Great Reno Balloon Race: A Colorful Celebration of Flight
Experience the magic of flight at the Great Reno Balloon Race, a stunning festival that captivates visitors with colorful hot air balloons and festive activities.
The Great Reno Balloon Race is a breathtaking annual event held in San Rafael Regional Park, Reno, where colorful hot air balloons fill the sky at dawn, creating a magical experience for tourists and locals alike. This iconic festival attracts visitors from all over, offering a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of ballooning while enjoying live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Don’t miss the spectacular Balloon Glow at night, where the balloons are illuminated against the dark sky, providing an unforgettable visual treat.
A brief summary to Great Reno Balloon Race
- San Rafael Regional Park, Rancho, Rancho Connector, Reno, West University, NV, 89503, US
- +1775-826-1181
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a great viewing spot for the balloon launches, which typically begin at dawn.
- Bring a blanket or chair for comfortable seating while you enjoy the festivities.
- Check the festival schedule for special events like the Balloon Glow to experience a unique evening atmosphere.
- Dress in layers, as mornings can be chilly, but it warms up as the sun rises.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning visuals of the balloons against the sky!
Getting There
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Public Transport (Bus)
To reach the Great Reno Balloon Race at San Rafael Regional Park, you can take the RTC RIDE bus. Start by locating the nearest bus stop. If you're in downtown Reno, find the bus stop at the Reno City Hall. Take Bus Route 10 (West Fourth Street) towards the 'Reno/Sparks' area. Ride for about 15 minutes and get off at the 'Rancho Connector' stop. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk to San Rafael Regional Park. Head west on Rancho Connector, then turn left onto the park entrance.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to bike, you can rent a bicycle from one of the local bike-sharing services available in Reno. Start from downtown Reno and head northwest on the Riverwalk Trail towards the Truckee River. Continue on the designated bike lanes to the intersection of N. Virginia Street and W. 7th Street. From there, turn left onto W. 7th Street and follow it until you reach the intersection with Rancho Road. Turn right onto Rancho Road, then follow it to San Rafael Regional Park.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby and prefer to walk, start by heading towards the nearest main road. If you are in downtown Reno, walk northwest on N. Virginia Street. Continue walking for about a mile until you reach W. 7th Street. Turn left onto W. 7th Street and proceed until you reach Rancho Road. Turn right onto Rancho Road and walk for approximately half a mile to reach San Rafael Regional Park.
Discover more about Great Reno Balloon Race
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Reno Historic Preservation
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Gold Dust West Casino - Reno
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Keystone Escape Games: Escape Room Reno
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Circus Circus Reno
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Silver Legacy Resort Casino
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Reno Events Center
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Eldorado Reno Resort Casino
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Biggest Little Dog Park
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WorldMark Reno
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Reno Food Tours
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Cargo : Whitney Peak Hotel
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Saint Thomas Aquinas Cathedral
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Siri's Casino
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Ferino Distillery
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Unmissable attractions to see
Wilbur D. May Center
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Dragon Lights Reno
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Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
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Wilbur D. May Arboretum
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Nevada Historical Society
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Fleischmann Planetarium
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The Nevada "N"
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W. M Keck Earth Science And Mineral Engineering Museum
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Museum Of Natural History UNR
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Reno Arch
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Riverwalk District
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Artown
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Bicentennial Park
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The Sensory Garden At Idlewild Park
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Portal of Evolution Sculpture
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Essential places to dine
Ramen4Real
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Madame Butterwork's Curious Cafe
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Roxy
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La Strada
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Louis' Basque Corner
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Marcolino's Italia
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Silver Peak Grill and Taproom
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Smith and River
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Sierra Street Kitchen and Cocktails
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Beaujolais Bistro
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Smee's Alaskan Fish Bar & Market Place
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Mellow Fellow
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Wild River Grille
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The Shore
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La Famiglia
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Veranda
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Tradewinds Casualwear
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The Nest
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Zazzle Black
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Lucky 7 gifts
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Labels Consignment Boutique
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The Downtown Marketplace
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Squirrel Kingdom, LLC
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Sierra Belle
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Natural Selection
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Our Bar
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The Office
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Blind Dog Tavern
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Ole Bridge Pub
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The Eddy
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Pignic Pub & Patio
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RedRock Studio and Bar
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Lo-Bar Social
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1864 Tavern
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