5 Best City Tours In Reno

Reno isn’t just about casinos and bright lights; it’s a city packed with stories, surprises, and fun ways to explore beyond the usual. Whether you’re into solving puzzles, chasing clues, or just having a good laugh, Reno offers some creative options for city tours that make your trip memorable. We particularly like the Reno City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers for its playful zombie theme and interactive challenge—perfect for families or groups seeking a lighthearted adventure. The blend of city exploration and quirky challenges makes this walk a standout. Check it out here.

Reno’s tours run the gamut from themed scavenger hunts to detective mysteries, offering options suited for different interests and timeframes. Our list below highlights the best of what’s on offer, making it easier for you to pick an adventure that matches your style and schedule.

1. Reno City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers

This interactive scavenger hunt takes you through Reno with a fun zombie apocalypse twist. For about $20 per group, you’ll explore the city at your own pace, hunting for survival items and completing zombie-themed challenges. The game lets you communicate with a remote host via chat, adding an extra layer of interactivity, and your scores can be compared with teams across the country. This tour suits those who enjoy playful, unconventional exploration without the pressure of a guided walk. It’s ideal for families, friends, or anyone wanting to add some humor and teamwork to their Reno experience.

The highlight is the ability to walk through Reno while engaging in a themed storyline, which adds excitement to a simple city stroll. With positive reviews praising its accessibility and fun factor, this scavenger hunt offers great value for a quick, energetic adventure. The one-hour duration makes it perfect for a morning or afternoon activity.

Bottom Line: A lighthearted, budget-friendly way to see Reno and enjoy some laughs with friends or family.

2. Carson City Crusade Scavenger Hunt

At number 2 on our list, the Carson City Crusade Scavenger Hunt is a more immersive experience. It costs $29 per person and runs for about two hours, making it a bit longer and more detailed. What sets this adventure apart is the live, remote host who guides and encourages you via your phone, transforming the city into a giant puzzle.

This scavenger hunt combines elements of a detective story, a creative challenge, and a social experiment, making it ideal for groups that enjoy problem-solving and teamwork. The game leads you through Carson City, where you’ll discover landmarks, art, and local shops while completing clues. Because it’s designed by a company based in Austin, TX, it offers a professionally curated experience that can be tailored to your group’s interests.

While this tour is relatively new, the personalized touch and the focus on detective-style challenges make it engaging, especially for those seeking a more involved activity than a typical walk. It’s perfect for history buffs or puzzle lovers who enjoy a bit of storytelling woven into their city exploration.

Bottom Line: An engaging, story-driven scavenger hunt ideal for groups wanting a more hands-on adventure with a touch of mystery.

3. Carson City Puzzling Adventure

For those who prefer a self-guided, clue-solving experience, the Carson City Puzzling Adventure offers a flexible, smartphone-led tour. Costing $34.95 for up to 12 players, it allows your team to turn Carson City into a giant puzzle for 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace. The focus here is on solving clues and completing challenges around the city, making it a great choice for families, couples, or small groups.

This tour offers a nice mix of education and fun—walking through the Nevada Capitol, observing local art, and taking in natural geological features. The itinerary includes stops at notable sites, with the goal of learning about Carson City’s eclectic charm while completing engaging tasks. The flexibility of a smartphone guide means you can pause or speed up your exploration, making it suitable for varied fitness levels and interests.

Since this is a low-stress, interactive experience, it’s particularly good for those who want to learn about Carson City without the formality of a guided tour. The price point is reasonable considering the length and level of interaction.

Bottom Line: A flexible, puzzle-based tour great for small groups wanting a curated city experience that combines education and fun.

4. Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Carson City NV

If you’re into crime stories and role-playing, this Murder Mystery Detective Experience is for you. Priced at $14.99 per person, it’s an engaging 2.5-hour audio adventure that turns you into a detective solving a local murder case. The activity involves visiting up to 10 mapped locations around Carson City, listening to audio clues, and piecing together the story.

What makes this stand out is the audio format that allows you to explore on your own, with the option to walk or drive between locations. It’s especially suited for small groups who enjoy storytelling, mystery-solving, or exploring at their own pace. The experience is designed to be accessible and engaging, with no need for a guide—just your phone and some curiosity.

While there are no reviews yet, the format promises an immersive experience that combines walking and listening, making it a good choice for mystery fans or those looking for a different way to explore Carson City’s streets.

Bottom Line: An affordable, story-driven activity for mystery lovers who enjoy a mix of walking and audio storytelling.

5. Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Reno by Operation City Quest

Rounding out our list is the Unique Scavenger Hunt in Reno, which offers an easy, fun way to explore the city for just $10 per person. Over two hours, you’ll use an app to find items, take photos, and complete challenges at your own pace. The remote host via chat provides support if needed, making it accessible for all.

This tour is perfect for casual explorers or families looking for a quick, interactive way to get to know Reno’s streets and sights. The flexible format allows you to choose your route, making it ideal for fitting into a busy schedule or for a spontaneous outing. The app-based nature means no large groups or guided tours—just you, your friends, and the city.

While lacking formal reviews, the low price and straightforward format suggest a practical option for anyone wanting a simple, engaging activity without a lot of fuss.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly choice for those who want to explore Reno with a smartphone and some friendly competition.

How to Choose the Right Reno Tour

When selecting a city tour in Reno, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. For a quick, playful experience, the Zombie Scavenger Hunt offers laughs and light exercise. If you prefer a more immersive, detective-style adventure, the Carson City Crusade Scavenger Hunt or the Puzzling Adventure are great options. Budget travel lovers will appreciate the Unique Scavenger Hunt, while mystery enthusiasts might enjoy the Murder Mystery Detective Experience.

Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and group size. Think about the physical aspect—if mobility is a concern, tours that offer a flexible pace or driving options could be better suited. All these options provide unique ways to explore Reno beyond the usual, making your visit more engaging and memorable.

Final Thoughts

Reno offers a surprising range of city tours that go beyond casinos and nightlife. From humorous zombie hunts to detective mysteries, each experience provides a different flavor of local exploration. For a quick laugh and light activity, the Reno City Scavenger Hunt is hard to beat. For those who love puzzles or story-driven adventures, the Carson City Puzzling Adventure offers a more in-depth experience.

If you’re traveling with kids or a curious group, consider the budget-friendly Operation City Quest scavenger hunt. And for crime story lovers, the Murder Mystery Detective Experience adds a fun narrative twist. No matter your interest, these tours prove that Reno is much more than a gaming city—it’s a place with stories waiting to be uncovered in creative ways. Be sure to book early and enjoy discovering Reno through these interactive adventures.