Whether you’re looking for a shady spot to enjoy a picnic, a patch of grass to soak in the sun, or a walking trail for strolling with your pup, Reno’s got a park for you. There are tons of wonderful natural spaces around the Biggest Little City, but here are a few of our favorite Reno parks for every occasion.

Best Park for Family Fun –  Idlewild Park

Close to downtown Reno, Idlewild Park is a 49-acre park with tons of amenities. Man-made ponds surrounded by grassy areas are perfect for having a family picnic and feeding the ducks. Little ones will love playing on the children’s playgrounds, there is even a small train which children can ride on.  The public pool (summer only) is perfect for cooling off on a hot day. The park is also home to a beautiful rose garden which blooms from June to September.

From May to September, Idlewild Park hosts Food Truck Fridays where dozens of food trucks gather alongside live music.

Best Park for Hiking – Galena Creek Regional Park 

Galena Creek Regional Park is an oasis in South Reno, as the name suggests, Galena Creek runs through the park dividing it into a north and south section. The park features miles and miles of trails for every skill level. In the winter months, cross-country skiers and snowshoers can enjoy the park’s trails. Many of the trails offer shade, which makes them ideal for warm summer months. Make sure to check out the exhibits in the visitor’s center.

Best Park for a Date – Wingfield Park 

Park dates are tried and true. Who doesn’t love a romantic picnic or stroll through a park? With its proximity to fun bars, hip restaurants, and beautiful art pieces, Wingfield Park makes a fantastic spot for a date. The park sits right along a section of the Truckee River known as the Reno Whitewater Park, and you can often see kayakers and paddleboarders enjoying the river. An amphitheater in the park often hosts live music, shows, and events.

Best Park for Bringing your Pooch – Rancho San Rafael Regional Park 

Rancho San Rafael is a massive park full of exciting places to explore. The park is most well-known for hosting the Great Reno Balloon Race every year, but it’s well worth visiting all year-round. Dog-owners particularly love the large dog park on the north side of the park. The designated dog park offers over 20-acres of land for four-legged friends to run free!

Leashed dogs are allowed on all park trails, but only service dogs are allowed in the Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Garden.