Prices are for a standard double room, excluding 14% tax.

Quiet inns on the water, motels near the casinos, lodges close to ski runs, and condos everywhere are among the many options for lodging in Tahoe. During summer and ski season, the lake is crowded; reserve your accommodations as far ahead as possible. Spring and fall give you a little more leeway and lower -- sometimes significantly lower -- rates.

Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority (775/827-7647, www.renolaketahoe.com).

Park.net (800/444-7275, www.reserveamerica.com).

North Lake Tahoe Resort Association (800/824-6348, www.tahoefun.org).

Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority (800/288-2463, www.virtualtahoe.com).