9 Things To Do in Tahoe This Winter (That Aren’t Snow Sports)
While most Lake Tahoe visitors during the winter months are there for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding, there's plenty to do off the slopes. Our Tahoe winter guide offers suggestions for museums to visit, sleighs or gondolas to ride, and even a few opportunities to get out on the water. Whether you’re searching for something active such as ice skating or mini golf, or you’d rather relax with a pint of craft beer or a mug of hot chocolate, consider these Tahoe winter travel alternatives.
Check the weather and road conditions, support local businesses, and be patient when driving around town. If you keep these tips in mind, you'll be on your way to seeing how much Tahoe shines in the winter—ski or no ski.
1. Hit the ice
Lace up your skates in Tahoe this winter.
Ice skating can be a delightful activity for all ages, and it’s certainly one of the top winter sports in Tahoe. Head over to the Village at Northstar for some spins around the ice and then cozy up by the fire pits to warm up when you're done. There's another outdoor ice rink at Heavenly Village—it’s especially fun to stop by for some night skating under the stars. If the weather is gloomy and you want to head indoors, the Tahoe Ice Arena in South Lake Tahoe offers public skating and learn-to-skate programs.
2. See the lake from above
You'll get panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe.
You don't have to ski or snowboard to ride the Heavenly Gondola. This 2.4-mile (3.9-kilometer) ride is one of the top scenic winter experiences in Tahoe. It starts at Heavenly Village and takes you to the observation platform, where you can see for miles on a clear day. Swing by the Tamarack Lodge for hot cocoa and snacks before heading back down the mountain. If you’re looking for Tahoe snow activities while you're there, winter tubing is available at the top.
3. Watch the Tahoe Knight Monsters battle on the ice
Tahoe has finally become a hockey town.
Head to the Tahoe Blue Events Center in Stateline, Nevada, to see this minor-league hockey team take to the ice. Even if you're not much of a hockey fan, watching this fast-paced sport is one of the must-do winter activities in Tahoe. Hockey fans are some of the most vocal out there, so wear all your black, gold, and teal, and be ready to cheer along with Tessie, the team's mascot named after the fabled monster said to swim in the deep waters of Lake Tahoe.
4. Tee off
Pints, pretzels, and putt-putt are on deck.
When the weather gets gloomy, try out one of the best winter activities in Tahoe, mini golf at Tipsy Putt. This South Lake Tahoe spot features an indoor miniature golf course, plus other games such as giant Jenga and cornhole. Kids are welcome until 7pm; owners with dogs can enjoy the outdoor space near the firepits. They have over a dozen beers on tap, and serve pub fare including nachos, pub pretzels, pulled pork sliders, and tacos.
5. Cruise Emerald Bay
Sit back and enjoy the views of this corner of Lake Tahoe.
If you want to see Lake Tahoe from the water, hop aboard the MS Dixie II for a tour of Emerald Bay. On this one-of-a-kind paddle-wheeler, you'll get views of the Vikingsholm Castle and Fannette Island and learn about this area's unique history and how the bay was formed. The 2-hour scenic cruise is one of the top things to do in Tahoe in winter and is great for all ages, although there are also more boating options available.
6. Go kayaking
Enjoying the lake isn't just for summer.
Yes, kayaking in winter! Clear-bottom kayaking is one unique Tahoe winter adventure because you'll pretty much have the lake to yourself, and get to see what lies beneath you. Paddle along the shore of Lake Tahoe, taking in the scenic vistas along the way, and when the water is clear, enjoy peeking down to depths of up to 75 feet (23 meters). These kayaks are typically wider and more stable than traditional kayaks, so you don't have to worry about going for a frigid swim either.
7. Check out the South Lake Tahoe Beer Trail
Microbrews and chill vibes make this a post-snow favorite.
The brewery scene in Lake Tahoe is quite vibrant, and visiting a cozy brewery is a great way to enjoy craft beers and good food while escaping the cold outdoors. Follow the South Lake Tahoe Beer Trail to visit spots including Lake Tahoe AleWorX, South Lake Brewing Co., Cold Water Brewery and Grill, and Sidellis Lake Tahoe Brewery and Restaurant. You'll find the ambiance welcoming and relaxing—perfect for a rest day.
8. Go on a sleigh ride
It's not winter in Tahoe without a ride through the snow-covered forest.
There's hardly a better way to enjoy the winter vibes than on a seasonal sleigh ride. (Several options exist, but Borges Sleigh Rides—now Tahoe Sleigh Ride—are considered among the best.) Snuggle up with your partner or family and tour Sand Harbor in a private sleigh. Wind through the snow-covered pines as you see Lake Tahoe from the less-crowded South Beach, and then head back to Grandma's Cottage for treats and hot chocolate. It’s one of the top winter attractions in Tahoe, especially during the holiday season.
9. Visit a museum
Learn about the Washoe people and other parts of Tahoe's history.
Whether you're looking to get more info on the area's history or you need a way to entertain cooped-up toddlers, there are plenty of Tahoe-area museums worth a visit. The KidZone Museum in Truckee has interactive exhibits and an indoor play structure to keep the kids engaged. Head to the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum to learn about the Washoe people and the trappers, traders, and early pioneers who came to this area. The Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum is a great spot to learn about the Donner Party and other parts of Truckee's history.
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