Vacation Spotlight: Lake Tahoe
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
One of my favorite vacation destinations, gorgeous Lake Tahoe on the California/Nevada border, offers a multitude of recreational activities no matter the season. I visited this area for the first time during a trip to Reno (it’s a great daytrip for anyone looking for something amazing to do). The massive lake is North America’s largest alpine lake and the second deepest in the US.
From beaches, scenic aerial rides, and boat rides in the summer months, to skiing, ice skating, and snowy carriage rides in the winter months, there are more ways than one to take in the scenery all year round. I have visited in both seasons and prefer the summer as I am not a huge fan of skiing. I do love ice skating though and there are 2 fantastic rinks to enjoy.
As one of the most scenic areas in the US, Tahoe is the perfect vacation destination for outdoor buffs and nature lovers. Mike and I became regular hikers and explorers ever since we moved out West. We knew we had to plan a trip here to enjoy some of the beautiful hikes and recreational attractions. While in Nevada several years back, we planned regularly weekend roadtrips to Reno. One day, we decided to take the 45 min drive to the lake. Ever since then, we have been in love with the area.
Besides wonderful state parks and and scenic drives, you have casinos, great dining, and live entertainment, so it’s a great pick for both fitness buffs and anyone seeking big city amenities. Because the lake lies on the border of the California and Nevada state line, you have your choice of staying in either state. Both states offer plenty of attractions, with the casinos lying in Stateline, Nevada, and most of the outdoor recreation falling on the California side.
I have organized a handy guide of my favorite attractions, restaurants, and hotels in the area.
Emerald Bay State Park – Hiking here is the most incredible experience, the best thing we have done in this region to state. This beautiful park is an incredible place to hike as you will experience dramatic views of the lake and surrounding forests from every angle. The park is also home to Vikingsholm, a historic 1800’s era Scandinavian styled mansion.
Tours offered daily during the summer months. The house is only accessible via boat or hiking the 1 mile long Vikingsholm trail. This is the trail I recommend for first time visitors; it’s beautiful and not overly challenging. Fortunately, my mom’s friend recommended this fabulous hiking oasis to us and I agree that it is a bucket list contender.
Heavenly Village Gondola ride – During the summer months, the ski lift at Heavenly Village is transformed into a scenic tram ride. The entire 2.4 mile trip up to the top is breathtaking with views of both the lake and surrounding forests. The observation deck provides more beautiful panoramic views of the area. Don’t forget your camera!
At the top you will have access to hiking trails, restaurants, and more. I really love that they offer these scenic rides – it’s a great way for non hikers to enjoy the fabulous scenery. This was one of the best activities I’ve come across on any vacation; the views are absolutely mesmerizing.
Aerial tram ride at Squaw Valley – This scenic ride is not as breathtaking as the Heavenly Village ride in my opinion. Nevertheless, the views as you ride over 8000 feet up to the High Camp are nothing short of spectacular! The difference here is more mountain views as opposed to the lake, which can be really gorgeous during the late spring season when there is still a dusting of snow.
At the top, you will be able to skate, dine, hike, bike, and more. You will also find a small museum and sculpture dedicated to the 1960 Olympics which were held in Squaw Valley. Update: Renamed Palisades Tahoe in 2021.
There are plenty of great photo opportunities at the top where you can get your photo with the stunning mountain backdrop. Although I prefer the summer activities in the area, I really love the snowy mountains in the background.
The beautiful Squaw Village (Now Palisades) Shopping Area. You will find a number of restaurants, plus outdoor gear shops like North Face and Patagonia. It’s a gorgeous place to just take a stroll whether or not you are shopping. You will find mountain goods sporting stores, The North Face, and Oakley sunglasses.
The restaurants are pretty diverse and you can find everything from pizza, to sushi, to and Irish pub. We were walking past this couple one time and they gave us a free wine tasting to this place called Uncorked. This was a great experience and I loved the ambiance.
Overall, this is a gorgeous area to walk around especially in the winter with the stunning snowy mountain backdrop.
M.S. Dixie Cruise in Zephyr Cove – This cruise is a great opportunity for non hikers to enjoy the view. I loved the mix of scenery and history. Our tour guide was really great at informing us about the history of the lake and region; we learned a lot in a short time frame. I recommend looking into the Emerald Bay sightseeing cruise, which is basically 2 hours of non-stop nature at its’ best.
The Shops at Heavenly Village – This outdoor shopping area located at the base of the gondola is the perfect place for a stroll. You will find plenty of outdoor gear shops, restaurants, mini golf in the summer, and a fun, festive winter ice rink. I loved skating here in the winter season; it’s super festive and conveniently located amongst all the shops and restaurants.
There is a spa, mini golf, a movie theater, and one of the old time photo places you see in all the touristy areas. You will find a number of restaurants and treat shops like Coldstone, Great American Cookies, and the Champagne and Chocolate Company.
More spring & summer fun
Other popular summer activities include: relaxing at the beaches, hiking at Van Sickle Bi-State Park, hiking Mt Tallac, kayak tours, whitewater rafting in nearby Truckee, and taking a leisurely ride along the South Lake Tahoe Bicycle Path.
Winter fun
I also recommend visiting during the winter months if you have a chance. The region is so much more quaint and beautiful, not to mention less crowded at this time. The Squaw Valley pavilion (Palisades) transforms into an incredibly scenic ice rink.
While I am not a skier, I think ice skating is a wonderful alternative and there are several fabulous rinks to enjoy to justify a winter vacation. It’s great that ice skating is offered as an alternative for those who don’t ski. I have visited so many ski towns where skiing is the only thing to do so you are out of luck when it comes to other winter activities.
Definitely take a look at the Olympic Exhibit which commemorates the 1960 Winter Olympics games that took place in the area.
Besides skiing & skating, additional winter fun activities include: sledding, soaking in natural hot springs, dog sled tours, and horse drawn sleigh rides. At the South Tahoe visitor center, you can learn more about the different activities offered in each season. Located at: 4114 Lake Tahoe Blvd.
Recommended restaurants
Hard Rock Café – This themed rock eatery is one of my favorite places to stop for food, music, and fun during a trip. This particular location, conveniently located inside Harvey’s Casino, is the perfect beginning or end to any night out. The Jumbo Appetizer, which includes spring rolls, onion rings, chicken tenders, and loaded baked potato skins, is one of my all-time favorite appetizers.
Update: Unfortunately, Hard Rock Cafe has closed.
Friday’s Station – Steak and seafood restaurant located on the 18th floor of Harrah’s. Features extraordinary views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and a romantic ambiance. There wasn’t much I could eat on the menu as a vegetarian, but I loved the scenery and the sides were decent enough.
The best budget friendly lodging
Harvey’s – Harvey’s is the perfect spot to stay during your Tahoe visit. The views are great, the dining options are diverse, and there are plenty of specialty shops to browse/pick up souvenirs. The outdoor pool/hot tub area provides fantastic views of the area. The rooms feature great views of the lake/forest. I also loved that there was a Hard Rock located right downstairs! Harvey’s is conveniently located within walking distance of most of Tahoe’s popular activities and attractions.
Additionally, Grand Residences by Marriott, Marriott’s Timber Lodge, & the Lake Tahoe Resort are great options. For a fantastic budget-friendly option within walking distance of Heavenly Village, check out the Blue Lake Inn.
Update: Harvey’s was rebranded at Caesars Republic.
Recommended Spa
A Body ReNEW Spa – The deep tissue massage I received here was absolutely fantastic: one of the best massages I have ever experienced. This was the perfect treat after a full day of hiking! Thanks Mike for the perfect birthday gift!
Recommended side trip
Reno – If you are looking for more to do, I recommend a side trip to Reno, which is located only about an hour’s drive away. Known as “The Biggest Little City in the World,” this city is a one-of-a-kind destination despite its’ small size. With just over 225,000 residents, Reno packs over 20 casinos, numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, and a ski resort within its’ borders.
If you are looking for somewhere great to stay, Mike and I really love the Grand Sierra. It’s a nice moderate price option far away from the rowdy downtown casino. The rooms are fantastic and the dining options are pretty great as well. There is a lot to do here, so much so that sometimes we just plan a getaway to enjoy the amenities.
This resort features a large fitness center, a spa, shopping, a bowling alley, a movie theater, nightclubs, an arcade, miniature golf, a driving range, a large showroom, and more than a dozen restaurants and bars. Elements Buffet (now the Lodge) is one of the better buffets in Reno with an especially delicious dessert bar.
Attraction Address Info
- Emerald Bay State Park: Hwy 89 South
- Heavenly Village gondola: 1001 Heavenly Village Way
- Squaw Valley aerial tram: 1750 Village East Rd, Olympic Valley, CA
- M.S. Dixie Cruise: 900 Ski Run Blvd #201
- The Shops at Heavenly Village: 1001 Heavenly Village Way
- Hard Rock Café: 18 U.S. 50 Stateline, NV
- Harvey’s Lake Tahoe: 18 U.S. 50 Stateline, NV,
- A Body ReNEW Spa: 2264 Lake Tahoe Blvd
- Grand Sierra Resort and Casino: 2500 East Second St Reno, NV
Attraction Pricing & Hours
Heavenly Village gondola
Prices: Adults $75 and up, Teens (13-17) $59 and up, Child (5-12) $36 and up, Senior $59 and up, Kids 4 and under are Free
Squaw Valley aerial tram
Prices: Ranges between $19-37, midweek/vs holiday
Hours: 10:00am-5:00pm (Summer Hours)
M.S. Dixie Cruise
Prices: Adults $99, Children (3-11): $55
Hours: Cruise Schedule
The Shops at Heavenly Village
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 10:00am-8:00pm, Friday & Saturday: 10:00am-9:00pm, Sunday: 10:00am-7:00pm.
A Body ReNEW Massage Spa
Hours: Open everyday from 9am-9pm by appointment.
*Pricing current as of 2025. Please check with each individual website for changes.
