Explore the Fly Geyser in Gerlach
Just a couple hours from Reno you’ll find one of Nevada’s most unique geological wonders – the Fly Geyser. Located on private land in Gerlach, this small 12-foot geyser was accidentally created in 1964 when a company drilled a geothermal energy well, and unleashed pressurized groundwater that has gradually transformed into what’s known today as Fly Geyser. The constant shooting water draped the mound in colorful limestone and minerals, resulting in what looks like a rainbow mound that nature plopped in the middle of the desert. But it’s not just aesthetics; the water that bubbles out of Fly Geyser is so hot that some of the algae and bacteria that live in it have adapted to thrive in temperatures near boiling point! The landowners are kind enough to allow guests onto their property to view it from a short distance, so your group can behold its eerie beauty during a guided tour to the area.
Fly Ranch
Gerlach, NV 89412
Hike through Ophir Creek Trail
Reno is surrounded by gorgeous mountain scenery, so why not get outside to explore it? The Ophir Creek Trail is one of the area’s most picturesque hikes, especially in autumn when the fall foliage is at its peak. This moderate 5-mile loop trail takes you through forests and meadows, past old mining structures and equipment left from Ophir’s silver mining days, to the site of what once was the town of Ophir under the jagged face of granite cliff. The ruins have long since faded back into the landscape, but if you pause and look closely you can find remnants of buildings and cemeteries hewn into the earth. Of course one of the main attractions is tumbling Ophir Creek itself, which offers plenty of peaceful spots to rest by the water. For wildlife lovers, the area is home to mule deer, badgers, pine martens and even nesting golden eagles! After your hike, your charter bus rental will be waiting to whisk your group back to town in comfort.
Ophir Creek Trailhead
off NV-447, Washoe City, NV 89704
Visit the Petroglyphs at Grimes Point
Just east of Fallon, you’ll find Grimes Point, an area containing the largest collection of ancient petroglyphs in the state. For thousands of years, travelers journeying across the land etched mysterious symbols into the sandstone boulders found here, some dating back over 8,000 years! Archaeologists have identified over 300 rock art panels at Grimes Point, depicting wavy lines, human figures, animals and shapes. Their meaning still remains a mystery today. Visitors can explore the area on a 1.1 mile hiking loop while observing the intriguing carvings up-close. Interpretive signs along the trail shed light on the possible origins and meaning behind some of the human-made art. After viewing these rare artifacts, your group can discuss theories on the hike back to your charter bus!
Grimes Point Archaeological Area
Grimes Point Rd, Fallon, NV 89406
Tour the Unusual Art on the Reno Arch
Most visitors to downtown Reno make a point to get photos in front of the iconic Reno Arch, which has spanned Virginia Street since 1926. But if you look past the glittering “The Biggest Little City in the World” sign, you’ll notice the concrete bases of the arch contain sculpted panels depicting different eras of Reno’s history. Created by local sculptor Jesús Bautista Moroles, the arch is something of a monument to the city itself. The eastern base shows the era of founding Reno city officials, while the other base illustrates the 1931 Reno Air Races, featuring early biplanes and characters like Amelia Earhart. Not many folks stop to appreciate the cultural significance of the sculpted panels, so make time to admire Moroles’ uniquely Reno artistic vision.
Reno Arch
100 N Center St, Reno, NV 89501
Paddle Along the Truckee River Whitewater Park
Reno was built along the Truckee River, which has long provided lifeblood to the area. These days, the river offers recreation in the heart of the city at the Truckee River Whitewater Park. Here you’ll find class II-III rapids that create fun waves for kayaking, surfing, rafting or simple inner-tubing if you want to relax. The area contains several viewing platforms where you can safely watch the action and cheers on rafters. For something unique, book a rafting trip that ends with lunch on the river’s bank, where your charter bus will be waiting to shuttle you to the next adventure. No whitewater experience? No problem. Beginner rafting tours are available so everyone from kids to grandparents can enjoy this only-in-Reno experience. After your thrilling ride down the rapids, dry off on your charter bus before the next stop!
Truckee River Whitewater Park
Wingfield Park, 500 Riverside Dr, Reno, NV 89503
Sip at the Seven Troughs Distillery
Nevada is proud of its local spirits, especially whiskey and bourbon crafted by small-batch distillers. One Reno area favorite is Seven Troughs Distillery, situated on a historic property that was once a Pony Express stop during the California Gold Rush. Their award-winning bourbons and whiskies use water from a 100-year-old private well. Today, visitors can tour the distillery to learn about their process and sample all kinds of spirits, from sweet corn whiskey and barrel-aged gin to seasonal flavored vodkas. Groups and private events are welcome with reservations. Enjoy tasting and chatting with knowledgeable staff before stocking up on specialty bottles only available at the distillery gift shop. Your charter bus driver will be ready to offer a safe ride after your spirited tasting session.
Seven Troughs Distilling
1402 Second Street, Sparks, NV, 89431
(775) 971-9983
Search for Pastimes of the Past at Crosby’s Lodge
Delve into the past at this unique shop filled to the brim with rare vintage items in Reno’s burgeoning MidTown District. Step inside Crosby’s Lodge and you’ll discover a treasure trove of 20,000 square feet showcasing everything from antique electronics, classic arcade games and neon signs to vintage taxidermy, medical equipment and oddities from times gone by. Every inch is packed with discoveries from bygone eras ready to fascinate your passengers. You could spend hours exploring the two floors and still not see it all! Don’t forget to show off your finds to friends back on your charter bus after a trip down memory lane through the museum-like offerings at Crosby’s.
Crosby’s Lodge
1006 S Wells Ave suite 110, Reno, NV 89502
See 500 Exotic Fish Species at Atlantis
Atlantis Casino Resort Spa has another claim to fame beyond being a luxury hotel and casino – it’s home to the largest privately owned aquarium in Nevada, and one of the top-ranked tank attractions in the country. The 50,000-gallon Atlantis Freshwater Fish Aquarium contains over 500 species of exotic fish swimming amongst painstakingly crafted decor. Winding walkways let you get up close to observe bright ornamental fish, giant catfish, stingrays and even sharks! The diversity and vibrancy of species is sure to mesmerize passengers young and old. Visitors can even pay to snorkel inside the massive tank for an immersive experience! Leave plenty of time to enjoy this unexpected tropical oasis before meeting your charter bus.
Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
3800 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89502
Tour the Historical Marker at Donner Pass
Though a grim chapter of history, the ill-fated journey of the Donner Party through Truckee Pass is an important part of Reno’s past. The Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum in downtown Truckee offers educational exhibits on the settlers’ tragic winter stranded in the mountains. Your group can also view the granite Donner Pass Historical Marker at the actual site near Donner Lake where rescuers first encountered the snowbound camp. While a somber landmark, the area is full of striking Sierra Nevada scenery, especially in warmer months when wildflowers bloom. Your bus driver will be ready to continue your journey through the historic mountain passage.
Donner Pass Historical Marker
Kingvale Exit on I-80, Soda Springs, CA 95728