Reno/Tahoe

Winter is a blast in Reno/Tahoe. This area is a year-round playground anyway, but when the snow hits the ground the vibe changes completely. Reno/Tahoe gives a new meaning to the word “chill.” Indoors, the people are so laid back and cool. Just ask any local what to do and, save for their favorite place to ski on a bluebird powder day, they will share just about anything with you. The Sierra Nevada Mountains are a winter wonderland, blanketed with snow and peppered with people enjoying the wintery fun. Meanwhile, Reno bustles with nightlife and Carson Valley’s small businesses burst with unique shopping finds. As a destination, Reno/Tahoe truly is the whole package!

Carson Valley/Carson City

If you just want to get away from it all and get back to your Western roots, Carson Valley and Carson City is the place to do it. Here, you will find a bevy of unexpected surprises and new experiences. The capital of Nevada, Carson City is rich with history and the neighboring Carson Valley flies under the radar when it comes to tourist cities. Together, the duo is possibly the best kept secret in travel. Carson Valley is a mere 15 miles south of Carson City and both are a short 30-minute drive from South Lake Tahoe.

Why We Love Carson Valley: Local Restaurants! Forget the chains. For excellent local grub, you have to hit the family-owned places in Carson Valley. Our editor’s favorite Carson Valley places are a Gardnerville trifecta of goodness. Woodett’s serves up a big pancake that is a feast for the eyes and stomach. Seriously, one is all you will need! Café Girasole has the best sandwiches you will ever eat for lunch and the best eggplant parmesan outside of Italy for dinner. Hamdogs is open 24 HOURS and serves up some of the best fried food around. visitcarsonvalley.org

Why We Love Carson City: Kitschy Casinos! Carson City casinos aren’t anything like what you’ve seen in other gambling towns. They have a cozy, down home feel that is pure Northern Nevada. Forget it is 2012 because the casinos in Carson City are a blast from the past. Take a picture of some of the iconic signs like “Cactus Jack” or the Old West style marquis at the Carson Nugget. While you are at the Nugget, slip in and grab a loyalty card to cash in on one of their fun daily promotions.

Lake Tahoe

Winter is WOW in Lake Tahoe. No matter what shore you are on, you are sure to find fun. During the winter, the evergreens glisten when the rain falls. The colors of the aspens change to a breathtaking golden hue. Fall and the holiday time period are for hikers and bikers. The shopping season also kicks into high gear, and Tahoe has no shortage of shops to satisfy even the most ardent of shopaholics.

Why We Love Lake Tahoe: Adventure! You can make your own adventure in South Lake Tahoe. You can ski, snowboard, snow shoe, snow tube or buy a snow disc and conquer a local hill. Snow shoe on one of the trails or cross country across a field, or let the animals do the driving and go on a sleigh ride or dog sledding. There are so many outdoor activities to experience, and the cool air feels great! While you are here, definitely check out a few miles of the 165-mile-long, multi-use Tahoe Rim Trail. tahoerimtrail.org

 Reno

They call Reno “The Biggest Little City in the World” for good reason. You get all of the entertainment, dining options and activity of the city delivered with a laid-back vibe that makes you feel right at home. Reno is a 24/7 destination but it won’t wear you out. Here, you can party and play on your terms. If you brought your family on vacation, rest assured Reno has plenty for the kids to do.

Why We Love Reno: Variety! No matter where your impulses take you, Reno can provide an entertainment option to match. Fun shopping, delicious dining, fabulous casinos, hoppin’ clubs, top-name entertainment, fantastic variety shows, outdoor adventure, kid-friendly fun—it’s all here. Speaking of variety, you will find it in the Riverwalk District. Located on the shores of the Truckee River, this area is packed with exciting things to do. renoriver.org

Check out the following:

Reno Tahoe Hotel Options

Best of Reno Tahoe

Best Ways to Relax Apres Style

Soaring Over Lake Tahoe