Your Family Guide to Lakeside Winter Fun at North Lake Tahoe
With a number of resorts and lodges, North Lake Tahoe is a premiere destination for a winter vacation for the whole family. With an array of activities perfect for parents and kids alike, there’s no shortage of family-friendly adventures to be had in North Lake Tahoe.
During your stay at North Lake Tahoe’s winter downhill resorts, don’t miss the chance to experience Lake Tahoe up close. With only a 15-minute drive from the major North Shore resorts and easy public-transit options, winter is the perfect time to play, eat and shop at the water’s edge of America’s largest alpine lake.
Check out some of our favorite stops in the region to plan your perfect family day in Lake Tahoe’s winter wonderland, or plan your own day with our interactive map.
First, Fuel Up
Before you and your family start your trip, you’re going to want to fuel up to make sure you have plenty of energy to get through an action-packed day. Consider starting with a light breakfast, or, if you’re on the go, stop by West Shore Market & Deli for coffee, groceries, as well as pastries and breakfast sandwiches.
Check Out:
- Tahoe City: West Shore Market & Deli
- Tahoe City: Rosie’s Cafe
- Tahoe City: Syd’s Bagelry & Espresso
- Carnelian Bay: Waterman’s Landing
Next, Jump in the Snow
North Lake Tahoe is the perfect place for adventures your little ones will treasure for a lifetime. Photo courtesy of Granlibakken.
Once your family is stocked up and full-bellied, it’s time to play in the snow! This winter wonderland has no shortage of opportunities for romps in the snow throughout the region. In North Tahoe Regional Park, you and your kids will be able to enjoy classic snow activities like sledding and snowmobiling. If you’re in Kings Beach, check out the playground at the Kings Beach State Recreation Area, and take some time to build a snowman. If you’re feeling playful, an iconic snowball fight may be in order!
If you’re looking for a more involved day of snow sports, check out the Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, where you can ice skate and sled. If your family is feeling more adventurous, try snowshoeing, nordic skiing, or just walking around down by the beautiful North Lake Tahoe. When you’re done, slip away and warm up at Granlibakken.
Check Out:
- Tahoe Vista: North Tahoe Regional Park
- Kings Beach: Kings Beach State Recreation Area
- Tahoe City: Sled and get hot cocoa at Granlibakken
- Tahoe City: Sled, ice skate and play at the Tahoe City Winter Sports Park
Immerse Yourself in the Culture
You and the family might want to relax a bit, but rather than heading back home to crash for the day, consider some “active relaxation” by checking out Tahoe City’s various cultural offerings. Parents might be particularly drawn to Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema, while kids can indulge their curiosity with the array of hands-on activities offered at the Tahoe Maritime Museum.
Check Out:
- Tahoe City: Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema
- Tahoe City: Tahoe Maritime Museum – with kid-friendly activities
- Tahoe City: Salvaged Art Store
- Kings Beach: Vista Gallery
Enjoy Lunch on the Water
North Lake Tahoe has no shortage of food and beverage options for hungry, thirsty adventures. Photo courtesy of West Shore Cafe.
By this point in the day, you and the family will probably be hungry—and snacks might not do the trick. Fortunately, North Lake Tahoe’s local eateries will fill you up and leave a good impression on your taste buds.
If you’re in King’s Beach, enjoy lakeside dining at Jason’s Beachside Grille. If you’re in Carnelian Bay, bite down into big, delicious pies and more at CB’s Pizza & Grill. Throughout Tahoe City, indulge in Jake’s on the Lake or the Fire Sign Cafe—all of which offer great lakeside dining, barbeque options and American cuisine.
Check Out:
- Kings Beach: Jason’s Beachside Grille
- Carnelian Bay: CB’s Pizza & Grill
- Incline Village: T’s Mesquite Rotisserie
- Tahoe City: Moe’s Original BBQ
- Tahoe City: Jake’s on the Lake
- Tahoe City: Fire Sign Cafe
- Homewood: West Shore Cafe
Pick Up a Memento That’ll Last
The memories you and your family make at North Lake Tahoe will last for a lifetime—but you can commemorate the experience with a one-of-a-kind memento from the region. As you head out, consider swinging by Village Toys in Incline Village to supply your little ones with trinkets to bring them joy.
For more mature gifts, consider swinging by Sugar Pine Gifts in Kings Beach. There, you can find unique items including beautiful jewelry, or special ornaments you’ll be able to use for many holiday seasons to come.
Check Out:
- Incline Village: Village Toys
- Tahoe City: Bluestone Jewelry
Catch a Magical Sunset Over the Water
North Lake Tahoe boasts plenty of opportunities to make memories, and one of the best? Our sunsets. Don’t leave the North Shore without catching a stunning Tahoe sunset, and consider capturing a picture-perfect family moment, framed by Tahoe’s cerulean waters and endless sky.
Check Out:
- Kings Beach
- Carnelian Bay
- Tahoe City: Commons Beach
- Incline Village: Sand Harbor
- Homewood: Sugar Pine Point Beach