Emerald Bay State Park is one of Lake Tahoe's most beautiful attractions, located on the banks of the National Natural Landmark Emerald Bay, a protected region since 1969. The park is best known as the home of Vikingsholm, an incredible 38-room mansion that was constructed by Lennart Alexander Palme for Lora Knight and is considered today to be one of the United States' top examples of Scandinavian-style architecture. Visitors can explore the home as part of guided tours, which are offered daily between May and September, and learn about the history of its construction and use. Paddlewheeler boats like the M.S. Dixie II traverse the bay throughout the year, along with private yachts that can be rented through companies like Lake Tahoe Boat Rides. The park is also home to the underwater Emerald Bay Maritime Heritage Trail, which protects the shipwrecks of a number of fishing boats and barges from the 20th century.

138 Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, Phone: 530-541-3030

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