
Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 13 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno worth booking?
Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno is a 6.5-hour experience in Reno, United States, from $400 per person. It scores 64 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 13 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 64 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (13)
- Duration
- 6.5 hours
- From
- $400 per person
Experience the best of Northern Nevada in one unforgettable day on this carefully designed small-group tour. Step back in time as you explore the historic Old West town of Virginia City, then relax and take in the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters, alpine scenery, and iconic viewpoints. This tour follows a safe, scenic route and focuses on the most impressive highlights, allowing you to enjoy both history and nature without feeling rushed. With comfortable transportation, local insight, and thoughtfully chosen stops, this full-day experience offers a perfect balance of adventure, scenery, and relaxation
What you get
About this experience
Experience the best of Northern Nevada in one unforgettable day on this carefully designed small-group tour. Step back in time as you explore the historic Old West town of Virginia City, then relax and take in the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters, alpine scenery, and iconic viewpoints. This tour follows a safe, scenic route and focuses on the most impressive highlights, allowing you to enjoy both history and nature without feeling rushed. With comfortable transportation, local insight, and thoughtfully chosen stops, this full-day experience offers a perfect balance of adventure, scenery, and relaxation
What's included
Included
- Hotel, casino, or nearby pickup and drop-off in Reno
- Bottled water
- Transportation in an air-conditioned van
- Guided visit to Virginia City
- Scenic sightseeing tour of Lake Tahoe
- driver/guide
Not included
- Lunch
- Entrance fees to attractions (if applicable)
- Optional activities
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Virginia City
Begin your day with a convenient morning pickup from Reno. Relax and enjoy a scenic drive through the high desert landscape and the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, taking in beautiful views along the way. Upon arrival in Virginia City, meet your local guide, who will walk you through this iconic and well-preserved Old West mining town. Explore authentic wooden boardwalks, historic saloons, and charming shops while learning about the Comstock Lode, the silver boom, and the early days of Nevada. Highlights may include: • Virginia & Truckee Railroad (view or visit) • Historic mining area landmarks and sites • Optional visit to The Way It Was Museum • Historic cemeteries and mining-era landmarks • Stories of Mark Twain’s early career in Virginia City Enjoy free time for lunch at a local restaurant or saloon (lunch at your own expense) before continuing the journey.
180 minutes here
Lake Tahoe Area
Afternoon – Lake Tahoe Scenic Highlights After departing Virginia City, enjoy a scenic drive toward Lake Tahoe via Carson City, following a safe and picturesque route that avoids high mountain passes. Upon arrival at Lake Tahoe, explore some of the lake’s most iconic viewpoints, known for crystal-clear water, alpine scenery, and dramatic shoreline landscapes. Highlights may include: • Emerald Bay Overlook – panoramic lake views and Fannette Island • South Shore scenic viewpoints – shoreline photo stops • Zephyr Cove (optional) – lakeside views and short break • Incline Village – lakeside community and short walk • Sand Harbor Beach (when accessible) – turquoise water and granite boulders Enjoy time for photos, short walks, and lakeside relaxation. Return to Reno Relax and enjoy the views on a scenic drive back through Carson City. You’ll be dropped off at the same location where you were picked up, ending your full-day tour smoothly and stress-free.
180 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 20 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 5 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Reno Outdoors
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 12 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Organization
3 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
12 verified traveler reviews for Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Wonderful Experience!
Tony was a great guide. From the start he was very knowledgeable about the city of Reno, and surrounding parts. He took his time to explain things, and it was very informative for an out of stater. He was friendly, kind, and made the experience truly memorable. I highly recommend this trip, and tour company.
Response from the operator: Hi Chris, Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re glad you enjoyed the tour and appreciated Tony’s knowledge and friendly service. We truly appreciate your recommendation! Reno Outdoors Team
via Viator
The best travel guide is the key to a informative and fun day trip.
This is a great day tour. We had a tour guide who was one of the best guides I've ever had, his name is Gilbert. He was so knowledgable about the history of Virginia City and Lake Tahoe. It really made the tour more interesting and fun. Gilbert made sure we were comfortable, offering us water, telling us to watch our step when needed etc. We are seniors and this would be a perfect tour for anyone looking for a fun outing near Reno. I'd recommend asking for Gilbert as a guide.
Response from the operator: Hi there, Thank you so much for your fantastic review! ⭐️ We’re delighted to hear that you had such a great day exploring Virginia City and Lake Tahoe with us. We’re especially happy to hear your kind words about Gilbert and how his knowledge of the history of Virginia City and Lake Tahoe made the tour more interesting and fun. 🤠🏔️ Sharing the stories and history of these incredible places is something we truly enjoy. We really appreciate your kind words and are so glad Gilbert helped make your day such a memorable experience. Thank you for choosing Reno Outdoors, and we hope to welcome you back for another adventure in the future! 🌲✨ Reno Outdoors Team
via Tripadvisor
A wonderful and comprehensive Tahoe experience.
The tour was excellent and Gilbert was super knowledgeable, explaining the history and details of Lake Tahoe and Virginia City. I would recommend this tour to everyone. Don't try to see this important part of our country and its history without expert help and guidance offered by a company like Reno Outdoors.
Response from the operator: Hi Bill, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! 🏔️✨ We’re thrilled to hear that you had such an excellent experience exploring Lake Tahoe and Virginia City with us. We’re especially happy to hear that Gilbert’s knowledge of the history and details of the area added so much to your experience. Both Lake Tahoe and Virginia City have such fascinating stories, and it was a pleasure sharing them with you. Thank you for your kind recommendation and for choosing Reno Outdoors. We truly appreciate your support and hope to welcome you back to Reno for another unforgettable adventure! 🌲💙 Reno Outdoors Team
via Tripadvisor
Really loved it! Much appreciated!
I learned a Lot of things I did not know. Tony was very knowledgeable and answered all of my questions. If you want to wander around Lake Tahoe and take some amazing photos, this tour is for you.
Response from the operator: Hi Jennifer, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! 🍁 We’re thrilled to hear that you really loved the tour and enjoyed your time exploring Virginia City and Lake Tahoe. 🏔️📸 We’re especially happy to hear that Tony was able to share his knowledge, answer all your questions, and help you discover more about the area. Lake Tahoe is truly an incredible place for beautiful views and amazing photos, and it was a pleasure having you with us. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back to Reno for another unforgettable adventure with Reno Outdoors! Reno Outdoors Team
via Tripadvisor
Awesome
The tour guide and driver were very knowledgeable and attentive to our interests. We had a great day, and the sights are worth the trip especially if you have any interest in history.
Response from the operator: Hi Ellen, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! ⭐️ We’re thrilled to hear that you had such a great day exploring Virginia City and Lake Tahoe with us. It’s wonderful to know that you enjoyed the sights and that our guide and driver were knowledgeable and attentive to your interests. 🤠🏔️ We especially appreciate your kind words about the history. Virginia City and the Lake Tahoe area have so many fascinating stories to share, and it was a pleasure bringing some of that history to life for you. Thank you again for choosing Reno Outdoors, and we hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure! 🌲✨ Reno Outdoors Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 6.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $400 to $500
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 5
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Reno Outdoors, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 58.9.
See everything Reno Outdoors runsWhy this scores 64
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Reno.
How much does Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno cost?
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Prices start at $400 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Reno usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno take?
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Plan for about 6.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Reno is not rushed.
Is Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 64 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 13 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Reno, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno?
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Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Reno can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Reno and add a light layer if any part of the 6.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Reno within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Reno?
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Reno mixes casino-town nightlife with easy access to Lake Tahoe: Tahoe day tours, Virginia City ghost-town trips, rafting on the Truckee and winter ski shuttles. On Outty we rank every Reno experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Reno Ghost Tour: Ruin, Revenge, & Reckoning, Experience Raptors and Falconry in Reno, 1 Hour Distillery Tour and Tasting Flight. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Reno?
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June to September, plus December to March for ski access. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Reno?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno?
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Included: Hotel, casino, or nearby pickup and drop-off in Reno; Bottled water; Transportation in an air-conditioned van; Guided visit to Virginia City; and Scenic sightseeing tour of Lake Tahoe. Not included: Lunch; Entrance fees to attractions (if applicable); Optional activities; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 1 listed pickup location in and around Reno. Be ready about 20 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Reno. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Virginia City and Lake Tahoe Full Day Small Group Tour from Reno?
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Across 13 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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