Lake Tahoe affords endless opportunities for fun.
From spending the day at a beautiful sunkissed beach to exploring a museum or watching a live show, you have so much to do here.
Not sure where to start? I’ve compiled this ultimate list of what to do in Lake Tahoe with the kids.
1. Kings Beach State Recreation Area
Kings Beach State Recreation Area is an excellent place to start your day.
This spectacular beach rests on Lake Tahoe’s banks, boasting soft golden sand, clean and calm waters, and incredible views.
There is plenty for kiddos here, including swimming, building castles in the sand, or playing at the playground.
The older kids can participate in water sports, fishing, and much more.
2. Emerald Bay State Park
Consider visiting Emerald Bay State Park in South Lake Tahoe.
If you love hiking, this place is the best for the activity thanks to its well-maintained and kid-friendly trails.
The other things to do in the park include boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, camping, or swimming.
The kids can also enroll in the Junior Rangers Programs if your family will be in Lake Tahoe for a bit.
3. Taylor Creek Visitor Center
Introduce your kids to a fun-filled adventure at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center. This facility in South Lake Tahoe is one-of-a-kind.
The little ones will enjoy the creek’s environment without getting wet thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
Seeing creatures like crayfish, trouts, and frogs at the creek’s aquarium-like bottom is something your kids will not forget anytime soon.
The center has enough parking, clean bathrooms, and accessible trails. You can also make nature-related purchases at the gift shop before leaving.
4. Tahoe Tot Spot
If you’re looking for an indoor activity for your young children, Tahoe Tot Spot in South Lake Tahoe won’t disappoint.
Here, you’ll find a wide selection of items/toys that encourage fine motor and imaginative play.
There are also gymnastics, music and art classes, a mini gym featuring monkey rings, a padded mountain, and balance beams.
When you need a break, check out the snack area.
5. Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival
There is no Lake Tahoe without the Shakespeare Festival. This is a magnificent cultural production held at the lakefront.
You and the kids can witness performance of Shakespeare classics and other popular hits that will keep you entertained on the beach.
6. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino
Treat your family to an unforgettable vacation experience at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino.
You can be sure your children will be fully entertained in a safe and fun way through the Camp Hyatt Kids’ program.
The camp usually lasts from Memorial to Labor Day and is ideal for kids between three and 12 years old.
The camp options include half-day and full-day sessions, but your kids must be potty-trained to participate.
This program offers parents a chance to relax and enjoy the tropical atmosphere of Lake Tahoe by keeping the kids busy.
7. Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave
One of the best ways to explore Lake Tahoe is by hiring the services of Lake Tahoe Bleu Wave.
This is a famous tour company that provides visitors with a wide range of packages.
Cruising is one of the top activities your family can enjoy through this company.
The Bleu Wave cruises are unmatchable and present you with a wonderful opportunity to see the beauty of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding areas.
The cruises are fully equipped with luxuriously comfortable amenities. Sip some juice or eat a snack as you enjoy the panoramic views.
If you want a unique experience, book private cruise charters with exceptional packages for celebratory events.
8. Epic Discovery
Do your kids love rides? Head to the Epic Discovery Recreation Center in Heavenly Mountain Resort and let them soar like eagles.
The center has so much for kiddos, including rope courses, zip lines, mountain coaster gondolas, and more.
For years to come, the little ones will remember how they soared through the air over the stunning views of Lake Tahoe.
The Epic Discovery Center is ideal for everyone, but some attractions here have height restrictions, so be sure to follow them.
After the thrilling activities, refresh and enjoy lunch with family at the Lakeland Village Resort at Heavenly.
9. Tahoe Helicopters
Book a ride with Tahoe Helicopters and see Lake Tahoe’s pristine wilderness, peak-to-peak views, and unmatchable beauty from hundreds of miles up!
This helicopter tour agency is associated with the Lake Tahoe Airport and has professional pilots ready to guide visitors through a lifetime experience.
The agency has various flight packages ranging from 10-minute to hour-long trips, adult flight training, and much more.
10. South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena
The world-class skating facility that is the South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena has free lessons for beginners, special packages for birthday parties, and skate helpers.
As a family, you can learn how to play hockey or skate. There is also a snack bar within the arena so you can all keep your energy levels up.
11. Truckee River Raft Company
Do you want to treat your family to an epic vacation?
Book a tour with the Truckee River Raft Company and enjoy any of the agency’s many family-friendly tour packages.
Spend your day on the river by starting a leisurely float at Tahoe City and moving along the calm Truckee River.
You will appreciate nature during the rafting trip as you float through small rapids, mountains, and scenic meadows.
12. KidZone Museum
When you vacation with kids in Lake Tahoe and want to keep them engaged, the KidZone Museum is the perfect place to do it.
The museum offers many interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits for kiddos to have fun.
Watch the little ones do different fun things like creating with clay, arts and crafts, and experimenting in the science lab.
For an outdoor experience, the little ones can make mud pies, pump water into the stream, plant in the garden, or build a sand pit.
All these hands-on activities will keep them entertained as they also learn.
13. Lake Tahoe Balloons
Your outdoor adventure in Lake Tahoe isn’t complete without the incredible experience of hot-air balloon rides.
Lake Tahoe Balloons is a balloon ride tour company boasting state-of-the-art equipment, a professional team, and amazing family-friendly packages.
Begin your ballooning adventure early in the morning and watch as the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe is revealed.
Bring your camera because the gorgeous landscape is worth every shot.
This activity has age restrictions, and only kids seven years and older are allowed.
14. Sand Harbor State Recreation Beach
The Sand Harbor State Recreation Beach in Incline Village is a beautiful coastline to hang out with loved ones.
You can swim in the calm and warm water, revel in the soft sand, or teach the kiddos how to fish.
The older kids can spend the day kayaking, water-skiing, or playing volleyball while you lounge in the sun.
15. Getaway Cafe
There are many places to eat in Lake Tahoe, but the Getaway Cafe in South Lake Tahoe is one of the best.
The cottage style of this restaurant, in addition to its warmth, will make you feel right at home.
I suggest you take your seat outside and enjoy your meal with a side of scenic views.