Where to Take Visiting Family over the Holidays

Do you have family or other guests visiting from out of town over Thanksgiving or Christmas, and are wondering what you’re going to do to entertain them AND keep the kids busy as well?  We have just the list for you – a resource of places and events to attend that will adapt to all ages and keep everyone happy.

Cabela’s in Verdi – One can spend an afternoon in Cabela’s in Verdi even if you’re not a hunter or fisherman. Let grandpa peruse the fly fishing supplies while you and the kids check out the shooting arcade.  Then, have an affordable lunch in their cafe.

Bowling – Take everyone out for an evening of bowling at Starlite Lanes.  If you have a large group, take advantage of their special Pizza Bowl with unlimited pizza and bowling.

Grand Sierra Cinema in the Grand Sierra Casino has tickets for $4 always.  In addition, they have cool and comfy sofas and the theater is rarely packed.  Afterwards, have lunch or dinner at Johnny Rockets just down the hall.

Get into the holiday spirit by ice skating at the Ice Rink at the Aces Ballpark. For a post skating warm up, sip some hot coffee and a bowl of posole at Arroyo Mexican Grill in the Freight House District adjacent to the ballpark.

Take them for some authentic Basque cuisine at Louis Basque Corner in Reno, the Santa Fe Hotel and Restaurant in Reno, or J.T. Basque Restaurant in Gardnerville. Family style seating and a taste of “old Nevada!”

Visit Animal Ark in North Reno.  Over the Thanksgiving weekend, they have special events and hours.  Follow along the one mile path and tire out the kids.  In addition, they have golf carts that are available for elderly or handicapped visitors.

Pioneer Center in downtown Reno is features off-Broadway productions in November, and the ever-popular Nutcracker in December.  Purchase tickets ahead of time, and while your at it, make reservations at a nearby restaurant for a “before-show” dinner.

Do the adults need a break from the kids for a while?  Make an appointment for a day pass at the spa at The Peppermill Casino.  The pass includes the use of the heated indoor pool, the steam room, and light refreshments.

Ride the train at the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Carson City.  Thanksgiving weekend and various dates in December they fire up the engine for short 15 minute rides around the property.  The prices are quite affordable, and kids 3 and under ride for free.

Have a Sunday brunch at Chez Louie’s in the Nevada Museum of Art.  Enjoy breakfast with live acoustic music in the background, then tour the museum.

Have some sports fans visiting?  Attend a Reno Bighorns game in the Reno Events Center downtown.

Historic Virginia City offers a unique look into the past. Take an easy day trip to board the Silver Line Express and taste the riches of 19th Century Nevada. Enjoy 100-mile views across the mountains and high desert, tour mansions, mines and museums, and ride the V & T railroad along the same routes travelers took more than 100 years ago. Visit shops of all kinds, have a bite to eat or a drink in one of the Old West-style saloons and take in live entertainment.

The Wilbur D. May Center is always a great outing.  Not only can you view Wilbur May’s impressive lifetime collection of artifacts from around the world, there are also rotating exhibits on the other side of the museum, and some beautiful short hiking trails that wind through their gardens featuring native Nevadan plants.

Tired of the cold?  Grab your swim goggles and go for a swim on one of Reno’s indoor pools, the Carson City indoor Aquatic Facility, or the Carson Valley Swim Center (which features a climbing wall that comes right out of the pool!)  Just don’t forget to remind your visitors to bring their swimsuits!

Do you have a favorite place your take out of town guests over the holidays?  We would love to hear from you, so let us know in the comment section below!

Sources:

Adapated Reno Fam on the Go and via

Image Meals on Wheels