Reno lies 26 miles (42 km) north of the Nevada state capital, Carson City, and 22 miles (35 km) northeast of Lake Tahoe in a shrub-steppe. Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Sierra Nevada, Reno is Nevada's third largest city and is full of stage shows and gambling establishments. Reno, known as "The Biggest Little City in the World", is famous for its casinos, and is the birthplace of the gaming corporation Harrah's Entertainment.
Reno's sunny, dry climate attracts summer and winter sports enthusiasts. Skiers flock to Sierra Nevada in California for downhill and cross-country skiing. Facilities for boating, biking, snowmobiling, hiking and white-water rafting are available in the Reno area.
The Truckee River Walk features several fountains and is the location for various family events throughout the year. For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a challenge, the Truckee River Whitewater Park at Wingfield in downtown Reno offers a variety of white water activities for all skill levels and is open year-round.
Visit the Animal Ark Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center, the National Automobile Museum, and the Sierra Safari Zoo.