Thanksgiving at Lake Tahoe

By: Sam Pinsky

Are you the type of person who enjoys being in the center? If so, South Lake Tahoe is where you’ll want to go for your next Thanksgiving getaway. With Heavenly Mountain Resort at your doorstep, an ice rink in the Heavenly Village, and plenty of nearby trails to explore, you’re in for an unforgettable Lake Tahoe Thanksgiving on the South Shore. Zip over to Zephyr Cove Resort for a sunset walk on the beach, enjoy a lakeside dinner, and cruise on the waters of Lake Tahoe via the M.S. Dixie II. The south shore will ensure you get all the trimmings and some more for leftovers.

If you plan to visit Lake Tahoe for the Thanksgiving holiday, you’re in for a treat!

Many of our local restaurants get into the spirit and offer their variations on the traditional meal. Delicious sides, decadent desserts, and lakefront (or mountain) views are all served up to help you and your family create your best Thanksgiving memories yet. Here are some of our top picks for the best Thanksgiving dinner in Lake Tahoe for you and your guests:

Lakeview Dinner at Riva Grill at Ski Run Marina – Brand USA / LTVA

Lake Tahoe Thanksgiving By the Water

Sage Room inside Harveys Tahoe — Sage Room, Harveys Lake Tahoe

Thanksgiving at Lake Tahoe’s Luxurious Casino Dining Options

A Lake Tahoe Thanksgiving Indoors

If you rent a vacation home in South Lake Tahoe and prefer to cook your Thanksgiving dinner, a turkey from Overland Meat Company makes the perfect centerpiece. Plus, they also have bacon.

Whole Foods can provide a take-and-bake Thanksgiving meal that’s scrumptious AND healthy for those wanting to stay in. For a fully catered meal with all the fixings, Cork & More will fit the bill. The Lake Tahoe Chart House has Prime Rib or Turkey family meals available to pick up hot on Thanksgiving and they have Thanksgiving options at the restaurant.

South Lake Tahoe – Fun For All

As we’ve talked about earlier, November is a great time to visit for those who want to experience the area on their own terms. A handful of ski resorts have begun turning on their lifts, regardless of what Mother Nature says. And at the lower elevations, you can still enjoy a hike.

Lam Watah Nature Trail at Lake Tahoe | Photo: @califfallcolor

Thanksgiving is all about family fun when you come to South Lake Tahoe. Want to go skiing? Heavenly and its panoramic views of the lake are right at your doorstep for some early-season thrills. Looking to lace up some skates? The ice skating rinks in the Heavenly Village, Edgewood Tahoe Resort and the South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena are waiting for you to lutz and loop to your heart’s content. Don’t let the talk of snow and ice fool you though, there are still plenty of trails and miles of beaches to enjoy.

Spanning two states, California and Nevada, South Tahoe is home to world-class casinos that are all within walking distance of fun times. After an epic day on the slopes, try your luck at the casino gaming tables or revel in a neon nightclub where the party doesn’t stop till you drop.

Heavenly Village Outdoor Ice Skating Rink Lake Tahoe — Outdoor Ice Rink at the Heavenly Village

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe for Thanksgiving

Here are our top suggestions of where to stay for Turkey Day.

Lake Tahoe is a destination where adventure and entertainment reign supreme. As such, South Lake Tahoe hotels range from rustic mountain lodges to beachside retreats. Many Tahoe hotels offer family-friendly accommodations, such as heated pools and beach access, all within walking distance of Heavenly Village. If you prefer a little mountain seclusion, Tahoe’s south shore boasts an array of hotel resorts with spas, hot tubs, and easy access to hiking trails, secret beaches, and powdered ski slopes.

Looking for more options? Between cabins, resorts, and plenty of bed & breakfasts, your choices of where to stay are plentiful.

Happy Holidays!

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