Things to do in Lake Tahoe – Your Winter Travel Guide

Lake Tahoe is California's winter getaway. The movie stars jet up to its 5-star resorts to get away from the hustle and bustle of L.A. and it's an outdoor wonderland offering great adventures. These are the top things to do in Lake Tahoe during the winter months.

Things to do in Lake Tahoe :

The Winter Guide

We caught the winter wave last February to take part in everything snow during our road trip around Northern California. Tahoe surprised us with its diversity and how it changed from North to South.

Starting in the North we explore the quieter side of the region before heading off to the South where casinos, nightlife, and pure energy waited for our arrival.

Ski Lake Tahoe

Everyone knows Lake Tahoe is a great place to ski. It hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics and it has never slowed down since! Out of all the things to do in Lake Tahoe this one is a must.

Lake Tahoe is home to 12 ski resorts with six main resorts offering world-class skiing and snowboarding.

Lighthouse Spa

Unwind and relax at the Lighthouse Spa and have a massage, get a facial or take on a full body treatment like a warm aromatherapy body wrap.

Heavenly Gondola

If you are not a skier, you can still go up the mountain of Heavenly. Taking the gondola is an adventure unto itself (for those who don't ski much).

The 2.5-mile gondola ride will take you to an observation deck for a panoramic view of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe.

Note: Weather didn't cooperate when we were there, so we don't have a view from the top of the Gondola. But we have seen photos, it's stunning!

Casinos Tahoe South

We aren't much into gambling, but from the looks of everyone crossing the border to the casinos on the Nevada side of Tahoe South, people love it.

There's Bally's and the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino to name a few. Of all the things to do in Lake Tahoe South this is probably one of the most popular.

South Lake Tahoe is filled with excitement and nightlife and lots of dining choices.

Scenic Views of Lake Tahoe

Simply driving around the area of Tahoe is worth it for the views and these are some of our favorite spots that we stopped to photograph.

Donner Lake

It has an excellent lookout on the way up to Sugar Bowl. Stop at one of the pullouts for a magnificent view of the lake.

Emerald Bay

Driving from North to South Tahoe offers many stops to take in the scene.

Make sure to stop at all the cut-offs for Emerald Bay and take in the many views.

Zephyr Cove

This is on the Nevada Side of Lake Tahoe, but it is a lovely scenic view of islands, beaches and a famous lone tree that has become popular on Instagram.

Where to Stay Lake Tahoe North

Cedar Crest Cottages – Great for large families or couples. It has its own kitchen and outdoor firepit. It's a little far away from everything, but that is exactly what most people are looking for when coming to Lake Tahoe.

Sunnyside Resort – We only ate here, but the dinner was fabulous and the owner was super friendly. It has a more central location and you feel that you are in more of a ski village feel when in this area.

Where to Stay Lake Tahoe South

Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel – This is the most convenient location right next to the Heavenly Gondola. It's a busy hotel with lots of families and I think it could definitely use an upgrade. But you can't go wrong with the location or price.

Search Booking.com for Accommodation in Lake Tahoe

Booking.com

Where to Eat Lake Tahoe South

There is no shortage of places to eat in Lake Tahoe South. All you have to do is go for a walk down the street and find the place you are looking for.

But a few places we sampled and can recommend are:

Riva Grill – is a lakefront eatery that is a local favorite. It offers contemporary American food and there's plenty of parking.

Outpost Brewing Company – is a great apres ski location offering handcrafted brews.

Azul Latin Kitchen – located near the gondola this restaurant offers a delicious Mexican inspired menu.

Off the Hook Sushi – Another local favorite, this hot spot is located in the middle of town and will satisfy your seafood cravings.

See full recommendations on where to eat at Tahoe South Food Guide

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination offering activities for families, couples and even bachelors and bachelorettes.

We enjoyed North Lake Tahoe's laid-back pace and quiet atmosphere, but families and younger single travelers will definitely love the excitement and energy of South Tahoes nightlife and casinos.

Have you been to Lake Tahoe in the winter?

What are your favorite things to do?

To see our full itinerary through California check out Follow Marketingkonferenz from Oceans to Mountains on Visit California.