Overview
Reno, “The Biggest Little City in the World,” rose as a gambling hub decades before Las Vegas boomed. In the early 20th century, Reno was famous for quick divorces and legal gaming, attracting visitors from San Francisco and beyond. Today it remains a budget‑friendly alternative to Vegas, with lower table minimums, walkable downtown casinos, and Lake Tahoe just 40 minutes away.
Legality & Rules
- Age: 21+ to gamble (Nevada law).
- Taxes: Gambling winnings are taxable by the IRS; casinos may issue W‑2G forms for certain jackpots.
- Smoking: Casino gaming floors generally allow smoking (except in certain designated areas).
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June–August): Warm, festival season, day trips to Lake Tahoe.
- Fall (Sept–Oct): Pleasant weather, less crowded, Reno Air Races.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Base in Reno for skiing at Tahoe resorts.
- Spring (Mar–May): Quieter, good hotel values before summer rush.
Top Casinos
Casino Spotlights
Grand Sierra Resort
Reno’s largest resort with 1,900 rooms, concerts, and extensive table games.
Atlantis
Upscale casino resort with a poker room, spa, and fine dining.
Silver Legacy
Downtown icon with a huge dome, linked to ElDorado and Circus Circus in THE ROW.
- Silver Legacy – Part of “THE ROW” downtown; iconic dome and large gaming floor.
- ElDorado – Classic Reno property; lively table games and dining.
- Circus Circus Reno – Mid‑market family‑friendly; part of THE ROW.
- Grand Sierra Resort (GSR) – Reno’s largest casino; 80+ table games and big entertainment events.
- Atlantis – Upscale property south of downtown; spa and solid poker room.
Hotels
- Grand Sierra Resort: Full‑service resort; big rooms, concerts, family amenities.
- Atlantis: Spa suites, upscale dining, connected to convention center.
- Silver Legacy / ElDorado / Circus Circus (“THE ROW”): Walkable downtown complex.
- Whitney Peak Hotel: Non‑gaming, smoke‑free option with climbing wall.
Tips
- Budget play: Reno is known for $5 blackjack and craps tables, especially mid‑week.
- Comps: Sign up for Caesars Rewards (Silver Legacy, ElDorado, Circus Circus) or property programs.
- Outdoor escapes: Lake Tahoe, Truckee Riverwalk, and winter skiing are nearby.
- Events: Hot August Nights (classic cars), Reno Air Races, Burning Man staging hub.
Budget & Table Minimums
FAQ
What is Reno known for?
As “The Biggest Little City,” Reno was a gambling hub before Vegas and remains budget‑friendly with nearby Tahoe access.
What’s the gambling age?
21+ in Nevada.
Where to find the cheapest tables?
Downtown casinos like ElDorado, Silver Legacy, Circus Circus often deal $5–$10 blackjack and craps.
What’s nearby?
Lake Tahoe (40 mins), Truckee Riverwalk, ski resorts in winter.
Reno is one of the best U.S. cities for low‑minimum tables.
- Blackjack & Craps: $5–$10 tables are common, especially downtown or mid‑week.
- Poker: Smaller rooms than Vegas, but Atlantis and GSR run regular low‑buy‑in tournaments.
- Slots: Wide mix; many penny and nickel machines remain.