Discover Truckee, CA
Truckee, CA, nestled in the scenic Sierra Nevada, is a mountain town bursting with history, outdoor activities, and local charm. Just a short walk or drive from the Richardson House, you’ll discover an array of experiences to suit every season and style. In winter, visitors enjoy skiing and snowboarding at world-class resorts like Northstar and Sugar Bowl, while summer invites you to explore hiking trails, fishing spots, and the serene shores of Lake Tahoe.
Downtown Truckee adds to the appeal with its unique blend of historic sites, boutique shopping, and award-winning dining, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing day or evening out. Discover some of the best restaurants, ski resorts, golf courses, and activities nearby, offering inspiration for a truly unforgettable stay in Truckee.
Restaurants
Truckee’s dining scene combines rustic charm with culinary innovation, offering a variety of flavors just steps from The Richardson House. Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet dining, casual bites, or international flavors, Truckee’s restaurants deliver. Top picks include Moody’s Bistro, known for its locally inspired menu and live music, and Pianeta, an Italian favorite. Savor award-winning dishes in Truckee’s historic downtown, where fine dining meets laid-back mountain style.
1882 Bar & Grill offers a diverse menu featuring American classics and barbecue dishes. With its historic ambiance and riverside location, it’s an ideal spot for a casual meal or drinks with friends.
Alibi Ale Works offers a comfortable space with 18+ rotating Alibi beers on draft, alongside cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options. The venue features communal indoor seating and a spacious outdoor beer garden, often hosting live music and events. Family-friendly and welcoming to all.
Bar of America is known for its energetic atmosphere and classic American fare. This lively bar and restaurant offers a great selection of pub-style dishes, craft beers, and cocktails, along with live music on weekends. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind with friends in a classic Truckee setting.
Burger Me! is a casual eatery specializing in gourmet burgers made from all-natural, locally sourced ingredients. With a variety of burger options, including beef, turkey, and vegetarian, along with hand-cut fries and milkshakes, it’s a go-to spot for burger enthusiasts.
Cornerstone Bakery is a quaint, independently owned establishment offering handmade pastries, breads, cakes, and coffee. Known for its flaky croissants and delectable scones, it’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors seeking freshly baked goods.
Perched atop a hill overlooking Truckee, Cottonwood offers not just a meal but a view. Housed in a historic building, this restaurant has a unique, eclectic menu paired with live music on certain nights, making it a memorable experience for anyone looking to enjoy a bit of history with their dinner.
Drunken Monkey is an Asian-inspired eatery offering a unique blend of sushi and small plates. With its relaxed ambiance and creative menu, it’s a refreshing option for anyone looking to break from traditional American fare and enjoy some quality Japanese dishes and sake.
MakiAli Sushi offers a vibrant dining experience with a menu featuring fresh sushi, creative rolls, and Asian fusion dishes. The casual, funky atmosphere makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking quality Japanese cuisine.
Moody’s is more than just a bistro—it’s a Truckee hotspot where you can enjoy farm-to-table American cuisine alongside live music. This lively venue combines fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a variety of craft cocktails, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a great night out.
Located in the heart of Truckee, Pianeta is an intimate Italian restaurant that brings the flavors of Northern Italy to the mountains. Known for its house-made pastas and extensive wine list, Pianeta provides a warm, rustic atmosphere that’s perfect for a special evening out or a romantic dinner.
Housed in the historic Krueger/White House built in 1873, RMU Truckee combines a bar, restaurant, and retail space. Known for its craft cocktails and mountain culture vibe, it showcases RMU skis and products, emphasizing environmental sustainability. The Victorian-style building adds to its unique charm.
Famous for its giant omelets and quirky decor, Squeeze In is a must-visit for breakfast or brunch. This cozy diner has a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu packed with inventive breakfast dishes that have kept it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Located at 11400 Donner Pass Rd, Tacos Jalisco offers authentic Mexican cuisine in a cozy setting. Known for its flavorful street tacos and Cali-Mex fries, this spot provides generous portions at reasonable prices. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Situated at 11253 Brockway Rd, Thai Delicacy serves authentic Thai cuisine with a variety of dishes, including popular options like Pad Thai and curries. The restaurant is known for its friendly service and accommodating special requests.
Located within the private Martis Camp community, The Sawyer is an upscale restaurant offering a refined dining experience. Known for its seasonal menu and elegant atmosphere, it’s a destination for those seeking a sophisticated meal.
Found at 12030 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee Food Shop is a casual eatery offering a variety of international dishes. Known for its flavorful menu and friendly service, it’s a popular spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
Coffee Shops & Cafés
Start your day like a local with a visit to one of Truckee’s cozy coffee houses. From freshly brewed espresso to artisan pastries, each spot has a unique mountain-town vibe that will fuel your day of exploration. Favorites like Dark Horse Coffee Roasters and Coffeebar are a short walk from The Richardson House, offering everything from rich cappuccinos to local brews in warm, inviting spaces perfect for relaxing or planning your next adventure.
Situated at 10120 Jibboom Street, Coffeebar brings a slice of Italian coffee culture to Truckee. Established in 2010, it serves expertly brewed espresso alongside a menu of locally sourced dishes. The warm, inviting setting makes it an ideal spot for both social gatherings and remote work.
Dark Horse Coffee Roasters is nestled in a historic stone building that once served as a saloon. Known for their house-roasted beans and cozy ski lodge ambiance, they offer cold brews, pour-overs, and gourmet beverages with homemade syrups.
Drink Coffee Do Stuff is a coffee roastery and café inspired by the mountain lifestyle. With coffee sourced directly from farmers and roasted at high altitudes, they pride themselves on offering bold, flavorful brews. This café is a haven for adventurers, providing a laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy exceptional coffee before hitting the trails or slopes.
Wild Cherries has been a community staple since 1998. Owned by two-time Olympian Kristin Krone, this cozy spot offers locally roasted coffee and freshly baked goods, including muffins, scones, and artisan breads. With its welcoming atmosphere, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Zuri Coffee Co. infuses Swiss café charm into the Truckee coffee scene. They offer European-style lattes, organic avocado toast, and customizable crêpes. Their selection of European-style pastries adds a delightful touch to the experience.
Nightlife
When the sun sets, Truckee’s lively nightlife comes to life. Enjoy craft cocktails, local brews, and live music at popular bars like Bar of America or Alibi Ale Works, just a stroll away from The Richardson House. From relaxed pub atmospheres to vibrant, music-filled spots, Truckee’s nightlife offers something for everyone, creating the perfect end to a day spent exploring the mountains or enjoying downtown.
Alibi Ale Works offers a comfortable space with 18+ rotating Alibi beers on draft, alongside cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options. The venue features communal indoor seating and a spacious outdoor beer garden, often hosting live music and events. Family-friendly and welcoming to all.
Bar of America is known for its energetic atmosphere and classic American fare. This lively bar and restaurant offers a great selection of pub-style dishes, craft beers, and cocktails, along with live music on weekends. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind with friends in a classic Truckee setting.
Perched atop a hill overlooking Truckee, Cottonwood offers not just a meal but a view. Housed in a historic building, this restaurant has a unique, eclectic menu paired with live music on certain nights, making it a memorable experience for anyone looking to enjoy a bit of history with their dinner.
Moody’s is more than just a bistro—it’s a Truckee hotspot where you can enjoy farm-to-table American cuisine alongside live music. This lively venue combines fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a variety of craft cocktails, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a great night out.
Housed in the historic Krueger/White House built in 1873, RMU Truckee combines a bar, restaurant, and retail space. Known for its craft cocktails and mountain culture vibe, it showcases RMU skis and products, emphasizing environmental sustainability. The Victorian-style building adds to its unique charm.
Ski Resorts
Surrounded by some of the finest ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada, Truckee is a winter enthusiast’s paradise. Just a short drive from The Richardson House, you’ll find world-renowned slopes at Northstar, Sugar Bowl, and Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley Resort). Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner, Truckee’s nearby resorts offer everything from challenging trails to family-friendly runs, making it the perfect base for your winter adventure.
Popular for its proximity to Truckee and its night skiing options, Boreal is a convenient choice for skiers looking for a quick trip to the slopes. It’s known for its excellent terrain parks, which attract freestyle enthusiasts, and offers lessons for all levels. Boreal’s accessible atmosphere and flexible hours make it ideal for spontaneous ski trips and beginners alike.
On the western shore of Lake Tahoe, Homewood offers stunning lake views from nearly every run. Known for its unpretentious vibe and uncrowded slopes, it’s an ideal spot for intermediate and advanced skiers who prefer a laid-back experience. Homewood’s slopes lead right down to the lake, giving skiers a unique mountain-to-water experience and plenty of scenic backdrops.
With some of the highest elevation in the Tahoe area, Mount Rose offers excellent snow quality and a long ski season. Located a short drive from Truckee, it’s popular for its advanced runs and steep chutes, as well as its panoramic views. With a friendly atmosphere and well-maintained facilities, Mount Rose provides a high-altitude skiing experience close to Truckee.
Located just outside Truckee, Northstar offers a premier ski experience with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. Known for its well-groomed slopes, high-end amenities, and a charming village atmosphere, Northstar is perfect for both families and advanced skiers. The resort features a variety of dining, luxury lodging, and après-ski options, along with outdoor fire pits for a cozy end to your day on the slopes.
Home of the 1960 Winter Olympics, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows combines two legendary resorts for a vast skiing experience. With a wide range of terrain, from gentle slopes to expert bowls, it caters to all levels. The scenic beauty and modern amenities make it a favorite, along with the lively village offering dining, shopping, and après-ski options just steps from the lifts.
Known as one of the oldest ski resorts in the region, Sugar Bowl offers a classic skiing experience with a relaxed, friendly vibe. Located close to Truckee, it boasts diverse terrain across four peaks, appealing to everyone from beginners to advanced skiers. The resort prides itself on its easy accessibility, minimal crowds, and rich history, making it a local favorite.