Gatekeeper's Museum: A Portal to Tahoe's Past

Explore Lake Tahoe's heritage at the Gatekeeper's Museum, featuring Native American artifacts, local history, and Olympic memorabilia.

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Gatekeeper's Museum

The Gatekeeper's Museum in Tahoe City is a reconstruction of the original Gatekeeper's Cabin, offering a glimpse into Lake Tahoe's history. It features exhibits on Native American culture, logging, the 1960 Olympics, and the role of the Watermaster who controlled the lake's dam.

A brief summary to Gatekeeper's Museum

130 W Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, California, 96145, US
+1530-583-1762
Visit website

Local tips

Check out the museum's collection of Native American baskets, showcasing the artistry and skill of various tribes.
Explore the exhibits on the 1960 Winter Olympics, held nearby in Squaw Valley, for a glimpse into winter sports history.
Visit the adjacent Lake Tahoe Dam and walk across the bridge for scenic views and to learn about the dam's history.

Getting There

Walking

From the Tahoe City Transit Center, walk west along W Lake Blvd (Highway 89) for about 5 minutes. The Gatekeeper's Museum will be on your left, just past the Fanny Bridge and the Truckee River. Free parking is available across the street at the Tahoe City Transit Center.
Public Transport

The TART (Tahoe Area Regional Transit) bus system serves Tahoe City and the surrounding areas. Check the TART schedule for the most up-to-date information on routes and stops. From the nearest TART stop in Tahoe City, walk to the Gatekeeper's Museum as described in the 'Walking' guidance. A single ride on TART costs $2.
Driving

From anywhere in Tahoe City, follow W Lake Blvd (Highway 89) towards the north end of town. The Gatekeeper's Museum is located at 130 W Lake Blvd, on the west side of the road, just past the Truckee River. Free parking is available across the street at the Tahoe City Transit Center. Note that the parking lot directly in front of the museum is operated by CA State Parks and charges a fee for day use.

Discover more about Gatekeeper's Museum

Located in Tahoe City, the Gatekeeper's Museum is a charming portal into the rich history of the Lake Tahoe region. The museum is a reconstruction of the original Gatekeeper's Cabin, which was home to the Watermaster who controlled the flow of water from Lake Tahoe. The original cabin was destroyed by fire in the early 1980s, but was rebuilt by the North Lake Tahoe Historical Society. The museum's exhibits showcase Tahoe history, starting with the Washoe people, and continuing through the logging and mining eras, and the establishment of tourism. Highlights include Native American baskets, historical photographs, clothing, and memorabilia from Lake Tahoe resorts. The Marion Steinbach Indian Basket Museum, added in 1992, features a collection of over 800 baskets from 85 tribes. Visitors can also explore exhibits on steamers and boating history, as well as the 1960 Winter Olympics held in Squaw Valley. The museum provides a unique opportunity to learn about the cultural and natural history of the Lake Tahoe region. It's a great place to spend a couple of hours exploring the past and gaining a deeper appreciation for this beautiful area.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

North Lake Tahoe Resort Association

0.1 km

Your adventure starts here! Get expert advice, maps, and insider tips for exploring the best of North Lake Tahoe's attractions and activities.

Tesla Supercharger

0.1 km

Recharge your Tesla and explore the beauty of Lake Tahoe at the convenient and accessible Tahoe City Supercharger.

Unique Nail Spa

0.2 km

Relax and rejuvenate at Unique Nail Spa in Tahoe City, offering a wide range of nail services for a pampering experience.

Tahoe City Farmers' Market, Commons Beach (May-Oct)

0.3 km

Experience local flavors and community spirit at the Tahoe City Farmers' Market, nestled on the scenic shores of Lake Tahoe.

Tahoe City Farmers' Market, Commons Beach (May-Oct)

64 Acres Tahoe Rim Trail Trailhead

0.4 km

Discover Lake Tahoe's backcountry: Hike, bike, or ride the Tahoe Rim Trail from the easily accessible 64 Acres Trailhead in Tahoe City.

Tahoe Trunk Show

0.4 km

Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at Tahoe Trunk Show, showcasing the best local art, jewelry, and gifts from the Lake Tahoe region.

Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema

0.4 km

Experience independent cinema, craft brews, and community vibes at Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema, Tahoe City's unique entertainment destination.

Tahoe Tap Haus

0.4 km

Tahoe Tap Haus: Local craft beers, California pub fare, and stunning lake views in the heart of Tahoe City. A community gathering spot!

Uncorked Tahoe City

0.5 km

Discover limited-production wines in a cozy Tahoe City setting. Curated flights, knowledgeable staff, and delectable pairings await!

Cobblestone Center

0.5 km

Discover unique shops, dining, and entertainment in a charming Bavarian-style village at the heart of Tahoe City, Lake Tahoe.

The Eadington Gallery

0.6 km

Experience Lake Tahoe's beauty through captivating photography at The Eadington Gallery in Tahoe City. Prints, framing, and art consultation available.

Christy Hill

0.6 km

Fine dining with panoramic lake views in Tahoe City, offering modern American cuisine and an award-winning wine list. Perfect for a special occasion.

Tahoe City Dock

0.7 km

Experience the beauty of Lake Tahoe from Tahoe City Dock: boating, dining, and stunning views await!

Tahoe City Dog Park

0.7 km

A convenient, seasonal dog park in Tahoe City offering a fenced, off-leash area for furry friends to play and socialize.

Za's Lakefront

0.7 km

Enjoy American-Italian cuisine with stunning lake views at this Tahoe City gem. Perfect for families and those seeking a relaxed, casual atmosphere.

Unmissable attractions to see

William B Layton Park

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Discover the beauty and tranquility of William B Layton Park in Tahoe City, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and families alike.

North Lake Tahoe Historical Society

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Explore the captivating history of North Lake Tahoe at the North Lake Tahoe Historical Society, where heritage meets stunning natural beauty.

Lake Tahoe Outlet Gates (California Historical Landmark No. 797)

0.1 km

Discover the historical significance of Lake Tahoe Outlet Gates, a beautiful landmark that showcases the rich heritage of California amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Lake Tahoe Outlet Gates (California Historical Landmark No. 797)

Lake Tahoe Dam

0.1 km

Experience the serene beauty of Lake Tahoe Dam, a stunning scenic spot perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Tahoe City, California.

North Lake Tahoe Visitor Center in Tahoe City

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Explore North Lake Tahoe like a local at the Visitor Center in Tahoe City, your one-stop hub for maps, guides, and insider tips for an unforgettable experience.

Tahoe City

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Explore Tahoe City, California - a beautiful lakeside destination perfect for outdoor adventures, local culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Truckee River Rafting

0.2 km

Discover the thrilling adventure of Truckee River Rafting, where stunning landscapes meet exhilarating water fun in the heart of Lake Tahoe.

Tahoe City Winter Sports Park

0.3 km

Your all-inclusive winter recreation destination in Tahoe City, offering ice skating, sledding, skiing, and snowshoeing for the whole family.

Commons Beach

0.4 km

Explore Commons Beach, a scenic retreat in Tahoe City, CA, offering sandy shores, recreational activities, and stunning views of Lake Tahoe.

Tahoe City Downtown Association

0.4 km

Experience the heart of North Lake Tahoe! Discover events, businesses, and community spirit in Tahoe City with the Downtown Association.

Tahoe City North Trailhead

0.5 km

Discover the breathtaking trails and stunning vistas at Tahoe City North Trailhead, a must-visit hiking area near Lake Tahoe.

Tahoe City Kayak and Paddleboard Shop

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Explore Lake Tahoe's crystal-clear waters with rentals, tours, and lessons from a trusted kayak and paddleboard shop in Tahoe City.

Watson Cabin Museum

0.6 km

Explore the historic Watson Cabin Museum in Tahoe City, a captivating journey through Lake Tahoe's rich history and early settler life.

Penny Bear | Heritage Plaza

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Explore the enchanting Penny Bear sculpture at Heritage Plaza, a unique artistic gem in Tahoe City that showcases local creativity and charm.

Heritage Plaza

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Discover the tranquil beauty of Heritage Plaza, a scenic park in Tahoe City offering stunning lake views and enriching historical displays.

Essential places to dine

Bridgetender Tavern and Grill

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Experience the best of American cuisine at Bridgetender Tavern and Grill with stunning views of Lake Tahoe in every bite.

River Grill

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Experience exquisite American cuisine at River Grill while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe's stunning scenery.

The Dam Cafe

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Experience delightful dining at The Dam Cafe in Tahoe City—where healthful food meets stunning lake views!

Front Street Station Pizza

0.3 km

Experience the delightful fusion of pizza and Mexican cuisine at Front Street Station Pizza in beautiful Tahoe City.

Cafe Zenon

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Discover Café Zenon: A charming breakfast café in Tahoe City serving delectable dishes amidst stunning lake views.

Pepper's

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Discover delicious tacos and burritos at Pepper's in Tahoe City - where flavor meets affordability amidst stunning mountain views.

Pete 'n Peters

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Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Pete 'n Peters - your go-to sports bar in Tahoe City with delicious tacos and refreshing drinks.

Rosie's Café

0.6 km

Discover Rosie's Café in Tahoe City - your go-to destination for delicious American breakfasts in a cozy lakeside setting.

Fat Cat Bar & Grill

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Discover delicious American cuisine at Fat Cat Bar & Grill in Tahoe City - where great food meets stunning lake views!

BLUEFISH

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Discover Bluefish in Tahoe City - where fresh local ingredients meet creative culinary artistry in a welcoming atmosphere.

Moe's Original BBQ

0.8 km

Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Moe's Original BBQ in Tahoe City—home to mouthwatering smoked meats and vibrant live music.

Tahoe City Sushi

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Experience exquisite sushi and delightful Japanese cuisine in the heart of Tahoe City with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe.

Jake's On The Lake

0.8 km

Experience exquisite American and Asian cuisine at Jake's On The Lake, where stunning lake views meet culinary excellence.

Stony Ridge Uncommon Kitchen

0.9 km

Experience the best of eclectic cuisine at Stony Ridge Uncommon Kitchen in Tahoe City—where local flavors meet creative cooking.

Thai Kitchen

1.0 km

Savor authentic Thai cuisine amidst stunning Lake Tahoe views at Thai Kitchen - an unmissable culinary experience.

Explore a world of imagination at Geared For Games, Tahoe City's charming toy store filled with unique toys, games, and unforgettable adventures.

Catch the excitement of live sports at Sidelines Sports Pub, where delicious food and a friendly atmosphere make every visit unforgettable.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Gatekeeper's Museum: A Portal to Tahoe's Past

A brief summary to Gatekeeper's Museum

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Driving

Unlock the Best of Gatekeeper's Museum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Gatekeeper's Museum

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

North Lake Tahoe Resort Association

Tesla Supercharger

Unique Nail Spa

Tahoe City Farmers' Market, Commons Beach (May-Oct)

64 Acres Tahoe Rim Trail Trailhead

Tahoe Trunk Show

Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema

Tahoe Tap Haus

Uncorked Tahoe City

Cobblestone Center

The Eadington Gallery

Christy Hill

Tahoe City Dock

Tahoe City Dog Park

Za's Lakefront

Unmissable attractions to see

William B Layton Park

North Lake Tahoe Historical Society

Lake Tahoe Outlet Gates (California Historical Landmark No. 797)

Lake Tahoe Dam

North Lake Tahoe Visitor Center in Tahoe City

Tahoe City

Truckee River Rafting

Tahoe City Winter Sports Park

Commons Beach

Tahoe City Downtown Association

Tahoe City North Trailhead

Tahoe City Kayak and Paddleboard Shop

Watson Cabin Museum

Penny Bear | Heritage Plaza

Heritage Plaza

Essential places to dine

Bridgetender Tavern and Grill

River Grill

The Dam Cafe

Front Street Station Pizza

Cafe Zenon

Pepper's

Pete 'n Peters

Rosie's Café

Fat Cat Bar & Grill

BLUEFISH

Moe's Original BBQ

Tahoe City Sushi

Jake's On The Lake

Stony Ridge Uncommon Kitchen

Thai Kitchen

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Willard's Sport Shop

Swigard's Ace Hardware

Tahoe Logowear Co

North Tahoe Arts

Lala Jewelry inside North Tahoe Arts

Alpenglow Sports

Leffler Leather Goods

The Hot Spot Tahoe ~ Pottery Painting Candle Making & More

Pineapple Tahoe

Gravity Shop

Tipsy Gypsy Boutique

Alpine Heritage

New & Used Tahoe Sports

Lather & Fizz Bath Boutique

Geared For Games

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Tahoe Wine Collective

Brooks' Bar & Deck

Basecamp Beer Garden