Heading to Reno in late January for a work conference. We want to extend the trip and go to Tahoe for a long weekend. Trying to decide which side of Tahoe makes the most sense. Due to the fact that my wife really doesn't like really windy roads (or steep drop-offs) it seems like our best bet is going interstate from Reno to Carson City and then down 50 to South Lake Tahoe. However, having never been there, I'd like recommendations from anyone who cares to share.

We won't be skiing. Looking for a place that is a relatively straight/easy drive from Reno. I'm thinking VRBO rather than hotel/resort. We are pretty low maintenance. Looking for awesome views, a nice downtown area with lots of restaurants and shops, and a good patio/balcony for my evening Makers. If the weather permits, we'll venture out and explore the area some.

Thanks in advance for any recommendations.

I have kids that get carsick, so that is always a consideration for us too. We were just in Tahoe last week and it was awesome, as always. Definitely don't take 431 from Reno. We stayed on the north end and took 80 down through Truckee. If you stay on the North or west side, that is the easiest route without too many turns. If you stay on the south or east side of the lake, the route through Carson City is ok. Around the lake will have some curves, the west side around Emerald Bay is the worst stretch. For a short weekend, I'd probably try to stay on the south end. We were there a week and did things all around the lake, so it really didn't matter where we stayed, we were going to be driving no matter what.

Flew to Reno in February, stayed at Hyatt Regency in Tahoe. That drive to the hotel while it was snowing was nerve wracking for sure. Many cars were stuck in the snow bank on the side of the road. South Tahoe definitely had more action but obviously further from airport.

Was just there last week. South Tahoe will offer more the urban setting and the options that go along with that. Recommend MacDuffs Public House there. We stayed up north which is less developed but still fairly densely populated. Tahoe City/Kings Beach/Incline Village on that side will have plenty of options for lodging and restaurants too. You can get to either end from Reno on good roads. Tahoe area is beautiful and hope to return soon.

+1 on South Lake Tahoe
Warning - they're serious about chain laws up there when it snows.
580 to Carson City is easy and then 50 to SLT should be a piece of cake.