Visitors and residents in Reno, Nevada can find a wide variety of attractions. In addition to its entertainment complexes and casinos, the city features some fun things to do that are free. These attractions include public parks and libraries as well as some area museums, with activities for children and adults.
The government of Washoe County sponsors the Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Admission to the attractions and the accompanying museum, the May Center, is free. The arboretum consists of 12 acres of trees. A self-guided tour pamphlet is available to help identify various species, like red oak and shumard, as visitors stroll through the arboretum's paths. Adjacent to the arboretum is a series of five landscaped areas that comprise the botanical gardens. The songbird garden features a variety of plants that attract insects, making it a well-known spot for birding in the city. Visitors to the arboretum can also stop in at the May Center. The museum consists of artifacts acquired by wealthy businessman Wilbur D. May during his international excursions. Coins from around the world, African art and religious icons are among the many items on display.
The Wilbur D. May Arboretum and Botanical Garden and the May Center are open daily, year-round. On-site parking is available.
The Washoe County Public Library System has seven facilities within the city limits of Reno. In addition to its collection of books, periodicals, DVDs and other items available for circulation, the library system sponsors numerous free events for kids, teenagers and senior citizens.
Among the programs for kids are special story-time programs, one specifically for preschoolers and one for families with children of all ages. Children have the opportunity to enjoy a re-telling of an age-appropriate book and then participate in activities like crafts and music related to the story. For teenagers, the library system has a reading program and club that organizes special events and outings for teens. Seniors can participate in a variety of bookclubs. The system also offers free computer education courses that provide seniors with the opportunity to socialize and learn new skills.
Hours and days of operation vary from location to location. The schedule for community events is also different at each library. The library system maintains a calendar of events on its website and offers paper copies at each of its locations.
The Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center is on the campus of the University of Nevada, Reno. The university owns and operates the facility, and visitors can find a variety of free exhibits to enjoy. The exhibits at the center are hands-on, encouraging children and adults to touch and learn through doing. The displays focus primarily on astronomy with models of the Earth, Moon and planets among the many features. The science center also has exhibits about perception that examine themes like Einstein's Theory of Relativity. Visitors can also touch a genuine 30-pound meteorite during their tour.
The Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center is open to the public Friday through Tuesday and closes every Wednesday and Thursday. The large-format movie presentations and star shows at the facility carry a fee. Free parking is available for visitors at the West Stadium Parking Complex on the University of Nevada, Reno campus.
