Exploring Reno in Style: A Closer Look at the Downtown Reno Pedicab Tour
If you’re planning a visit to Reno and want to get a feel for the city’s vibe without exhausting yourself, the Downtown Reno Tour by pedicab might be just what you’re after. While I haven’t tried it myself, reviews and descriptions offer a pretty good picture of what to expect—an easygoing, informative ride around some of the most photogenic and culturally interesting parts of town.
What really draws us in is the chance to see Reno’s key sights without the hassle of walking or driving, along with the opportunity for plenty of photos. Plus, the focus on art and the scenic Riverwalk is a big plus for anyone who appreciates visual stories and a peaceful pace. However, potential travelers should keep in mind that the tour lasts about an hour, and there’s been some mixed feedback about timing and guide reliability.
This tour is ideal if you enjoy a relaxed, personalized experience with a local guide who knows their way around Reno’s highlights. It’s also perfect for anyone who wants a quick orientation or just a fun way to see the city’s art and river scenes without much effort. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or even solo and want a memorable, scenic overview, this could be a great fit—just be aware of the occasional hiccup in scheduling or timing.
Key Points
- Private, customizable pedicab tour perfect for a relaxed exploration of downtown Reno.
- Highlights include Reno arches, murals, Riverwalk, and Wingfield Park, with plenty of photo stops.
- Tour duration is about an hour, making it a quick but rundown of key sights.
- Guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights about local art, history, and Reno’s unique spots.
- Price is $55 per person, which is reasonable considering the personalized experience and photo opportunities.
- Weather-dependent activity, with full refunds if canceled due to poor conditions.
What to Expect from the Downtown Reno Tour
The tour begins at North Virginia Street & West 6th Street, a central spot easily accessible via public transit. Once aboard your pedicab, you’re in for a relaxed ride through Reno’s vibrant downtown.
Planning more time in Reno? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Reno Arches
The first stop on the route is the iconic Reno arches. These are an unmistakable part of the city’s skyline—perfect for snapping photographs. The beauty of this stop is that you’re free to pause as long as you like, ensuring you get that perfect shot or just soak in the view. Several reviews mention that guides are happy to stop frequently for photos, which is a real plus if you’re someone who loves capturing memories.
Reno Strip & Murals
Next, you’ll cruise along the Reno strip, which offers a lively contrast to the calmer river scenes. Besides the well-known casinos and hotels, you’ll get to see hidden murals scattered around the area—something art lovers will appreciate. The guide’s insights can turn a simple ride into an engaging art tour, with stories behind each mural and sculpture. One reviewer shared that the guide was quite knowledgeable about local artists, making the experience more meaningful.
Truckee River & Riverwalk
As the pedicab rolls onto the Reno Riverwalk, you’ll enjoy the gentle buzz of the Truckee River flowing alongside. The Riverwalk is peaceful, with plenty of spots to pause and take photos of the water, bridges, and scenery. It’s a scenic stretch that offers a sense of calm amid the city’s hustle. Expect to see some of Reno’s best natural sights, and again, your guide will be happy to accommodate as many stops as you’d like.
Wingfield Park & Island Stop
One of the unique features of this tour is riding the pedicab onto an island in the middle of town—Wingfield Park. This spot offers a charming view of the river and a quiet refuge in the city. It’s a nice place to pause and take some photos or simply enjoy the greenery. Several reviews highlight how the guide makes an effort to stop at picturesque parts of the park so you can get a good shot or soak in the surroundings.
The Actual Experience: What You’ll Get
This is a private tour, meaning it’s just your group on the pedicab, which makes it feel very personalized. The duration is approximately 1 hour, providing enough time to see the main sights without feeling rushed. The ride itself is comfortable, and the open pedicab design means you’ll be getting fresh air and unobstructed views—ideal for those who dislike enclosed vehicles.
Pricing at $55 per person may seem a little on the higher side for just an hour, but considering the private, flexible nature and the opportunity to stop as often as you like, many find it a fair value. Plus, you won’t be cramming onto a large tour bus or walking all day. It’s a good way to get an overview without tiring yourself out early in your trip.
A notable point from reviews is the quality of guides. Several travelers praised guides like Andrew, Taz, Jamie, and Marcelo for their friendliness, knowledge, and effort to make the tour engaging. If you’re lucky, you’ll be greeted by one of these friendly faces who will share their stories and help you take great photos.
Potential Drawbacks & Considerations
While most reviews are positive, there have been some hiccups. A couple of reviewers experienced guides not showing up or a tour being cut short—be sure to confirm your booking and perhaps have a backup plan if timing is tight.
Weather can also impact the tour—since it’s outdoors, rain or extreme heat might influence the experience or lead to cancellations. The policy states that if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
One reviewer mentioned their tour was only 30 minutes instead of a full hour, so if timing is critical, check in advance that your booking will be honored for the full duration.
The Value and Who It’s Perfect For
In the end, this tour offers a relaxed, fun way to see Reno’s core attractions and artistic highlights—especially if you prefer not to walk or drive. It’s a flexible experience that adapts to your photo and sightseeing preferences, with guides eager to share local stories and insights.
It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy personalized, scenic outings and want a quick, memorable overview of the city’s art, river, and urban landmarks. It’s also great for those who want an activity that combines sightseeing with a bit of fresh air and light exercise. Keep in mind, if you’re after a guided tour with extensive historical detail, this might not be the best fit—it’s more about highlights and photography.
For travelers comfortable with outdoor activities and flexible about timing, this pedicab tour can be a delightful way to spend an hour discovering Reno’s vibrant heart.
Downtown Reno Tour
“Tour guide never showed up. Called Vitor and 2 days later they are still investigating it. Ive never had this problem before booking with Vitor.”
FAQs
Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s a private pedicab tour, so only your group will participate, making it more personalized and flexible.
How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1 hour long, giving you a nice overview without taking up your entire day.
What sights will I see?
You’ll see the Reno arches, the Reno strip including murals, the Truckee River along the Riverwalk, and Wingfield Park island—each offering great photo opportunities.
Can I stop for photos?
Absolutely. Guides are happy to stop as much as you want for photos and to take pictures of you.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The info doesn’t specify, but since it’s a pedicab ride, it should be manageable for most travelers—just consider the comfort of younger children if they’re sensitive to outdoor conditions.
What is the price per person?
The cost is $55, which is reasonable considering the personalized experience and the stops included.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor weather—bring layers if needed, as you’ll be riding in an open pedicab.
How do I book?
Booking is simple online, and most travelers book about a month in advance—so plan ahead to secure your spot.
This downtown Reno pedicab tour combines the best of city sights, art, and river views into a fun, relaxed outing. Whether you’re a first-timer wanting orientation or a local looking for a new perspective, it’s an experience that balances sightseeing with comfort and personal service. Just remember to confirm your booking and be flexible with stops—then sit back and enjoy Reno from a fresh, breezy vantage point.