Things to Do in Reno with Kids — Family-Friendly Activities in Reno & Sparks

The Reno-Sparks area is packed with family-friendly things to do, and most of them are just minutes from Legends Bay Casino. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, tweens, or teens, you’ll find outdoor adventures, hands-on museums, trampoline parks, historic train rides, river activities, and plenty of places to refuel with a great meal. Use this guide to plan your next family day (or weekend) in Reno and Sparks, Nevada.

Outdoor Activities for the Whole Family

Sparks Marina Park

Sparks Marina is a 77-acre park centered around a crystal-clear, 40-acre lake, and it’s just steps from Legends Bay Casino. Kids love feeding the ducks, riding pedal boats, and playing on the sandy beach. A paved 1.2-mile walking path loops around the lake, making it ideal for strollers, bikes, and scooters. In summer, stand-up paddleboard and kayak rentals are available right at the shore. Pack a picnic or grab lunch at one of the surrounding restaurants, this is easily an all-morning or all-afternoon outing.

Address: 300 Howard Dr, Sparks, NV 89434

Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk

Admission: Free. Paddleboard and kayak rentals available seasonally (pricing varies by vendor).

Best for: All ages. Toddlers enjoy the beach and playground; older kids love water sports.

Idlewild Park

One of Reno’s most beloved parks, Idlewild is a 49-acre green space along the Truckee River, just west of downtown. The park features two large playgrounds (including the popular Lion’s Den play area), duck ponds, a rose garden with over 1,750 roses, a skate park, and a seasonal miniature train ride that loops through the park. In summer, Idlewild hosts Food Truck Fridays, a weekly evening event with dozens of food trucks, live music, and a festive atmosphere. The paved paths along the river are perfect for family bike rides and walks. Learn more about outdoor activities near Sparks on our nearby attractions page.

Address: 1900 Idlewild Dr, Reno, NV 89509

Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk. Train rides and pools operate seasonally.

Admission: Free (small fee for the train ride).

Best for: All ages. A fantastic free option with something for every age group.

Truckee River Tubing & Whitewater Park

Floating the Truckee River is a quintessential Reno summer experience, and families can enjoy it right through downtown. The most popular family route runs from Mayberry Park to Idlewild Park or Wingfield Park, a gentle float lasting about two to two-and-a-half hours. Several outfitters offer tube rentals, shuttle service, and safety gear. The Truckee River Whitewater Park at Wingfield Park features eleven man-made drop pools for kayakers and more adventurous paddlers. It’s also fun just to watch from the riverbank.

Location: Mayberry Park to Wingfield Park (2 S. Arlington Ave, Reno, NV 89501)

Season: Summer months (roughly June through September, depending on water levels).

Cost: Tube rentals typically start around $20–$25. Free if you bring your own tube.

Best for: Ages 8 and up (strong swimmers). Life jackets and helmets are strongly recommended for kids.

Wild Island Family Adventure Park

Located about five minutes from Legends Bay Casino, Wild Island is Sparks’ go-to destination for family fun. The outdoor water park (open seasonally in summer) features waterslides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Year-round, the indoor side keeps kids busy with bowling, laser tag, an arcade, and glow-in-the-dark go-karts. Plan to spend a half-day or more here, especially in the summer months.

Address: 250 Wild Island Ct, Sparks, NV 89434

Hours: Vary by season and activity. Check wildisland.com for current hours.

Admission: Water park day passes and indoor activity pricing vary. Individual activities start around $8–$15; water park passes from approximately $30–$40.

Best for: Ages 3 and up. The water park appeals to all ages; go-karts and laser tag are best for kids 6+.

Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary

About 25 minutes north of Sparks, Animal Ark is a wildlife sanctuary home to bears, wolves, cheetahs, bobcats, and other rescued animals. The guided nature walk gives kids an up-close look at animals they’d never see in a typical zoo. It’s a wonderful educational outing. Animal Ark is open seasonally (typically April through October), so check their schedule before you go.

Address: 1265 Deerlodge Rd, Reno, NV 89508

Hours: Open seasonally, typically Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:30 PM (April–October). Check animalark.org for the current schedule.

Admission: Adults approximately $10–$12; children 3–12 approximately $8. Check the website for current pricing.

Best for: Ages 4 and up. Great for animal-loving kids and budding wildlife enthusiasts.

Indoor Activities & Rainy-Day Fun

Galaxy IMAX Theatres at Legends

Skip the ordinary movie experience and head to Galaxy IMAX Theatres, located right next door at The Outlets at Legends. The giant IMAX screens, booming sound systems, and luxury recliner seating make every family movie night feel like an event. With new releases and family blockbusters playing regularly, it’s a reliable go-to whether you’re escaping summer heat or a winter chill.

Address: 1170 Scheels Dr, Sparks, NV 89434 (at The Outlets at Legends)

Tickets: Standard screenings from approximately $12–$15; IMAX screenings from approximately $16–$20. Matinee and child pricing available.

Best for: Ages 3 and up (recliners work great for little ones, too).

Fly High Trampoline Park

Fly High is a 27,000-square-foot indoor adventure park in Sparks featuring wall-to-wall trampolines, a ninja warrior course, ropes course, parkour area, foam pit drop zones, air bags, a zip line, and an arcade. There’s also a dedicated toddler zone for younger kids. It’s a perfect spot for burning off energy on a rainy day or when kids need a break from sightseeing. Birthday party packages are available.

Address: 10 Greg St, Unit 204, Sparks, NV 89431

Hours: Monday & Friday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–11:00 PM; Tuesday–Thursday: 12:00 PM–9:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM. Hours may vary seasonally.

Admission: One-hour jump sessions typically $15–$20 per person. Grip socks required (available for purchase). Book online to save time.

Best for: Ages 3 and up. Toddler zone available for the littlest jumpers; ninja course and parkour best for ages 6+.

Wilbur D. May Museum & Arboretum

Inside Rancho San Rafael Regional Park in Reno, the Wilbur D. May Museum offers interactive exhibits that fascinate kids and adults alike. The museum highlights travel artifacts, natural history, and rotating hands-on exhibits. Just outside, the arboretum and botanical gardens provide a peaceful spot for families to wander. The adjacent park has open fields, picnic areas, and a playground, so you can easily pair the museum visit with outdoor time.

Address: 1595 N. Sierra St, Reno, NV 89503 (inside Rancho San Rafael Regional Park)

Hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM. Closed Monday–Tuesday. Hours may vary seasonally.

Admission: Adults approximately $6; children 2–12 approximately $4. Rancho San Rafael park entry is free.

Best for: Ages 3–12. The hands-on exhibits are especially engaging for elementary-age kids.

Fleischmann Planetarium & Science Center

Located on the University of Nevada, Reno campus, Fleischmann Planetarium is one of the first planetariums in the U.S. to feature a full-dome theater. Kids are captivated by the star shows, and the science exhibits make abstract concepts tangible. Admission is affordable, and shows rotate regularly — it’s an excellent educational stop that pairs well with a walk around the university campus.

Address: 1664 N. Virginia St, Reno, NV 89557 (University of Nevada, Reno campus)

Hours: Typically Thursday–Sunday with afternoon show times. Check unr.edu/planetarium for the current schedule.

Admission: Adults approximately $8; children and seniors approximately $5. Museum exhibits are free; show tickets purchased separately.

Best for: Ages 5 and up. Especially great for curious kids who love space and science.

The Discovery — Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum

Located in downtown Reno, The Discovery is a top-rated children’s museum featuring hands-on STEM exhibits spread across multiple floors. From the water play area on the ground floor to the engineering challenges upstairs, kids stay engaged for hours. It’s one of the most popular family attractions in the entire region, and for good reason.

Address: 490 S. Center St, Reno, NV 89501

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM–5:00 PM. Closed Mondays.

Admission: General admission approximately $15 per person. Children under 1 free. Memberships available.

Best for: Ages 2–10. Younger kids gravitate toward water play and building stations; older kids enjoy the science exhibits.

National Automobile Museum

Car-loving kids (and parents) will enjoy the National Automobile Museum in downtown Reno along the Truckee River. The museum displays more than 200 vehicles spanning from the 1890s to modern day, including celebrity cars, rare prototypes, and beautifully restored classics. The cars are presented in themed “street scene” settings that bring each era to life, and rotating exhibits keep things fresh for repeat visitors. It’s consistently rated one of the top things to do in Reno, and a must for families visiting during Hot August Nights.

Address: 1 Museum Dr (at Lake St), Reno, NV 89501

Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

Admission: Adults (16–61) $15; seniors (62+) $13; youth (6–15) and military/veterans $10; children 5 and under free. Free parking.

Best for: Ages 5 and up. Especially appealing for kids who love cars, history, or Hot August Nights culture.

Family Shopping & Dining

The Outlets at Legends

The Outlets at Legends is an open-air shopping center with more than 60 stores, located right next to Legends Bay Casino. Families enjoy browsing Nike, Under Armour, Carter’s, and other outlet stores for deals on kids’ clothing and gear. Beyond shopping, the complex includes Galaxy IMAX Theatres, several restaurants, and easy access to Sparks Marina. It’s a convenient spot to combine shopping, entertainment, and dining in a single stop.

Address: 1250 Scheels Dr, Sparks, NV 89434

Tip: Check the Outlets at Legends website for seasonal events, holiday activities, and special promotions throughout the year.

Family-Friendly Dining at LB Grill

After a full day of activities, LB Grill at Legends Bay Casino is a great spot for families to sit down and recharge. The menu features American comfort food favorites, burgers, sandwiches, breakfast-all-day, and hearty entrees, with portions and prices that work for the whole family. Expect entrees in the $12–$25 range. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a comfortable choice even with younger kids in tow. For a special family dinner, Duke’s Steak House offers an elevated experience with prime steaks and an extensive wine list. Browse all dining options at Legends Bay Casino.

Good to know: While the Legends Bay Casino gaming floor is 21+, the restaurants are open to guests of all ages. LB Grill is accessible without entering the casino floor, so families can dine comfortably.

Day Trips Worth the Drive

Virginia City

About 30 minutes southeast of Sparks, Virginia City is a beautifully preserved Old West mining town that kids find genuinely exciting. Stroll the wooden boardwalks past saloons, candy shops, and museums. The highlight for most families is a ride on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, a narrated 35-minute steam train that runs from Virginia City to Gold Hill through historic Comstock mining territory. Kids also love exploring the mining exhibits, panning for gold, and browsing the old-fashioned general stores. The V&T operates daily from Memorial Day through October, with special event trains (Pumpkin Patch, Polar Express) extending into fall and winter. For more day trip ideas from this home base, see our nearby attractions guide.

Distance from Legends Bay Casino: Approximately 30 minutes by car.

V&T Railroad Tickets: Adults $18; children (5–12) $9; under 5 free.

Best for: Ages 4 and up. A full half-day or day trip combining history, train rides, and small-town charm.

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is roughly 45 minutes from Sparks and makes for a spectacular family day trip any time of year. In summer, families enjoy beaches, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and easy hiking trails. In winter, Tahoe transforms into a world-class ski and snowboard destination with several family-friendly resorts. The drive up through the Sierra Nevada is scenic in every season. Explore more outdoor day trips on our nearby attractions page.

Distance from Legends Bay Casino: Approximately 45 minutes to the north shore beaches.

Best for: All ages. Tahoe has something for every family, from sandy beaches to bunny slopes.

Seasonal Events & Weekend Activities

The Reno-Sparks area comes alive with seasonal events that families love. Here are some highlights to keep on your calendar:

• Hot August Nights (August): This iconic classic car festival takes over the region with car shows, concerts, and family-friendly cruises. Kids love checking out the vintage cars parked around town.
• Great Reno Balloon Race (September): One of the largest free hot-air balloon festivals in the world. The dawn launch is unforgettable for kids, and the event includes games, food vendors, and activities on the field.
• Food Truck Fridays at Idlewild Park (Summer): A weekly Friday evening event with dozens of food trucks, live music, and a family-friendly atmosphere in one of Reno’s most beautiful parks.
• Christmas at Sparks Marina (December): Seasonal holiday events, lights, and activities make the marina area especially festive during the winter months.
• V&T Railroad Themed Trains (Year-Round): Pumpkin Patch Trains in fall, Candy Cane Express and Polar Express in winter, and steam train excursions in summer make Virginia City a year-round family destination.
• Sparks Hometowne Farmers Market (Summer): Held weekly in Victorian Square, this market features produce, food trucks, crafts, and live music, a laid-back family outing on a summer morning.

For upcoming events near Legends Bay Casino, check our special events page for the latest listings.

Plan Your Family Visit to Reno & Sparks

Legends Bay Casino sits at the center of the Outlets at Legends complex in Sparks, putting your family within walking distance of Sparks Marina, Galaxy IMAX, dozens of shops, and multiple restaurants. If you’re making it an overnight trip, the Hampton Inn & Suites and Residence Inn by Marriott are located right next door, both offer indoor pools, free breakfast, and marina views that families love.

From this home base, every attraction on this list is within a short drive. Sparks Marina is a two-minute walk, Wild Island and Fly High Trampoline Park are five minutes away, and Reno’s downtown museums and attractions are 10–15 minutes by car. Virginia City and Animal Ark are easy 25–30-minute day trips, and Lake Tahoe is about 45 minutes.

Ready to explore more? Browse our full guide to nearby attractions or discover everything at The Outlets at Legends.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best things to do in Reno with kids?

Some of the top family-friendly activities include visiting Sparks Marina for paddleboarding and beach play, catching a movie at Galaxy IMAX Theatres at The Outlets at Legends, exploring The Discovery children’s museum in downtown Reno, spending a day at Wild Island Family Adventure Park, bouncing at Fly High Trampoline Park, floating the Truckee River in summer, and riding the historic V&T Railroad in Virginia City. For younger kids, Idlewild Park’s playgrounds and train ride are a hit. For animal lovers, Animal Ark wildlife sanctuary is a short drive north of Sparks.

2. Is Legends Bay Casino family-friendly?

The casino gaming floor is 21+, but the broader Legends Bay Casino complex is welcoming to families. Restaurants like LB Grill are open to all ages and accessible without entering the casino floor. The casino is also located at The Outlets at Legends, which offers family shopping, IMAX movies, and easy access to Sparks Marina.

3. What outdoor activities are near Sparks, NV for families?

Sparks Marina Park is the closest outdoor attraction, it’s within walking distance of Legends Bay Casino and features a beach, walking path, paddle boats, and kayak rentals. Wild Island is about five minutes away with a full water park. Idlewild Park in Reno offers playgrounds, a rose garden, duck ponds, and seasonal train rides. In summer, families can tube the Truckee River through downtown Reno. For day trips, Lake Tahoe is roughly 45 minutes from Sparks and offers beaches, hiking, and boating. See our full nearby attractions guide for more options.

4. Are there free things to do in Reno with kids?

Yes. Sparks Marina Park is free to visit and offers beach access, walking trails, and picnic areas. Idlewild Park is also free and features playgrounds, a rose garden, duck ponds, and riverside paths. The Great Reno Balloon Race in September is one of the largest free balloon festivals in the world. Rancho San Rafael Regional Park (home to the Wilbur D. May Museum) has free open fields, playgrounds, and an arboretum. Walking the Truckee River Whitewater Park at Wingfield Park is free, and many community events at Victorian Square are also free to attend.

5. Where can families eat near Legends Bay Casino?

LB Grill at Legends Bay Casino serves family-friendly American comfort food, burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast all day, and is open to all ages. Entrees range from approximately $12–$25. For a more upscale family dinner, Duke’s Steak House is an excellent option. The Outlets at Legends also has several quick-service and sit-down restaurant options within walking distance. View all dining options.

6. What are the best indoor activities in Reno for kids on a rainy day?

Top indoor options include The Discovery children’s museum for hands-on STEM play, Fly High Trampoline Park for active kids who need to burn off energy, Galaxy IMAX Theatres for a movie in luxury recliners, the National Automobile Museum for car and history lovers, Fleischmann Planetarium for space shows, and Wild Island’s indoor bowling, laser tag, and arcade. All are open year-round regardless of weather.

7. Is Virginia City worth visiting with kids?

Absolutely. Virginia City is about 30 minutes from Sparks and offers a unique Old West experience. Kids love riding the Virginia & Truckee Railroad steam train, exploring the mining museums, browsing the candy and novelty shops along the boardwalk, and learning about Comstock-era history. The V&T also runs special family event trains throughout the year, including Pumpkin Patch Trains in fall and the Polar Express in winter. Check our special events page for seasonal happenings near Legends Bay Casino.