SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – This week marks a new chapter for one of South Lake Tahoe’s most centrally located hotels as the former Holiday Inn Express South Lake Tahoe officially transitions into HiMark Hotel on April 2. While the name has changed, the doors remain open, welcoming guests as the property begins its evolution into a boutique wellness-focused hotel.
HiMark Hotel is the latest project from Playpark Hospitality, with a long-term vision to create a stay that reflects the natural rhythm of Tahoe: calm, restorative, and grounded in its surroundings. Rather than a traditional resort model, the hotel is being reimagined as a place where rest, movement, and connection are thoughtfully integrated into the guest experience.
“Our vision for HiMark is simple: people shouldn’t have to give up the habits and routines they care about just because they’re traveling,” said Mitchell Murray, CEO of Playpark Hospitality. “We’re creating a place where you can still prioritize how you want to feel—whether that’s movement, recovery, or eating well—while being somewhere as special as South Lake Tahoe.”
A Thoughtful Transformation, Phased Over Time
The property will undergo a multi-million-dollar renovation beginning later in 2026, with updates rolling out in three phases through 2028. This staged approach allows HiMark Hotel to remain open throughout the process, allowing guests to experience the evolution in real time.
Phase one will focus on transforming the lobby into a warm, inviting gathering space, replacing traditional layouts with comfortable lounge seating, a lobby bar, and expanded food and beverage offerings.
Phase two will introduce an expanded wellness component, including a dedicated spa and hydrotherapy circuit with features such as a cold plunge, sauna, and a new fitness center designed for both recovery and movement.
Phase three will complete the transformation with fully redesigned guest rooms, incorporating natural materials, calming textures, and layouts centered around rest and relaxation.
Open Now, With More to Come
While the long-term vision is ambitious, HiMark Hotel is fully operational today. Guests can expect clean, comfortable accommodations, along with a seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub, all within walking distance of Heavenly Village, the lake, dining, shopping, and year-round outdoor activities.
Investing in Sustainability and Community
As part of its early improvements, HiMark Hotel recently installed a solar energy system, reinforcing a commitment to more sustainable operations and reducing its environmental footprint.
The boutique hotel will also participate in Playpark Hospitality’s Stay With Purpose program, supporting local nonprofits and giving back to the South Lake Tahoe community. In addition, HiMark is already planning partnerships and sponsorships with local events and organizations throughout the year, further embedding the property into the fabric of the region.
“We see a real opportunity to invest in the community we’re part of,” Murray noted. “From supporting local nonprofits to partnering with youth programs and schools, we want HiMark to have a positive, lasting impact—not just for our guests, but for people like our employees who live and work here.”
A New Kind of Tahoe Stay
With its phased renovation approach, community focus, and long-term wellness vision, HiMark Hotel represents a different kind of hotel transformation—one that prioritizes intention over immediacy and invites guests to return as the experience continues to evolve.
Reservations are now open for 2026-2027 stays, with more updates to be shared as renovations progress.
HiMark Hotel is part of a collection of distinctive Lake Tahoe hotels by Play Park Hospitality, each offering its own character and charm – The Jeffrey, Station House Inn, and Firelite Lodge.
Related
