30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Truckee, CA

Are you planning a trip to Truckee, California, and looking for fun and engaging activities to make your trip memorable?  Look no further! You’re at the right place, as we’ll be taking you through the list of 30 best and fun things to do in Truckee, CA, making your trip unforgettable.

Situated in the heart of Nevada County, Truckee, California, is a charming town in the scenic landscapes of the Sierra Nevada mountains. From natural wonders to historical treasures and adrenaline-pumping adventures, Truckee offers a plethora of activities to enjoy year-round.

Within driving distance of other top destinations like Reno and Lake Tahoe, this family-friendly destination is a gem waiting to be explored. Learn history at the Emigrant Trail Museum, explore Donner Memorial State Park, and catch a performance at the Truckee Community Theatre.

30 Best and Fun Things to do in Truckee, CA (2024)

1. Donner Memorial State Park

Located on the southeast portion of Donner Lake, Donner Memorial State Park is not just a beautiful natural area, it is a site of historical significance.

The park features beautiful beaches, boat rentals, hiking, interpretive paths, and a visitor center that details the history of the Donner Party and the challenges they faced during their westward migration.

The Donner Memorial State Park offers an excellent opportunity for summer camping, picnicking, kayaking, paddle sports, fishing, and hiking.

During the winter months, visitors can cross-country ski, snowshoe on trails, and play in the snow, making it a perfect spot for both summer and winter activities.

Address: 12593 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

2. Northstar California Resort

One of the best things to do in Truckee, CA, in the winter is to explore Northstar California Resort, a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

This attraction offers high-end luxury with a sophisticated alpine village atmosphere. It also features twenty lifts with access to 100 trails, more than half of which are rated for intermediate skiers.

Beyond the winter activities, Northstar California Resort offers upscale shopping, cozy lodges, refined dining, and après-ski activities for a complete mountain experience.

Address: 5001 Northstar Drive, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

3. Donner Lake

Escaping the summer heat at Donner Lake is one of the fun things to do in Truckee, CA, in the summer. Donner Lake is a beehive of fun outdoor recreation.

The park offers excellent opportunities for water activities such as swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, camping, and diving.

Donner Lake’s tranquil ambiance and mountain backdrop create a perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor fun. The lake’s public beaches and boat launch areas make it easily accessible for a day of waterfront enjoyment.

Address: Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

4. Historic Downtown Truckee

Taking a step back in time through the charming streets of Historic Downtown Truckee is one of the free things to do in Truckee, CA.

As you walk through the historic downtown, admire the well-preserved historic buildings that date back to the town’s early days as a bustling railroad community.

Browse boutique shops offering unique gifts, apparel, and artisanal goods. Explore art galleries showcasing local talent, and savor the flavors of Truckee at cozy cafes and eateries dotted throughout the downtown area.

Address: Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

5. Truckee Welcome Center

Operated by the Truckee Chamber of Commerce, the Truckee Welcome Center is one of the best places to visit in Truckee for tourists.

This attraction has experienced staff who provide more than 225,000 visitors every year with recent information on the area. Information you could get at the center includes places to stay, things to do, restaurants, shopping, free maps, weather reports, and road conditions.

What’s more, the Truckee Welcome Center also serves as the transportation hub for Truckee, serving Amtrak trains and buses, Greyhound buses, and local transportation.

Address: 10065 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

6. Ponderosa Golf Course

One of the best things to do in Truckee, CA, this weekend is to book a tee time at Ponderosa Golf Course.

Established in 1961, the Ponderosa Golf Course features three sets of tees to cater to all levels of play. The 9-hole golf course sprawls across mountainous terrain that provides plenty of elevation, making it challenging yet interesting and fun for players of all skill levels.

The Ponderosa Golf Course also boasts a golf shop where you can get all your golf equipment and an onsite snack bar where you can satisfy your cravings.

Address: 10040 Reynold Way, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

7. Truckee Railroad Museum

The Truckee Railroad Museum is one of the must-visit attractions in Truckee for history enthusiasts. Located in a former Southern Pacific Railroad bay-window caboose, exploring this attraction is one of the free things to do in Truckee.

The museum houses exhibits showcasing the town’s rich railroad heritage, including displays, pictures, railroad artifacts, and interactive presentations depicting the impact of railroads on the history and development of Truckee.

A part of the museum is devoted to a Thomas the Tank Engine/Brio train, which is a popular site for families and younger visitors.

Address: 10075 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

8. Truckee Community Theater

Catching a performance at Truckee Community Theater is one of the fun things to do in Truckee, CA, at night for families and friends.

This non-profit community theater showcases up to five main-stage productions per season and offers many workshops and camps for all ages.

Beyond stage performances, the theater offers art education that promotes lifelong learning, collaborates with other local art organizations, and celebrates the power of theatre through different productions.

Address: 10046 Church Street, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

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9. Donner Pass Road

One of the free outdoor activities to do in Truckee, CA, today is to embark on a scenic drive along Donner Pass Road, where breathtaking vistas of the Sierra Nevada mountains and Donner Lake await.

The Donner Pass, with an elevation of 7,056 feet above sea level, passes above Donner Lake and Donner Memorial State Park.

The pass offers some of the best motorcycle riding in the Sierra Nevada range, with breathtaking vistas of Donner Lake. As you drive through this scenic pass, stop at designated viewpoints to capture memorable photos of the rugged landscape and alpine scenery.

During the fall season, the road is adorned with vibrant foliage, creating a picturesque setting for a leisurely drive or a scenic photo expedition.

Address: Truckee, CA, United States.

10. Truckee River

One of the fun things to do in Truckee, CA, in the summer months is to explore the pristine Truckee River. Stretching 121 miles, the Truckee River is home to abundant trout populations, making it a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts.

The river is one of the ideal destinations for water activities, including whitewater rafting and fly fishing. On your visit, venture out and experience the thrill of casting a line into the river’s clear currents.

The Truckee River offers ample opportunities to reel in rainbow, brown, and brook trout amidst scenic surroundings.

Address: Truckee, CA, United States.

11. Truckee River Regional Park

Truckee River Regional Park is one of the best places for family-friendly activities in Truckee, California.

Located in downtown Truckee, this beautiful park serves as a hub for community gatherings, outdoor recreation, and cultural events throughout the year.

The park features 62 acres of recreation facilities, including ball fields, picnic areas with tables, a rodeo arena, nature trails, tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts, amphitheater, a tot lot, a skateboard park, playground equipment, and a disc golf course overlooking the Truckee River.

On your visit, engage in recreational activities, and join locals and visitors in celebrating Truckee’s vibrant arts, music, and outdoor lifestyle against the backdrop of nature’s beauty.

Address: 10500 Brockway Road, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

12. Old Jail Museum

Stepping back in time at the Old Jail Museum is one of the best things to do in Truckee, CA, for history enthusiasts.

Built in 1875, the Old Jail Museum features exhibits and artifacts related to the town’s early days. At the museum, you will learn about the lumber and ice industries, see antique tools used to build the town and learn about the local Washoe Indians and the importance of the Chinese in constructing the railroad.

What’s more, you also get to explore the restored jail cells, courtroom displays, and historical archives that offer insights into law enforcement, justice, and the colorful characters of Truckee’s frontier era.

Address: 10142 Jibboom Street, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

13. Gray’s Crossing Golf Course

Tucked away in a secluded area of the Sierra Nevada, the Gray’s Crossing Golf Course is famous for its scenic layout and challenging holes.

Surrounded by majestic pines and mountain views, this 18-hole mountain golf resort offers a tranquil and picturesque setting for golfers of all skill levels.

Beyond golf, this beautiful resort also offers over 500 acres of open space with an extensive hiking and biking trail system, an open-air restaurant, and a Tahoe Mountain Club fitness facility.

Address: 11406 Henness Road, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

14. High Altitude Fitness Truckee

One of the most exciting indoor activities to do for fitness enthusiasts is to visit the High Altitude Fitness Truckee.

Spanning over 13,000 square feet, this indoor recreational facility features an indoor climbing wall, one of the largest in the Tahoe basin, a group fitness studio, a Spin/TRX studio, a dedicated yoga studio, and a snack bar. This attraction also features an outdoor training facility.

The center also has climbing instruction classes for children and adults. Their workout areas have free weights and state-of-the-art cardio machines, and they provide personal training as well as fitness, spinning, and yoga classes.

Address: 11798 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

15. Alpenthrow

One of the fun things to do in Truckee, CA, for adults is to hone your axe-throwing skills at Alpenthrow, North Lake Tahoe’s first mobile axe-throwing trailer.

Whether you are a professional or a first-timer, Alpenthrow promises an unforgettable experience. They have experienced coaches who will walk you through how to throw an axe safely

16. Truckee Crossroads

Established in 1981, the Truckee Crossroads is one of the best places for shopping in Truckee, California.

Sitting on over 26,000 square feet, the Truckee Crossroads is anchored by SaveMart and CVS. The shopping center also houses other brand stores, including KFC, Subway, Porter’s Ski & Sports, Village Pizzeria, and Papa Murphy’s.

17. Lake Tahoe’s Enchanting Beaches

One of the fun outdoor activities to do near Truckee, CA, in the summer is to take a short drive to the spectacular shores of Lake Tahoe, where a myriad of beaches beckon visitors to relax and unwind.

Lake Tahoe is home to multiple public beaches such as Kings Beach, Sand Harbor, and Commons Beach, each offering sandy shoes, clear waters, and opportunities for swimming, and water sports.

Lake Tahoe’s scenic beauty and pristine environment create an idyllic setting for a day of lakeside recreation.

Address: Tahoe City, CA, United States.

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18. KidZone Museum

Exploring endless entertainment and educational opportunities at the KidZone Museum is one of the best things to do in Truckee, CA, with kids.

Designed to spark curiosity, the museum features interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and engaging programs for young learners. The museum seeks to inspire learning through creative play and discovery.

From science experiments to artistic endeavors, children can explore, discover, and play in a safe and stimulating environment, making learning a joyful experience.

Address: 11711 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

19. Gallery 5830′

Among the many fun things to do in Truckee, CA, for art enthusiasts is to explore the artwork of Truckee-Tahoe and regional artists at Gallery 5830′.

This locally owned fine art gallery features an electric mix of artwork and furniture, hand-crafted by artists in the local artists in the local community and neighboring regions. The gallery features an artwork collective of 18 artists who each offer a unique aesthetic and a rich array of materials and craft.

Visitors can admire the different artworks on display including old-world blacksmithing, handblown and kiln fused glassware and sculpture, and brightly colored constructed paintings.

Address: 10060 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

20. The Village Cinemas

Catching your favorite movie at the Village Cinemas is one of the most romantic things to do in Truckee, CA, at night for couples.

Located at the Village at Northstar, this cinema features two movie screens, with one containing 96 elevated stadium seats and the second containing 45 elevated stadium seats.

Add this attraction to your bucket list of things to do in Truckee.

Address: 3001 Northstar Drive #3053, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

21. Truckee Gymnastics & My Playground

Among the many fun things to do in Truckee, CA, with kids is to engage in recreational activities at the Truckee Gymnastics and My Playground.

This indoor facility offers a comprehensive program for children ages 4 through teens. They also offer parent-child classes for ages 1 to 3 through My Playground.

This gym facility features a 40′ TumblTrak, vault runway, spring floor, high beam, in-ground trampoline, bars, rings and climbing rope, and stall bars.

22. Riverview Sports Park

The Riverview Sports Park is one of the best places to visit in Truckee for sporting activities on a weekend.

Sitting on 30 acres, this beautiful park features multi-purpose fields for soccer and football, ultimate frisbee, softball, a bike pump track, a BMX track, a playground, bocce ball courts, several picnic tables, and a covered picnic area.

The Riverview Sports Park provides an excellent opportunity for outdoor recreation.

What’s more, visitors can also attend special events like the Segan Fondo Cycling Event and Festival, which is held at the park.

Address: 12200 Joerger Drive, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

23. Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

Located in Reno, Nevada, just a few minutes drive from Truckee, a visit to the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park is one of the family-friendly things to do near Truckee, CA.

Sitting on 25,000 square feet, this indoor park features a large-scale indoor trampoline center with a lot of attractions, including a drop zone, adventure hub, sky rider, rope course, climbing walls, prozone performance trampoline, tubes playground, warrior course, runway, dodgeball, slam dunk zone, adventure hub, and the APEX trampolines.

The park is also perfect for unforgettable kids’ birthday parties and exciting special events. The park also has themed nights and promotions, like ‘Neon Nights’ with glowing lights and music, turning the arena into a vibrant party.

Address: 2210 Harvard Wy, Reno, NV 89502, United States.

24. palisades Tahoe

One of the many things to do in Truckee, CA, in the winter is to explore Palisades Tahoe, a renowned ski resort offering a wealth of recreational winter activities.

Established in 1949, Palisade Tahoe Resort is the largest skiing complex in the Lake Tahoe region and is also known for its challenging terrain.

This attraction has a base elevation of 6,200 feet and a skiable 3,600 acres across six peaks, with 23 chairlifts, four carpet lifts, a tramway, and a gondola.

Visitors can engage in winter activities such as skiing or snowboarding on world-class slopes, riding scenic gondolas for panoramic views, and enjoying other amenities. In the summer, visitors can hike alpine trails, take scenic tram rides, and admire the beauty of Squaw Valley’s mountain environment.

Address: 1960 Squaw Valley Road, Olympic Valley, CA 96146, United States.

25. Truckee River Winery

Established in 1989, Truckee River Winery is one of the best places to indulge in wine tasting on your visit to Truckee, California.

The winery is California’s highest and coldest winery. They offer tastings, by the glass and bottle on their petite patio in front of their iconic winery in the red barn.

On your visit, discover a diverse selection of wines crafted from locally grown grapes, including reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling varietals.

You can also learn about winemaking techniques, terroir influences, and the art of wine appreciation while enjoying scenic views of vineyards and surrounding mountains.

Address: 10061 S River Street, Truckee, CA 96161, United States.

26. Truckee Library

Established in 1976, the Truckee Library is not just a repository of books, it is a hub of knowledge and culture.

The library houses an extensive collection of books, magazines, ebooks, movies, video games, audio recordings, and a wide range of programming for both children and adults.

27. Piping Rock Equestrian Center

Embarking on horseback riding adventures at Piping Rock Equestrian Center is one of the fun outdoor activities to do in Truckee, in the summer.

Established in 2011, this horseback riding company offers guided trail rides to everyone, including beginners, experts, children, and adults. They also offer a broad range of equine activities such as summer horse camps, scenic trail rides, and training.

As part of your Truckee itinerary, ride through pine forests, meadows, and mountain trails, soaking in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

28. Truckee Ice Rink

Enjoying the timeless joy of skating at Truckee Ice Rink is one of the many fun things to do in Truckee, CA, in the winter.

Located in the Truckee River Regional Park, the Truckee Ice Rink caters to people of all ages. The ice rink features public skating, skate rentals, a snack bar, group and private lessons for all ages by experienced instructors, and broomball leagues.

On your visit, lace up your skates and glide across the ice under twinkling lights, surrounded by festive decor and seasonal cheer. The ice rink also offers special events such as themed skate nights and holiday celebrations, making it a favorite winter destination for locals and visitors alike.

29. Tahoe National Forest

As part of the best outdoor activities to do in Truckee, escape into the pristine wilderness of Tahoe National Forest, 871,495 acres of natural beauty encompassing rugged mountains, dense forests, and alpine lakes.

The forest features many natural and man-made resources for the benefit of its visitors, including hundreds of lakes and reservoirs, river canyons carved through granite bedrock, and many miles of trails.

On your visit, explore hiking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints, hidden waterfalls, and wildlife habitats teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

Camp under starlit skies, fish in pristine streams, or simply immerse yourself in the serenity of nature’s embrace within this spectacular national forest.

Address: Tahoe, CA, United States.

30. Martis Valley

Sprawling 45,000 acres, Martis Valley is one of the must-see attractions in Truckee for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Located between North Lake Tahoe and Truckee, Martis Valley’s landscape includes meadow, forest, and mountain environments intermixed with urban, rural, and resort development. The valley is also a haven for avian species and wildlife diversity.

On your visit, grab your binoculars and spot a variety of bird species, including raptors, waterfowl, songbirds, and migratory birds that inhabit the valley’s diverse habitats.

Stroll along nature trails, visit birding hotspots, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Martis Valley’s natural wonders.

Address: Truckee, CA, United States.

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