Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino

The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is spread out over a large number of buildings, the tallest of which are only a handful of stories. It feels cozier than its actual size would suggest, thanks to its integration with surrounding nature and its handsome, old-fashioned alpine lodge-like decor. Common areas throughout are fashioned with wood beams and flagstones, while adirondack chairs dot the outdoor premises. This is a very popular wedding and event destination; guests may want to take into consideration that facilities are often occupied by private parties. Some have noted that noise and smoke from the in-house casino can affect the lobby. Families with children also favor the property -- if you're looking for serenity, book a room in one of the designated quiet areas within the hotel.

The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is located in Incline Village, a resort town on North Lake Tahoe. The hotel, set directly on the lake, is slightly apart from other shops, restaurants, and hotels; drivers on the property offer transportation anywhere in Incline Village, such as Diamond Peak ski resort, for free. Mt. Rose and Northstar ski resorts are within 15 minutes of the village. A public beach, Sand Harbor, is set just a short distance down the lake -- a potential alternative if the private beach is too crowded. Transportation to and from Reno-Tahoe International Airport is available through the hotel with advance notice. Parking is both free and ample.

There are a whopping 442 rooms at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino: several, including those within the main building and the stand-alone cottages, are larger and have tiny food preparation areas -- though not true kitchenettes. Rooms at this level benefit from a contemporary version of alpine decor; headboards, night tables, desks, and armoires are all fashioned from the untreated pine favored in mountain lodges. Modern light fixtures and granite surfaces in the bathroom and kitchen add to the modern aesthetic. Each room has an iPod docking station, flat-screen TV, and coffeemaker; some have spectacular views while others overlook parking lots or neighboring buildings. Bathrooms include modern looking shower/tub combinations, though the toilets are often a little too close to the bathtubs. Helpful toiletries include earplugs and makeup remover towelettes. One-bedroom cottages are a definite upgrade. Spacious bathrooms, private balconies overlooking Lake Tahoe, and full kitchens with Keuirg coffeemakers are just some of the amenities you'll find.

A long list of features at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino is a huge draw for this property. The lobby of the main building has a number of amenities, including a small business center with several Internet terminals and printer access. There's also a handful of stores, including one with sports clothing and lodge gifts -- plus a gourmet grocery store. The medium-size casino never closes. Kids play in the arcade room. An outdoor freeform swimming pool is attached to the indoor whirlpool via a narrow swimmable passage.

A good number of areas, both indoor and out, are specifically designed for large parties, among them a banquet room and outdoor fire pit. A fitness center, full spa, and considerable number of water sport options round out some of the physical activity options available on the property. The private beach has cabanas, lots of sun loungers, and picnic tables.

Dining options rival those found at a Las Vegas casino with everything from a sports bar to a cabin inspired cafe to a restaurant on the pier overlooking the water -- a fun spot for a weekly happy hour with live entertainment. Room service is served late.