Campbell, Nanci

The Cactus Creek Southwestern Steakhouse is worth the effort it takes to find it, although you might have passed it or may be close to it without even realizing it! The restaurant is in the Bonanza Casino just north of downtown, and both the casino and eatery are local favorites that tourists may not find right away. The steaks are plentiful slabs of beef, and the side dishes are just as delectable. Add in great service, no-hassle parking and a usually short wait for a table and you've found a real jewel of a restaurant.

The Bartley Ranch Regional Park Loop offers a unique hiking trail as it echoes Nevada's ranching heritage. Along the trail you'll find a replica of a one-room school house, as well as vintage farm equipment and exhibits that explain the function of these artifacts. It's a great suburban trail that comes alive thanks to these interesting pieces of the past that you'll see along the way.

Instead of having the kids stand in front of a video game, give them a chance to move around for some good old fashioned exercise at Fun Quest, located inside the Reno Hilton. In addition to a great selection of video games, the kids can enjoy a turn behind the wheel on the magnetic bumper cars, the Galaxian Video Game Theater and laser tag. Plus, mom and dad will enjoy the 50 lane bowling alley, 2 screen movie theater and shopping mall. Fun Quest could be the best family attraction in Reno - you be the judge.

After enjoying a stellar meal and walking around a bit, the perfect choice for an after-dinner drink is the Vintage Court Bar. This elegant wine bar features over 30 selections of white, red and sparkling wines and they are all dramatically displayed in a unique wine cellar setting. This very popular addition to Harrah's Hotel and Casino has been a hit with locals and visitors alike, so get a table near the window and enjoy your glass of wine while watching Reno's nightlife unfold before your eyes.