Reno Storytelling History Tour Experience

This isn’t just another history tour, it’s a storytelling experience! Hosted by Harmony Heywood, a local Reno historian and host of the popular show Map Adventures. She brings Reno to life by taking you on a story telling journey through Reno’s gritty and fascinating past.
What makes The Biggest Little Tours of Reno truly special is how the past comes to life. At each stop, shared tablets loaded with vintage photos and maps allow you to see exactly how Reno looked back in the day, it’s like stepping into a time machine.

We’ve partnered with local businesses along the route to offer exclusive behind-the-scenes access, special deals, and discounts on everything from food to unique local merch.

Whether you’re a tourist or a longtime local, you’ll walk away entertained, informed, and seeing Reno in a whole new light. This is history the way it should be: vivid, surprising, and unforgettable.

Meeting Point

122 Ridge St

122 Ridge St, Reno, NV 89501, USA

All tours start at the Map Adventures office, a historic house in downtown Reno at 122 Ridge St. just behind the courthouse and near the Reno Arch. Look for the Map Adventures sign out front. Please arrive 5–10 minutes early to check in and get ready.

What's included:

• Exclusive discounts at select partner stops along the route
• Local Casino free play credit
• Complimentary souvenir photo under the arch
• Opportunity to go on the BEST TOUR Reno has to offer!
• Complimentary Souvenir Map

What to expect:

Duration: 1 hour

Lake Mansion

250 Court St, corner of Arlington Ave., Reno, 89501-1808, Nevada

Named for being one of the most famous (and haunted) homes in downtown Reno, this modest structure holds big stories—from pioneer families to political figures. A true “if walls could talk” moment.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Reno Riverwalk District

Reno, Nevada

Nestled along the Truckee River, the Riverwalk District blends scenic beauty with rich history. Once home to mills, early settlements, and bustling commerce, it’s now a vibrant stretch of public art, bridges, historic buildings, and local charm—where the past flows right alongside the present.

10 minutes

West Street Market

148 West St, Reno, 89501-1314, Nevada

Now a trendy food and shopping hub, this site was once home to a forgotten cemetery. We’ll peer into the past of this block—and the bodies that were quietly moved

5 minutes

City Plaza

10 N Virginia St, Reno, 89501, Nevada

Set in City Plaza, between the Truckee River and Reno City Hall, the BELIEVE sign is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. Originally crafted for Burning Man, it now stands as a symbol of Reno’s creative soul—and makes for the *perfect tour photo op *

10 minutes

Reno Arch

Virginia Street, at the intersection with Commercial Row, Reno, 89501, Nevada

No Reno visit is complete without seeing the world-famous arch. First installed in 1926 to celebrate a fair, it became a permanent icon of the “Biggest Little City in the World.” *Complimentary photo under the Arch*

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

New Virginia Street Bridge

Virginia Street, Between West 1st St and Mill St, Reno, 89501, Nevada

See the spot where Reno began, the historic and iconic Virginia Street Bridge. This world famous crossing saw thousands of divorcees toss their rings into the Truckee River below..

5 minutes

Washoe County Courthouse

200 S Virginia St, , Reno, 89501-2405, Nevada

Step into the epicenter of Reno’s global fame. This courthouse was the final stop for thousands seeking a “quickie divorce.” Hollywood starlets, socialites, and scandal-makers all walked these steps.

10 minutes