Here’s Why You Should Visit Reno Now (No Gambling Required)

Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.

Photo by @naturalselectionstore

Meet the Insider: Emily Felch, co-owner of The Natural Selection Store

Even in Reno’s funky and fashionable Midtown neighborhood, Natural Selection stands out. Emily Felch and mother Marcy’s curiosity shop is full of taxidermy, carnivorous plants, bones, and skulls. Emily’s Reno tips are as varied as the stock in her shop. 

EAT

Cindy Rahe

Perenn has raised the bar on boules and baguettes in Reno. “I definitely recommend stopping by and picking up a danish or a kouign amann,” says Felch. A family favorite for Thai food is Midtown’s Moo Dang. “It’s so good that my dad and sister eat there twice a week. The drunken noodles with moo dang pork are spicy and delicious.” 

DRINK

Keep It Crafted

For a good plain cup of joe, Magpie Coffee Roasters is a local haunt. “No frills, frappes, or super-sugary drinks,” says Felch. “Just good coffee.” After a long day at the shop among the animals and cacti, Felch repairs to Death and Taxes, Reno’s foremost craft cocktail bar, tricked out in triple black. “It’s goth kid’s dream bar,” says Felch. “Exquisite style and even better cocktails.”

DO

James Crawshaw

Reno Rodeo is a landmark event in the area. “Call us a little Wild West,” says Felch. “But there’s something really great about cattle roping and some good ol’ classic American culture.” For contemporary counter culture she frequents The Holland Project. “They host bands big and small, local art shows, and other indie events with a punk rock attitude.” But Reno’s not all rodeos and rock for Felch, who de-stresses at Healing One Float Center. “Although laying in a sensory deprivation tank may sound intimidating, it’s a great way to meditate and relax,” she says. “Sensory deprivation lowers the cortisol levels, meaning you’ll find yourself much more at ease.”

SEE

Courtesy of the Nevada Museum of Art

Felch cites the Wilbur D. May Museum at Rancho San Rafael, the former home of a turn-of-the-century rancher, adventurer, and philanthropist, as a major influence on her work. “There’s a trophy room with tons of crazy artifacts Wilbur May collected over the years. It’s pretty much what I want my future house to look like.” She also recommends Rancho San Rafael’s arboretum for a gentle walk, the Nevada Museum of Art for contemporary traveling shows, and The Discovery, which is great for all ages.

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