Lake Tahoe History & Museums: Historic Thunderbird Lodge at Lake Tahoe California

Lake Tahoe
> History Museums
> Historic Thunderbird Lodge

Historic Thunderbird Lodge

Visitors come to The Thunderbird Lodge National Historic Site to tour the opulent summer home of George Whittel, a prominent San Francisco businessman. The house dates back to 1936. Read More

  • Entry fee $39/adult and $19/child.
  • The fee includes the shuttle ride.
  • The site is open between Memorical Day Weekend and mid-October.
  • Located near Incline Village on Tahoe's north shore.

Overview

Previously the summer home of George Whittel, a San Francisco millionaire, The Thunderbird Lodge National Historic Site, built in 1936, now stands as a monument to the man and his life. The site is open to the public for guided tours. The house consists of two master bedrooms, a great room, servants bedrooms, the original kitchen and appliances, as well as scenic outdoor spaces.  One of the tour's highlights is a trip through a 600’ underground tunnel that leads to Whittel's prized 55' yacht, Thunderbird.

Location/Directions

Located on Tahoe’s north shore. Pick up the shuttle at the Incline Village/Crystal Bay Visitor’s Center at 969 Tahoe Boulevard. For reservations contact 800.GO.TAHOE.

Hours/Seasons

The Thunderbird Historic Site is open for private tours between Memorial Day weekend and mid-October. Tours are available by reservation only.

Fees/Cost

Land tours are $39 per adult and $19 for children 6-12. Children under 6 are not permitted. The shuttle ride is included. Water tours of the site are also available.

More Info

  • The walking tour takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
  • Private tours are available for groups of 15 or more.
  • Self-guided tours are not available.
  • Several private companies offer water tours of Thunderbird. Contact 1-800-GO-TAHOE for more information.

Other Historic Thunderbird Lodge Resources

Thunderbird Lodge Historic Site

The Thunderbird Lodge Historic Site offers tours, event sites, a museum store, history exhibits and much more in Lake Tahoe, California.