10 Best Family-Friendly Things to Do in Lake Tahoe (Year-Round)
Planning a family getaway to Lake Tahoe? Whether you’re visiting in the snow-dusted winter or the sunny summer months, this destination is packed with kid-friendly activities that don’t compromise on style or comfort. Think snowy tubing hills, peaceful lake cruises, ziplining in the trees, and easy hiking trails with epic views.
This guide shares 10 of the best family-friendly things to do in Lake Tahoe all year round — so you can spend less time researching and more time making memories.
💡 Not booked yet? Check out Best Family Cabins in Lake Tahoe to Book Now (Plus What to Do Nearby).
Family-Friendly things to do in Lake Tahoe
1. East Shore Clear Water Kayak Tour
In warmer months, head to Zephyr Cove on the Nevada side. Calm waters, kayak rentals, and sandy beaches make this spot ideal for families who want to dip their toes into lake life.
- Location: Zephyr Cove
- Best for: Late spring to early fall
Paddle Tahoe’s crystal clear waters – check availability here
2. Ride the Heavenly Gondola
Glide high above the lake on the Heavenly Gondola, which offers 360° views that even the kids will love. At the top, stop for hot chocolate or take in the photo-perfect lookout deck.
- Location: Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe
- Best for: All seasons (especially fall & winter)
3. Go Snow Tubing at Adventure Mountain
Don’t ski? No problem. Adventure Mountain is one of Tahoe’s top spots for snow tubing — with groomed hills, gear rentals, and space to build a snowman too.
- Location: Echo Summit, South Lake Tahoe
- Best for: Winter (Dec–March)
- Family tip: Great for kids 3+
4. Take a Lake Tahoe Cruise
A scenic lake cruise is a relaxed, all-ages way to soak up the beauty of the area. Many cruises include narration, snacks, or even sunset views.
- Departure points: Zephyr Cove, South Lake
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- Family-friendly: Yes
Secure your spot on the unforgetable cruise – book today .
5. Zip Through Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park
Looking for something a little more active? This rope course and zipline park has different courses to sut all levels of experience and ages (including a kids course). There are 3 locations to choose from , each with zip lines and multiple tree platforms to expect lots of laughter and the occasional ‘Tarzan’ yell!
- Location: Tahoe City & Tahoe Vista and Olympic Valley
- Best for: Ages 6+
- Season: Spring to early fall
6. Hike the Eagle Lake Trail
Short, scenic, and totally doable for kids. The Eagle Lake Trail takes you through forest and granite terrain to a beautiful alpine lake.
- Location: Near Emerald Bay
- Hike time: 1–1.5 hours round-trip
- Trail note: Some incline but manageable
7. Fly over Emerald Bay in a Helicopter
Take off from South Lake Tahoe and get a birds eye view of highlights such as Fallen Leaf Lake, Cascade Lake, Pope Beach, and Taylor Creek. Learn about Emerald Bay as you fly with live commentary provided.
- Location: South Lake Tahoe Airport
- Best for: Unforgettable aerial views of Lake Tahoe’s iconic bay
See Emerald Bay from above, reserve your helicopter tour now on Viator.
8. Visit the KidZone Museum
Rainy day? Visit KidZone Museum in Truckee for soft play zones, hands-on exhibits, and space for toddlers to roam.
- Location: Truckee (25 mins from Tahoe City)
- Best for: Babies and toddlers
Click here to visit the Kidzone Museum Wesbite.
9. Roast S’mores at Your Cabin
Sometimes the best memories are made by the fire. Many Tahoe cabins (like the ones we featured in our cabin guide) have outdoor fire pits or indoor fireplaces — perfect for a s’mores night with the kids.
🛏️ Not sure where to stay? Browse our cabin guide here.
Smore kits are available from here
10. Bike the East Shore Trail
This scenic paved trail is stroller-friendly and perfect for family bike rides or walks along the lake. Bonus: There are beach access points along the way!
- Location: From Incline Village toward Sand Harbor
- Bike rentals: Nearby shops
Book your guided scenic bike trail here
✨ Book Your Lake Tahoe Family Fun
Now that you’ve discovered my favourite family-friendly activities in Lake Tahoe, why not start planning? Here are some top-rated tours and experiences you can book right now — from clear-water kayak adventures to snowy mountain fun — all via our trusted partner, Viator.
Some images and booking links courtesy of Viator. Clicking may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.
Bonus: Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe With Kids
Looking for a cabin with space to play, cozy beds, and maybe a hot tub too?
Check out:
- Bear’s Den Chalet – Incline Village
- Evergreen Retreat – Kings Beach
- Sugar Pine Hideaway – South Lake Tahoe
👉 See full details in our guide: Best Family Cabins in Lake Tahoe to Book Now (Plus What to Do Nearby)
Final Thoughts
Lake Tahoe is one of those rare places that manages to be peaceful and playful — which makes it a dream location for family vacations in every season. Whether you’re heading there to tube in the snow, paddle in the summer sun, or just soak in the views, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
👇 Planning your trip? Bookmark this post and come back when you’re ready to book experiences!
Some images courtesy of Viator.
This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking or purchase, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Luxe Family Getaways.
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