Reno - Downtown
Downtown: land of blinky lights, endless buffets, one way streets and plenty of tourists. Please don't shoot the tourists; they're out of season.
St Mary's Health Network
236 W 6th St # 302 - (775) 770-3000 / (775) 323-5151 / (775) 770-7100
Washoe Medical Center
77 Pringle Way - 775-982-4100
Washoe Family and Urgent Care
975 Ryland, Ste. 100 - 775-982-5210
Burner Boutique
100 N Sierra St - (775) 322-9444
Welcome to Reno!
Downtown Reno is changing. Not only does it have two big balls, we now have a train trench and a front porch right on the River at First Street. The front porch is where the old Mapes stood. You remember the Mapes-it only took the city 20 years to decide what to do with that tired, out of code building.
Home to most of our mega hotel-casino resorts, downtown IS an experience in itself apart from the rest of Reno, offering a variety of attractions, but currently one requiring the patience and sharpness of the experienced traveler.
Note: Wherever you plan to park downtown, please be sure to remember to lock your vehicles. Much of Reno's parking is free, however, be sure to have change available for parking meters. Also, as with any business, be very cautious before cruising into a hotel-casino with your Burner attire, props and esprit. Security might just be looking for something unusual to take seriously. Just a word of friendly local advice.
Virginia is the street to see the legendary Reno Arch! So if you have to absolutely see it and snap a picture, it's located on Virginia and the RR tracks, between Fitzgerald's and Harrah's Plaza.
Coming off the Interstate, if you take the first right, you will be on Sierra Street. Sierra is a one-way street that runs parallel to Virginia.
In need of urgent or emergency medical attention? Turn right onto Sixth Street. St. Mary's will take excellent care of you. Walgreen's will give you your medicine.
Or is it your vehicle that needs some surgery? A decent place that has been around Reno since the 1920s, Reno Vulcanizing Works caters to women. They are friendly and willing to explain things to you. Turn left onto Sixth Street and they are located at North Virginia and Sixth Street, just 2 blocks south of I-80.
Circus-Circus is the first hotel-casino you will want to run from. Circus-Circus is a great place to get a room, play games, and enjoy ok food. They have parking on the left side of Sierra, two indoor parking garages on either side of Sierra Street and a large surface parking lot on the right side for RVs and other large spaceships. The are offering special rates for burners for days before and after the event. Be sure to call them early to reserve a room, and give them these codes for special rates (IBURN — pre-event, IBURN2 — post event). 775-789-5604
Okay. Let's say that you just want to park your art car and not have to worry about driving it through Downtown Reno. Great. Catch the *free* Sierra Spirit Citifare bus at the yellow signs. A map is posted at each bus stop. Buses arrive every 10 minutes to whisk you away. Make a note of where you left your wheels. The bus can take you throughout downtown from the University of Nevada, Reno to the Nevada Museum of Art at Liberty Street.
Next stop is the Silver Legacy Hotel and Casino. Their valet and self-parking is accessed on Sierra Street. We do not recommend large vehicles or trailers. Many great restaurants from fine dining (Sterling's) to the cow trough (Flavors, The Buffet), will easily fill your belly. We like it. Rooms can be reserved by calling 775-329-4777.
When you cross Fourth Street, the Eldorado Hotel and Casino will beckon you. Valet parking is to the left with self-parking to the right. With the same parking set up as the Legacy, forget parking your RV here. The parking garage is full of tight turns and can get tricky if you don't pay attention. The Eldo also has great food and the Brew Brothers will fill your need for microbrews and garlic fries. Yum.
Quick! Stop! Immediately after the Eldo parking garage, turn right and on your right is the former Blue Lamp, now called Third Street Blues. Still a classic with locals, you will enjoy a great drink and some killer music.
Cross the RR tracks and continue down Sierra Street to First Street. Turn right and there is a decent parking garage that is relatively easy to get in and out of. Rates are $1.50 an hour unless you shop at a store that will validate your parking. On that corner is the Silver Peak Restaurant. The biggest highlight is their patio dining. The menu offers some traditional bar foods but mostly non-traditional adventures that are quite yummy. Try it. You'll like it.
In an old art deco building on your left of West First Street, you will find the Java Jungle, which has wireless access, as well as Wild Sierra Adventures. They are one of the few places in town that rents bicycles specifically to Burners, offers shuttle services to the playa, and has other outfitting products for your camping needs.
Now, if you want to go to a favorite local Burner bar, turn right onto West Street. The Green Room is tucked in the back of the parking lot, a popular place for burners, especially for their live music. And they are right next to the G Spot. Three guesses what you find at the G Spot. They have a decent selection of various adult items and such but nothing in the way of clothing. Need lube? Four huge shelves are likely to hold your favorite brand. Find onstreet parking for both places.
Ready to go back to Downtown? Turn right onto West Street and go to Second Street. Turn right and lo and beyond, you're back at Sierra Street. But keep going another block to Virginia Street. Turn right and head south. We've got some delicious places to share with you.
Just across the river on Virginia Street, you will find Dreamer's Coffeehouse and Deli, which happens to have free wireless Internet access. They also have three online computers, which are pay-to-use. A very cozy place to hang out, one in fact you might want to leave or borrow a book in! Metered parking places are located on this side of the river for blocks around, and if you look around closely, there are some bank parking lots for the short-term. This is also a great place to roam along the river!
There are large Wells Fargo, Bank of America and US Bank buildings on the corner of Virginia Street and Liberty. No free samples, darn it.
Next to the US Bank Building on Center & Liberty is the Washoe County Library, which has free online computers downstairs. Use is limited to one hour per day per person.
Dotted along South Virginia you will blissfully discover Starbuck's Coffee, Ace's Tattoo, Lotus Body Piercing, Black Hole Body Piercing, KJ Citimart, Thai Chili Restaurant, The Zephyr Lounge, Romantic Sensations, Scotland Yard Spy Shop, India Kabob Restaurant, 1099 Club, Fantasy Faire, El Adobe Cafe, and lastly, an AM-PM. If you wish to continue south from here, go to the Plumb Lane hub. Highlights are below.
The KJ Citimart is on the left side and can be tricky to get back onto Virginia Street. They offer some of the lowest priced gas in town.
Next door is the Thai Chili Restaurant. Fabulous food and some of the best peanut sauces around. Highly, highly recommended.
The Melting Pot owners, Eric and Monique, are long, long time Burners. You remember the Midnight Popcorn Palace. That's them. At the Melting Pot, you can get your ticket before hitting the gate. Be sure to have cash. No plastic for Burning Man tickets.
Besides tickets, the Melting Pot offers a HUGE freaking variety of everything: Goddess and diva wear, pipes and other related essentials, belly dance clothing and hip belts, poi, incense, candles, jewelry you won't find at the mall, costumes, men's and women's clothing that will make you feel fabulous along with light-up gadgets and gizmos. Be prepared to spend more than a few minutes to explore Reno's Coolest Store. Give them a call at 775-322-9445. They are located at the corner of South Virginia and Taylor on the left side. Oh! Do *not* park at the bar across the street. They really, really don't like it.
Ah! The Zephyr Lounge. Long time, big time, favorite hangout for anyone and everyone who has even the remotest connection to Burning Man. Fabulous drinks. Cold beer. Killer music and some of the most fantastic people around.
Romantic Sensations offers tons of square footage of costumes, lingerie, BDSM attire, shoes up to size 15 and tons of tights and stockings. They can be quite pricey so be prepared for sticker shock.
Anything but straight? You might want to check out the 1099 Club. Friendly and welcoming, located at the corner of South Virginia and Vassar on the right side. Huge rectangle bar with lots of free info available on other businesses and resources for the GBLT communities.
On the left side of the street, Fantasy Faire, in our arrogant opinion, is the best place to get adult toys, lubricant, BDSM equipment, corsets, lingerie and fabulous black light clothing plus the shoes to go with them. 775-323-6969. Great prices here that won't empty your wallet.
Go across the street behind the Antique Malls and the El Adobe will serve you margaritas and tummy filling burritos. Authentic food and bright colorful decor.
And this concludes our tour of the Downtown Reno region. Thank you and please come again!
Other highlights that aren't on this path but are close enough to downtown that we'll include them here.
Like big libraries with BIG computer labs? Then the University's Getchall Library is for you. With free computer access for guests, getting there is worth it. Take the Virginia Street Exit #13 and turn left. The easiest parking is located at Artemesia Way. Be sure to pay the parking meters or you WILL get a ticket. No kidding. Parking is a premium at UNR, especially during the week of Burning Man. It's also the first week of classes. Once parked, go up the hill and turn right. Getchall Library will be on your right.
The Record Street Cafe is a long-time Burner as well as college hangout. Again turn left onto Virginia, then right onto Ninth Street. Down about 1/4 mile, keep your eyes sharply focused on your right and your speed slow, as you will see it tucked in at the corner of Record Street and Ninth Street. With featured pieces of art by local artists and a comfy friendly atmosphere, they provide food and drink for carnivores and vegetarians alike, as well as free wireless access.
Turn right onto Fourth Street and on the corner of Fourth Street and Arlington, you will find the Sands Regency. They have huge surface parking lots that are easy to maneuver around and the best part? On Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, they have free pool parties in the evenings! Bikini contests and live music along with drink specials and tacos, the Sands makes downtown fun!
Turn left onto Fourth Street and you'll run into the Reno Jazz Club and Abby's Highway 50 both on the right side of the street. They are notable to many Burners for their live music nights and dance floors.
Craving some fantastic maguro? Thought so. The best, and I mean *the* best tuna sushi, is at the Ichiban, located in Harrah's on the corner of Virginia and Second Streets. Local ID gets you a discount for the all-you-can-eat.
AM-PM Minimart map
1390 S. Virginia - 775-329-959
K J Mini Mart (also known as CitiGas) map
775-329-6225 - 1086 S Virginia St
This location at the corner of Center and Virginia has some of the cheapest gas in Reno.
Irma's Food Mart & Oriental Store
775-329-6004 - 628 Mill St - map
Indo-Asian Inc.
775-324-0442 - 709 E 2nd St - map
Crystal Springs Water Co.
901 S. Center Street, Reno - 775 323-4710 - map
crystalspringswater.org
crystal4burningman (at) yahoo (dot) com
Pneumatic Diner
501 West First St. - 775-786-8888, ext. 106 - map
A long-time favorite hangout of many vegetarians and vegans as well as non-vegetarians, the laid back and cozy atmosphere quickly leads one to forget where one is in the biggest little city. Seating may be hard to come by, but its open everyday from 11-11 (Sunday brunch at 9 AM). The entrance is located in the northeast corner of the Truckee River Lodge Building on Ralston St. It's up the stairs on the back side of the building and is easy to miss if you don't know it's there.
Blue Moon Pizza
190 California St. - 775-324-2828 - open 11-9 (Mon-Sat)/1-9 (Sun) - map
A local secret, Blue Moon wins accolades from folks in the know. Many vegetarian pizzas, and they stuff the pie to the brim.
Peg's Glorified Ham & Eggs
775-329-2600 - 420 S Sierra St - map
Peg's is downtown and offers a fantastic alternative to the casino all-you-can-eat buffets. At Peg's you'll get strong coffee, healthy portions of omelets, pancakes, or other standard breakfast fare, or salads, sandwiches, and soups during lunch time. 6:30 AM to 2:00 PM daily. Very limited outdoor seating available at the sidewalk tables.
Record Street Cafe
945 Record St. - 775-329-7227 - map
Wireless access and a whole lot more.
Pub 'n Sub
1000 Ralston - 775-322-8540 - Open 11am-11pm - map
College crowd.
India Kabob and Curry
1091 S. Virginia - 775-348-6222 - map
11:30 - 10:30, lunch buffet from 11:30 til 3:00 in the same location as the old Blue Heron
This Indian lunch buffet is better than most, the price is a bargain, and they change the line-up on a regular basis. Particularly good are the Chicken Tikka Masala, Veg Pakora, Tandoori Chicken, and their awesome tamarind sauce. The rice is fluffy, the soups are hot, and they have the standard selection of beers if you want something stronger than Mango Lassi. Parking in back is through a narrow alley, but there's decent street parking in the neighborhood. Next door on Virginia across the alley is The Spy Shop, and they have more parking available.
Thai Chili Restaurant
1030 S. Virginia - 775-786-7878 - 11am-9pm - map
Green Room
144 West Street - 775-324-1224 - map
Known for an eclectic variety of live music, this ‘smart bar’ (no gaming) focuses on music options, art and camaraderie to accompany your cocktails. You are a friend first, and customer second.
Free WiFi
Open 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily.
Zephyr Lounge
1074 S Virginia St - 775-324-9853 - map
Longtime burner magnet, the Zephyr Lounge is one of Reno’s longest running hot spots for music, art, poetry and general socially eclectic gatherings. It’s laid-back, neon, attitude/advertisement free atmosphere invites people to express or just ignore. Live music (up to six days a week) from local and national acts, and open mic mondaze will arouse something of interest in everyone.
Satellite
188 California Ave - 775-786-3536 - map
For an upbeat lounge atmosphere and chic, check this out.
Abby's Highway 40
424 E 4th St - 775-322-9422 - map
Reno Jazz Club
302 E 4th St - 775-322-5011 - map
3rd Street Blues
125 W 3rd St - 775-323-5005 - map
West of Sierra St.; formerly the Blue Lamp.
1099 Club
1099 S Virginia St - 775-329-1099 - map
This is a good starting point if you're looking for a rainbow pride tour of Reno. Find drag revues, patio parties, and the dish on other GLBT business and resources.
Red Rock Studio
241 S. Sierra St - 775-324-2468 - map
One of the more unique lounges in town - clean and cozy, wonderful service, and some class ! Open most all day with espressos.
The Imperial Lounge
150 N. Arlington - 775-324-7720 - map
At this 'gastropub,' try beers and sliders or a glass of wine with a thin crust pizza. A community-oriented spot, with something for everyone and a special appeal to locals - especially singles and college students. A stripped-down, wide-open venue featuring 20-foot ceilings, exposed steel beams, and natural brick. Includes modern amenities like wide-screen TVs, custom-designed booths, and a sleek bar. Diverse menu includes Panini sandwiches, meats and cheeses, a wide selection of beers on tap, and several wines.
Hours are 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. daily.
Tonic
231 W. Second St - 775-337-6868 - map
A fun place for midnight ambient trance music.
210 North
210 N. Sierra St - 775-786-6210 - map
Open Thur. - Sat. 9pm 'til dawn
New large dance club noted for its elegance.
The 5-Star Saloon
132 West Street - 775-329-2878 - map
A downtown-Reno gay bar that offers a friendly, sassy place, with pool tables, live shows, live DJs, Internet jukebox, and free WiFi. No cover charge; free parking at the 1st Street Parking Gallery.
Open 24/7.
The Patio
600 W. 5th Street - 775-323-6565 - map
A very classy, friendly gay bar with mixed crowd, and deluxe pool tables. Mostly women on Friday nights.
Jungle Vino
248 West 1st Street - 775-329-4484 - map
Fine wine and food in an intimate, sophisticated setting. Features a full-service bar, weekly wine tastings, and special events supporting local artists and music.
Open Mon. — Thurs. 3 p.m.— 12 p.m., Fri. 3 p.m.— 2 a.m., Sat. noon — 2 a.m., Sun. noon — midnight.
Se7en Teahouse and Bar
100 N. Arlington Avenue - 775-348-9526 - map
Adding a bit of flavor, class and culture to the Reno community, this teahouse, bar and food venue provides a sanctuary for some quiet time or to meet up with friends. A large variety of teas ranging from organic to herbal, green to red, Asian to European, loose to bag. Coffees, sandwiches, pastries and appetizers also available. Turns into a cocktail lounge after 6 p.m., featuring a complete wine list, organic alcoholic and tea-accented concoctions.
Sun. — Th. 10 a.m. — midnight, Fri. & Sat. 10 a.m. — 2 a.m.
Sierra Tap House
252 W. 1st Street - 775-348-9526 - map
Known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff and full liquor menu, this bar is located along the Truckee River. Offers a great patio for people watching and enjoying a nice microbrew in a relaxed, non-smoking atmosphere.
Open Mon.-Fri., 4 p.m. to close; Sat. & Sun., noon to close.
Silver Peak Grill and Taproom
135 N. Sierra Street - 775-284-3300 - map
Very popular local brewery/restaurant located in the heart of the arts district. Features indoor and outdoor dining and new menu items including red curry shrimp, grilled-lamb burger with kalamata olives and goat cheese, grilled flat-iron steak, pistachio-encrusted salmon and their signature white sangria (summers).
Kitchen open 11 a.m. to midnight weekdays; to 1 a.m. Fri. & Sat.
Getchell Library, University of Nevada at Reno
1664 N Virginia St - 775-784-6533 - map
(Fall Hours) 7:30am-midnight, one hour free computer access with guest pass acquired at circulation desk.
Washoe County Library
301 S Center St - 775-327-8300 - map
Monday, 9-5, Tuesday, 1-7, Wed-Fri, 9-5, Sat, 11-3, one hour free computer access with guest pass.
Dreamer's Coffeehouse & Deli
17 S Virginia St - 775-322-8040 - map
7 AM - 9 PM (Open until 10 PM on Fri and Sat)
Limited computer access and free wireless.
Java Jungle
246 W 1st St - 775-329-4484 - map
Nevada Museum of Art
160 West Liberty Street - 775-329-3333 - 775-329-1541 - map
Washoe Medical Center
77 Pringle Way - 775-982-4100 - 775-982-4112 - map
Fritz's
1305 N Virginia St - 775-348-0808 - map
Bar and grill across from the university campus with a wifi network.
Dish Cafe & Catering
855 Mill St - 775-348-8264 - map
Green Room
144 West Street - 775-324-1224 - map
Open 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily.
The 5-Star Saloon
132 West Street - 775-329-2878 - map
Dreamer's Coffeehouse & Deli
17 S Virginia St - 775-322-8040 - map
7 AM - 9 PM (Open until 10 PM on Fri and Sat)
Limited computer access and free wireless.
Unscientific studies indicate high caffiene per milligram, meaning we're wide awake for hours after a visit to Dreamer's.
Java Jungle
246 W 1st St - 775-329-4484 - map
Hospitals/Urgent Care Facilities
M St Mary's Health Network
236 W 6th St # 302 - 775-770-3000 - 775-323-5151 - map - map above
W Washoe Medical Center
77 Pringle Way - 775-982-4100 - map - map above
F Washoe Family and Urgent Care
975 Ryland, Ste. 100 - 775-982-5210 - map - map above
US Bank
1 East Liberty - 775-688-6626 - map
Bank of America
700 N Virginia St - 775-688-8383 - map
Bank of America
401 S Virginia St - 775-688-8778 - 775-688-8630 - map
Wild Sierra Adventures
254 West First St - 775-323-8928 - map
Circus Circus Hotel & Casino
500 N Sierra St - 775-329-0711 - 775-789-5604 - map
Not famous for its food. Do not wear costumes (especially clown costumes) inside, and leave your toys outside, for security is serious! Surface and indoor parking.
Sands Regency
345 N Arlington Ave - 775-348-2200 - 800-648-3553 - 775-322-2647 - map
Lots of surface and indoor parking. Free pool parties, Sun, Wed, and Friday, 6-8/10pm.
Econo Lodge
666 N Wells Ave - 775-329-3125 - map
Motel 6
866 N Wells Avenue, Reno, NV 89512 - 775-786-9852 - 775-786-3162 - map
I-80 at N Wells Avenue Exit #14
Days Inn
701 E 7th St - 775-786-4070 - map
The Melting Pot World Emporium
1049 S Virginia St - 775-322-9445 - map
B Burner Boutique
100 N. Virginia St. - email - map
"Now Open! the Soon to be Famous 'Burner Boutique', located in Reno in the Sierra Antique Mall at 100 N. Virginia St. We have a multitude of fabulous, inexpensive, random acts of costumery for your playa-pleasure. It's all recycled 'stuff', ready for the playa, and hand picked for you by Diva C and Sabra G. Come in and visit as you pass through town. The party is always on!"
- cari lockett aka Diva C of the Diva Den @ The Last Resort
Spy Shop-Scotland Yard
1085 S Virginia St - 775-323-3232 - map
Romantic Sensations
1065 S Virginia St - 775-322-1884 - map
Hippies Pipes and Incense
203 East Second Street- 775-324-1109 - map
Fantasy Faire
1298 S Virginia St - 775-323-6969 - map
Mon-Thu, 11 AM - 7 PM, Fri 11 AM - 8 PM, Sun 12 Noon - 4 PM
Aces Tattoo
681 S Virginia St - 775-333-0915 - map
Black Hole Body Piercing
912 S Virginia St - 775-329-6010 - map
12 Noon - 8 PM / Sun-Mon 12 Noon - 6 PM
Stingray Productions
902 S Wells Ave - 775-348-8383 - map
11 AM - 8 PM
Pirate Tattoo
1039 S Virginia St - 775-337-1153 - map
Absolute Tattoo
620 Ryland St - 775-324-2223 - map
Body Graphics Tattooing
460 S Wells Ave - 775-322-8623 - map
Salvation Army
1925 Sutro St - 775-688-4588 - 775-688-4589 - map
9 AM - 6 PM, Closed Sundays
Rankin's Auto Service Inc
530 Merrill (off Wells near I-80) - 775-329-8433 - map
8 AM - 5 PM, Mon-Fri
Reno Vulcanizing Auto Care & Tire Works
590 N Virginia St - 775-322-2141 - map
Mon-Fri 8 AM - 6 PM, Sat 8 AM - 5 PM, Auto service and tires.
Need more info?
Try: Reno News and Review, Reno Gazette-Journal, Reno Magazine, National Traffic and Road Closure Information, PlayReno, NevadaNet, goTahoe.com, tahoe.com. 
