5-Day Adventure from Las Vegas to Reno: Explore Nevada’s Best

Day 1: Drive and Scenic Stops

Las Vegas to Carson City, Nevada on July 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Egg & I

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Egg & I in Las Vegas, known for fresh, creative breakfast options and excellent coffee.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Drive from Las Vegas to Ely on US-93 N

Begin your scenic drive heading north through Nevada’s desert landscapes, stopping briefly at viewpoints along the way.
USD0, 4h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Jailhouse Brewing Company, Ely

Experience local craft beers paired with classic American fare in a cozy atmosphere inside a historic building.
USD25, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Nevada Northern Railway Museum

Explore vintage steam locomotives and historic railroad exhibits. Perfect for train enthusiasts and history buffs. Open 10am–6pm.
USD15, 1h30m

5:00pm

Drive to Carson City

Continue your journey westward towards Carson City, enjoying the changing scenery as you approach the Sierra Nevada mountains.
USD0, 2h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Red Hawk Pizza

Relax with a casual dinner offering gourmet pizzas and local brews in Carson City’s friendly downtown area.
USD20, 1h

9:00pm

Overnight Stay in Carson City

Check into a local hotel such as the Governor’s Inn for a comfortable night's rest before continuing to Reno tomorrow.
USD100, Overnight

Day 2: Carson City History and Reno Arrival

Carson City to Reno, Nevada on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fox Brewpub

Enjoy a fresh breakfast with homemade pastries and coffee at this historic brewery before exploring the city.
USD18, 1h

9:30am

Nevada State Museum

Visit the Nevada State Museum to understand the rich history of Nevada from prehistory through the present day. Open daily 9am-5pm.
USD8, 1h30m

11:15am

Walk around Nevada State Capitol Complex

Browse the architecturally significant capitol building and surrounding government offices with historical markers.
USD0, 45m

12:00pm

Drive to Reno

Depart Carson City for a short 30-minute drive to Reno, the biggest city in northern Nevada.
USD0, 30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Great Full Gardens

Savor organic, fresh, locally sourced Californian-Mediterranean dishes ideal for a healthy lunch in downtown Reno.
USD22, 1h

2:00pm

Explore National Automobile Museum

Tour one of the largest collections of historic cars in North America, including rare classics and celebrity vehicles. Open 10am-5pm.
USD12, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll along the Truckee Riverwalk

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic Truckee River, lined with cafes, art installations, and shops.
USD0, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Depot Craft Brewery Distillery

Dine in an urban, industrial-chic setting with a variety of craft beers brewed on site and a menu of elevated pub fare.
USD30, 1h30m

8:00pm

Check-in Hotel in Reno

Settle into a centrally located hotel such as the Whitney Peak Hotel for easy access to downtown nightlife and casinos.
USD120, Overnight

Day 3: Reno Culture and Nightlife

Reno, Nevada on July 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Two Chicks

Start with hearty, Southern-inspired breakfast dishes made with fresh ingredients downtown.
USD20, 1h

10:00am

Visit the Nevada Museum of Art

Discover contemporary and traditional artworks in Nevada’s only accredited art museum. Open Tues-Sun 10am-5pm.
USD15, 2h

12:15pm

Lunch at Campo

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at this cozy spot known for wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta dishes.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Explore the Midtown District

Walk through this vibrant neighborhood filled with trendy boutiques, murals, and coffee shops.
USD0, 1h30m

3:15pm

Relax at Wingfield Park

Unwind by the Truckee River in this scenic park with shaded paths and outdoor art displays.
USD0, 45m

5:00pm

Dinner at La Strada

Savor upscale Italian dining with panoramic views of the city in a stylish environment.
USD40, 1h30m

7:00pm

Optional Evening: Try your luck at Eldorado Resort Casino

Experience one of Reno’s most popular casinos with slots, poker, and live entertainment. Casino opens 24 hours.
USD0, 2h

Day 4: Lake Tahoe Day Trip

Reno to Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California on July 13, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Squeeze In

Fuel up with large, creative omelets at this beloved Reno breakfast spot before heading to Lake Tahoe.
USD18, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Lake Tahoe

Travel about 45 minutes south to the stunning Lake Tahoe area, world famous for its crystal-clear waters and mountain scenery.
USD0, 45m

9:15am

Rent a kayak or paddleboard at Tahoe City Marina

Explore the pristine lake waters up close with fun water activity rentals. Rentals available 9am-5pm.
USD50, 2h

11:30am

Walk the Tahoe Rim Trail (short segment)

Enjoy an easy hike along a portion of this scenic trail with lake views and wildflowers.
USD0, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Gar Woods Grill & Pier

Dine lakeside at Gar Woods—famous for its BBQ, cocktails, and stunning lake views.
USD35, 1h30m

2:45pm

Drive back to Reno

Return to Reno to relax after a day in nature.
USD0, 45m

4:00pm

Relax at hotel or optional spa visit

Unwind with a spa treatment at your hotel or nearby spa for some rejuvenation.
USD100, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Brewer’s Cabinet

Enjoy a casual, local favorite gastropub known for craft beers and eclectic comfort food menu.
USD25, 1h30m

Day 5: Local Exploration and Departure

Reno, Nevada on July 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Peg’s Glorified Ham n Eggs

Don’t miss this iconic Reno diner offering generous portions of classic American breakfast favorites.
USD18, 1h

9:30am

Visit Idlewild Park

Take a peaceful morning stroll through Reno’s largest park featuring rose gardens, walking trails, and lakeside views.
USD0, 1h

10:45am

Last-minute shopping at The Reno Town Mall

Browse unique shops and grab souvenirs before wrapping up your trip.
USD0, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Midtown Eats

Enjoy a casual and delicious lunch highlighting fresh, local ingredients with vegetarian options available.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Prepare for departure or continued travel

Check out from your hotel and get ready for your next destination or the return trip to Las Vegas.
USD0, 30m