A bit of the "Old Tahoe"
If Highway 50 is the yellow brick road, then the Parkside Lone Pine Lodge is without a doubt the Land of Oz.
Upon entering the .13 acre property, visitors might take time to notice the close proximity of Harvey’s which rests just a short stumble up the road. One may also find beautiful Lake Tahoe just yards from their parking lot, a luxury for those possessing a valid beach pass.
The bell on the front door treats visitors to the sounds of the old country while the aroma of decomposing lift ticket coupons and stale laundry brings memories of “New Tahoe”. Be sure to notice the petite-sized lobby containing low ceilings and a window just to the left.
The peculiar experience continues as a door from behind the front counter opens and the innkeeper presents himself boasting a shabby 80’s rock t-shirt and robe. Keeping with the tradition of the pioneer days, cash is king at this traditional motel and I strongly recommend you pay the rate with the exact amount. If you’ve made reservations prior to arrival, it’s at this point that you may want to ask for the “Uncle Sam Special” in which room tax is commonly ignored (their IRS gamble only means more chips in your pocket).
The rooms can be a bit unsightly and I’ve seen cleaner bathrooms at a Reno Chevron, but for the price and the 420-friendly hallways, visitors won’t find a better deal. Free in-room coffee (bring your own pot) and removable lampshades mark this experience as extremely memorable. Note: a reminder to wait a few minutes for the television to turn on once you’ve clicked the power button. Running water, a working lock, and framed picture of the Golden Gate Bridge round out the added luxuries of this one-of-a-kind player’s suite.
True to the Nevada state line reputation as a no nonsense “play & stay” motel, the LPPL is a gambler’s paradise. Even when one has felt hopped for days, he can find comfort in knowing he’ll have a place to stay with the “Bottom Bunk Special” for $18 a night.
Visitors will surely find that the LPPL creates a unique standard for all its guests and stands alone among all South Lake Tahoe motels of its kind.