With two villages and four town centers in North Lake Tahoe, there is plenty of shopping in the area, so that you can find the perfect Tahoe memento. Dozens of shops, from local boutiques to art galleries to mountain home decor and as many sports shops as you need, offer unique gifts not found other places. So treat yourself to a little retail therapy.
Truckee
Not only is Truckee a historic railway town, but its downtown area is a quaint and beautiful place for a stroll. Located on Donner Pass Road, the downtown area is part of the Historic Downtown Walking Map, which includes information on some of the longest-standing businesses in Truckee. The standout shops here are the locally owned treasures. For the wearable art lover, there’s Riverside Studios, with handmade jewelry and locally produced leather goods, as well as fine art and home decorations. If you’re looking for a sweet treat to bring home, head to Sweets Handmade Candies, featuring chocolate and sweet treats all made right here in-house. And one of the most unique shops in Truckee is Tahoe Oil and Spice, with free samples of dozens of varieties of flavor infused olive oil and balsamic vinegar to mix and match into delicious salad dressings. Another Truckee favorite is Atelier, a book binding, knitting, and art-supply themed store with all kinds of craft supplies.
Squaw Valley
The Village at Squaw Valley is the way to go if you’re looking to do a little shopping after a day on the slopes. Even if you don’t ski, there’s plenty to do in historic Olympic Valley, where the 1960 Olympics were held. Pieces of history are still present around the village. The shops range from rugged outfitters like Patagonia and The North Face to places to buy food, home furnishings, and even art at Gallery Keoki. Shop Kalifornia Jean Bar and PlumpJack Sport for chic mountain style. When you’re done shopping, head to Le Chamois bar for a world-famous apres ski scene and check out the walls lined with Squaw Valley history.
Tahoe City
For great shopping in Tahoe City, with a main drag (North Lake Blvd.) just across from gorgeous lake views, head to the Cobblestone shopping center. Here, you can find a little something for everyone. There’s Trunk Show, with locally made art and handicrafts including ceramics, jewelry, paintings, and even topographic maps of the lake. For an interactive experience, All Fired Up! offers do-it-yourself ceramics, painting, and even succulent gardening. Guests can drop in and choose which craft project they want to do, and can even BYOB beer or wine. This is a perfect opportunity to pick up a bottle from Uncorked Wine Bar just two doors over. For the little ones, there’s Ruffles and Ruffnecks, with learning toys and locally made clothing for children. For a great housewarming gift, visit Wanda’s Flower Shop, full of interesting potted plants and home décor.
King’s Beach
In King’s Beach, some truly creative shops await. Possibly one of the most unique crafts of Tahoe is chainsaw carved bears, which can be found at The Robin’s Nest. For something unique and different to add to the home, there’s Front Porch Antiques. For art appreciators, there’s stunning photographic prints of pristine locations across Tahoe at Stevenson Gallery. Another unique King’s Beach shop is Wellbeing, a healing arts and massage studio selling incredible mineral crystals mined from areas near Reno and Tahoe, locally made healing salves, soaps, candles, and essential oils. After shopping, head across the street to King’s Beach, one of Tahoe’s largest beaches, with soft sand and beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada.
Incline Village
In Incline Village, visit Whitmire Woodcraft for handmade wooden bowls, decorative cutting boards, wall hangers, and more. If you’re looking for a locally made gift, Handmade At The Lake is a great choice, as they feature crafts exclusively made in Tahoe, ranging from jewelry to home décor, pottery, quilts, prints, glass ornaments, and more. For the kids, there’s Village Toys, which is full of entertainment for both young and old, including games and books to entertain all. And for something a little different, High Sierra Gardens is a great source for home-décor and potted plants. When you’re done shopping in Incline, head up Mount Rose Highway (weather permitting) to the Scenic Overlook, a short drive that’s worth the stunning view looking out over Lake Tahoe.
Northstar
The Village At Northstar is complete with restaurants and shops all centered around an ice rink, which is great for the family. Plus, there’s a movie theater here for when you’re done shopping and just want to relax. It’s a great kid-friendly activity. The shops range from outdoor suppliers like Icebreaker, Burton and Oakley, to active wear at Lululemon, to the interactive Village Candle Shop, where you can make your own candles and soap.