Ideas for Tahoe Family Adventures
By: Karin Sharon
Adventures in land, water and sky for Families visiting South Lake Tahoe.
If you’re looking for a trip that will provide an excellent experience for the entire family, come to Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe sets itself apart as a joyous family vacation destination, with activities that pack plenty of fun for kids and parents alike. There is a great variety of adventures available on land, in the water and in the sky. So bring grandma and grandpa, your little ones and everyone else in-between because I have some thrilling ideas to offer.
Land
South Lake Tahoe has a couple of miniature golfing locations that are truly on par. Magic Carpet Mini Golf offers three courses of varying difficulty taking you on a journey worthy of fairy tales and fantasies. The three different courses have holes characterized by favorites such as dragons, dinosaurs, and pirates. At the end of the round, you can drop the golf balls into a slot machine for a chance to win a free round on the course. Another great mini golf location is Heavenly Village Mini Golf. In the center of the shops, there is a course accented with hanging lights and dazzling music.
Another fun location that can be accessed through Heavenly Village is the Heavenly Epic Discovery Center which provides a great outdoor recreation option. Take the scenic ride up the mountain on the gondola with unforgettable views of Lake Tahoe and you’ll arrive in a nature-immersed playground. Explore activities such as ropes, courses, zip lining and an alpine coaster.
For an evening with live entertainment, check out Magic Fusion at The Loft Theatre & Lounge. The year-round production is something both adults and children find entertaining. Take in the magic and comedy show while enjoying dinner. Bonus tip: on Sundays, there is a “Kids Free” matinee where children attend the show for free, with a purchase of an adult ticket.
If you want your kids to do some learning while on school break, The Nevada State Railroad Museum is a wonderful treat. Explore the history of the Nevada railroad and take a ride on one of the iconic trains. Just a 20-minute drive down the hill to Carson City, Nevada’s capital, the museum is one way to keep the kids’ brains active.
Water
Catch your first fish at Tahoe Trout Farm. This family owned establishment has been teaching kids of all ages how to catch fish and about the Tahoe’s ecosystem. You can feel free to bring your own bait and tackle or you can borrow some from the farm. Try your hand at one of the two ponds stocked with rainbow trout and see what you can find. Fishing licenses are not required.
Have you always wanted to learn how to water ski? Birkholm’s Water Ski School specializes in children and family lessons. They are available to pick you from various locales around the lake and you can reserve a private appointment for your family. A full-package deal includes boats, drivers, instructors, wetsuits, life jackets, skis and fuel. A lesson takes about an hour, for 2-3 students at a time. The teaching provides quick progressions and they ensure you have successful water ski attempts.
Just east of the Carson Pass and off of Highway 89, Grover Hots Springs is located in the small town of Markleeville. Tucked away at the base of the Sierra Nevadas, the resort makes for a relaxing option.The pools filled with mineral enriched water are healthy for children and adults, providing therapeutic and rejuvenating care. Mom and dad are treated to a spa day, while the kids splash around and play.
Sky
One way to explore the sky is with a hot-air balloon ride with Lake Tahoe Balloons. The four-hour tour captures panoramic views and you can learn some interesting trivia provided by the knowledgeable pilots. It’s fascinating to witness what it takes to prepare a hot-air balloon from start to finish while enjoying snacks included onboard the balloon vessel.
Soar over Lake Tahoe with Tahoe Helicopters. The helicopters are based at the Lake Tahoe Airport and offer spectacular tours year-round, weather permitting. Take in the views of the crystal blue lake and the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Having the opportunity to get a clear view of the region really creates a memorable experience for all ages.
With all of these choices, you can ensure that you, the kids, and the entire family will have the best time in South Lake Tahoe. The once-in-a-lifetime opportunities truly leave something for everyone to enjoy. Please let me know in the comments below what makes your family trips memorable. What other experiences in Lake Tahoe do you think are great adventures for kids and families? I can’t wait to hear from you!
See more Lake Tahoe family fun activities and things to do in Lake Tahoe with family.
