Virginia Lake Park is a manmade lake in the center of Reno behind the Peppermill Hotel & Casino. Even though it's close to downtown, it's located in a quiet residential area. It has a walking and jogging path around the entire lake and local birds like to congregate on the water and beaches. The park also has a small dog area.
Parking and public transportation at Virginia Lake Park
The park has a small parking area for about 20 cars. If that is full, there is some parking on the side of Hillcrest Road on the north side of the park. The RTC bus Route 1 stops about 1 block east of the park on Virginia Street.
Best and worst time go to Virginia Lake Park
The best times to go to the park are in the morning and evening. There are a lot more joggers, but there are also more birds. Local geese, ducks and other waterfowl like to nest on the various islands and fountains on the lake. The worst time to go is after dark. The park is lit, but is located near a major casino and tends to attract a few vagrants.
Admission to Virginia Lake Park
Admission to the park and the playground is free.
Must see/do At Virginia Lake Park
The best thing to do at the park is take the one mile walk around the lake. Sometimes musicians and performers will set up shop on various park benches. For families, the playground across Lakeside from the lake is great for smaller children.
Other places to visit near Virginia Lake Park
A few blocks east is the Peppermill Hotel & Casino which has Tuscan themed decor, several award-winning restaurants and bars and a wonderful swimming pool.
Insider tip for visitors to Virginia Lake Park
If you are a jogger, the path around the lake is exactly one mile which makes it easy to keep track of your distance. There are also water fountains, trash cans and a bathroom at the playground.
Christina Nellemann is writer living in Reno who loves the Virginia Lake neighborhoods and feeds that cute ducks.