Downtown Reno Improves Its Image:
Downtown Reno is undergoing big changes, branching out from its total emphasis on the glitz of gambling and nightlife. The Riverwalk District of shops, boutiques, restaurants, bars, theaters, and unique events is a cool part of the transformation. The Wine Walk and Halloween Hollow are just two of the fun happenings that make visits to the Riverwalk District fun affairs.
The District is centered around the officially named Raymond I. Smith Truckee River Walk, located along the south side of the Truckee River between Virginia Street and Arlington Avenue. From here, though, you wander a few blocks in every direction to tour the many businesses in this loosely-defined district. Go to the Riverwalk District website to find specific businesses and their locations in the Riverwalk District.
Truckee River Arts District:
In another departure from its old rough image, Reno has become known as a center for the arts. The Truckee River Arts District encompasses a big swath of downtown, including the Riverwalk District and the California Avenue shopping area. In addition to what those feature, you'll find the Nevada Museum of Art, National Automobile Museum, Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, the Lake Mansion, and the Truckee River Whitewater Park. There's plenty more; for a downloadable map, go to the City of Reno Arts District website.
West Street Market:
West Street Market opened its indoor stores in December, 2008. New tenants are the West Street Wine Bar, Brickhouse Bakery, Burger Me, Earthly Delights, Nikos Greek Kitchen, Nutty Boy, Se7en Teahouse and Bar, La Marenda, Nevada EcoNet, Great Basin Basket, Downtown Market Place, Jada's Jewels, Silver Trends, and Reno eNVy. Summer at West Street Market includes an outdoor plaza populated by a farmers' market, various vendors, and educational activities. West Street Market is between 1st and 2nd Streets, a block from the Truckee River.
Wine Walk:
The Wine Walk, on the third Saturday of every month from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., is the best excuse I know of to get acquainted with the restaurants, shops, and their proprietors in the Riverwalk District and the greater Truckee River Arts District. For only $20, you get a commemorative wine glass, ID bracelet, and map to all the participating merchants. You can find out which merchants are Wine Walk participants by visiting any member and picking up their official District walking map. For a list of merchants, visit the Riverwalk Merchants Association members directory. Enjoy friends, stroll downtown Reno, and have fun!
