Ahh, Lake Tahoe. You are a gorgeous, deep, inspiring place and a natural wonder in your own right (Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and second in the world!)  So close to our home in Northern California, yet we (shamefully) take you for granted. But on a recent sojourn to your frosty, but sunshine-y, shores to celebrate another lap around the sun with my handsome hubby and dear friends of two decades, you reminded me that we are lucky to bask in your glory.

For most North Americans, this weekend was all about f.o.o.t.b.a.l.l. — Superbowl weekend.  But schedules being what they were, we decided to visit the West Shore of Lake Tahoe instead.  What a glorious weekend to do so! With the slopes nearly empty (ski conditions being sub-par after a week of sunshine and spring-like temps) and most of the restaurants in town following suit, it was a perfect weekend to really dig in and remind ourselves why Lake Tahoe is so amazing.

Here, in no particular order, are our 5 favorite things (eat, see + do) on the West Shore.