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2-star hotel

Budget Inn At The Heavenly Gondola

Budget Inn At The Heavenly Gondola offers simple rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a hot tub near Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe. Close to ski resorts and parks.

966 La Salle St, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, United States View on map
7/10
Good Based on 290 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Free parking Accessible Airport shuttle Golf course
What recent guests emphasize

Balanced comfort and prime location near Heavenly Gondola

Recent visitors highlight the motel’s excellent location within walking distance to Heavenly Village and gondola rides, alongside clean, comfortable rooms and attentive, welcoming staff. While the property offers basic amenities suited to budget-conscious travelers, some limitations reflect its modest category.

Guests often praise

  • Convenient and quiet location just steps from Heavenly Mountain Gondola and local shops
  • Friendly, helpful, and accommodating reception and management staff
  • Clean, well-maintained rooms with comfortable beds and practical features like microwaves and refrigerators
  • Ample free parking, a valued perk in a busy area
  • Good overall value offering affordable lodging without feeling low quality

Worth knowing

  • The motel lacks air conditioning and fitness or restaurant facilities on-site
  • Rooms are simple and no-frills, reflecting the budget motel category
  • The property maintains strict rules contributing to a safe and clean environment
  • Seasonal pool and hot tub are available but some guests note limited amenities compared to upscale places
  • Expect a basic but comfortable experience rather than luxury accommodations

Best for

  • Visitors seeking affordable lodging near key attractions like Heavenly Village and the gondola
  • Travelers valuing friendly service and a quiet atmosphere close to nightlife and dining options
  • Budget-conscious families or groups needing simple rooms with multiple beds
  • Guests who prefer self-catering conveniences like microwaves and refrigerators in their rooms
  • Anyone wanting easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing in the surrounding area
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About this property

Welcome to Budget Inn At The Heavenly Gondola

Budget Inn At The Heavenly Gondola is a modest roadside motel offering simple, clean rooms with up to three beds. The property includes a seasonal pool and a hot tub for guest relaxation, though air conditioning and on-site dining options are not available. Practical amenities such as free Wi-Fi, free parking, accessible rooms, and an airport shuttle service provide convenience during the stay.

Located just a short walk from The Shops at Heavenly Village and the Heavenly Mountain Gondola, the motel places visitors within easy reach of popular local attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore nearby natural sites like Emerald Bay State Park and Van Sickle Bi-State Park. Guests consistently highlight the property's excellent location and proximity to lively streets filled with bars, shops, and activities.

Guest reviews often emphasize the friendly and accommodating staff, noting helpfulness with directions and local recommendations. Many appreciate the comfortable beds and clean rooms, balancing the property's simplicity with value for money. Some feedback reflects modest expectations given the motel's category and amenities, making it a suitable choice for budget-conscious travelers prioritizing location over luxury.

The surrounding area features several other hotels and motels within close proximity, offering alternatives for visitors. With Reno-Tahoe International Airport about an hour away by car, the Budget Inn At The Heavenly Gondola is well positioned for those seeking straightforward accommodations near South Lake Tahoe's main attractions.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Facilities & essentials

What's on-site and what you should know before you arrive

The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.

Most popular facilities

Free Wi-Fi
Free parking
Accessible
Airport shuttle
Golf course
Smoke-free

Not available at this property

Pool
Air-conditioned
Business center
Pet-friendly
Restaurant
Fitness center
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

BK
Baavi kaur Apr 17, 2026
10

I visited for a vacation with my son and had a wonderful stay! The room was clean, and the location was unbeatable—just a 5 to 7-minute walk to the gondola ride. The receptionist was professional and very welcoming!

MA
Maximiliano Arrillaga Apr 06, 2026
10

The hotel was super comfortable. The staff at reception were very friendly and kind. They made us feel at home. They helped us with directions and even with discounts for the beach and events. They helped us save a lot of money. The hotel is really nice. The room we had was super clean and tidy. The bed was super comfortable. It had good air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a really large TV. The area is quiet and pleasant, just meters from the main street full of bars and businesses. I highly recommend it! Five stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

MVR
Michelle Vargas Real Mar 16, 2026
10

This place is great and people don’t even know what they are missing out on. The price is unbeatable and the rooms are clean and have nice things not like anything you would imagine. I have stayed at expensive resort locations here in Tahoe for 10xs the amount here and better service and quiet area. You are a short stroll away from all the popular places you want to see while in Tahoe. The management keep strict rules and it keeps the property safe and clean. Save your money and come stay here instead you won’t regret it.

LA
Lucas A Feb 23, 2026
8.0

First, this is a 2 star hotel so it is important to go into the experience with the proper expectations. I booked this hotel because it was hands down the most affordable in the location I chose. For my purposes, everything was adequate. The location is excellent, staff was very friendly and there is a large lot with ample parking. The bed was comfortable and the shower got the job done. Checkout could not have been easier. I did not try the WiFi. As others have mentioned, there is no air conditioning. It wasn’t too hot and the room remained comfortable, however keeping the windows open, the door opening to the exterior and the proximity to the main road road did make the room more noisy at night than I would have preferred. I recommend ear plugs. The room is well furnished, however, all furniture and appliances are worn. The paint and carpet are new. There were a few strands of hair on the sheets, likely from whoever made the bed. Not a big deal. Consider your needs for AC and tolerance for noise to determine if this hotel is right for you.

ZI
zozo_try's it Feb 17, 2026
10

Needed to stay on a whim for a last-minute stay-cation That Close and affordable, not only was checking in and booking very easy, but the room was amazing. More than I could’ve asked for!! Amazing location to walk to everything, local including the beach and downtown. Lisa’s hospitality and food recommendations was a bonus as well. Will be coming here every time!!

MOB
Movin' On Bob Jan 12, 2026
10

I was so pleasantly surprised. I've stayed in many low priced hotels but this one had the feel and look of one much higher up the scale. The room was spotlessly clean and newly updated. The furniture was very comfy. I arrived early in the morning and they let me go ahead and park my car hours before check in time. Parking can be a hassle in Tahoe these days. I was SO glad I stayed here. I don't feel like I missed out on my weekend at all by not paying 450.00 for the Marriott across the street.

SZ
Sissi Zamora Jan 12, 2026
10

I am very satisfied with my stay. Very nice location close to everything at walking distance. Clean rooms and comfortable beds. Very ample bathrooms and even dryer and iron with ironing board. Microwave fridge and even coffee maker to make your own coffee in the morning. Tv with basic cable and a desk to work on. Would definitely be staying there in the future. Thank you Jay and Rica ( from: Marcelo and papa Vazquez)

DS
danilo santana Jan 09, 2026
10

I had originally booked a stay from Saturday to Sunday, but my wife and I decided to arrive earlier. I called the hotel to ask if it was possible to check in a day before, and from the very first phone call, we were impressed with how kind and helpful the staff was. The owner was incredibly attentive and accommodating, and we were able to check in earlier without any issues. When we arrived, both my wife and I were pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome we received. The hospitality and friendliness were truly exceptional. On top of that, the location of the hotel is amazing — very convenient and beautiful. We absolutely recommend this place and will definitely be staying here again in the future. Thank you for the wonderful experience!

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find Budget Inn At The Heavenly Gondola

South Lake Tahoe, California, USA

This modest roadside inn is a 2-minute walk from The Shops at Heavenly Village and the Heavenly Mountain Gondola, and 16 miles from D.L. Bliss State Park.

  • Starbucks 4 min Walk
  • US 50/Pioneer (Holiday Inn Express) 6 min Walk
  • Stateline Transit Center 6 min Walk
  • Reno-Tahoe International Airport 1 hr 4 Car · 1 hr 27 Transit
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in California. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.

Heavenly Mountain Resort 5,803 reviews

Heavenly Mountain Resort

United States

4.4 · Ski Resort
Emerald Bay State Park 6,770 reviews

Emerald Bay State Park

California 96150, United States

4.8 · State Park
Van Sickle Bi-State Park 507 reviews

Van Sickle Bi-State Park

30 Lake Pkwy, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, United States

4.8 · State Park
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