West Reno - Reno, NV

The neighborhoods in outer West Reno expanded along with the growth of the city throughout the 20th century. After miners arrived in Reno to take advantage of the gold rushes in the western U.S., Reno became a stop on the way to California. Later, Reno officials began constructing more neighborhoods to accommodate for the city’s population growth. West Reno residents now enjoy living in the suburbs and maintaining their outdoorsy identity with recreational activities. Museum lovers in West Reno travel downtown to peruse the Nevada Museum of Art, the National Automobile Museum and other historic places. Pass by Reno Art Works to view modern art, or visit the Sierra Arts Foundation, a group dedicated to supporting local artists. West Renoites also go to downtown Reno for annual events and festivals at the casinos, such as the Eldorado’s BBQ, Brews and Blues Festival.

West Reno's proximity to central Reno allows locals access to a variety of bars and nightlife options. Known for its gambling, Reno also has a significant party scene downtown, where West Reno residents often travel for entertainment. However, a variety of restaurants - from ethnic food to heavy breakfasts - in Northwest Reno keep locals in the area during the common dining hours. Local favorite Peg's Glorified Ham N Eggs, with locations all around Reno, pulls in the breakfast crowd with its wide range of eggs Benedict plates, huevos rancheros and omelet skillets. If you want a big meal for breakfast, go to Peg's for a hearty way to start the day. Get a fresh fruit cup to complement your meal. Burger lovers should direct their attention to Burger Me for large, unique hamburgers. Try a gyro burger for a Mediterranean spin, or order a turkey or veggie burger for a healthier option with a meaty taste. Make sure to try the chipotle mayonnaise sauce while ordering the sweet potato fries, which locals consider the best in Reno. If you prefer hole-in-the-wall sushi bars, don't miss out on Sushi Rose. This small diner epitomizes the best in Reno sushi. For a great all-you-can-eat price, order the Romeo and Juliet long roll, and relish in its fresh ingredients. Get a fried roll for a heftier meal, or try the nigiri for a lighter option. Then look up the restaurant's weekly specials for free beer or sake. Catch a game or grab a beer at Flowing Tide Pub, located off North McCarran Boulevard. Order off the larger-than-usual pub menu, and be sure to try the Black Citrus Sangria for a fresh kick in your drink. Check out the Blind Onion Pizza & Pub on S. Virginia Street for great pub pizza, and enjoy the two slices and a beer special. Be adventurous, and let this pub introduce you to putting honey on the crust of your slice. For music, head downtown to the Reno Events Center to catch national acts. Listen to local bands at smaller venues, such as the Holland Project.

Most residents in the West Reno neighborhoods use a car to get around. While walking proves to be a great option for exercise on hiking trails and in the hilly neighborhoods, locals find driving much more useful for shopping and errands. RTC Washoe in Reno serves the Mae Anne Avenue area with its route 4 buses, but locals don’t find much public transportation outside of that northwest neighborhood. Residents can call downtown cabs for service, but Uber does not serve the area. West Reno’s proximity to Interstate 80 provides locals a quick way to get to downtown Reno. While Renoites find parking in downtown to be difficult, the large streets and parking lots in West Reno make parking easier there. Bicyclists can ride around West Reno fairly safely and can get some exercise while riding the hilly areas. The larger streets in West Reno provide bike lanes, so bicyclists can travel safely.

A number of free, small parks dot the landscape of West Reno. Rainbow Ridge Park gives children many options for play. Its playground, featuring large slides, and the three basketball courts in the park keep children active and having fun in West Reno. Start at Rainbow Ridge Park to walk to the trails throughout West Reno. Take your dog along, but keep him or her on-leash. For more vigorous exercise in an open space, drive to McQueen High School and set up some soccer goals at Canyon Creek Park’s field. This field tempts children to run around and exercise, as well as giving adults the opportunity to play some sports. Lie down and watch the kids, or stick around for a McQueen High School activity. Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, located near the University of Nevada, is the largest park in West Reno. With an arboretum, small museum and numerous athletic fields, Rancho San Rafael draws in locals from all around Reno. Walk on the walking path for miles through the park, or take your dog to the Link Piazzo Dog Park. This free area gives Renoites the chance to learn about the ranchland’s history, in addition to getting out and having fun. Stick around Rancho San Rafael for events at the Wilbur D. May Center, or make it a point to be in town for the Great Balloon Races. Held in September, the balloon races display many hot air balloons rising into the air. Come early in the morning to see the balloons ascend into the sky just after sunrise.

West Reno, like the rest of Reno, has a slightly higher cost of living than the national average. Residents pay $793.48 in rent on average for a one-bedroom apartment. Anticipate paying about 2 percent more for gas in Reno than the national average. If you prefer public transportation, use the RTC Washoe system and pay $2 for a one-way ticket. Pay for a 31-day pass for $65 if you plan to ride the bus frequently. When going out for a beer, keep in mind that the average price for a craft brew costs about $3.50.

For large clothes-shopping endeavors, West Reno locals hop on the highway to get to Meadowood Mall in the middle of Reno. JC Penney, Macy’s and Sears provide clothes for men, women, children and teenagers at this inclusive mall. Stores like Coach give Renoites the option to buy high-end designer handbags and other items. For a smaller, boutique shopping experience, drive to Mayberry Landing and shop at local stores such as Franz’s Backstube, which offers Austrian treats such as French macaroons, cookies and homemade soups. To add some zest to your cooking, stop by Big Horn Olive Company to try the olive oil and balsamic vinegar samples. Labels Consignment Boutique sells affordable brand-name clothing, including dresses for formal events. West Reno locals can access a variety of grocery stores in the neighborhood, including SaveMart, Safeway, Walmart and Raley’s. Try the Great Basin Community Food Co-op for organic products year-round. During the summer, go to West Street Market or the Village Center Farmers Market for produce, homemade goods and baked treats.