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This entertaining casino right on the border is only one part of a facility that also features comfortable rooms with lake views and access to California's Kings Beach. When you decide to test Lady Luck, you'll find at your disposal 200-plus slot and video poker machines, a sportsbook, and enticing table games of roulette, craps, and blackjack. Regular tournaments are also part of the gaming fun. The Biltmore also offers custom wedding packages that are affordable and elegant. The Tahoe Biltmore is also Lake Tahoe's best lodging value, offering 113 reasonably priced and well-appointed rooms and suites in the main hotel and quaint cottages overlooking Lake Tahoe.
Recommended for Casinos because: The Tahoe Biltmore is located on the beautiful North Shore and is away from the crowds of South Lake Tahoe.
Christina's expert tip: The Tahoe Biltmore's cafe is known for its large, inexpensive breakfasts. Check out the $7.99 buttermilk pancakes.
'The hotel is located so close to Heavenly Village that I was able to walk to it daily while the boys were skiing and the area has every and anything you could ask for.' 'Casino floor is very large with the standard choice of slots, table games and restaurants, but crazy crowded and noisy during the golf tournament.if you're lucky,you can spot a famous face!!!!!' Hard Rock Hotel and Casino: One of the two best-rated South Tahoe casinos, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino has plenty of slot machines and table games, as well as a hotel with more than 500 rooms, restaurants, and bars. They also boast the largest outdoor pool experience in South Lake Tahoe.
The Lucky Beaver is a 24 hours sports bar on the Nevada side of the lake that also offers video poker and a large menu full of great burgers, sandwiches, salads and an appetizer menu with chicken wings and the famous Tower of Onion Rings. All of the Lucky Beaver's 1/2 lb. burgers are made with a combination of short ribs and chuck roast and are tall and juicy. The classic Beaver Burger is only $12 with all the fixings and the Gambler with applewood smoked bacon, beer-battered onion rings, smoky BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese is $14. The bar features popular beers on tap as well as in the bottle and serves up signature cocktails, wine and beer. The bar has video poker and large screen TVs that show various sports and special events and the bar is hopping on Super Bowl Sunday and during other local and regional football events.
Recommended for Casinos because: While not an official casino, the Lucky Beaver does have plenty of poker slots located at the bar.
Christina's expert tip: The Lucky Beaver's burgers are some of the best in the area. They also serve the plant-based Impossible Burger.
Boomtown is located just west of Reno and just a few miles from the California town of Truckee. This large hotel and casino offers stylish rooms, great dining and service and a full casino that includes 11 table games like Blackjack and Poker and various slots. Boomtown has been rated #1 in the area for both Blackjack and video poker and has one of the friendliest player clubs in the area. The 318 room hotel is just steps away from the casino and offers suites with Serta pillow top mattresses, large bathrooms and great service. The dining areas in the casino include the Bistro 2100 casual eatery and the famous Lobster Buffet with all you can eat lobster, seafood, salad bar and dessert bar. Other restaurants and bars include the Sports Dog in the sports club and Baja Mexican. Families are welcome at Boomtown and kids will love the 30,000 square foot Fun Center which includes a classic carousel, Ferris wheel, Rodeo Rider, miniature golf, token games and even a bounce house.
Recommended for Casinos because: Boomtown is not officially in Tahoe, but it is about 15 minutes from Downtown Reno and 20 minutes from the international airport.
Christina's expert tip: Boomtown is a large, fully equipped hotel and casino in between Tahoe and Renoâ' right next to Cabela's.
Harvey's was the very first casino hotel built on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe. Opening in 1944, Harvey's now has a chic, modern décor in the 740 hotel rooms and suites as well as a full-appointed casino. Located right next door to the Heavenly ski area and partners with Harrah's, Harvey's gives you easy access to all the four-season thrills that Lake Tahoe has to offer. Harveys Lake Tahoe Casino has over 900 of the hottest Lake Tahoe slots, including the only Wheel of Fortune Super Spin machines in Northern Nevada. The casino also has tables games, Keno and a comfortable poker room.
Recommended for Casinos because: Harvey's has a relaxed, low-key casino as well as the hilarious Improv comedy club.
Christina's expert tip: The 19 Kitchen Bar is a modern lounge with a lake view, offering specialty drinks and small plates.
Harrah's Lake Tahoe in Stateline is another of the larger casinos in the area and offers everything you will need for your stay at the lake. The hotel features an 18-story tower with award-winning guestrooms and gives Lake Tahoe visitors' easy access to all the excitement of our casino and the relaxation awaiting at the magnificent swimming pool and a luxurious spa. The casino has over 900 of the hottest Lake Tahoe slots and table games like craps, roulette, blackjack and poker. Dining includes the American River Cafe, Friday's Station Steak & Seafood and the Forest Buffet with views of the lake. The PEEK nightclub is the newest nightspot at the lake and has 40 intimate VIP sections and books the hottest DJs from L.A., New York City and Las Vegas.
Recommended for Casinos because: Harrah's has been offering great resort and casino amenities in South Tahoe since 1955.
Christina's expert tip: Harrah's Forest Buffet is located on the 18th floor and features amazing views of Lake Tahoe.
The Montbleu has 437 luxurious hotel rooms, many with spectacular lake and mountain views. The suites are designed for conferencing and entertaining and feature a living area, big screen TV, dining and wet bar. Wireless internet access is available throughout the resort for a nominal fee. The resort also has several areas for dining including the award-winning Ciera restaurant which features an exquisite array of steaks and chops, fresh seafood and vegetarian entrees, complemented by an international selection of 300 wines and champagnes. The resort has a high-class casino with various table games, slots, tournaments and special clubs for participants. The full service spa includes a fitness center, private relaxation rooms, saunas, whirlpools and eucalyptus steam rooms.
Recommended for Casinos because: The MontBleu is a stylish and fun resort casino that offers great concerts and special events.
Christina's expert tip: The Opal Ultra Lounge nightclub at MontBleu offers weekend special events such as free ladies nights.
The Lakeside Inn and Casino has become of the local's favorite casinos and is more than welcoming to visitors as well. The casino offers a hotel with value rooms that are decorated with a Tahoe lodge style, free WiFi, coffee, a pool and hot tub and some pet-friendly rooms. The casino offers all the favorite games including poker tables, slots, craps, Blackjack and a Player's Club with special offers. The Lakeside also has a race and sportsbook that features all the top betting games and special events like the Super Bowl and the World Cup. When you are not playing at the Lakeside, you can be eating instead. The Inn and Casino feature The Timbers restaurant with its lodge-inspired decor and relaxed menu. The Lakeside also features several bars with table games and slots.
Recommended for Casinos because: The Lakeside is one of the friendliest casinos where you will meet Tahoe locals out for dinner.
Christina's expert tip: The Lakeside Inn & Casino is located a little farther away from the larger casinos, so it has a more quiet and laid back feel in this casino-centric area of the lake.
The Hyatt's Grand Lodge Casino is only one aspect of an enviable resort, which features a spa, top restaurants, a pool, and access to everything from skiing and hiking to golf and boating. No matter your gaming pleasure, you'll find something to test your luck: slot machines, video poker, a sportsbook, and table games like craps, roulette, and blackjack. Weekly video poker and blackjack tournaments invite participants for a $25 buy-in, and live entertainment is an evening standard. The pet-friendly hotel also features 422 guestrooms, including private lakeside cottages. The Hyatt Lake Tahoe is also home to the 10Best favorite restaurant, Lone Eagle Grille.
Recommended for Casinos because: The Hyatt in Incline is a classy and beautiful casino resort away from the crowds of South Shore.
Christina's expert tip: Enjoy one of the best views of the lake on the deck of the Lone Eagle Grille.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is the newest casino hotel in the South Lake Tahoe area. This fully integrated resort has a 25,000 square foot casino with over 500 slot machines and various table games. The hotel boasts 539 rooms as well as multiple restaurants, bars, outdoor venues and the largest outdoor pool area in South Lake Tahoe. The casino's restaurants and bars include Park Prime featuring features local grass-fed beef, premium seafood and specialty cocktails. The Center Bar is located in the heart of the casino and is the place to be seen as is the Oyster Bar. The bar's stage featured nightly music and a large LED screen to watch concerts and videos.
Recommended for Casinos because: The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has nightly live music and regular special gaming events.
Christina's expert tip: The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino features hundreds of pieces of rock and roll memorabilia including some Elvis Presley items.
The Crystal Bay Casino has been voted one of the best casinos in the Lake Tahoe area, but they don't let it go to their head. This casual and friendly casino on the North Shore has become known for its excellent selection of live shows as well as for their lively casino. Many locals hang out at the Crystal Bay on the weekends to enjoy the numerous entertainment that the Crystal Bay books. Acts include legends like Dick Dale and Los Lonely Boys as well as fun bands like Lil Brian and the Zydeco Travelers, the White Buffalo, Super Diamond and Tainted Love. The Crystal Bay also has comedy acts and special events with bands like the Sierra Leone Refugee Allstars. And the best thing? A lot of these music events are free. During the shows in the Crown Room, there is no smoking allowed, but dancing is. The Crystal Bay's Sports Book offers full-service action on HD Plasma monitors, the casino has table games like Blackjack, Double Odds Craps, $2 and $4 Texas Hold'em and Roulette as well as numerous slots.
Recommended for Casinos because: The Crystal Bay Casino is probably the friendliest casino in the area where you can meet locals.
Christina's expert tip: The live music acts, such as Rising Appalachia and the Pink Floyd tributes, at the Crystal Bay Club are some of the best at the lake.
You’ve decided on a ski trip to Tahoe and while you may have heard that there are a few towns and ski areas on both the North and South ends of the lake, what sets one apart from the other? Which place(s) would be your best bet for a ski vacation?
Generally speaking, the South Shore is more bustling when it comes to nightlife while the North Shore is quieter and more shrouded in wilderness, but you can’t really go wrong with either. Here’s everything you need to know to decide where to go in Tahoe.
The South
South Lake Tahoe is the largest town on the lake and, along with neighboring Stateline, home to the glitziest casinos and late night party scenes. Besides staying at one of the resorts right on the mountain, South Lake and Stateline both offer easy ski access. Heavenly Village even has a gondola that launches just a few blocks from the lakeshore between both towns, where it’s possible to stand with one foot in California and one in Nevada.
Lodging
There’s a broad range of lodging options in South Lake, with family-run bed and breakfasts, high-end boutiques, budget chain hotels, and towering casinos. Of the luxury options, The Landing Tahoe Resort & Spa is a standout, sitting on the edge of the lake with stunning views and fireplaces in every room. Situated next door to the Heavenly Gondola, Marriott’s Timber Lodge is another convenient luxury option, offering 1- and 2-bedroom villas, many with kitchenettes.
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The most upscale casino in the area—which is also within walking distance of the Heavenly gondola—is Harrah’s. The casino is home to six restaurants and nightly entertainment, including live music, comedy and theater performances, and Peek Nightclub.
The South Shore is not all about lights and casinos, though. If skiing as much as possible is the first and foremost priority, there are a handful of ski-in, ski-out hotels and condos at Kirkwood, a local favorite in a remote area about an hour’s drive south of the lake.
Dining
There’s also no shortage of dining options on the South Shore. Given its proximity to San Francisco, you’ll find fantastic seafood and other options ranging from Italian to Thai. Even the most discerning of foodies will find something spectacular.
On the lakefront, the Riva Grill is a popular choice for everything from scallops to filet mignon, while Base Camp Pizza serves up tasty pies and is a choice family spot. Up the road in Zephyr Cove, Toast Tahoe is worth a trip for wine lovers and My Thai is great for authentic Asian spice.
Shopping
South Lake is home to a bounty of boutiques as well a handful of shopping malls, including the one smack in the middle of Heavenly Village.
Off-the-Hill Activities
Taking a day off of skiing or riding? Snowmobiling is another brand of adrenaline charge, breathing in views of the lake from trails and peaks surrounding the South Shore. While Lake Tahoe itself is not an option for ice fishing (the frozen status of such a large body of water is unpredictable), Silver Lake, Caples Lake, and Red Lake near Kirkwood are big winter stops for anglers.
Although the North Shore is more of the hot spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, Kirkwood offers a bounty of groomed Nordic trails.
Après and Nightlife
Gambling. Go-Go dancers. Live music. Drink specials. Here’s where the South really shines. The party often starts on the mountain, specifically at Tamarack Lodge for Heavenly’s notorious Unbuckle Après Party, which includes late afternoon live music, food and drink specials, and of course, dancing on tables. The energy continues down in the village around the fire pits of the Fire & Ice Grill and Bar.
Naturally, craft beer is a big thing around here and breweries abound, the most popular in South Lake include Cold Water, Sidellis, and Stateline Brewery, the latter a convenient stop for casino goers. Speaking of casinos, the late-night crowd can be found in the Party Pit or around the stage at Montbleu Casino & Resort, which regularly hosts nationally acclaimed musicians, stand-up comedians, and dance groups.
The North
As mentioned, North Lake Tahoe unquestionably feels less developed and more shrouded in wilderness than the South. It’s home to the towns of Truckee, Tahoe City, Tahoe Vista, and Incline Village as well as the ski areas Northstar, Squaw Valley, and Alpine Meadows.
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Although you will spot far more star constellations on this side of the lake thanks to fewer lights and buildings, there are plenty of exquisite dining options, lodging choices, shopping, and of course, ways to explore the wilderness.
Lodging
If you’re not seeking ski-in, ski-out accommodation at the resorts, Truckee and Tahoe Vista are the most popular town destinations for lodging. Truckee is a good choice for those wanting the feel of an authentic ski town community (try Truckee Donner Lodge or Cedar Sport Hotel) and Tahoe Vista is ideal for visitors craving lakeside lodging (like the Tahoe Edgelake Beach Club or the rustic Cedar Glen Lodge).
For families that like the freedom of letting their kids wander safely, you can’t go wrong at Northstar. With its expansive network of ski-in, ski-out properties, self-contained village with plenty of restaurants, Northstar is also conveniently near the lake (15 minutes or less), as well as Truckee, Tahoe City, and Incline Village.
Dining
An iconic spot overlooking the town of Truckee about 20 minutes from the lake, Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar is an elegant steakhouse with luscious seafood dishes. Discerning palates flock to the small—but always seasonally fresh—menu at Jack Rabbit Moon in Incline Village, while foodies who like a lake view rave about Gar Woods in Carnelian Bay.
More casual local favorites include Truckee Tavern and Grill, T’s Mesquite Rotisserie in Incline Village, and Lanza’s Restaurant for Italian food.
Shopping
Truckee is the epicenter of shopping in North Lake Tahoe, with everything from a Sears to rare gift shops, jewelry, and wine. Get a rundown of Truckee’s shopping options here.
Nightlife
Although the North Shore is generally quieter and more peaceful than the South Shore, there are certainly party spots for late nighters. Situated on a jutting peninsula off the lake, Crystal Bay Casino hosts a steady lineup of national rock, hip-hop, and pop music as well as DJs. The slots and tables are also hopping into the wee hours.
A local favorite to catch a game and a beer is Fat Cat in Tahoe City. Tucked into the otherwise serene woods of Incline Village, Rookie’s Sports Bar & Grillis another energetic locals’ haunt, equipped with slot machines and a live DJ on Saturdays.
Off-the-Hill Activities
While South Lake is superior in nightlife options, North Lake has the market cornered on outdoor activities. Cross-country skiing trails abound as do snowmobile tours high above the lake with panoramic views of Northstar, Squaw Valley, and miles beyond.
For those truly wanting to get away from it all and take in mountain vistas at their finest, Donner Lake offers arguably the most breathtaking landscape in Tahoe as well as miles of Nordic ski and snowshoe trails, numerous ice fishing spots, sledding, and tubing hills.
The great North vs. South Lake Tahoe debate will likely continue through the ages. That’s what happens when both sides have this much to offer, but hopefully this guide has helped you narrow it down a bit. For more information about planning your Tahoe ski vacation visit snow.com.
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