#3 Heavenly, California
Single Day Adult Window Rate: $145
Three Day Adult Online Rate: $315 ($105/day)
Heavenly is not traditionally a budget destination, but hear us out. A large lodging base means you’ll have a variety of lesser-priced options. A huge casino scene means there is plenty of eating options. If you gamble and sign up to the players clubs, you can score free or discounted rooms and meals at various places like Harrahs, Harveys, or the Hard Rock.
It’s a massive mountain with 4,800 skiable acres, offering plenty of bang for your lift-ticket buck. And the views across the deep blue Lake Tahoe are arguably the best of any ski resort in North America.
Where to Stay: If casinos are not your thing, Forest Suites Resort is in the $200 range and is located under the Heavenly Gondola, so you can be the first on the mountain.