When it comes to visiting casinos, many people turn to Las Vegas or Atlantic City. Yet this overlooks one of the country’s great vacation spots. Known as “The Biggest Little City in the World”, the city of Reno offers an ideal destination for those who want to gamble in a more low-key setting. Retirees looking for active adult community living in a vibrant, yet relaxing, town will appreciate the atmosphere of Reno.
Set in a high desert valley at the foot of Sierra Nevada, Reno enjoys a temperate climate and beautiful mountain views. In the summer, daytime temperatures reach into the low 90s. During the coldest winter months, daytime highs are around 45 degrees. There is little rainfall in Reno, most of which falls during the winter and spring, and each year offers about 300 days of sunshine.
Though both Reno and Las Vegas are found in Nevada, the two cities are located about 450 miles apart. That is about an eight-hour drive by car. These cities are often compared to each other, as they are each known for their casinos and gambling. However, Reno and Las Vegas each have their own distinct identities.
In the 1930s, Reno became famous for two things: legal gambling and easy divorces. As other states began passing more lenient divorce laws, Reno’s divorce business quickly faded. Gambling has continued to be a large part of the local economy, yet gambling in Reno has a different feel from Las Vegas’ large, flashy casinos. Those who visit Reno often describe it as a more laid-back environment.
However, gambling is not the only entertainment in town. Reno offers stage shows, music concerts, shopping centers, restaurants, and art museums. Local cultural attractions include the Nevada Museum of Art, the Reno Pops Orchestra, and the Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Though Reno’s nightlife offers a bit less glitz than Las Vegas, the city brings in many popular performers, such as Natalie Cole, Stevie Nicks, The O’Jays, and the Oak Ridge Boys.
Reno’s close proximity to the mountains, and nearby Lake Tahoe, make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. In the winter, tourists flock to the area to enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the various well-known ski resorts. One famous resort, the Squaw Valley Ski Resort, even hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics. During the summer months, popular outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking.
Retirees looking to relocate to the Reno area might consider Sierra Canyon by Del Webb. This beautiful 55 and older community is currently the only age-restricted community in Reno that offers both new and resale homes. Located on the south slope of the Peavine Mountains, Del Webb Sierra Canyon will contain 1,250 single-family homes and a 20,000 square foot community clubhouse with many amenities. The Aspen Lodge clubhouse at Sierra Canyon features a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor swimming pool, indoor walking track, studios for hobbies and crafts, a billiards room and much more.
Though the famous Las Vegas Strip may be flashier than the casinos of Reno, “The Biggest Little City in the World” should not be overlooked as a great vacation destination. With its entertainment venues, laid-back casinos and outdoor activities, Reno offers plenty to please a variety of visiting active adults.
This article originally appeared on 55Places.com. For more articles like this or for information about hundreds of 55+ active adult retirement communities across the country, please visit 55Places.com.
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Nestled on the south slope of the Peavine Mountains is 
