Things to do in Lake Tahoe Region
Discover the best attractions and experiences Lake Tahoe Region has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the Lake Tahoe region's storied past through grand estates and pioneer-era sites that frame the shoreline.
Vikingsholm
A 38-room Scandinavian-inspired estate on Emerald Bay with dramatic lake views and a historic connection to Tahoe’s lake life.
Donner Memorial State Park
Site of the Donner Party memorials and a museum that recounts the saga of westward migration and El Dorado County history.
Tallac Historic Site
A cluster of preserved 19th- and early 20th-century estates offering grounds, cottages, and lakefront vistas.
Museums
Dive into local history, pioneer life, and Tahoe’s maritime heritage at these informative museums.
Donner Memorial State Park & Emigrant Trail Museum
Exhibits detail the Donner Party era and the emigrant trails through the Sierra Nevada.
Gatekeeper's Museum
Tahoe City’s history museum showcasing the region’s development, people, and community stories.
Truckee Railroad Museum
Explores Truckee’s railroad history and the Central Pacific era that shaped the High Sierra.
Religious Monuments
Historic churches and spiritual centers reflect the region’s diverse communities around the lake.
St. Theresa Catholic Church (South Lake Tahoe)
A long-standing parish serving the South Lake Tahoe community with active Masses and gatherings.
Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church (South Lake Tahoe)
A local Catholic church offering regular services and community programs by the lake.
Tahoe Community Church (Tahoe City)
A welcoming church in the Tahoe City area with community activities and services.
National & Theme Parks
Natural spaces and protected areas around Tahoe offer breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreation.
Tahoe National Forest
A vast forest offering hiking, camping, and alpine scenery surrounding Lake Tahoe.
Emerald Bay State Park
One of Lake Tahoe’s most photographed spots with scenic viewpoints and Vikingsholm.
Donner Memorial State Park
A park commemorating the Donner Party with interpretive trails around Donner Lake.
Sand Harbor State Park
Nevada-side beach paradise with clear water, picnic areas, and public shoreline access.
Neighborhoods
Move beyond the resorts to explore the villages and historic towns that form Lake Tahoe’s character.
Old Town Truckee
Historic downtown with wooden boardwalks, boutique shops, and small-town charm.
Incline Village
North Shore community known for beaches, golf courses, and lakefront recreation.
Tahoe City
Lakeside hub with the Gatekeeper’s Museum, shops, and a scenic waterfront promenade.
Free Things to Do
Experience Tahoe’s beauty without an admission fee through hikes, public beaches, and scenic strolls.
Tahoe Rim Trail (sections)
Choose a trail segment for breathtaking views and fresh alpine air at no cost.
Truckee River Bike Path
A paved, easy ride along the river linking scenic towns and lake access points.
Meeks Bay Beach sunset views
Public beach access with expansive views of the lake at dusk.
Gastronomy
Relish lakefront dining, casual fare, and hearty local favorites at restaurants across the region.
Gar Woods Grill & Bar
Iconic lakeside dining with seafood and steaks and dramatic sunset views.
Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge
Long-standing lakeside eatery offering casual bites and classic Tahoe atmosphere.
Base Camp Pizza Co.
Casual, family-friendly pizza with a lively atmosphere in Heavenly Village.
Nightlife
Casinos, lounges, and live music venues light up the night along the South Shore and Stateline.
MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa
Vibrant casino complex with lounges, concerts, and nightlife options.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe
Energetic casino venue with multiple bars and live entertainment.
Harrah's Lake Tahoe
Classic casino resort offering gaming, shows, and a nightlife scene.
Entertainment
From community stages to seasonal festivals, Tahoe hosts a variety of cultural happenings.
Bijou Community Arts Center
A local hub for community theater, performing arts, and exhibitions.
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival
Seasonal professional theatre by the lake with outdoor summer performances.
MontBleu Showroom
Entertainment venue hosting concerts, comedy, and touring performances.
Sports
Tahoe’s mountains and waters are a playground for winter sports and summer adventures.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Renowned ski resort with excellent slopes, gondola access, and year-round activities.
Palisades Tahoe (Squaw Valley / Alpine Meadows)
Historic Olympic venue offering premier skiing, snowboarding, and scenic tram rides.
Tahoe Donner Cross Country Center
Nordic skiing and snowshoeing on well-groomed trails near Truckee.
Off the Track
Delve into lesser-known experiences and hidden gems that showcase Tahoe’s quieter side.
Moonlight Hike to Eagle Falls
A guided or self-guided evening hike to a scenic waterfall under the stars.
Night Kayaking or Bioluminescent Paddling (seasonal)
Seasonal guided night paddling experiences for a unique lake view.
Tahoe Scenic Byway Drives
Slow, scenic drives along CA-89/CA-28 to spot viewpoints and quiet overlooks.