Cheap Movies, Free Movies
Grand Sierra Cinema - This is the local bargain for (almost) current movies. It's inside the Grand Sierra Resort at 2500 E. 2nd St. in Reno. The two theaters are smallish compared to today's huge multiplex affairs, but that's part of the charm. The best part is that it's only $3 a ticket. Find out what's playing at the online showtimes listings or call (775) 789-2093.Fleischmann Planetarium & Science Center - The Star Theater has cool movies at bargain prices. This is the next best thing to IMAX, and maybe even better if you factor in the price. Depending on the film, they are shown in either SkyDome 8/70 large format or as Full Dome digital star shows. The Fleischmann Planetarium is on the UNR campus at 1650 N. Virginia St. in Reno. Tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for children under 13 and seniors over 55. Check what's playing in the Star Theater or call the showtime hotline at (775) 784-4811.
Washoe County Library - The Washoe County Library has hundreds of DVD and VHS movies. All you need is a free library card - movies check out just like books. You can search the online card catalog to find interesting titles, then reserve your choices and have them delivered to your nearest library branch for pick up.
Free Movies Around Reno & Lake Tahoe - Reno's free movies are a big attraction to families on tight budgets. These free movie venues provide family friendly entertainment without putting a crimp in your wallet. All movies aren't necessarily suitable for everyone - be sure to check what's showing on the screen before showing up at the movie.
Parks and Recreation
All city parks are free, from huge Rancho San Rafael Regional Park to dozens of little neighborhood parks. Here are two examples of what our parks have to offer. To learn more about inexpensive and free recreational programs, visit the Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County parks and recreation websites.Wingfield Park - For free water play, it's hard to beat Wingfield Park in downtown Reno. You can swim, ride the rapids in the Truckee River Whitewater Park in a kayak, on tubes, or boogie boards, or just enjoy the sunshine by the water.
Virginia Lake Park - This peaceful park has a walking path all the way around Virginia Lake. There is a great playground for the kids, big picnic shelter, and fishing dock.
Rink on the River - From Thanksgiving into the following February, Rink on the River provides ice skating and a fun place for families to gather. Skating is cheap and there are some free sessions, such as opening day every year in November.
Come in From the Cold - When it's freezing outside and the budget has taken a holiday beating, free family entertainment sounds pretty good, and Reno's "Come in from the Cold" Family Entertainment Series at Bartley Ranch Regional Park could be just what you're looking for.
Exploring Nevada Series - Enjoy free presentations of the Explore Nevada Series at the Wilbur D. May Museum in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. Learn about Nevada history and some of the people involved with Nevada's colorful past. Featured presentations include guest speakers, photography, and video.
Nevada Heritage Series - The Nevada Heritage Series at Bartley Ranch Regional Park is a series of free presentations about the cultural and natural heritage of northern Nevada.
Thrifty Clothing, Food, Crafts and Gifts
Reno and Sparks Thrift Stores - I can personally testify that major bargains are to be had at the numerous Reno area thrift stores. Many of them are run by charitable organizations, so you get to save lots of money and help your neighbors at the same time. That's a real bargain.Discount Supermarkets and Food Outlet Stores - In the food department, there are several choices beyond the big chain supermarkets. There isn't anything wrong with the chains per se, they're just expensive. I do much of the food shopping for my household at discount supermarkets and the best prices for most items in reasonable quantities (as compared to Costco style) is Winco Foods. Another store with good prices is Trader Joe's. You've got to be selective to get good deals and be willing to try brands that may be new to you.
Farmers' Markets - Our numerous farmers' markets are also excellent places to find good food in season. I haven't found many bargains at the markets, but things are fresh and they are a fun shopping experience.
Fall and Holiday Craft Fairs - Reno craft fairs are sponsored by various organizations and groups. Craft fairs are great for holiday and seasonal items, and for supporting local artisans, crafters, and charitable causes.
Clip Coupons Online and Save Money
Before you go shopping for food and other consumer goods, check out these online sources for discounts on a wide variety of items. Saving a few bucks here and there can really add up.Grocery Coupons from the Reno Gazette-Journal
Grocery Coupons from Scolari's Supermarkets
Grocery Coupons from Safeway Supermarkets
Grocery Coupons from Raley's Supermarkets
Other Discount Coupons from the Reno Gazette-Journal
USDiners.com Restaurant Discount Coupons
Find Free Big Events, Free Museums and Exhibits, and Cheap Gas on Page 2.
