Things to do & places to visit in Lake Tahoe Area, United States

Lake Tahoe Area #55 destination in United States 2023. Timezone: America/Chicago, current date and time: Thursday, May 02, 2024, 23:26.

Top things to do (36)

Top places to visit (25 attractions)

5.0 Tahoe Treetop Adventure Parks (2.732 reviews)
- Three generations of fun!
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks

We were 3 generations in our family, ages 7, 38 and 74. We all went on all the courses. It was totally safe. It was still very thrilling. It was so much fun and given that you can be on the courses for 2.5 hours it was a fantastic bargain. They limit the number of people in a way that you are never waiting in lines. The employees are very professional and do a good job of explaining what to expect, how to deal with any issues that might come up and how to have the most fun. We really loved this experience and we recommend it to anyone visiting Tahoe. It should be at the top of your list of things to do. See more..
5.0 Lake Tahoe Boat Rides (681 reviews)
- Great service!
Boat Tours • Water Sports • Sightseeing Tours • Boat Rentals • Speed Boats Tours

Captain Scottie took great care of us while we celebrated with a group of 10 during a 4-hour tour. It was overcast and they reached out to us 1-2 days before to find out if we’d prefer to move to another day/time that might be more sunny. We decided to proceed with the overcast day and the boat was prepped with enclosures to keep us warm. It turned out to be a mostly beautiful day and Scottie took us around Lake Tahoe while sharing his knowledge of the area. He was a great host and took pictures of the group at various points, all while ensuring that we were having a good time. He was very accommodating to our wants and probably had a good laugh while some of the group enjoyed a COLD dip in the lake. Thanks to Lake Tahoe Boat rides for helping to make our trip a success! See more..
5.0 Tahoe Photographic Tours (635 reviews)
- Rainbows from start to finish..literally
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Sightseeing Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Photography Tours

Our guide, Jim, went above and beyond given the weather was not cooperating to move us around the rain. So many amazing locations I would not have found on my own. He also shared a lot of great tips and techniques at each stop. Mother nature did however bless us with views of a rainbow from our very first stop right up to our return. Amazing tour and guide. Only wish I would have taken the full day trip. Thank you Jim! See more..
5.0 Truckee River Raft Company (303 reviews)
- Fun experience with beautiful views.
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing

My friend and I did this activity while on vacation. The staff were helpful and quick to get us started. The views were beautiful and we had a great time. The water is chilly (but it is everywhere around there). We packed a cooler with drinks and food which was good because we anchored to hangout a few times. We brought a bungee cord which we would recommend or a rope to tie the raft to a tree to keep it anchored. Water shoes are also a must if you want to get out because the water floor is rocky. Also bring plenty of sunscreen for the CA sun. Most of the trip was calm water with the exception of the very end which was like mild white water rafting. The raft was perfect for two adults. We saw some rafts with families of 6 and although it works, it looks less ideal. See more..
5.0 Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park (235 reviews)
- Favorite park at Lake Tahoe
State Parks

A number of areas for visitors along Lake Tahoe, with the most popular being Sand Harbor. See more..
5.0 Lake Tahoe Balloons (219 reviews)
- Amazing Experience
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Balloon Rides

I strongly recommend Lake Tahoe Balloons if you are ever in the Lake Tahoe area. This was a great experience we will never forget. The employees are very knowledgeable and professional. The ride was so smooth and the views are spectacular. This is a must-do if you can. Highly recommend! 10 stars if I could. See more..
5.0 Matt Heron Fly Fishing (217 reviews)
- A Great Day with Matt Heron
Fishing Charters & Tours

My Dad and I had the pleasure of spending a full day fishing with Matt.!We had an excellent time to say the least. Not only is he the best fly fishing guide I have come across in my years of fishing, but he is a very friendly good soul who is passionate about teaching the beautiful art of fly fishing. Any season, any weather, any skill level, there is no one I would recommend more than Matt Heron. See more..
5.0 Tahoe Outdoor Adventures (199 reviews)
- Lovely Morning’s Hike with Michelle - Away from the Maddening Crowds
Thursday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Ski & Snow Tours • Walking Tours • Climbing Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Photography Tours • Stand Up Paddleboarding • Day Trips

We did an early morning hike with Michelle from Tahoe Outdoor Adventures. Booking was super easy and the company paid close attention to our needs for a hike that did not overly stress a bum hip joint. MIchelle made sure we were properly kitted out with water, hand sanitizing wipes. She took us to her favorite out of the way spot near Emerald Bay and water falls. It was away from crowds of tourists. And, she took LOADS of family pictures for us! This was especially wonderful as it is rare to get all four of us together in one snap! We enjoyed learning the history of the area and more about the wildlife. We would highly recommend Tahoe Outdoor Adventures for your hike or paddle boarding adventures in Tahoe. See more..
5.0 Discover Lake Tahoe - Scenic Bus Tours (188 reviews)
- Great tour around Lake Tahoe
Bus Tours

I enjoyed the tour around Lake Tahoe. I enjoyed the sites at Tahoe City the best; including the Truckee Dam, lunch, and the local shopping there. It was a great value for a nearly full day tour. Tour guide/ driver shared lots of facts on the tour. I had a great experience!! See more..
5.0 Anderson's Bicycle Rental (182 reviews)
- Excellent Experience
Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 15, 2023 Spent 2-3 hours Gear Rentals

BEST OF TAHOE! RE-OPENING Weather Permitting APRIL 1st 2023 -Closed for Winter! The ONLY bike rental at the BEGINNING of the National Forest bike trail, which is paved, safe and away from traffic! Park and ride directly to the trail from our location, never having to access any busy streets or highways. Through the National Forest, to the best beaches and attractions along the way... even stop and have lunch at the Beacon Bar and Grill, or pick up sandwiches at the General Store, Across the Ice Cream too (Summer) Watch our video on YouTube: Anderson’s Bicycle Rental (Shows all there is to see and do) Maps, Helmets and Locks provided FREE of charge. It’s a GREAT time from the BEST location Family owned and operated since 1978. Hope to see you soon!! Sue, Bailey and Danny Anderson and our wonderful crew! See more..
5.0 Spa at Squaw Creek (146 reviews)
- Tahoe Bliss
Spas

Sarah was amazing!! In just a few questions she knew exactly what was needed. Really professional and attentive to needs.Mentioned my congestion and she even did a little sinus area massage!!Helped my daughter with some stressed areas and gave suggestions to reduce tension spots. Spa was amazing and immaculate. Everything you would need for a blissful experience. Allow time to find spa on property, check-in, tour spa and relax before treatment. We had a group of 6 and arrived about 45 mins prior to first appt. We had Tranquility room all to ourselves. Used all the facilities !! A little pricey but worth every cent considering you could spend an entire day there using all the facilities See more..
5.0 Sail Tahoe Blue Sailing Charters (139 reviews)
- Best Experience of our Tahoe Vacation!
Boat Tours • Private Tours • Day Trips

**The best day of our trip to Tahoe!!!** Capt Sean was an awesome host on his sailboat! We had perfect weather - slight wind which was great for sailing, and sunny, clear skies! Found Sail Tahoe Blue on Yelp when looking for sailing or boating options on the lake. Sooooo glad we booked! Deck hand Jack made sure everyone's (complimentary) drinks were full and that we were always doing ok, and comfortable on the boat. Both Sean & Jack made sure everyone had a great time - took the time to talk to us all, hear our stories, tell us theirs. Super friendly, super comfortable - amazing excursion for the day! We did an afternoon cruise (2pm-4pm) had 11 people on the boat, which was easy for us all to have our own space. Definitely would do this again! See more..
5.0 Alpenglow Expeditions (138 reviews)
- Go For It!
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Canyoning & Rappelling Tours • Ski & Snow Tours • Climbing Tours

Amazing experience! Small group experience. Gear safe, clean and well maintained. Did choose to by a pair of gardening gloves on site- but pricing was more than fair ($3/pair). Guide was professional, thoughtful and safety oriented while allowing group to move as fast or slow as they were able. I am more adventurous than fit 55year old female. Was as much mentally challenged as physically. Thanks to our guide, Riley, reading the vibe of our group correctly- group was able to complete the Sundial loop in just under 3 hours. So. Much. Fun. One bit of advice: wear a light backpack to carry TWICE as much WATER as you think you will need. Will be on our list of adventures next time we are in the area. See more..
5.0 Tahoe Helicopters (120 reviews)
- "Ringing" in the New Year 2022
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Helicopter Tours

Can't say enough about how special my marriage proposal was with the help of Tahoe Helicopters. Joshua and our pilot, Matt helped me plan the perfect proposal window as we ascended into the winter wonderland of South Lake Tahoe. Both gentlemen were friendly and playful as we rolled out this surprise to my girl friend. My new fiance, Mary was literally swept off her feet. The quality communications headsets we wore during the flight made the proposal and conversation effortless. The Robinson helicopter was modern, luxurious and the slow, low flight at around 1000ft was the spectacular "view" I was dreaming of. What a backdrop to begin the new year and a new life together! I can see this becoming a tradition. Here's to 2022! The beginning of a great "marriage" between Mary, Me and our new professional and competent friends at Tahoe Helicopters. See more..
4.5 Vikingsholm (796 reviews)
- Go for the Surroundings
Thursday: 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Castles

Built as a summer home in 1929, this grand castle on Emerald Bay is considered one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the Western Hemisphere. See more..
4.5 Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum (616 reviews)
- An excellent museum dealing with a famous tragedy
State Parks • History Museums

This museum documents the fascinating and tragic history of the Donner Party's journey to the west coast. See more..
4.5 Tallac Historic Site (586 reviews)
- Excellent Tour
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • History Museums

A Historic Site made up of 3 Estates built between 1894 and 1930. Each Estate has something different and exciting for visitors to do and see! Learn the amazing history of this area in the free museum, then stroll through the former summer homes and gardens of four wealthy gilded-age families. Guided, self-guided, and private tours are available. See more..
4.5 Tahoe Cruises (523 reviews)
- What a ride!!!!
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM Boat Tours

Awesome experience. The boat was very nice and the ride was so beautiful. The captain gave great context about the area - very interesting. Mike was a fountain of knowledge and cool to talk to. Marina was a great bartender and made the trip even more fun. I highly recommend this experience to get a great feel for the lake and see the most beautiful sunsets ever. See more..
4.5 Taylor Creek Visitor Center (443 reviews)
- Great olace
Visitor Centers

We took our two dogs and walked all over the trails it was very scenic lots of tremendous views of the lake. See more..
4.5 Inspiration Point Vista (359 reviews)
- One of the best spots for scenic view of Lake Tahoe
Scenic Drives

Look out over Emerald Bay. See more..
4.5 Eagle Falls Trail (314 reviews)
- Gorgeous hike with waterfall views
Thursday: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM Hiking Trails

A beautiful and well-marked trail. See more..
4.5 Lower Eagle Falls (308 reviews)
- Short but uphill hike to a lovely waterfall
Waterfalls

The Lower Eagle Falls Trail is a lovely trail in Emerald Bay State Park. It starts at the State Park Visitor Center and quickly climbs via rocky stairs to the spectacular Lower Eagle Falls. When I visited in July, the water flow was not robust, but the scenery was still spectacular. The whole trek back & forth is less than a mile. But, note that getting to the trailhead from the State Park parking lot requires an additional one mile hike (downhill from the parking lot). If you are visiting the State Park do not miss this short waterfall hike. See more..
4.5 Van Sickle Bi-State Park (245 reviews)
- Gorgeous Hike!
State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas

I do this hike EVERY time I go to Tahoe, mostly cuz it's walking distance from my hotel, but also cuz it's my happy place. I basically tag the waterfall then turn around. It's never too busy, but also not so quiet that it feels spooky. If you see me up there don't judge me for lip syncing to the music on my headphones. See more..
4.5 Mt. Tallac Trail (241 reviews)
- Wildflowers and scrambling
Hiking Trails

About a two hour drive from Sacramento and easy to find trailhead. Parking area but soon is at capacity so get there early or park alongside the dirt road. Varied terrain with lovely wildflowers and lakes dotting the landscape makes for a wonderful adventure. The last couple of miles on the ascent you come across a false peak and then once over the rise, you have another mile to go. We shortcutted on the descent by literally sliding down the rocks but this is also a good way to sprain an ankle although we were fine. A good pair of shoes with excellent grip and ankle support is almost mandatory. Saw some kids swimming in Cathedral Lake and that makes a refreshing stop. No mosquitoes this time of year in July. Afternoon thunderstorms are an issue and I suggest summiting by noon at the latest or even earlier as you are on fully exposed rock on the way down for a couple of miles. Most hikers were wearing masks or at least held a buff to their face as we passed by so that was nice. See more..
4.5 The Loft Theatre (189 reviews)
- Good show; mixed meal
Thursday: 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Theaters • Dinner Theaters • Theatre & Performances

The Loft Theatre-Lounge-Dining is South Lake Tahoe, California's only live performance theatre, high-end lounge, and restaurant along with a full-bar, and award-winning wines from around the world. The theatre is home to Tahoe's #1 rated show, Magic Fusion, which has won "Best Of Tahoe" 4 years running. The show rotates headliners every two weeks so the show is always fresh and guests can come back times after time to see some of the world's best comedy-magicians. Don't miss our strolling close-up magicians during your dining/lounge experience seven nights a week. You may make real-time reservations at here on our website https:/thelofttahoe.com See more..