Gayle, Jim, Marti, and I took this most enjoyable walking tour yesterday on a nice warm Sunday…read moreafternoon. The tour started with the lower level of the Renaissance Hotel (who provided water and a snack) for a introduction, a historical set-up (in costume) and fun "throw the cards" warm-up.
Once outside (fully masked) and "on the road", our tour stops included the old Post Office/West Elm, the Reno Courthouse, the Virginia Street Bridge, Space Whale/Site of old Mapes Hotel, Old Riverside Hotel, one of Reno's historic old Alleys, and Belle Island. In between were stories of hangings, rings thrown from the bridge, missing person/mob hits, possible prohibition liquor runs through alleged tunnels, and of course the church where the finale of Sister Act was filmed. There were also magic tricks, bad jokes, a look up in the sky gag for tour add-ons, a fake birthday song tribute to a surprised restaurant patron, and a very enjoyable and interactive outdoor experience. The expedition ended back at the hotel with a ring magic trick, a bit historical letter reveal, and appreciation for a job well done.
This expedition actually left me with wanting more in terms of local historical tidbits and stories. Maybe sometime post-COVID, a longer and smaller attended walking tour would be "in the cards". In the meantime, please buy a ticket to the Weird Reno walking tour and thank you Kalin, Jinger, Jacques, and family for a bringing a little welcome joy to such a challenging time.
Sincerely - Shorty