11 Best Things to Do in South Lake Tahoe

Glen Alpine Falls is a beautiful spot to visit in South Lake Tahoe. The wide waterfall cascades down about 75 ft over step-like rock slabs into a river that flows into Fallen Leaf Lake. The falls are easily accessible from the roadside, so no hiking is required. But you can take a short walk down to the base of the waterfall.

A highlight of Glen Alpine Falls is that you can get up close and feel the roaring water. There is a lookout point where you can sit, relax and listen to birds chirping around you. The best time to visit is in spring and early summer. 

Heavenly Mountain, overlooking Lake Tahoe, is a must for those wanting to hit the slopes in winter. The ski resort spans 4,800 acres across California and Nevada – many have secured their bragging rights of “skiing 2 states in a day” there. Beginners can enrol in skiing and snowboarding lessons, while seasoned skiers and snowboarders can enjoy a thrilling descent down 34 miles of groomed trails.

Not much of a skier? Coast through the forest and natural rock formations on the ridge rider mountain coast. You can also take a scenic ride on the gondola and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the frozen lake and the snow-blanketed terrain. You can go snow tubing from the top of the gondola.

The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is the starting point for 4 self-guided hiking trails. It sits on the south shore of Lake Tahoe. The centre is also home to the Stream Profile Chamber. Located on the Rainbow Trail, the underground viewing chamber provides a view of Taylor Creek’s underwater environment. You can observe fish and other aquatic animals through big, aquarium-like windows. 

If you visit in autumn, you’ll catch the Kokanee salmon turn bright red as they swim up Taylor Creek to spawn. You can watch the fascinating spectacle from the chamber and at many spots along the hiking trails. The family-friendly Fall Fish Festival takes place on the first weekend of October. Entrance to the Visitor Center, Stream Profile Chamber, and the festival is free.

The Shops at Heavenly Village is a major shopping and dining spot below Heavenly Mountain Resort Gondola. It features about 17 eateries and over 40 shops all centred around functional outdoor gear and outerwear. Entertainment options include an outdoor ice-skating rink, and South Lake’s only movie theatre.

Enjoy live music at the restaurants daily as you chow down on Hawaiian, Latin American or American food after a day of hiking or skiing. Seasonal events are also held at The Village so check out its events calendar for more about its upcoming events.

The Tallac Historic Site hosts the remains of the Pope-Baldwin Estates, which are an unmissable sight on visits to Camp Richardson. A century ago, the site was a former resort that once held the title “the Grandest Resort in the World”. Today, the intact log cabins and cottages provide you with glimpses into a bygone era.

As you wander through the Tallac Historic Site, you’ll learn about the daily lives of the residents who used to live and work in the area. Go on a guided tour of cabins, drop by the museum and gift shop, or take a stroll through the nearby forest areas.

South Lake Tahoe Certified Farmers Market, otherwise known as El Dorado County Certified Farmers’ Market, offers the fresh summer bounty of fruits, veggies and meat straight from Lake Tahoe farms. Farmers set up stalls at the market on Tuesday mornings.

You’ll also find stalls selling art and homemade agricultural products like honey, jam, preserves and baked goods made by the local community. If you’re hungry, the market has several food vendors where you can grab a bite of poke, tamales or chicken salad.

The Lake Tahoe Historical Museum in South Lake Tahoe has fantastic exhibits about the area's history and heritage. Using artefacts and photos, you can learn about Tahoe's earliest occupation by the Washoe people through to its pioneer days. Displays include the Post Express Trail, gold and silver rush, and gaming. You can also discover the glamorous era of steamship travel and exclusive resorts in the early 1900s.

In the summer months, take a tour of the restored 1930s cabin that sits behind the museum. The museum also has an excellent bookstore. You'll find posters, cards, and photographic books by local authors. Entrance to the Lake Tahoe Historical Museum is free.

The South Tahoe Beer Trail lets you discover Tahoe South’s best craft beer. The trail was created by the Tahoe Chamber and maps out 9 different breweries in the area. Each one has a unique vibe and offers a wide variety of craft beer made on-site. All breweries sell food if you're feeling peckish. Some places allow 4-legged friends to join in the fun, too.

At South Lake Brewing Company, you can sample beers made before your eyes. Other prominent breweries along the trail include Lake Tahoe AleWorX, Cold Water Brewery & Grill, Sidellis, and The Hangar.

The Loft Theatre in South Lake Tahoe’s Heavenly Village is where you can watch a magic show presented by highly skilled performers. Sit down for The Magic Fusion, a thrilling and vigorous show that will keep you in awe and on the edge of your seat throughout the evening with its eye-opening acts.

The Loft Theatre includes a cocktail lounge and a restaurant, giving you the option of having your meal while watching the show or enjoying both separately. Tuck into American-style tapas inspired by different regions around the world. Delicious picks include yellowfin tuna ceviche, tuna tempura, ricotta gnocchi, and chipotle duck tacos. You can even enjoy American classics like buffalo wings and blackened shrimp mac ‘n’ cheese.

Lake Tahoe Boulevard is where to go after a day of fun in the sun or snow South Lake Tahoe. Sample some of the local homebrews from fresh IPA to wit and seasonal craft beers at Stateline Brewery. For commercial and craft beers on draught from California, Nevada, Germany and Denmark, make your way to The Hangar Taproom and enjoy your pint in Tahoe’s largest outdoor beer garden. 

To experience South Lake Tahoe’s nightlife, head to Whisky Dick’s Saloon and Classic Cue Sports Bar & Grille for a game of pool, darts, or air hockey as well as excellent pub grub and drinks throughout the night.