Best Cities

12 Things You Didn’t Know About Lake Tahoe

Are you looking for a gorgeous location for your next trip? Lake Tahoe will likely fulfill your needs.

Resting in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is one of the most impressive freshwater lakes in the United States. The area’s beautiful scenery, beaches, and ski resorts are what attract millions of tourists all year long.

From a mob dumping ground to celebrities making it their home, there are many interesting things to discover about the place. But before you book a trip, here are some of the Lake Tahoe facts you might want to know.

1. It’s Massive and Spans Two States

So, how big is Lake Tahoe?

You can access Lake Tahoe from both California and Nevada. One-third of the lake resides in Nevada and the other two-thirds within the borders of California.

And unlike other similar lakes in the US, this 191 sqm body of water is busier than you know. Because aside from the many tourists who cruise on the lake, you’ll also see the presence of the US Coast Guard. They’re tasked to maintain a presence on the water thanks to the unique positioning of the lake.

2. The Tenth Deepest Lake in the World

Lake Tahoe has a lot of water – and we mean lots. It’s the tenth deepest lake on the planet and the third deepest in North America after all.

Although Lake Tahoe’s depth measurements put the deepest point at 1,645 feet, the average depth is no more than 989 feet. But the volume of water is very impressive.

Draining the lake would yield enough water to drown the state of California in more than a few inches of water.

3. A Popular Retreat for Celebrities

Lake Tahoe is popular retreat for Celebrities — _{Camprichardson.com. (2023). Available at: https://www.camprichardson.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/MG_0885.jpg}

The majestic scenery surrounding the lake has long been a huge draw for celebrities. Over the years, the likes of Sammy Davis Jr. Dean Martin, Cher, and David Coverdale all had residences in the area. A few politicians, like the Kennedy family, are also known to own properties near the lake.

The lake’s proximity to Hollywood also makes it a popular movie backdrop. You can see it in several scenes in movies such as The Godfather and Bodyguard, among many others.

4. Old and Pure

When it comes to Lake Tahoe facts, the reality is that no one knows its exact age. But experts can agree that it’s ancient and is one of the top 20 of the oldest lakes on Earth.

Most measurements and estimates put its age at well over two million years. Remarkably, the water is also very pure, specifically at 99.994% purity. You can’t find that kind of water quality in many other large bodies of water around the world.

5. Legends of the Lake

Did you think that Scotland had the only lake monster? You may not be aware of this but the largest alpine lake in North America has its own folklore.

Tahoe Tessie is what’s known as a distant relative to the more widely known Loch Ness Monster.

Although there aren’t that many reports of sightings, the folktale does draw quite a number of visitors each year.

6. Big Shoreline with Cold Waters

Lake Tahoe has 72 miles of shoreline, most of which is clear enough so that people can spend time there and relax.

But the water doesn’t warm up a lot. At the coldest, it can drop to about 40 degrees in February. This may not be good for dips, yet it’s enough that it keeps the fishing season going 365 days per year.

What’s also surprising to many is the fact that the lake never freezes. And this is thanks to the amount of water and heat stored.

During the summer, particularly in August, the water may warm up to 70 degrees. That may be warm enough for swimming, even if it’s far from the most comfortable water temperature.

7. Amazing Display of Colors

Depending on where you look, the water of Lake Tahoe has different colors. Shallow areas of the lake are often emerald in color. In the center, you may notice an indigo nuance.

The water’s superb clarity creates a true spectacle of green, blue, and other colors of the spectrum. That happens due to the manner in which the deeper depths absorb lights in the spectrum.

And under perfect conditions, you can even see a great reflection of the mountains.

8. Rich Native American History

Native American history dates the earliest inhabitants to as early as 10,000 years ago. The last known tribe to call Lake Tahoe home was the Washoe, prior to the 20^th century.

Interestingly enough, the name Lake Tahoe came from a mispronunciation of the original Native American name da ow a ga. Translated, Tahoe means the edge of the lake.

9. Amazing Weather Year Round

Lake Tahoe have Amazing Weather Year Round

It’s not enough that Lake Tahoe gets at least 270 sunny days in almost any given year. What’s also impressive is that the sun shines on an average of 75% of those days.

This is one vacation spot where you don’t really have to worry about any rain.

10. Wildly Popular

Lake Tahoe is Wildly Popular — _{‌Moonshineink.com. (2023). Available at: https://www.moonshineink.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/news_x_1-1536×1022.png}

Just how many people visit Lake Tahoe every year? The answer is an impressive three million, give or take – incredible figures for a place with a population of roughly 53,000 people.

By comparison, Yellowstone National park averages around 2.7 million visitors. Meanwhile, the Grand Canyon gets over 3.2 million per year.

Given the impressive scenery of those other two locations, Lake Tahoe is in great company as an outdoorsman hotspot.

11. A Lot of Water Coming In, Not So Much Flowing Out

You probably don’t know this, but Lake Tahoe has a single outlet. It’s the one at the Truckee River, right in Tahoe City.

But 63 tributaries help supply and sustain Lake Tahoe’s main body of water. Most of the water goes out by way of evaporation.

12. There’s Never a Dull Moment

The area surrounding Lake Tahoe has tons of trails, hikes, and ski slopes. Yet there’s even more you can do if you want to have a good time.

There are at least six casinos in the region that keep their doors open 24/7. And since fishing is such a big thing all year round, you can also try your luck at catching some record-breaking Mackinaw trout.

Lake Tahoe – A Vacation Destination Like No Other

There’s something for every visitor there. On peak days, the population of Lake Tahoe can shoot up to 300,000. It draws tourists constantly with its majestic mountain backdrops, lush forests, and superb water quality and clarity.

The dozens of attractions and outdoor activities in the area keep people entertained and coming back for more.

Up Next

What to Do on Your Next Trip to Lake Tahoe

Don't Miss

What Sports Fans Should Do When Visiting Boston

Trip Ideas

New Orleans’ Haunted History: A Ghost Tour

New Orleans, the Crescent City, is renowned for its vibrant music, delectable cuisine, and unique cultural blend. But beneath the surface of jazz-filled streets and colorful balconies lies a darker, more mysterious side: a history steeped in tragedy, Voodoo, and countless restless spirits. If you’re looking for an adventure that will send shivers down your spine and ignite your imagination, a ghost tour in New Orleans is an absolute must-do!

Imagine walking through the dimly lit cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the gas lamps casting long, dancing shadows, as a seasoned storyteller regales you with tales of centuries-old hauntings. This isn’t just about jump scares; it’s an immersive journey into the city’s past, where every building seems to hold a chilling secret.

What Makes New Orleans So Haunted?

New Orleans Street — Visittheusa.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visittheusa.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The city’s tumultuous history has created fertile ground for paranormal activity. From devastating fires and rampant epidemics like yellow fever to the brutal realities of slavery and violent crimes, New Orleans has witnessed its share of profound suffering. This rich, often tragic, past has left an indelible mark, and many believe the spirits of those who lived and died here still linger.

Iconic Haunted Locations You Might Encounter:

A good ghost tour will take you to some of New Orleans’ most infamous spectral hotspots. Here are a few you’re likely to hear about:

The LaLaurie Mansion — Al.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.al.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street): Perhaps the most notorious haunted house in America, this grand mansion was once home to Madame Delphine LaLaurie, a wealthy socialite infamous for her horrific cruelty towards her enslaved people in the early 19th century. The tales of torture and suffering within its walls are truly unsettling, and many claim the tormented spirits of her victims still haunt the property.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 — Cemeterytourneworleans.com. (2025). Available at: https://cemeterytourneworleans.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: As the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, established in 1789, it’s a labyrinth of above-ground tombs and crumbling mausoleums. It’s the final resting place of many notable figures, including the legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Visitors often report seeing ghostly figures, hearing whispers, and feeling an eerie presence among the ornate tombs.

The Ursuline Convent — Tripadvisor.com. (2025). Available at: https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The Ursuline Convent: This imposing building, dating back to the 1750s, holds tales of mysterious deaths and sightings of ghostly nuns. It’s also famously associated with the “Casket Girls” legend – young French women who arrived with small chests, rumored to be vampires by some, though history tells a less sensational story of their belongings.

Hotel Monteleone — Phgcdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://phgcdn.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Hotel Monteleone: This luxurious hotel has a long history and a reputation for being exceptionally haunted. Guests and staff have reported encounters with spectral children, including a young boy named Maurice who is said to roam the 14th floor, still searching for his parents.

Muriel's Jackson Square — Thevendry.com. (2025). Available at: https://thevendry.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Muriel’s Jackson Square: This restaurant is reportedly haunted by its former owner, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, who committed suicide upstairs after losing the property in a poker game. Diners have reported moving objects, disembodied voices, and a general feeling of being watched.

Beyond the Ghosts: A Historical Perspective

New Orleans ghost tours are more than just spooky stories; they offer a unique way to delve into the city’s complex history. You’ll learn about the origins of Voodoo in New Orleans, the impact of significant historical events, and the lives of the colorful, and often tragic, characters who shaped this remarkable city. The guides are often captivating storytellers, blending historical facts with local legends to create an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, a New Orleans ghost tour promises an evening of intrigue, history, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a chance to see the city in a different light, to feel the echoes of its past, and perhaps, to even encounter a friendly (or not-so-friendly) spirit.

Punta Cana

Beach Bliss in Punta Cana: Top All-Inclusive Resorts

Punta Cana, with its endless stretches of powdery white sand, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters, is the quintessential Caribbean escape. And what better way to experience this slice of paradise than with the ease and luxury of an all-inclusive resort? From romantic adults-only havens to fun-filled family adventures, Punta Cana offers a resort for every type of traveler.

If you’re dreaming of a hassle-free vacation where your every whim is catered to, look no further. We’ve rounded up some of the top all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, designed to deliver unforgettable beach bliss.

For the Romantic Escape: Adults-Only Serenity

Couples seeking tranquility and romance will find their perfect match in Punta Cana’s adults-only resorts. Imagine candlelit dinners by the sea, relaxing spa treatments, and uninterrupted moments with your loved one.

Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa: Tucked away in the exclusive Cap Cana enclave, this resort promises opulent luxury with Unlimited-Luxury® inclusions. Think gourmet dining, endless top-shelf spirits, and impeccable service, all set against a backdrop of pristine beaches.
Excellence Punta Cana: Known for its refreshing child-free ambiance, this resort in northern Punta Cana offers a myriad of dining and drinking options. Indulge in poolside and beachfront wait service, and consider a couples’ spa day in an ocean-view massage cabana.
Meliá Punta Cana Beach Wellness Inclusive – Adults Only: For those seeking a holistic approach to relaxation, this resort offers a unique wellness concept designed to rejuvenate body and mind. Enjoy upscale accommodations, diverse restaurants, and a serene spa.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana: Located on the stunning Juanillo Beach, this five-star adults-only resort boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a swimmable beach, multiple pools, and world-class dining.

For the Ultimate Family Fun: Adventures for All Ages

Punta Cana also shines as a fantastic destination for families. Many all-inclusive resorts here go above and beyond to provide entertainment and activities for kids of all ages, ensuring parents can relax while the little ones have a blast.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana: If your kids are fans of SpongeBob or Paw Patrol, this playful, all-inclusive resort is a dream come true. With character breakfasts, slime parties, and the huge Aqua Nick water park, it’s non-stop fun for the whole family.
Barceló Bávaro Palace: This sprawling beachfront resort is a family favorite, offering a private beach, a golf course, and a casino. Kids will love the children’s pool, kids’ club, playground, arcade, and even a bowling alley!
Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana: One of Punta Cana’s newer family resorts, Dreams Macao boasts a fantastic water park with slides, a lazy river, and splash pads, all set on a swimmable beach. Spacious family suites ensure comfort for everyone.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana: This mega-resort brings the energetic Hard Rock vibe with a plethora of family-friendly amenities. Featuring 13 pools, waterslides, a kids’ club, an arcade, bowling alley, mini-golf, and even a FlowRider, boredom is simply not an option.

For the Thrill-Seekers: Resorts with Epic Water Parks

Want to make a splash? Several Punta Cana resorts are renowned for their incredible on-site water parks, promising exhilarating fun for guests of all ages.

Royalton Splash Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino: Home to one of the largest water parks in the Caribbean, Royalton Splash offers towering slides, a wave pool, and splash zones, making it a paradise for water lovers.
Grand Sirenis Punta Cana Resort & Aquagames: Located on the beautiful Uvero Alto Beach, this resort features a fantastic water park with a variety of slides and attractions suitable for families.
Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino: Their “Splash Island” water park spans an impressive 1,500m², with palm trees, marine life, and a mix of gentle fun for little ones and thrilling elevated slides for the adventurous.

Read More: Hidden Gems in Orlando

Planning Your Punta Cana Escape

When choosing your all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, consider what’s most important to you:

Travel companions: Are you looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly adventure?
Desired atmosphere: Do you prefer a lively, energetic resort or a more serene and relaxed environment?
Specific amenities: Are water parks, golf courses, or extensive spa facilities a priority?

No matter what your ideal beach vacation looks like, Punta Cana’s all-inclusive resorts are ready to deliver an unforgettable experience. Pack your swimsuits, leave your worries behind, and get ready for some true beach bliss!

Trip Ideas

Coffee, Culture, and the Coastline: A Perfect Day in Seattle

Ever wake up in a city that smells like freshly-pulled espresso and feels like adventure is waiting around every corner?

That’s Seattle for ya—one toe-tapping beat ahead of the rest of the caffeine-loving world. If you’re wondering what a perfect day looks like in a city known for coffee culture and the coastline, you’re in luck. Lace up your walking shoes, loosen that belt a notch, and let’s squeeze every last drop out of 24 glorious hours on Puget Sound.

7 AM – A Dawn-Patrol Latte: Dive Into Seattle’s Coffee Culture

Sure, you could hit the green-and-white siren, but instead, why not start at Fulcrum Café in Belltown? The baristas there know their single-origin beans better than most folks know their own passwords. Plus, the lemon-curd pastries? Downright dangerous.

If you’re in the mood for more, Anchorhead, Elm, and Caffe Ladro are clustered close enough for a mini-crawl. It’s a dream for anyone chasing Seattle’s famous coffee culture and the coastline.

Travel pro tip: Order a “one-and-one.” That’s an espresso and its drip-brew sibling, so you can nerd out on flavor notes without looking like a total snob.

9 AM – Pike Place Magic on the Coastline

Pike Place Market Seattle — Hotelandra.com. (2019). Available at: https://hotelandra.com/ [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

With caffeine coursing through your veins, wander downhill to Pike Place Market. Snap the obligatory photo under the neon clock, then dodge a flying salmon or two.

Snack time? Beecher’s mac, a slab of Ellenos yogurt, maybe a hot mini-doughnut you’ll swear was “for later.” It’s all part of what makes this spot an essential stop in the world of coffee culture and the coastline.

11 AM – The Overlook Walk Stroll

Here’s a nifty upgrade: the new Overlook Walk now bridges Pike Place straight to Elliott Bay. No more duck-and-weave across traffic—just roll down the terraced Salish Steps, breathe in that crisp salt air, and boom: you’re waterfront-side with zero stress. It’s seamless and super scenic.

Noon – Lunch with a View

Elliott’s Oyster House Seattle — Elliottsoysterhouse.com. (2024). Available at: https://www.elliottsoysterhouse.com/ Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

By midday, hunger hits again. So, swing by Elliott’s Oyster House for some briny bivalves, or grab a paper boat of battered cod from Ivar’s. Then, snag a bench on Pier 58’s shiny new promenade. While you eat, watch ferries glide toward Bainbridge as street musicians supply the soundtrack. It’s the kind of moment that makes you forget to check your phone.

2 PM – Culture Fix

Olympic Sculpture Park Seattle — Seattleartfair.com. (2025). Available at: https://seattleartfair.com/ [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

Next up, hop the streetcar (or hoof it, we’re counting steps) to Seattle Center. There, geek out at MoPOP’s indie-game exhibit, gape at Chihuly’s glass tendrils, or zip 520 feet up the Space Needle for the ultimate carousel-floor selfie. Additionally, if you’re feeling artsy but thrifty, detour to the free Olympic Sculpture Park, where Alexander Calder’s Eagle frames the mountains like it owns the place.

4 PM – “Second Coffee” (Because Seattle)

Front of the Seattle Coffee Works Cafe — Dailycoffeenews.com. (2025). Available at: https://dailycoffeenews.com/ [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

Naturally, no Seattle afternoon is complete without another coffee. Hit Seattle Coffee Works on Pine for a silky iced latte, or slide into Victrola on 15th if Capitol Hill calls your name. Alternatively, locals swear by the cardamom-rose latte at Caffé Vita—trust us, it’s a hug in a mug you won’t forget.

5 PM – Golden-Hour Spin along the Coast

Pier 58 Seattle Playground — Seattle.gov. (2025). Available at: https://parkways.seattle.gov [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

By now, it’s time to move again. Rent a bike—those fresh-minted protected lanes make the ride from Pioneer Square to the Aquarium feel like butter—and cruise the waterfront. Along the way, don’t miss Pier 58’s new jellyfish-shaped climbing structure. Honestly, kids and adults alike lose their minds over it, so give yourself time to gawk.

7 PM – Sunset Finale

Sunset View of the Puget Sound — Vtexassets.com. (2017). Available at: https://muralsyourway.vtexassets.com/ [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

Nothing beats a Puget Sound sunset—well, maybe one with a local IPA in hand. So, grab a pint at Old Stove Brewing, then mosey to the Great Wheel for cotton-candy skies. Or, if crowds aren’t your jam, hop a quick ride to Kerry Park and watch the skyline light up like a switched-on circuit board.

9 PM – Nightcap & Notes

A band Playing at The Pink Door Cabaret Seattle — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/ [Accessed 2 Jun. 2025]

Finally, slide into The Pink Door’s back-alley cabaret (look for the unmarked entrance) for a negroni and some live jazz. Take a moment to jot down the day’s highlights—trust me, tomorrow’s you will forget half of them—and toast to the fact that, yes, one city really can pack this much goodness into a single day.

Ready to Live the Dream?

Our travel team can line up skip-the-line market tours, private coffee cuppings, or even a sunset sail on Elliott Bay. So, drop us a line and we’ll stitch together your very own Seattle story—beans, bridges, and bayside bliss included.

See you under the Public Market clock.