra Street (in downtown).

4) The Basement

The Basement is a literal hidden gem in the heart of downtown. It’s located in the - you guessed it - basement of the historic 1932 Post Office. The space has been repurposed into a marketplace of local businesses.

The Basement consists of several small businesses, each of which are 100% local. These include handcraft shops, a male-inspired nail salon, barbershop, coffee shop, restaurants, a shared space with seating and more.

The street level space (where the actual post office was) is now in the process of also being repurposed into a merchant space. Be sure to stop by and find out for yourself why it’s so beloved by locals.

5) The Truckee River Walk

Stretching from the western edge of Idewild Park into the lovely Wingfield Park in downtown, Reno’s River Walk celebrates Reno’s reputation of culture, arts and heritage.

The space between Virginia Street and Wingfield Park, in particular, is teething with picturesque scenery, local restaurants and shops.

Just up the street from the river walk is the infamous Reno Arch. In City Plaza, you’ll find numerous permanent and temporary art installations used at the Burning Man festival on display. Plus, just beyond the Virginia Street bridge, you’ll find the street level entrance to The Basement.

No visit to Reno would be complete without a stroll along the river walk. It’s easily in the top three of things to do and see in Reno. Best of all - there’s no admission fee.

6) Art Murals

Arts and culture have a big presence in Reno. One of the things that city officials have done right is give local artists a chance to showcase their skills via wall murals.

They’re literally all over the city, but the majority (and best) are in downtown and midtown. A notable one to mention is the giant women mural on the side of the parking garage next to the arch.

7) The National Automobile Museum

The National Automobile Museum opened in 1989 and features a massive collection of classic cars, most of which once owned by local gaming pioneer, Bill Harrah.

At the time of his death in 1978, Harrah’s collection reached a staggering 1,400 cars! Holiday Inns purchased Harrah’s Casino and car collection in 1980.

Before selling off the majority of the collection, Holiday Inns donated 175 of those cars to what is now the museum. They’ve been on display, with additional rotating exhibits, ever since.

The sheer volume of cars in this collection is enough to impress those who’re not “car people”. If nothing else, it’s a great way to spend a few hours inside if the weather isn’t ideal.

READ: “National Automobile Museum: A Huge Classic Car Collection In Reno”

Your Thoughts…

What’re your thoughts on Reno for a family vacation? Did you know it’s no longer just about the casinos and bars? Which topic on this list interests you most? Let us know in the comments below! We love hearing from our readers.

*Tip: As stated at the top of this post, below are the links to our other “7 Things” posts that might interest you. Additionally, i’ve included a couple more Reno based posts.

• “7 Things You Will Love About Virginia City”

• “7 Things You Will Love About Burney: Things To Do, Waterfalls and More”

• “7 Things You Will Love About Lee Vining”

• “7 Things You Will Love About Bridgeport”

• “13 Awesome Nevada State Parks Near Reno”

• “5 Awesome Day Trips From Reno”

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