Explore the Whitney Peak Hotel in Reno, Nevada

I have many fond memories about visiting Reno, Nevada.  I’ve been going since I was little as my parents loved the gaming scene and I loved casino arcades.  I especially remember getting to hang out at Circus Circus’ famous arcade with live shows and the thrill of winning huge stuffed prizes!  Something else I remember, though not as fondly, is the amount of smoke in the air and having all my clothes absorb the smell. Since then I’ve returned again and again and just a few months ago and was so excited for the chance to stay at Reno’s ONLY non-gaming, non-smoking, luxury, boutique-style, full service hotel!  Whitney Peak Hotel has made a huge presence in Reno and their amenities (all minus the smoky smell) will make you want to book a room in an instant!

LOBBY

I don’t know about you, but my first impression of a hotel is it’s lobby. Whitney Peak Hotel’s does not disappoint, I mean take a look for yourself!  The furniture and decor was something out of a magazine, not to mention that my first scent that crossed my nose was lavender.  It almost makes you forget you are in the heart of downtown Reno, the iconic arch that declares it’s the Biggest Little City in the World is just outside the door!The front desk is adorned by boulders and a huge cutaway from a tree trunk.  The staff is so friendly, making eye contact and greeting each person walking through the doors and we were warmed by the hospitality right away.

ROOMS

First of all the hotel offers security starting in the lobby elevator.  You can only get to your personal floor with your key card.  Enter the elevator, scan your card and you can only push the button for your floor.  I’m starting to see this more in resorts and I appreciate that there is only registered guests roaming the floors in the hotel.  Decor didn’t stop in the lobby for sure, the areas near the elevators and in the halls are conversation pieces for sure.  The wire lights and pattern carpets catch your eye and the huge murals of ski resorts and mountain runs from the area and beyond are so cool.  We’ve skied and my husband has mountain biked on these mountains so it just made them that more special!  Also, a filtered water and ice machine is available on all levels, cups are available at the front desk, and water bottles are available to purchase in your room.

Yes, the rooms!  They’re beautifully decorated with wood and art by IShootReno.com of the local area and are very spacious.  We had a Club Level King overlooking nearby casinos like the Silver Legacy and the mountains in the distance. Refrigerator, Keurig, in-room dining, wi-fi, television, robes, umbrellas, pretty much everything you need in a room and more.  The bathroom has the built in shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in the shower along with a rainfall shower head and neat rockabilia art.

CLUB LEVEL

If you’re able, absolutely book your room on the Club Level. Extra comfort, bonus amenities are available on the two Club Level floors (15 and 16) and at the Club Level Lounge.  Mountain views and personalized service awaits, it’s like a personal hotel within a hotel.  Exclusive amenities include complimentary breakfast, light snacks, evening hors d’oeuvres, beverages (both alcoholic and non-) and sweets. Between my husband and I we felt like kids in a candy store entering the Club Lounge.  Two huge rooms with televisions, computer stations, couches, and these amazing bird nest swings that were so comfortable! There are games for kids too, so don’t be afraid to bring the family and have them enjoy these added perks.  Let me tell you that the food is nothing to scoff at.  It’s not the traditional continental breakfast or cheese and crackers for happy hour, this is gourmet and super delicious!  Tea and coffee, fruit-enhanced water and snacks are available most of the day.  I mean, my husband could not get enough of the Jolly Ranchers and sour balls, while I coveted the banana chips and Hershey Kisses! Appetizers like Gazpacho shooters, bread pudding, gourmet chicken fingers, and bread and fondue were some of the selections served with a large variety of craft beers and red and white wines.  We were in town for a wedding and almost showed up late due to our indulging in the hotel’s fine spread.Breakfast included muffins, granola, cereal, oatmeal, fruit, and also hot dishes like Denver Scramble.   Club Level Suites are pretty spectacular as well, I was taken to one to check it out.You’re truly spoiled as a Club Level guest at the Whitney Peak Hotel!

BASECAMP

As you may have noticed, there is an outdoor adventure theme running through the hotel.  You may have also noticed something really unique about one side of the hotel on the outside.  Well, at 164 feet, the Whitney Peak Hotel offers the world’s largest outdoor climbing wall!Beginners to experts can pay to journey up the side of the hotel overlooking Virginia Street with the guidance of trained experts.  “BaseCamp staff sets up the rope and will belay the participant, which enables the participant to climb an advanced wall without the specific Mulit-Pitch knowledge normally required.  Includes the Day Pass and Gear rental.”  I had to pass on this opportunity, but can you imagine the thrill?!Birthday parties, team building,  and climbing classes are also held within the 2nd floor Boulders along with a kid’s area.  This area is open to guests and the public along with a fitness center with cardiovascular equipment and free weights. Showers, lockers, and changing rooms are available as well.

DINING

As I mentioned, the Club Level offers breakfast and appetizers, but for a dining experience, Roundabout Grill is just on the other side of the Lobby.  Just like the rest of the hotel, the decor is stunning to look at and those nesting swings are also available to enjoy while you wait for your table.  The restaurant offers locally grown fresh produce and other locally-sourced products and led by chef Colin Smith.  There is also a full bar to enjoy.

CARGO

You truly don’t have to leave the hotel at all if you’re in Reno for the weekend.  “Cargo is an on-site live concert venue that features award-winning artists, nationally and internationally touring rock bands, and local talent within the indie rock, pop and alternative fusion genres. The 1,000-capacity, street-level venue showcases the very best in musical talent on a dynamic stage with unobstructed sightlines and state-of-the-art audio, video and lighting that will bring every show to life. Cargo also has a full-service bar featuring domestic and craft beers, as well as locally inspired cocktails.”

I love that the line up is right in the elevator so you’ve always got it in the back of your mind.  Entry is on the street side, but in the hallway on the hotel side of the venue there are a series of photos of performers who’ve graced the stage.

EVENT SPACE

When I visited the space was not yet opened, but I got a tour of this awesome area.  Featuring eleven meeting rooms including the 5,125 square foot Whitney Peak Ballroom, over 20,000 square feet of event space and two outdoor balconies overlooking the Reno Arch, the hotel can host groups up to 400 guests as well as social gatherings for up to 550.  The decor is exciting featuring hand-painted popart by Scotty Roller gives the venue a rock-and-roll vibe, and the chandeliers and comfortable seating add sparkle and glam.I can’t convince you enough to visit Whitney Peak Hotel, I’m already planning our next trip out.  One of my best friend’s lives in the area and combined with a visit to see her, Whitney Peak is going to be our go-to hotel from now on.  For more information and to book a room, visit http://www.whitneypeakhotel.com

We were treated generously for our stay, all opinions are 100% our own.