Not much to do at Tahoe for an extended period of time city/casino wise, don't expect Vegas or even Reno. Golf isn't cheap up there I know that, but nice courses. That time of year some might already be closed or close to it, snow usually hits about two weeks after you come. Maybe since that is absolutely dead time you can get on for half price. Another thing is be sure you go late as possible in the day, around 11am-noon, because mornings up there will freeze your you know whats off. Its beautiful setting and both Harrahs and Harveys are very nice casinos with good restaurants, but not much of a party scene really. Caesars on the weekends gets some action. For buffet if you are willing to spend the $$$ you can't miss the Harrahs. Its at the top of their building for an incredible view. Go at sunset and it will make the $25 or so for dinner seem like a bargain. Gambling is ok if you bet a decent amount but if you are lower roller you are out of luck. Harveys easily has the best sports book for watching, Harrahs book is sorry and Caesars is small. Horizon is the best book for betting though, they are a satelite book of CalNeva in Reno and have the best odds as Harrah's odds (they own Harveys too) are lousy, but its convenient to bet with them as they have a little counter with an odds board right in the middle of the casino if you need to get in a quick bet.
Hmm, other than that just be prepared for cold at night and the morning, maybe catch comedy show at Harrahs, hit Caesars and Hard Rock on the weekend. If you have a car drive up to Chart House for a great view and excellent food for not too much damage, its about $30 for dinner and dessert before drinks and its well worth the money. And of course if you do have a car make the drive around the lake, it takes about 2 hours and its like the Grand Canyon, a sight everyone should see at least once. While driving, stop off in Tahoe City on the north side of the Lake and go to Blue Agave, excellent Mexican food with a great view. If its warm enough you can sit outside on the deck, but late October and its likely you will prefer staying inside.