City: Reno, NV

Category: Accommodations

Telephone: (877) 726-6686

Address: 7 miles west of Reno

Description: A last outpost as you head west over the summit on I–80, Boomtown Casino & Hotel Reno has always catered to travelers. Originally a bare-bones truck stop called Bill and Effie’s, it has provided truckers and travelers alike a much needed shelter to wait out the winter storms that frequently close I–80. Boomtown has continued to boom over the years, and today it’s a large hotel/casino with a Hollywood western theme. It appeals to families and people traveling on a budget, but is less of a hangout for truckers since Cabela’s sporting goods was built where the truckers used to park. (See the shopping chapter for details on this destination retail store.) Boomtown’s 300-plus rooms have been recently remodeled for the added comfort of its guests. The hotel also features 29 suites and minisuites, most with Jacuzzi baths and enclosed balconies. Hotel amenities include a newly refurbished indoor/outdoor swimming pool and patio. Because management uses modest food prices to attract both locals and travelers, eating in Cassidy’s Steakhouse and the Sundance Cafe can be a bargain. Boomtown is a great place for families because it has a huge Family Fun Center that kids simply adore. Its focal point is a large antique carousel built by Herschell–Spillman in 1908. But the rest of the amusements are modern and high-tech, such as the latest video games, miniature golf, virtual reality, movies, and a dynamic motion theater (see the Kidstuff chapter for more information). For adults, Boomtown has a full-service casino along with a number of lounges. RVers have also found that the RV park at this resort is a great base camp because it’s in between Reno and Lake Tahoe. (See the Camping and RVing chapter for more information.) When staying at Boomtown, keep in mind it’s not within walking distance of other casinos or shopping because it’s 7 miles west of Reno, though there is a shuttle to the downtown area and to the airport.