Why rent a car in Reno?
Reno is situated in the US state of Nevada, by Lake Tahoe, with North America’s highest concentration of ski resorts. More than 50 golf courses are also scattered not far from the airport. Gambling has traditionally been a big industry here – Reno is bustling with casinos. You’ll want to have a Reno hire car to make the best of your visit.
The river Truckee, which runs through Reno, starts at Lake Tahoe and empties into Pyramid Lake northeast of the city. The scenic Truckee River Walk, is an excellent way to see the city, with lots of nice cafes, restaurants and bars on the way. Stop by the National Automobile Museum for a period-themed display of vintage and antique cars.
Animals lovers must visit Animal Ark, half an hour north, a wildlife sanctuary for rescued animals, including North American predators and exotic species.
How to get to and around Reno?
Arriving at Reno Tahoe International Airport, a Reno rental car takes you to downtown Reno in less than 90 minutes. Only 15 minutes away is Verdi, where you can get kitted out for your outdoor adventures at the sport gear shop Cabela’s. An hour’s drive takes you to Lake Tahoe, and in another half hour you’re in Truckee, a winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders.
Carson City, Nevada’s capital, is 35 minutes south. Don’t miss the Nevada State Railroad Museum and the Nevada State Museum for its wide-ranging exhibits on the history, prehistory and natural history of Nevada.
What brands are available?
From Reno Tahoe International Airport, you can pick up your Reno car hire from one of the following companies:
AlamoAvisBudgetDollarHertzNational ThriftyMust-sees within an easy drive of Reno
Just over two hours on the road takes you to Sacramento, where the remains of the Californian gold rush can still be seen in a well-preserved historic district.
A beautiful drive is one through the Black Rock Desert in northern Nevada, four and a half hours from Reno, a flat desert where once Lake Lahontan lay. The ancient lake bed, the playa, is the site of the annual Burning Man festival. Also in high desert, about four hours northeast, is Elko and the snow-capped Ruby Mountains. Elko is a cowboy town and every January hosts the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering celebrating the cowboy lifestyle. It’s also famous for its authentic Basque food.
Near the border with Utah, six and a half hours to the east, enjoy great hikes at the Great Basin National Park with mountains, rivers, lakes, lush meadows and a network of caves to explore.
Tips and tricks for driving in the US
American cars usually have automatic transmission. Drive on the right side. An international driving permit is not compulsory but recommended. Carry it at all times along with ID (passport) and proof of insurance.
Speed limits vary from state to state; in general stick to 70mph on motorways. Beware that undertaking is not illegal in the US; to stay safe, don’t forget to signal before changing lanes.
Provided there is no oncoming traffic, you can turn right at red traffic lights. At a four-way stop, all cars should stop, and the one that arrived first sets off first followed by the others in the order of arrival.
Ready to plan your Reno city break?
Ready to start planning a visit to Reno and the rest of the US? Check out this city guide and use the Expedia search tool to help you find the best car hire, flight and hotel and research the best attractions and activities.
