As dance families, we often find ourselves traveling to various cities for dance competitions, especially Nationals. Many of these destinations have their well-known tourist attractions—like Disneyland in Anaheim or Disney World in Orlando—but we know that these can get quite expensive. Traveling to the same cities each year for competitions can make these costly outings less appealing. While hanging out at the hotel and pool is fun, it may get a little old, and you might want to get out and explore without breaking the bank.
That's why we're excited to launch a weekly blog series highlighting different major destinations for dance competitions. Each week, we'll share a variety of family-friendly activities in these cities, from free and low-cost options to moderately priced adventures. Our goal is to help you make the most of your trips with fun and affordable outings beyond the usual tourist spots.
Of course, these are just our recommendations, and we invite you to share your favorite must-go places in the comments. Let's create a resourceful and vibrant community to make every dance trip a memorable experience!
This week, we're looking at Lake Tahoe! While we recognize that not many dance competitions come through this area, our studio will be attending a Nationals Dance Competition here this year. We wanted to highlight Lake Tahoe as a destination, offering a resource for not only our own dance families but also other studios and regular families traveling to this beautiful region. We hope you find this guide useful as you explore the family-friendly activities Lake Tahoe has to offer!
Free Activities to Do with Kids
Hiking and Nature Walks
Eagle Falls Trail: This short but scenic hike is perfect for families, offering stunning views of waterfalls and Lake Tahoe. It's a great way to introduce kids to the beauty of nature without overwhelming them with a long trek.
Taylor Creek Visitor Center: Explore the Stream Profile Chamber, where kids can learn about the local ecosystem through an underwater viewing area. The Rainbow Trail is an easy, accessible walk that showcases the area's flora and fauna.
Beaches
Kings Beach State Recreation Area: This popular spot has a large sandy beach, perfect for building sandcastles, swimming, and picnicking. The beach also features a playground and a volleyball court.
Sand Harbor: Known for its clear waters and stunning rock formations, Sand Harbor is great for swimming, kayaking, and simply enjoying the view.
Explore Local Towns
Truckee Thursdays: If you’re visiting in the summer, Truckee Thursdays is a free weekly event featuring live music, street vendors, and activities for kids. It’s a great way to experience the local culture.
Low to Moderately Priced Activities to Do with Kids ($35 or Less Per Person)
Tahoe Treetop Adventure Parks
Kids and adults alike can enjoy navigating the treetop obstacle courses and zip lines. It’s an exhilarating way to spend a few hours and get some exercise.
Mini Golf and Arcade
Magic Carpet Golf: With three different courses to choose from, this family-friendly mini-golf spot offers plenty of fun challenges. The site also has an arcade for kids to enjoy after their game.
Biking
Tahoe City Public Utility District Bike Trails: Rent bikes and explore the scenic trails around Tahoe City. The flat, paved trails are perfect for families, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Kayak Tahoe: Renting kayaks or paddleboards is an affordable way to get out on the water and enjoy Lake Tahoe from a different perspective. It’s a relaxing activity that’s suitable for all ages.
Moderate to Higher Priced Activities to Do with Kids (Under $100 Per Person)
Heavenly Gondola Ride
The Heavenly Gondola offers breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. The 2.4-mile ride takes you up to an observation deck where you can take in the panoramic scenery.
Boat Cruises
M.S. Dixie II: Take a family-friendly cruise on this paddlewheel boat. The cruise includes spectacular views of Emerald Bay and informative commentary about the area's history and geology.
Horseback Riding
Camp Richardson Corral: Offering guided horseback rides through the scenic forest and along the lake, this is a memorable way for kids to experience Tahoe’s natural beauty.
Tips for Finding Great Deals
Groupon and Local Deal Sites: Before heading out, check Groupon and other local deal sites for discounts on activities. You can often find great deals on popular attractions, rentals, and tours.
Visitor Centers and Local Guides: Stop by visitor centers for coupons and special offers. Many local businesses offer discounts for tourists, especially if you’re visiting during the off-peak season.
Drivable Destination Ideas
Reno, NV
Just an hour’s drive from Lake Tahoe, Reno offers additional family-friendly activities like the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum, Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary, and the National Automobile Museum.
Virginia City, NV
A historic mining town about an hour and a half from Lake Tahoe, Virginia City is a great place for families to explore old-time saloons, mine tours, and historic train rides.
Carson City, NV
Nevada’s state capital is just 30 minutes from Lake Tahoe and offers attractions like the Nevada State Railroad Museum, Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada, and historic state capitol tours.
Lake Tahoe is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of activities that cater to all interests and budgets. From free outdoor adventures to exciting paid experiences, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to take advantage of discounts and local deals to get the most out of your visit. Enjoy your time at Lake Tahoe and make lasting memories with your loved ones!
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