This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Planning a winter getaway to Lake Tahoe? Look no further.
There’s something especially magical about Lake Tahoe in the winter—snow-dusted peaks, sparkling blue water, and cozy mountain towns that come alive with holiday lights and après-ski energy. Even if you’re not here to ski, Tahoe’s winter season offers endless ways to explore, relax, and soak in the Sierra Nevada Mountain scenery.
That’s why we created this 3-day itinerary that blends snowy adventures, stunning viewpoints, and cozy evening spots to help you experience the very best of Tahoe—no lift ticket required. From scenic drives and gondola rides to backcountry trails, helicopter views, and great food, each day is crafted to make the most of your time. Let’s plan your unforgettable Lake Tahoe winter escape!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this Lake Tahoe highlights tour! This was the best way to see the “Seven Sacred Sights of Tahoe,” and since we were in a cozy van, we stayed warm even during the winter months.
Itinerary Overview
Lake Tahoe is one of the top ski destinations in the U.S., and for many visitors, hitting the slopes is the main reason to come. But even if you’re a non-skier—or you simply want a break from skiing—there are so many incredible winter activities to fill your days here. This itinerary is designed around the best non-ski experiences, so you can enjoy Tahoe’s scenery, culture, and winter magic without ever clipping into skis.
To make the most of your time, you’ll definitely want a rental car, as the region is large and attractions are spread out. With that sorted, here’s a quick look at how to spend three unforgettable winter days in Lake Tahoe.
Day 1: See Tahoe’s top winter sights on a small-group highlights tour, then spend the afternoon exploring Heavenly Village or checking out the casinos in Stateline. After a seafood dinner at The Oyster Bar, wrap up the night with mini golf and drinks at Tipsy Putt.
Day 2: Snowshoe through Tahoe’s peaceful backcountry in the morning, fuel up with burgers at Heavenly Village, and ride the Heavenly Gondola for incredible lake and mountain views. End the day with a cozy Italian dinner at Scusa.
Day 3: Start with pastries at Crazy Good Bakery, then catch a private helicopter flight over Emerald Bay for a totally new perspective of Tahoe. Spend mid-day ice skating or snow tubing, and finish with a late-afternoon snowmobile adventure before celebrating your final night at Base Camp Pizza and Heavenly’s après-ski bars.
Day 1
Morning – See Tahoe’s top sights in a cozy van tour
When winter roads turn icy and viewpoints fill with snow, this small-group Tahoe highlights tour becomes the easiest way to see Tahoe’s most iconic places without navigating the conditions yourself. Running from 8 am to 2 pm with pickup included, it fits perfectly into a winter itinerary and takes the stress out of getting around.
As you ride in the comfortable van, you’ll hear “Mr. Tahoe’s” award-winning Around Tahoe audio guide, which fills the journey with legends, geology, folklore, and stories you won’t find on the average tour. The commentary brings Tahoe’s past to life, from Mark Twain’s early adventures as Sam Clemens to the 1960 Squaw Valley Olympics and the unbelievable treks of Snowshoe Thompson, the skiing mailman who crossed these mountains long before modern gear existed.
Emerald Bay is typically the standout stop, especially in winter when the snowy cliffs frame Fannett Island and Vikingsholm in striking contrast. In Tahoe City, you can walk to Fanny Bridge to see massive rainbow trout moving through the crystal-clear water below the dam. The tour also touches on Tahoe’s Hollywood and celebrity connections, including the Godfather II filming site, Sinatra’s Cal Neva, and the storied Thunderbird Lodge built by eccentric millionaire George Whittell.
With snacks, drinks, expert storytelling, and a lunch stop at your own expense, this experience feels like exploring the lake with someone who knows every secret. It’s easy to see why travelers consistently give it five-star reviews!
Explore the lake with an expert and book this small-group tour here!
Afternoon – Explore South Lake Tahoe
After a morning of sightseeing, the afternoon is a great time to slow down and enjoy the heart of South Lake Tahoe. Most travelers head straight for Heavenly Village, and it’s easy to see why. This little alpine hub is packed with boutique stores, outdoor gear shops, cozy cafes, and a handful of well-known brands. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a hot chocolate, wander through the shops, and enjoy the festive winter atmosphere without rushing from one stop to the next.
If you’re in the mood for something livelier, Stateline sits just a short walk away and is home to two of Tahoe’s most famous casinos: Harrah’s Lake Tahoe and Caesars Republic. Both offer a classic Tahoe casino experience, complete with slot machines, table games, and plenty of energy on the gaming floor. Even if you’re not planning to gamble, the bars, live entertainment, and nostalgic, old-school Tahoe vibe make them fun to check out.
For something more low-key, stop by Cold Water Brewery (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) for a pint of local craft beer. It’s a relaxed spot to warm up, chat with locals, and sample small-batch brews made right in town—a perfect way to end your first winter afternoon in South Lake Tahoe.
Dinner – The Oyster Bar
When you’re ready for dinner, make your way to The Oyster Bar, one of South Lake Tahoe’s most popular spots for fresh seafood. Located right inside the Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe, this cozy, polished restaurant is a great place to unwind after a full day of sightseeing. Seafood is the star here, but you’ll still find plenty of non-seafood options if that’s more your style.
Whether you order a classic clam chowder, a steaming seafood bowl, or something lighter, it’s the kind of meal that feels comforting on a winter evening. And since it’s located right inside Harrah’s, it’s easy to slip into dinner mode without needing to drive far or bundle up again.
Evening – Tipsy Putt
After dinner, keep the fun going with a stop at Tipsy Putt, a mini-golf bar that stays open late and is only a short drive, or a quick 10-minute walk, from the restaurant. It’s a playful, low-key way to end the night, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family. You can grab a drink, play a round of quirky indoor mini golf, and enjoy a relaxed, après-ski-style atmosphere without the crowds you’ll find elsewhere in the village. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your first winter day in Lake Tahoe—easy, fun, and close to everything.
Day 2
Morning – Go Snowshoeing
If you want to experience Lake Tahoe in its purest winter form, this snowshoe tour is the way to do it. Instead of following the usual tourist trails, this outing takes you deep into quiet forests, hidden viewpoints, and untouched backcountry terrain that most visitors never see.
We recommend booking the 10 am to 12 pm time slot, which meets conveniently in South Lake Tahoe and gives you crisp morning snow, gorgeous light for photos, and the rest of the afternoon free for more exploring.
What makes this experience stand out is its approachability. Snowshoeing requires almost no previous experience, and the guides provide premium snowshoes, trekking poles, and quick lessons before you set out.
You’ll explore avalanche-free zones, stopping often to enjoy sweeping lake views and those postcard-worthy winter landscapes Tahoe is known for. The routes are tailored to your group’s comfort level, so you never feel rushed or out of your element. And if conditions are light on snow, the team simply switches to a microspike hike—meaning your adventure still goes on.
This is one of Tahoe’s top-rated winter activities for a reason: it’s intimate, scenic, and refreshingly free of crowds. By the time you finish the tour, you’ll understand why locals love exploring the backcountry this time of year!
Discover Tahoe’s winter beauty—book this snowshoe tour here!
Lunch – California Burger Company
After a full morning out in the snow, you’ll definitely be ready for something hearty, and California Burger Company delivers exactly that. Located right in Heavenly Village, only about a six-minute drive from the end of your snowshoe tour, it’s the perfect spot to recharge before your next adventure. Even better, the restaurant sits just steps from the Heavenly Gondola, which you’ll be hopping on after lunch.
The menu focuses on creative, stacked burgers made with high-quality ingredients, along with fries, salads, and a solid lineup of comfort-food favorites. It’s the kind of spot where you can warm up with a hot meal, relax for a bit, and enjoy the lively energy of the village around you. Whether you’re craving a classic cheeseburger or something a little more adventurous, this is a satisfying stop that fills you up without slowing you down.
Afternoon – Ride the Heavenly Gondola
Once you’ve refueled, it’s time for one of the most iconic winter experiences in Lake Tahoe: the Heavenly Gondola. This scenic ride stretches for 2.4 miles (3.9 kilometers), lifting you high above the treetops with sweeping views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The gondola stops at a mid-mountain observation deck, giving you a chance to step out, take photos, and soak in the kind of scenery that people travel across the world to see. Tickets start at $104 USD, and it’s worth every penny for the panoramic views alone.
If you want to make the most of your ticket, consider pairing your gondola pass with an activity at the top. Snow tubing is a popular choice—and bundling it with your lift ticket can save you a good chunk of money. There’s also a mountain coaster, restaurants, and plenty of winter events happening throughout the season. And of course, this is one of the main access points for Heavenly’s skiing and snowboarding terrain for anyone looking to hit the slopes.
Dinner – Scusa Italian Ristorante
After a big afternoon in the mountains, head back to your hotel to warm up and relax for a bit before dinner. When you’re ready, make your way to Scusa Italian Ristorante, located about a 10-minute drive from Heavenly Village. This welcoming spot is known for its comforting Italian dishes—think pastas, seafood, and hearty entrées that feel especially satisfying on a winter evening. They also bake their bread and desserts in-house each day, which adds an extra touch of warmth and freshness to the meal.
Because Scusa is one of the more popular dinner spots in South Lake Tahoe, making reservations in advance is recommended, especially on weekends or during peak winter months. It’s a cozy, unrushed way to end your second day in Lake Tahoe, with generous portions and warm ambiance that pair perfectly with cold weather and tired legs.
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 3
Breakfast – Crazy Good Bakery And Cafe
Start your final morning in Lake Tahoe with a stop at Crazy Good Bakery and Café, a super cozy, locally owned spot known for its excellent pastries and quality coffee. It’s the kind of place where the smell of fresh-baked goods hits you the moment you walk in, and the display case makes it genuinely hard to choose—flaky croissants, muffins, cinnamon rolls, and plenty of rotating seasonal treats.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a great place to ease into the day before heading out on your next adventure. Another perk? It’s only a four-minute drive from the helicopter tour meeting point, and just slightly outside South Lake Tahoe, so it’s incredibly convenient for a quick but delicious breakfast.
Morning – See Emerald Bay from above on a helicopter tour
If you want to see Lake Tahoe from a whole new angle, this private Emerald Bay helicopter tour is the kind of experience you’ll be talking about long after the trip ends. Instead of squeezing into crowded lookouts, you’ll lift off from South Lake Tahoe and glide above some of the region’s most jaw-dropping spots like Fallen Leaf Lake, Pope Beach, and, of course, the shimmering deep blue of Emerald Bay itself.
The meeting point is only a 10-minute drive from downtown South Lake Tahoe, so getting there couldn’t be easier. With multiple departure times and just a short 10-minute early arrival, you’ve got flexibility, but we recommend snagging a 9 or 10 am flight. The morning light hits the mountains beautifully, and it’s such an epic way to kick off your final day in Tahoe.
Once you’re in the air, noise-reducing headsets make it easy to hear your pilot while you take in those panoramic views with nobody else onboard to distract you. It’s just your group, your pilot, and Lake Tahoe stretching out in every direction. With live commentary throughout the flight, you’ll pick up fun facts about the area as the scenery unfolds beneath you. And at 10–12 minutes, the ride is the perfect mix of exhilarating and easygoing.
From liftoff to landing, it’s smooth, scenic, and seriously memorable. And if you need proof, the five-star reviews here say it all—this is one of the top-rated experiences in Lake Tahoe.
Reserve this private flight here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Mid-day – Ice Skating or Snow Tubing
After your helicopter tour, the rest of your mid-day is all about winter fun, and you’ve got a couple of great options depending on your mood. If you want to stay right in the heart of the action, head to the Heavenly Village Ice Rink, which is open from 10 am to 8 pm and costs $25 USD. The rink is surrounded by shops, cafés, mini golf, and even a movie theater, so it’s easy to linger here longer than planned. It’s a festive spot with plenty of energy, especially on winter weekends.
If you’d rather lean into something a little more adrenaline-filled, snow tubing is a blast and super easy to fit into your day. You can tube at Heavenly, but if you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, check out Adventure Mountain or Hansen’s Snow Tube & Saucer Hill. Both are popular local picks and tend to offer longer runs at a much more affordable price.
Wherever you end up—gliding around the rink, racing down tubing lanes, or exploring the shops in the village—this part of the day is meant to be relaxed and flexible. Grab lunch nearby, as everything you need is within walking or short driving distance, and enjoy the freedom to spend the afternoon your way.
Late Afternoon – Go snowmobiling
If you’re craving a little adrenaline to wrap up your Tahoe adventure, this small-group snowmobile tour is the perfect way to do it.
Set in the stunning backcountry of Hope Valley, this two-hour guided ride is designed for beginners and intermediate riders alike. You’ll zoom through wide-open meadows, climb along forested trails, and stop at breathtaking viewpoints where the Sierra Crest rises nearly 10,000 feet (3,050 meters). It’s the kind of scenery that makes you forget you’re only a short drive from Lake Tahoe.
The tour offers 1 pm and 3 pm departure options, but for this itinerary, we recommend the 3 pm time slot to give you plenty of room to enjoy snow tubing or ice skating earlier in the day. Just remember that check-in is one hour early, so you’ll want to arrive around 2 pm. From there, your guide will get you geared up with helmets, go over safety and driving instructions, and lead your group up into the backcountry.
What makes this experience even more accessible is the complimentary hotel shuttle service, available on weekends and holidays when parking can get busy. Once you’re on the trail, you’ll cruise past historic cabins, trace the rim of Charity Canyon, and take in miles of groomed trails across the Humboldt–Toiyabe National Forest.
By the time you roll back in around 5 pm, you’ll have incredible photos, a rosy winter glow, and one more unforgettable memory from your Tahoe trip.
This tour fills quickly in the winter—secure your spot in advance here!
Dinner – Base Camp Pizza
After your snowmobile adventure, head back to your hotel to warm up, clean off the trail dust, and get ready for your final night in Tahoe. When you’re ready for dinner, make your way to Base Camp Pizza, a local favorite in Heavenly Village known for its creative pizzas, Italian-inspired dishes, and relaxed mountain vibe.
The restaurant often features live music, which adds a festive touch, and the drink menu is surprisingly good—perfect for toasting to a full day of winter fun. It’s a lively, welcoming spot that appeals to families, couples, and groups alike, and a great place to refuel before heading out for the evening.
Evening – Hit the town
To close out your 3-day Tahoe itinerary, spend your final evening exploring some of South Lake Tahoe’s après-ski scene. There’s no shortage of places to grab a drink, listen to live music, or simply soak in the energy of this mountain town. If you’re in the mood for something a little more refined, stop by The Loft, an upscale cocktail lounge with a sleek atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. Or wander through Heavenly Village to find casual bars, late-night bites, and plenty of spots buzzing with winter-weekend energy.
It’s the perfect way to wind down your trip—relaxed, social, and full of that signature Tahoe charm.
Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe
Framed by snowy peaks, sparkling blue water, and a village full of good food and adventure, South Lake Tahoe is the perfect base for winter travelers. Whether you’re here for powder days, scenic hikes, lakeside sunsets, or simply a cozy mountain escape, this part of Tahoe has a stay for every style and budget.
To help you choose the right home base, we’ve gathered the top places to stay in South Lake Tahoe—from luxury lakefront retreats to affordable, well-located gems. If these hotels are still available, they’re truly some of the best options for your trip!
Luxury – $$$
If you’re after a true luxury escape, Edgewood Tahoe Resort is the place to be. This 5-star lakefront retreat blends cozy, lodge-style comfort with top-tier amenities, including a heated outdoor pool, full-service spa, three onsite restaurants, and even a private beach. Rooms feature fireplaces, plush bedding, and balconies with stunning lake or mountain views.
Prices typically range from $600–$1,000+ USD per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
If you want a comfortable mid-range stay without sacrificing location, Hotel Azure is a fantastic pick. Set right across the street from Lake Tahoe, this laid-back property offers spacious rooms, many with balconies and lake views, plus convenient perks like a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and free parking. Rooms come with mini-fridges and microwaves, and guests especially love the easy access to bike trails, ski resorts, and nearby cafés.
Rates typically range from $130–$330 USD per night. Check your dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
If you’re looking for a budget stay that still delivers on comfort and location, Blue Jay Lodge is a solid choice. This cozy property sits just a short walk from Lakeside Beach and Heavenly Village, making it easy to get around without the high price tag. Rooms are simple but clean, with mountain or pool views, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning—plus they’re pet-friendly, which is a huge bonus for travelers with furry companions.
Rooms start at around $100 USD per night, depending on the season. Check availability and secure your stay on Booking.com.
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL15”
What’s an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.
In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
💡 Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:
Thanks for reading!
Whether you’re here for the skiing or other activities, Lake Tahoe is a dream winter getaway! We love that you can still explore all around the lake, enjoy the outdoors, and take in the lively atmosphere of South Lake Tahoe. Whether you stick to this itinerary exactly or pick and choose your favorite things to do, it will show you the best of Lake Tahoe!
Before you go, be sure to see all of our USA travel blogs! We have resources to help you plan an epic getaway, whether you’re looking for more multi-day itineraries, where to stay guides, or our favorite things to do. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next destination – cheers!
10 FUN & EXCITING Things to do in Las Vegas
How to Spend THREE Days in Palm Springs, California – The Best 3-Day Itinerary
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Jasper, Alberta in the Winter: The Best 3-Day Winter Itinerary