16 Non-Skiing Activities Around Lake Tahoe

Winter is in full swing here in Lake Tahoe! If you're planning a getaway to this region of the world but have no intention of hitting the slopes, fear not! Tahoe is a winter wonderland with many activities waiting to be explored beyond skiing and snowboarding. Keep reading to learn about 16 fantastic activities to do in Tahoe during winter that don't involve carving down mountains.

1. Explore Snowshoeing, Cross-Country Skiing or Fat Biking

Tahoe offers endless trails for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and fat biking. Rent gear and embark on a snowy adventure. It's not just scenic; it's also a fantastic workout! Explore our sections on Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing for businesses that can help you get going.

Snowshoe Tahoe serves up great adventures, great guides and great times. Photo courtesy of Snowshoe Tahoe

2. Dive into the Après-Ski Scene

Experience the lively après-ski atmosphere at local breweries and wine bars. Explore our Bars & Pubs section to find the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment after a day in the snow.

3. Stroll Mountain Villages at Palisades Tahoe, Incline Village or Heavenly Village

Take a leisurely walk through charming villages like Villages at Palisades Tahoe, Incline Village or Heavenly Village. Each has its unique character, offering delightful cafes, shops and breathtaking views.

4. Enjoy Panoramic Views from Palisades Tahoe Tram or Heavenly Gondola

For spectacular views of Lake Tahoe, hop on the Palisades Tahoe Tram or the Heavenly Gondola. This is a lofty journey worthy for the breathtaking scenery.

5. Experience the Thrill of Snowmobiling

Take a snowmobiling adventure to enjoy Tahoe's beautiful vistas without breaking a sweat. Consider guided tours for a hassle-free experience. See our Snowmobiling section for outfitters.

6. Glide Across the Ice-Skating Rinks

Heavenly Village offers a top-rated ice-skating experience, and you can see many others on our Ice Skating page. Whether during the day or under the stars, it's a fun-filled activity with a beautiful winter ambiance.

7. Relax in Hot Springs or Spas

Unwind in the middle of winter by visiting one of Tahoe's hot springs or spas. Stillwater Spa in Incline Village and Everline Resort & Spa are excellent choices for a rejuvenating experience.

Stillwater Spa is talented in the art of pampering. Photo courtesy of Stillwater Spa

8. Embark on a Magical Sleigh Ride

Explore the enchanting landscapes with a sleigh ride. Check out Borge's family sleigh riding company in South Lake Tahoe for a magical experience.

9. Savor Culinary Delights

Tahoe boasts fantastic restaurants. See our Restaurants section for the rundown on the local restaurants, searchable by location and style of dining.

10. Attend a Yoga Class or Retreat

Stay active during your visit by attending a yoga class or retreat. Tahoe offers fantastic studios like Lake Tahoe Yoga, The Yoga Room and Tahoe Yoga and Wellness Center. Bliss Experiences offers a wealth of classes and workshops, and Truckee Donner Recreation and Park District offers classes too. See our Yoga section for many more options.

11. Watch a Movie

While waiting for your skiing companions, catch a movie at places like Incline Village Cinema, Village Cinema at Northstar, Heavenly Village Cinemas or Tahoe Art Haus.

12. Immerse Yourself in History at Museums

Discover Lake Tahoe and Truckee's history at places like Donner Memorial Park and Emigrant Trail Museum. See a full list of local museums here.

13. Take a Scenic Drive Around Lake Tahoe

If you have a car, embark on a scenic drive around Lake Tahoe, stopping at picturesque spots like Tahoe City, Emerald Bay Viewpoint and all the towns around the lake.

14. Indulge in Retail Therapy

Shopaholics, rejoice! Explore Villages at Palisades Tahoe, Downtown Truckee, King's Beach, Tahoe City or Incline Shopping Village for a diverse shopping experience. There are so many shops to explore, and you can see a full list in our Shopping section, searchable by location and type of store.

15. Test Your Luck at the Casinos

Explore the vibrant casino scene on the outskirts of Incline Village or in South Lake Tahoe, with popular spots like the Crystal Bay Casino, Grand Lodge Casino at the Hyatt, Harrah's or Harvey's offering a mix of entertainment and excitement. See the full list in our Casinos section.

Crystal Bay Casino serves up both gaming and fantastic music. Photo courtesy of CBC

16. Experience the Thrill of Sledding or Tubing

Unleash your inner child at Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, Tahoe Donner Snowplay Area or Heavenly's tubing hill for an exhilarating sledding or tubing adventure. There are many other options, so check our Sledding and Tubing section.

So, there you have it: 16 exciting alternatives to skiing and snowboarding that guarantee a memorable winter experience in beautiful Lake Tahoe. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation or cultural exploration, Tahoe has it all! To learn about the fun events happening around the basin, check out our Daytime and Nightlife pages.