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Station guide · NV, USA

Reno Train Station Guide

Located in downtown Reno, this station serves as a key stop on the California Zephyr route and offers easy access to the city center and nearby Lake Tahoe.

By USA by Rail editors · Last checked October 2026 · How we research

Routes serving RenoSchematic map of 1 passenger train routes. Each line links to its route guide. Positions are approximate.California ZephyrRenoChicagoSan Francisco (Emeryville)Schematic · positions approximate
Station
Reno
City
Reno, NV
Code
RNO
Routes
1

At a glance

  • Downtown station where the tracks run in a trench below street level
  • Close to downtown casinos
  • Buses connect to Lake Tahoe

Reno station is an important passenger rail hub in northern Nevada. The facility is located right in the downtown area, making it a convenient arrival point for visitors. An interesting feature of this station is its track layout. The tracks run in a trench below street level, which helps separate train traffic from local road vehicles. Travelers arriving here can easily reach the city center on foot or connect to regional transport. The station is also a popular gateway for those heading to the mountains and lakes of the Sierra Nevada. If you are planning a trip, reading our first time on Amtrak guide provides a helpful overview of what to expect on board.

Trains from Reno

TrainBetweenRuns
California ZephyrChicago to San Francisco (Emeryville)Daily in each direction

Reno is served by the California Zephyr, operated by Amtrak. This route runs between Chicago and San Francisco, terminating in Emeryville. As of 2026, the train operates daily in each direction. The complete journey takes about 51 to 52 hours end to end. Because this is a multi-day trip, the train includes overnight sleeper cars and a dining car alongside standard coach seating. When traveling west toward California, the next stop is Truckee. Heading east toward Chicago, the train calls next at Winnemucca. Passengers can use this service for short regional hops across Nevada or for longer travel. The schedule means you can board in Reno and travel directly to major cities across the Midwest and the West Coast.

Getting to and from the station

The station is situated directly in downtown Reno. Its central location means many local hotels and attractions are within walking distance. For destinations further afield, passengers will find local transit options nearby. Importantly, buses connect to Lake Tahoe directly from the station area. This makes Reno an excellent railhead for reaching the popular resort region. Travelers should always allow plenty of time to navigate the station and find their onward transport. Check local transit websites for current bus schedules before you arrive. If you need assistance with mobility, review our guide to accessible train travel to ensure a smooth connection between the train and local buses.

Around the station

Reno station places you right in the middle of the city. The building is very close to the downtown casinos, allowing visitors to walk straight from the train to major entertainment venues. The surrounding streets offer various dining and lodging options. Rail enthusiasts visiting the area often take time to explore local railway history. The Virginia and Truckee Railroad is a notable scenic railroad nearby. This heritage line provides a completely different experience from the modern Amtrak service. Visitors can easily spend some time enjoying the city attractions before heading into the mountains.

Station tips

  • Review our Amtrak and VIA booking tips to secure the best fares for your trip.
  • Check the luggage rules on Amtrak and VIA before packing for your journey.
  • Keep an eye on the Amtrak status updates, as long-distance trains can sometimes run late.
  • Wait on the street level concourse until station staff announce that your train has arrived in the trench below.

Scenic railroads nearby

Questions travellers ask

Which trains stop at Reno station?

The station is served by the California Zephyr, an Amtrak route running between Chicago and San Francisco, terminating in Emeryville. As of 2026, this train stops in Reno daily in each direction.

Can I get to Lake Tahoe from the Reno train station?

Yes, you can easily reach the lake from the station. Buses connect to Lake Tahoe directly from the downtown Reno area, making it simple to transfer from the train to a regional bus service.

Are there other train rides near Reno?

Yes, the Virginia and Truckee Railroad is a popular scenic railroad located nearby. It offers heritage train rides and historical excursions that operate completely separately from the regular Amtrak passenger network.