When we first planned our family weekend in Lake Tahoe, we knew we’d get the usual mix of snow and scenic views — but what we didn’t expect was the raw, unfiltered joy of the place. Lake Tahoe is known for its beauty, sure, but it’s also home to that odd, deep-down satisfaction you get from a good meal, a great experience, and the kind of outdoor adventures that make you feel alive.
We approached this trip with an open mind — and in the spirit of travel legends like Anthony Bourdain — we wanted to feel the place, not just skim the surface. So we did what anyone should do in a destination like family friendly Lake Tahoe: we dove in headfirst. Here’s how we spent our weekend.
Day 1: Heavenly Slopes and Lakeside Dining at The Landing Resort & Spa
We kicked off our weekend by checking into The Landing Resort & Spa, which became our home base for the first two days. Located right on the shore of Lake Tahoe, this upscale yet unpretentious hotel made the perfect spot to start our adventure. The lake views from the resort are as calming as they are jaw-dropping. We immediately felt like we were in the right place. Plus, the 24 hour hot chocolate bar was always a delight to come home to!
Our first adventure of the day took us up the mountain to Heavenly Mountain Resort. Heavenly’s gondola ride is iconic — and for good reason. As you ascend the slopes, you’re treated to jaw-dropping views of the lake below and the surrounding snow-covered peaks. It’s one of those rare moments in life when you realize how truly incredible this planet we call home actually is. The gondola was an instant family favorite, and our daughter couldn’t stop ooh-ing and aah-ing over the landscape.
Once at the top, it was time for some serious snowboarding for 1 person, seeing as Coco was 7 months pregnant with a toddler in tow. Heavenly is known for having terrain that suits all levels of experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the resort has something for everyone. There’s something magical about being on those runs — not just the adrenaline rush of the sport, but the sheer beauty of the place.
After a full day on the slopes, we headed back to The Landing Resort & Spa to relax. We fired up the outdoor fireplace, put our feet up, and let the weight of the day melt away with some s’mores and a lake view. Dinner was at Jimmy’s, located right in our hotel. Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a killer view of the lake made for the perfect end to an active day. Jimmy’s is all about fresh, vibrant flavors and upscale yet relaxed dining — a true Tahoe gem.
Day 2: Sleigh Rides, Tubing, and Mini Golf at Tipsy Putt
Day two had a more leisurely vibe, but it was packed with unforgettable experiences. We started the day with a Tahoe Sleigh Ride — one of those quintessential Tahoe experiences. The carriage ride was drawn by a pair of majestic horses and took us through a winter wonderland. Our daughter was wide-eyed, remarking that she felt like this was “the carriage from Cinderella,” while soaking in the quiet beauty of the forest and beaches of Tahoe. It was one of those moments that felt frozen in time — no rushing, no distractions, just pure joy.
From there, we headed over to Stateline for some tubing at Heavenly Mountain Resort’s Adventure Peak. Tubing is a favorite family activity because it’s thrilling but doesn’t require any particular skill, making it perfect for everyone. We raced down the hill together, laughing all the way. There’s a sort of primal joy in zooming down a mountain on a tube, and our family definitely felt it.
After tubing, we made our way to an igloo for some s’mores. Nestled in a cozy igloo near Stateline, we gathered around a fire pit to toast marshmallows and create the perfect s’mores — gooey, melty, and just sweet enough to make you forget about the chill in the air. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of snow-filled adventures.
The afternoon had us heading to Tipsy Putt, a playful mini-golf course in the heart of South Lake Tahoe. Tipsy Putt mixes the game of mini-golf with a laid-back bar scene, making it a fun and unique experience for families. The course is full of quirky holes that had us all in fits of laughter — it’s impossible to take yourself too seriously here, and that’s the point. We spent a couple of hours playing and having fun.
Dinner that night was at Fox & Hound, a laid-back BBQ joint in South Lake Tahoe. There’s nothing like the smoky aroma of grilled meat after a day of adventure. We devoured racks of ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, and all the classic BBQ sides.This is the kind of place that serves up food that tells a story. Comfort food at its finest.
Day 3: Exploring Basecamp Hotel and More Fun in Tahoe
On our final night, we switched gears and checked into Basecamp Hotel, a quirky, no-frills spot right in the heart of South Lake Tahoe. This place has a vibe that feels like a friend’s cabin — cozy, casual, and welcoming. If The Landing Resort & Spa was all about luxury and relaxation, Basecamp is about fun and being part of the action. The hotel’s location made it easy to pop in and out for a quick bite, or just to enjoy the outdoor fire pits.
Final Thoughts: Lake Tahoe, Beyond the Basics
Lake Tahoe isn’t just about hitting the slopes and taking in the views. It’s a place that invites you to jump in, challenge yourself, and take in the unexpected. Whether it’s a gondola ride up Heavenly Mountain, a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-covered forests, or tubing with your kids at breakneck speeds, this place delivers. But just as importantly, it delivers moments of stillness — sitting by the fire in an igloo or having a quiet dinner by the lake. It’s a mix of wild adventure and deep relaxation, and that balance? That’s what makes Lake Tahoe a place worth coming back to.
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