Is it any wonder that a huge portion of Lake Tahoe things to do are Mother Nature-based? There are mountains – tops, sides and bases, lakes, ridges, secret coves, beaches, waterfalls, rivers, bays, old-growth forests, meadows, wilderness areas and more. Then there are the state and local parks that encompass and enhance the experience of immersing into this environment. Other Lake Tahoe attractions are built into this landscape – castles and mansions more than 100 years old, monuments to the earliest inhabitants of this region and to the settlers who came later, a 72-mile aquatic trail and historic sites and museums. Then there are the Lake Tahoe attractions that take advantage of such a stunning backdrop: art festivals, music festivals, dance festivals, wine tours, Renaissance fairs, duckee durbees, outdoor markets, restaurant weeks, water races, helicopter and balloon tours, sightseeing cruises, parades, tram and gondola rides, holiday-focused festivities, guided tours, sporting events, hand gliding tours and so much more!
Featured for Your Visit
Lake Tahoe Attractions
2435 Venice Drive East, South Lake Tahoe, CA
Lake Tahoe Balloons lets you see the Lake Tahoe region from a very unique perspective. Imagine flying with the golden eagles and osprey while gliding with the currents of wind in your own hot-air balloon. Below you spreads the immense green forests and granite landscapes of the Sierra Mountains framing the turquoise and azure blues of Lake Tahoe and other smaller alpine lakes. The only sound is the soft whoosh of the balloon, soaring and offering a view like no other. Lake Tahoe Balloons is an amazing way to see the outstanding views in a way that is not possible by any other means. Another interesting and unique aspect to the Lake Tahoe Balloons operation is that the balloon launches from the water of Lake Tahoe on a U.S. Coast Guard-approved double decker, Catamaran-style aircraft vessel (the only one in the world of its kind), allowing guests to experience the stunning views of lifting off from the water. Their season is May 15 through October 15 every year.
Lake Tahoe Balloons lets you see the Lake Tahoe region from a very unique perspective. Imagine flying with the golden eagles and osprey while gliding with the currents of wind in your own hot-air balloon. Below you spreads the immense green forests and granite landscapes of the Sierra Mountains framing the turquoise and azure blues of Lake Tahoe and other smaller alpine lakes. The only... read more
Lake Tahoe Balloons lets you see the Lake Tahoe region from a very unique perspective.... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
889 Tahoe Boulevard, Incline Village, NV
Around Tahoe Tours is your best bet for getting a true feel and knowledge of the local area. Created by Darin Talbot, the tour agency is a culmination of his knowledge that began when he moved to the area in 1977. With his fun attitude and amusing ways of sharing the tales of Tahoe, the musician and storyteller is able to create an entertaining and educational tour for the entire family. His tours range from in-person private tours to group tours to self-guided audio tours. The tours focus on all of the various areas of the Tahoe Basin, from South Lake Tahoe to Truckee. Around Tahoe Tours also offers a GPS app to help visitors know the area and see hidden gems.
Around Tahoe Tours is your best bet for getting a true feel and knowledge of the local area. Created by Darin Talbot, the tour agency is a culmination of his knowledge that began when he moved to the area in 1977. With his fun attitude and amusing ways of sharing the tales of Tahoe, the musician and storyteller is able to create an entertaining and... read more
Around Tahoe Tours is your best bet for getting a true feel and knowledge of... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
1900 Jameson Beach Road, South Lake Tahoe, CA
For more than a century, the Camp Richardson location has been a place for people to escape from hectic urban life and rejuvenate their spirits in the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe. Operated today under a U.S. Forest Service special use permit (except for the marina, which is privately owned), the Camp Rich resort honors its storied history and continues to provide a vacation getaway for newer generations of families. Lodging options for overnight adventures include lake-view and forest cabins, lodge and inn rooms, tent sites and RV sites. On site are a general store and deli, an ice cream shop and a coffee and confectionery shop. The Mountain Sports Center has equipment rentals for both winter and summer sports, and the adjacent marina is open in the summer for boating and watersports fun. Beacon Bar & Grill provides lakefront dining and, on weekends in the warmer months, the best in local live entertainment.
For more than a century, the Camp Richardson location has been a place for people to escape from hectic urban life and rejuvenate their spirits in the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe. Operated today under a U.S. Forest Service special use permit (except for the marina, which is privately owned), the Camp Rich resort honors its storied history and continues to provide a vacation getaway... read more
For more than a century, the Camp Richardson location has been a place for people... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
CA Highway 89, South Lake Tahoe, CA
DL Bliss State Park is a culmination of absolute Tahoe beauty in the form of stunning turquoise water, old-growth forests and giant cartoon-like granite boulders that balance themselves like toys in amazing ways. There are multiple hiking trails that lead from the park, giving plenty of opportunity to enjoy the splendor that outdoor Tahoe has to offer, and you'll find several good dive spots here too. To help enjoy the area even more, there are 150 regular campsites and one group site, all having easy access to the water via various points around the park. The park is also good for dogs as long as they're on a leash at all times and not on the trails. If you're coming to the park for day use only it is highly advised that you come early, as the park tends to be very busy and parking is limited. The park does not allow day use visitors once the parking lots are full. The park closes in the winter, although access to trails is still available.
DL Bliss State Park is a culmination of absolute Tahoe beauty in the form of stunning turquoise water, old-growth forests and giant cartoon-like granite boulders that balance themselves like toys in amazing ways. There are multiple hiking trails that lead from the park, giving plenty of opportunity to enjoy the splendor that outdoor Tahoe has to offer, and you'll find several good dive spots here... read more
DL Bliss State Park is a culmination of absolute Tahoe beauty in the form of... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
CA State Park Road, Tahoma, CA
Ed Z'Berg Sugar Pine Point State Park is your best bet for winter camping. Also open with a larger selection of sites in the summer, the park is positioned to take advantage of both the beautiful natural setting of Lake Tahoe and the historic aspects. Within the park is access to the Hellman-Ehrmann Mansion that was built in 1905. The property is still exquisitely maintained and is an excellent representation of the wealthy side of Tahoe. There are various trail heads, swimming beaches and great fishing within the park as well as a Nature Center that helps visitors identify the local flora and fauna. In the winter the park hosts full moon snowshoe expeditions, historical tours via snowshoe and a groomed cross-country track. Dogs are allowed on leash only.
Ed Z'Berg Sugar Pine Point State Park is your best bet for winter camping. Also open with a larger selection of sites in the summer, the park is positioned to take advantage of both the beautiful natural setting of Lake Tahoe and the historic aspects. Within the park is access to the Hellman-Ehrmann Mansion that was built in 1905. The property is still exquisitely maintained... read more
Ed Z'Berg Sugar Pine Point State Park is your best bet for winter camping. Also... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
11001 CA Highway 89, South Lake Tahoe, CA
If visiting Lake Tahoe in the summer, a great place to camp is Emerald Bay State Park. The park includes two campgrounds: the Boat-In Camp (accessible by boat and foot only) and Eagle Point Campground. Within the park are various treasures including Tahoe's hidden castle, Vikingsholm, the scenic Rubicon foot trail that connects Eagle Point Campground with Vikingsholm and DL Bliss State Park. The park also encompasses Fanette Island, the only island of Lake Tahoe. The park extends below the surface of the lake, where visitors will find a historical story book of days gone by in the form of sunken barges, ships and launches. The park closes down in the winter, though people are able to walk the mile-long, steep trail to Vikingsholm Castle to enjoy the grounds and beaches. The trail can be a bit treacherous in winter if snowy or icy.
If visiting Lake Tahoe in the summer, a great place to camp is Emerald Bay State Park. The park includes two campgrounds: the Boat-In Camp (accessible by boat and foot only) and Eagle Point Campground. Within the park are various treasures including Tahoe's hidden castle, Vikingsholm, the scenic Rubicon foot trail that connects Eagle Point Campground with Vikingsholm and DL Bliss State Park. The park... read more
If visiting Lake Tahoe in the summer, a great place to camp is Emerald Bay... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
725 Granlibakken Road, Tahoe City, CA
Granlibakken Tahoe is tucked away in the forested hills framing Lake Tahoe. Located just a few minutes from Tahoe City, Granlibakken is a resort center that invokes the meaning of quaint hospitality while at the same time offering a plethora of options to create the perfect vacation. From a fine dining restaurant that serves culinary art to a conference center that holds annual events such as the Granlibakken's Women's Wellness Weekend, from its own private tiny ski area to a full-service spa complete with yoga classes, Granlibakken Tahoe strives to fill each guest's request. The adjoining ski area has a poma lift and rope tow for guests in the winter and then transfers over to a ropes course area in the summer. There are also tennis courts on property as well as fantastic hiking leaving directly from the resort.
Granlibakken Tahoe is tucked away in the forested hills framing Lake Tahoe. Located just a few minutes from Tahoe City, Granlibakken is a resort center that invokes the meaning of quaint hospitality while at the same time offering a plethora of options to create the perfect vacation. From a fine dining restaurant that serves culinary art to a conference center that holds annual events such... read more
Granlibakken Tahoe is tucked away in the forested hills framing Lake Tahoe. Located just a... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
2640 E. College Parkway, Carson City, NV
You love Lake Tahoe, and you feel as if you’ve seen all the sights it has to offer. But as the old saying goes, you ain’t seen nothing yet ... not until you’ve seen it from the air, piloting your own aircraft over the Carson Range and into the Tahoe Basin. With Hang Gliding Tahoe, you fly a powered hang glider with an instructor along for the ride (the flight can even count for training toward a pilot’s license!) and enjoy the sight of the lake from an entirely new perspective. Morning flights offer spectacular year-round viewing conditions, and you can schedule sessions ranging from one hour clear on up to three hours. Make it an extra-special event and fly as a couple or with a friend, each in your own aircraft, and don’t forget to sign up for the photo or video service for a souvenir of the flight that you will treasure forever.
You love Lake Tahoe, and you feel as if you’ve seen all the sights it has to offer. But as the old saying goes, you ain’t seen nothing yet ... not until you’ve seen it from the air, piloting your own aircraft over the Carson Range and into the Tahoe Basin. With Hang Gliding Tahoe, you fly a powered hang glider with an instructor along... read more
You love Lake Tahoe, and you feel as if you’ve seen all the sights it... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
11253 Brockway Road, Suite 103, Truckee, CA
Lake Tahoe has only one outflow — the Truckee River. And for 20 years IRIE Rafting Company has given visitors a close-up view of the waterway as well as the region's north and middle forks of the American River and the Carson River. For those wanting to stay closer to Truckee, IRIE offers half- and full-day trips on the Truckee River after it flows past the town of Truckee. There is ideal paddling to be had for a range of ages and abilities as well as some thrilling rapids as the river runs down into the Truckee River Gorge. IRIE transports guests to and from Truckee to the put-in and take-out points on the river and provides helmets, personal flotation vests, paddles and helmets. Expect a two-hour trip that will be perfect for the whole family.
Lake Tahoe has only one outflow — the Truckee River. And for 20 years IRIE Rafting Company has given visitors a close-up view of the waterway as well as the region's north and middle forks of the American River and the Carson River. For those wanting to stay closer to Truckee, IRIE offers half- and full-day trips on the Truckee River after it flows past... read more
Lake Tahoe has only one outflow — the Truckee River. And for 20 years IRIE... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
Bear Street and CA Highway 28, Kings Beach, CA
With its easy location in the center of town, Kings Beach State Recreation Area makes enjoying the sandy shoreline of Lake Tahoe simple. The park itself is free and offers day use of a few miles of sandy beach, public bathrooms, a children's play area and barbecue grills. There are boat, Jet Ski and paddleboard rentals available as well. Parking costs $10 for both cars and trucks. Dogs are not allowed in the summer. In the winter the bathrooms and other facilities close down, but the beach opens to walkers and dogs, as long as they are on a leash. The park hours are from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m.
With its easy location in the center of town, Kings Beach State Recreation Area makes enjoying the sandy shoreline of Lake Tahoe simple. The park itself is free and offers day use of a few miles of sandy beach, public bathrooms, a children's play area and barbecue grills. There are boat, Jet Ski and paddleboard rentals available as well. Parking costs $10 for both cars and... read more
With its easy location in the center of town, Kings Beach State Recreation Area makes enjoying... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
2435 Venice Drive East, South Lake Tahoe, CA
Lake Tahoe Balloons lets you see the Lake Tahoe region from a very unique perspective. Imagine flying with the golden eagles and osprey while gliding with the currents of wind in your own hot-air balloon. Below you spreads the immense green forests and granite landscapes of the Sierra Mountains framing the turquoise and azure blues of Lake Tahoe and other smaller alpine lakes. The only sound is the soft whoosh of the balloon, soaring and offering a view like no other. Lake Tahoe Balloons is an amazing way to see the outstanding views in a way that is not possible by any other means. Another interesting and unique aspect to the Lake Tahoe Balloons operation is that the balloon launches from the water of Lake Tahoe on a U.S. Coast Guard-approved double decker, Catamaran-style aircraft vessel (the only one in the world of its kind), allowing guests to experience the stunning views of lifting off from the water. Their season is May 15 through October 15 every year.
Lake Tahoe Balloons lets you see the Lake Tahoe region from a very unique perspective. Imagine flying with the golden eagles and osprey while gliding with the currents of wind in your own hot-air balloon. Below you spreads the immense green forests and granite landscapes of the Sierra Mountains framing the turquoise and azure blues of Lake Tahoe and other smaller alpine lakes. The only... read more
Lake Tahoe Balloons lets you see the Lake Tahoe region from a very unique perspective.... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
2500 Emerald Bay Road, South Lake Tahoe, CA
In one of the little ironies of life, Lake Tahoe Golf Course is one of the courses at South Shore that is actually farthest from the lake, over at Meyers. This in no way, however, detracts from the beauty of the location as it is in a high-altitude meadow set up against the rugged mountain scenery. The course, with layout by William Bell, welcomes casual players as well as custom-designed tournaments and events. Lake Tahoe Golf Course is also a popular venue for non-golfing special events, not the least of which are weddings. Whether the event takes place on the 10th tee near the Truckee River or in the clubhouse with views of Mount Tallac, the catering and event specialists here can help give your wedding day that special Tahoe flavor.
In one of the little ironies of life, Lake Tahoe Golf Course is one of the courses at South Shore that is actually farthest from the lake, over at Meyers. This in no way, however, detracts from the beauty of the location as it is in a high-altitude meadow set up against the rugged mountain scenery. The course, with layout by William Bell, welcomes casual... read more
In one of the little ironies of life, Lake Tahoe Golf Course is one of... read more
Lake Tahoe Attractions
160 W. Liberty Street, Reno, NV
As the only accredited art museum in the state, Nevada Museum of Art is a beacon of culture in the High Sierra. The museum is in Reno, about an hour's drive from the Tahoe area. The permanent collections are extensive and stunning, and the changing exhibitions keep things fresh, even for regular visitors. The museum offers three floors of exhibits, usually with varying themes and styles. Most exhibits are on display for at least one month; some may stay over a year. All forms of art are often represented, and docents are often on each floor to answer questions and give you insightful information. This is also the home of the Center for the Art and Environment as well as the E. L. Cord Museum School. Add in other programming such as the Hands On education for children and families, the talks and discussions with artists and the Sunday music brunches in the café, and you begin to understand why this institution is held in such high regard by the Reno locals.
The gift shop offers hand-crafted, artful gifts for sale, ranging from jewelry and wearable art to ceramics and children’s games. An additional room has art books from general to specific about currently exhibited art and artists. Proceeds from the gift shop sales support exhibits and educational programs, which are offered each month to adults and children. A restaurant in the museum, chez louie, offers French-inspired meals for lunch, dinner and snacks. A brunch with live music is held every Sunday, and dinners are often held in celebration of special exhibits.
As the only accredited art museum in the state, Nevada Museum of Art is a beacon of culture in the High Sierra. The museum is in Reno, about an hour's drive from the Tahoe area. The permanent collections are extensive and stunning, and the changing exhibitions keep things fresh, even for regular visitors. The museum offers three floors of exhibits, usually with varying themes and styles. Most exhibits... read more
As the only accredited art museum in the state, Nevada Museum of Art is a beacon of... read more
