Awesome Things Do To In Lake Tahoe with Kids

Shila:  You'll find a plethora of fun things do to in Lake Tahoe with kids at The Shops at Heavenly Village -more than just shopping! The best activities for kids and families include South Lake Tahoe's only movie theater, and depending on the time of year, a little outdoor ice-skating or miniature golf. This is a bustling area with quaint cobblestone sidewalks and happy vibes, as well as great eateries and dessert spots. Check out the live entertainment calendar to catch a range of acts from magicians to musicians.

To ascend the village 2.4 miles up, take the Heavenly Resort Gondola to the top of the mountain for even more family-friendly activities like rock climbing, tubing, or mountain coasters (to name a few).

Shila:  A Cup Of Cherries is a cozy breakfast, lunch and dinner cafe that serves a fusion of different flavors and savories like their famous, must-try hoagie sandwiches. Kids and parents alike may especially enjoy the inventive frothy designs (by request) of bear faces smiling-up from their drinks. In South Lake Tahoe - bear country - what better way to start the day? The baristas are quite talented.

Erynn:  So you likely came to Tahoe for the scenery, but if the kids need a break from everything outdoors, check out the Ice Arena for indoor skating. There are daily public ice skating sessions throughout the year, plus night state sessions on weekends. If you visit at the right time of year, you may even catch a hockey game! Skate rental is extra.

Shila:  Tahoe Trout Farm, in South Lake Tahoe, features family-friendly fishing. It is a small fenced-in pond stocked with healthy trout, and the atmosphere caters well to all ages (e.g., small-sized fishing rods for kids, ice cream, etc.). After you check in, you're provided with everything you need to fish: simple rod, bait (worms!), tackle, hooks, nets, small orientation, etc. There are benches for onlookers and adequate space to freely walk around. Once you catch a fish (and likely you will), you'll be charged per fish, based on its length. You can eat what you catch, too. No fishing license is required.

Shila:  One of the most family friendly things to do in South Lake Tahoe is Heavenly's scenic gondola ride.

A leisurely 2.4 mile ride up the enclosed Heavenly Mountain Gondola offers breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. Once at the top, an observation deck awaits, as well as many kid friendly activities, hiking, shopping, and a spacious lodge to grab a bite to eat.

Most mountaintop activities charge, but a few are free like the playgrounds. We've found the most cost-effective way to experience more than enough activities is through the "Ultimate Adventure Pass." In one price, enjoy it all: gem panning, mountain coaster, climbing wall, zip line, ropes courses, snow or water tubing, etc.

Shila:  Close to town by shops and restaurants, Regan Beach is alongside a playground which includes baby swings. This particular section of South Lake Tahoe is really shallow - which makes for a very cool wading experience many, many yards out in the grassy water.

Erynn:  Along the North Shore of Lake Tahoe, Kings Beach beckons- there's a huge expanse of sandy beach, picnic table areas with plenty of shade, barbecues, restrooms, a playground, and more. There's a boat ramp as well, but kids and families can frolic and even fish in the shallow water.

Shila:  Indoor and outdoor patio seating along the beach with musical entertainment is why South Lake Tahoe's Beacon Bar & Grill often comes with long lines of excited, hungry patrons! Though it is worth the wait to dine lakeside in such a vibrant family-friendly ambiance.

Typical plates coming out of the kitchen include: Seared Ahi, Fresh Market Fish, Burgers, Mahi Tacos, Filet Mignon, Crab Cakes, Salads, and Pasta. The Kids Menu pleases, too.

Erynn:  Tahoe Treetop features a variety of fun and adventurous things do to in Lake Tahoe with kids. If there are daredevils among your family, here's the place for them! With aerial adventure parks (suspended platforms and physical challenges among the trees) featuring short and long zip lines, there's an activity that will have every heart racing. Adventure Park courses include rope swings, wobbly bridges, swinging logs, tightropes, cargo nets, and more with integrated zip lines connecting the platforms. There are also multiple locations convenient to the West and North Lake Tahoe shores! Parents can participate or may watch from below.

Shila:  You'll notice this image of Emerald Bay State Park right away- it's a popular symbol of Lake Tahoe often photographed and published. Its crystal blue glacial water reflects tall Pines and the dramatic mountain ridges; and of course, Fannette Island sits exquisite within the center.

Visitors of all ages to Emerald Bay State Park can stop at elevated observation points by car, hike, swim, kayak, boat, and more. There are also tours offered to visit Vikingsholm Castle (38-room 1860's mansion). Take note though, access to this hidden castle is considered a steep trail.

Erynn:  For more adventurous families (or those with older kids), exploring this breathtaking landscape might just be the highlight of your Lake Tahoe vacation. The Desolation Wilderness is a protected wilderness area that's right up against the Eldorado National Forest. A trail runs at least 17 miles through the Wilderness, and permits are required to access all entry points due to the fragility of the local ecosystem. *Visiting is free, but you do need to obtain a permit in advance of your visit in many cases.

Erynn:  Meeks Bay Beach is a pristine and sandy public beach on the West side of Lake Tahoe. It offers space for swimming, biking, boating, and hiking--the Desolation Wilderness is nearby. You can also enjoy fishing, barbecuing, camping, and more, and public restrooms are conveniently located nearby.

Erynn:  Depending on where you're coming from, this kids' museum may be a bit off the beaten path. (Though, it's on the way if you're coming from the San Francisco area.) Regardless, it's definitely worth a stop, especially if you've been on the road or on a plane for a while! With both indoor and outdoor play areas, this museum boasts climbing, sliding, and make-believe fun. Young kids will also enjoy creating art, dropping into the science lab, and making up their own fairy tales in a variety of exhibits.