The Discovery Museum (Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum)
The Discovery Museum (nvdm.org) in Downtown Reno is a hands-on science and exploration museum specifically designed for children. It has multiple floors of interactive exhibits covering topics from engineering to natural science. Admission is charged (check current rates at nvdm.org); it is one of the top family-specific attractions in the region.
National Automobile Museum
The National Automobile Museum (automuseum.org) houses one of the most significant car collections in the United States — over 200 vehicles spanning from an 1892 Philion to modern and custom cars. It is legitimately interesting for children who like vehicles and for adults. Admission is charged; it is located in Downtown Reno along the Truckee River.
Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary
Animal Ark (animalark.org) is a wildlife sanctuary about 20 miles north of Reno that is home to wolves, mountain lions, bears, and other native Nevada wildlife. It is not a zoo — animals are permanent residents who cannot be released to the wild. Open seasonally (spring through fall, limited winter hours); admission is charged.
Outdoor activities for families
The Truckee River Whitewater Park viewing area is free and exciting for kids. In summer, Lake Tahoe beaches (Kings Beach, Incline Beach) are excellent family destinations. Wild Island Family Adventure Park in Sparks (wildisland.com) has waterslides and go-karts in summer.
Practical family logistics
Casino floors in Reno are 21+ at all times — children cannot walk through the gaming area, though they can access hotel lobbies, restaurants, and hotel pools at most properties. Casino-hotel family rooms and suites are widely available and often value-priced. Most South Reno hotels are non-casino and family-straightforward.