The Reno Air Races are held at Stead Air Force Base, approximately 12 miles north of Reno on US 395. Parking is available on the base within walking distance of the races. It is a good idea to arrive early to avoid traffic, which can be very heavy when the races are about to start. It can be very warm, sunny, and windy, so bring sunscreen, a hat and a water bottle.
Reno is a logical place to stay during the races and there are thousands of hotel rooms available in the large hotel-casinos found throughout the area, as well as many smaller hotels. It can be difficult to find rooms for the weekend if you do not make reservations. Also, check the websites of the major hotel-casinos to see if they offer air race packages, which can include rooms, race tickets and a shuttle to and from the races.
General admission tickets to the races provide you with access to the main grandstand. The best seats are those at the top of the grandstand and as close to the center of the stand as possible; those seats will give you the best view of the action. And since those seats are general admission, the earlier you get there, the more likely you will be able to claim the best seats.
The entertainment at the Reno Air Races is more than just the race itself; throughout the day, there are demonstrations by nationally famous aerobatic teams, air performances and military exhibitions. You can visit and explore military aircraft and talk to the pilots. Bring a camera and lots of film and/or batteries, as well as good walking shoes, to tour the displays.
Taking photos of the action presents a few unusual problems. First of all, all the aircraft is moving at very high speeds. This can make it difficult to get a good shot. Use the technique of "panning," or moving the camera along with the subject. This takes a steady hand on the shutter and requires practice. If you are using a film camera, use high-speed film and adjust your aperture and shutter speeds for bright light and fast-moving objects.
