Reno, Nevada, first came into its own with casinos, but it has developed both family friendly attractions and free events. Whether the free things to do are for those who lost all their money at the casino, or just those on a budget, families can find plenty of free family fun, so far from Las Vegas that it shuold be tackled on a separate trip.

Walk Around

The downtown Riverwalk is perfect for an urban stroll. The area has restaurants, boutiques and museums, along with a lively streetscape, and you can spend the better part of a day walking and browsing.

Star Struck

The Fleischmann Planetarium & Science Center has shows that require paid admission, but there are also free interactive exhibits. Permanent exhibits include large-scale rotating Earth and moon globes, a black hole demonstrator and dozens of meteorites.

Park it

Wingfield Park consists of five parks, including the Truckee River Whitewater Park. If you bring your own inner tube, you can take a free float on the river. The parks are great for picnicking.

Go Fish

Nevada’s Free Fishing Day is held every year in June. On one day a year, kids and adults can fish in any public water without buying a license or a trout stamp.