Lake Tahoe, Lakeshore Boulevard, NV 89451

If you've got a rental car in Reno, one of the best things you can do is head up to Lake Tahoe. It’s only a 45-minute drive from Reno, but the scenery changes dramatically as you climb into the Sierra Nevada. Locals tend to have their favorite spots around the lake, but you can spend a few hours driving the shoreline, stopping at secluded beaches and viewpoints, making it well worth the trip. In summer, pack a picnic and find a quiet spot by the water. In winter, the snow-covered mountains make the drive just as memorable as the destination itself.

301 East Fourth Street, Reno, NV 89512

If you're looking for somewhere that feels distinctly Reno, head to Louis' Basque Corner. It's been around for decades and is a popular spot for locals to bring visiting friends and family. The Basque-style meals are served in generous portions, often family-style, so it's a good choice if you're travelling with others. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, and there's usually a mix of regulars and first-time visitors. It's not the trendiest restaurant in town, but that's part of the appeal. For a taste of a long-standing Reno tradition, it's hard to beat.

255 North Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89501

If you're driving a rental car and want to stay somewhere central without feeling like you're in a giant casino resort, Whitney Peak is a solid choice. It's right in downtown Reno, so you can easily walk to restaurants, bars and events, but it has a much more laid-back feel than some of the larger properties nearby. A It's modern, comfortable and a good base for exploring the city or taking day trips to places like Lake Tahoe. Having a rental car means you can enjoy the convenience of downtown while still getting out to the mountains, trails and lakes around the region.

37.4 miles & 46 minutes

Located around 45 minutes’ drive from Reno in your car rental, you’ll find Lake Tahoe. Famed for its crystal-clear alpine waters and breathtaking views, Lake Tahoe is a great destination. Why not extend the road trip with the Lake Tahoe loop drive? The stunning 72-mile scenic route encircling the lake offers spectacular scenery at every turn. 

218 miles & 3 hours 30 minutes

Reno's location on the eastern edge of the Sierra Nevada makes it an ideal starting point for a scenic road trip to San Francisco. The drive along US-80 takes you through Tahoe National Forest, through Lake Tahoe country and through the infamous Donner Pass before descending into California and the iconic sights of the Bay Area.

442 miles & 7 hours

Set between the Sierra Nevada and Nevada's vast desert landscapes, Reno is an ideal starting point for a road trip to Las Vegas. The route takes you along US-95 through ghost towns, mountain ranges and wide-open highways, offering a glimpse of the state's dramatic scenery before ending amid the bright lights of the Strip.