Wells Avenue District

About Wells

Discover the Story of our District

About Wells

Discover the Story of our District

The Wells Avenue District is an interesting and unique historic business district with over 200 small businesses, most of which are locally owned. Wells Avenue is known for its community spirit where locals walk, drive, or bike to their favorite specialty shops. The one of -a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of this district, offering products and personalized service that big box stores can’t offer.Hispanic businesses on Wells Avenue give the area an ethnic flavor unlike elsewhere in Reno. Wells Avenue is a neighborhood first, and a business district next.

A banner attached to a light pole that has the logo mark for Wells Avenue District.

The Wells Avenue District is an interesting and unique historic business district with over 200 small businesses, most of which are locally owned. Wells Avenue is known for its community spirit where locals walk, drive, or bike to their favorite specialty shops. The one of -a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of this district, offering products and personalized service that big box stores can’t offer.Hispanic businesses on Wells Avenue give the area an ethnic flavor unlike elsewhere in Reno. Wells Avenue is a neighborhood first, and a business district next.

A banner attached to a light pole that has the logo mark for Wells Avenue District.

A Neighborhood Rich in History and Multiculturalism

Local customers know their shop owners by name, and residents, merchants, and property owners have come together many times over the last decade to help complete projects such as the Roots for Wells tree planting, the Wells Avenue Neighborhood Plan, and the Wells Avenue Conservation District. Volunteers clean graffiti, pick up trash, look after their neighbors and their property. They attend City Council meetings, and talk to their council members. In cooperation with the Reno Police, the West of Wells Neighborhood watch Group (WOW) has shown that community involvement reduces crime. Because of these efforts, the Wells Avenue district has been an inspiration and model for other districts in Reno.

Beautification and Revitalization of Wells

Beautification efforts and renovation of historic buildings continue on Wells Avenue with an emphasis toward store front improvements and maintaining a clean, safe and attractive street. This business district will remain a diverse mix of businesses, and those starting a small business will find that Wells Avenue remains affordable for purchase or lease. Although a great place to start a business there are many longtime businesses in the district. The residential neighborhood is experiencing something of a renaissance as demand increases for the area’s charming bungalow homes. It is the spirit of its people and the strength of its unity that has allowed Wells to thrive through decades of change and development.

The exterior of a black building, The Holland Project a venue space for art and live music.
A long white plate of three beef tacos. In the background is are a bowl of chips and bowl of salsa.

A Neighborhood Rich in History and Multiculturalism

Local customers know their shop owners by name, and residents, merchants, and property owners have come together many times over the last decade to help complete projects such as the Roots for Wells tree planting, the Wells Avenue Neighborhood Plan, and the Wells Avenue Conservation District. Volunteers clean graffiti, pick up trash, look after their neighbors and their property. They attend City Council meetings, and talk to their council members. In cooperation with the Reno Police, the West of Wells Neighborhood watch Group (WOW) has shown that community involvement reduces crime. Because of these efforts, the Wells Avenue district has been an inspiration and model for other districts in Reno.

The exterior of a black building, The Holland Project a venue space for art and live music.

Beautification and Revitalization of Wells

Beautification efforts and renovation of historic buildings continue on Wells Avenue with an emphasis toward store front improvements and maintaining a clean, safe and attractive street. This business district will remain a diverse mix of businesses, and those starting a small business will find that Wells Avenue remains affordable for purchase or lease. Although a great place to start a business there are many longtime businesses in the district. The residential neighborhood is experiencing something of a renaissance as demand increases for the area’s charming bungalow homes. It is the spirit of its people and the strength of its unity that has allowed Wells to thrive through decades of change and development.

Exterior of The Virgil, an old brick church building that has been converted into an event space.