Explore 2 UCPlaces digital self-guided tours in Reno

Welcome to UCPlaces and Day 5 of our west-to-east Route 66 adventure—from Amarillo, Texas, to Springfield, Missouri! Today, we’ll trade the wide-open Texas Panhandle for Oklahoma’s historic towns, cross a short but memorable stretch of Kansas, and roll into Missouri. Four states, one legendary road, and plenty of stories along the way! We’re beginning just east of Amarillo, a city that welcomed generations of Route 66 travelers with a hot meal, a full tank, and a place to sleep. Now, with Amarillo behind us, we’re continuing east in their tire tracks. Ahead are leaning water towers, vintage gas stations, neon signs, and communities that helped give the Mother Road its personality. We’ll travel through Oklahoma City and Tulsa, meet the hometown of baseball legend Mickey Mantle, and discover how mining towns and cattle trails became part of America’s great road trip. This is a full day of driving, so settle in and give yourself time for breaks. Stop for fuel, stretch your legs, and explore whatever catches your curiosity. Some of the best Route 66 memories happen when you park the car! Follow the UCPlaces navigation, obey posted signs, and keep your attention on the road. We’ll guide you along the route and share the stories as you go. By the time we reach Springfield, we’ll be ready for a well-earned rest—with just one final day remaining on our journey to Chicago. Ready? Let’s get back on the Mother Road!

Welcome to Reno, Nevada, affectionately known as "The Biggest Little City in the World." I'm delighted you'll be joining me as we explore the heart of this fascinating city on foot. Many people know Reno for its casinos and bright neon lights, but there's much more to discover. During our walk, we'll stroll along the beautiful Truckee River, admire impressive public art, visit historic landmarks, and uncover the stories of the pioneers, entrepreneurs, artists, and visionaries who helped shape this city into what it is today. Before we begin, have you ever wondered why this city is called Reno? The city was founded in 1868 during the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad and was named after Major General Jesse Lee Reno, a Union Army officer who fought in the American Civil War. General Reno never actually visited the city that bears his name. He was killed in the Battle of South Mountain in Maryland in 1862, becoming one of the highest-ranking Union officers to die during the war. When the railroad established a new town here several years later, it chose to honor his service by naming it Reno. Long before the railroad arrived, however, this valley served as an important crossing along the Truckee River. Native American tribes, including the Washoe people, lived in the region for thousands of years, and later, pioneers traveling west crossed the river on their journey to California. In many ways, Reno owes its existence to this river, which remains the lifeblood of the city today. Reno has reinvented itself several times throughout its history. It became famous in the early twentieth century for quick divorces and legalized gambling, earning an international reputation as a place where people came for a fresh start. Legendary entertainers such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. performed here, while celebrities ranging from Marilyn Monroe to Johnny Cash spent time in the city. In more recent decades, Reno has evolved once again, embracing outdoor recreation, public art, technology, and a thriving local food and craft beer scene. As we explore together, you'll discover that Reno is a city of surprising contrasts, where historic architecture stands alongside modern art, where rushing whitewater flows through the center of downtown, and where the spirit of the Old West meets a city that's constantly reinventing itself. So, put on your walking shoes, keep your camera handy, and let's discover the real Reno together.