24 Unique & Fun Things to Do in Big Bear Lake (California) 

Big Bear Lake is a small, beautiful city located in California.

It is near some other active hotspots like Las Vegas as well as Phoenix, which presents an opportunity to explore more cities.

The city got its name from the early indigenous people of the Serrano tribe when they lived here, and this is because they only had grizzly bears for their company at the time.

In addition, the city was first put on the map after Benjamin Wilson had an extravagant party.

Also, the oldest bus line in the world was made and ran from San Bernardino to Big Bear Valley.

The new bus line was actually one of what made the village grow even further and more attractive.

Other fun things you can enjoy in the city are hiking, fishing, biking as well as snowboarding.

However, some visitors prefer the crystalline water located in the heart of Big Bear Lake.

There are obviously different activities of all kinds, with many exciting tour guides that will provide information about the city’s ecosystem, wildlife, and history.

The city welcomes several visitors every year from all over the world who come to enjoy their free time.

Things To Do In Big Bear Lake

1. Pineknot Trail 1E01

Need a place to challenge your ability? Check out what Pineknot Trail 1E01 has in place.

Pine knot Trail 1E01 is normally considered a challenging environment, mostly among hikers.

It is a 6.1 trail that will take an average of 3 hours to complete.

Visiting the environment is a great way to ride bikes, hike, and also ride a horse while enjoying Big Bear Lake’s relaxing views from the Aspen Glen Picnic area.

The environment is renowned for stunning picturesque panoramas you will come across all over as you hike along the way.

You should expect to see a clear lake, different wildflowers, picnic areas, and a thick verdant forest, among all others.

Of course, if you hike to the top of Grandview Point, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views and scenery of the San Gorgonio and Santa Ana River Valley.

Visiting this location in Big Bear lake, you will certainly see all sorts of fun activities and amenities to spend your time having fun.

Address: Mill Creek Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

2. Big Bear Snow Play

Big Bear Snow Play is an exciting and historical attraction in California.

The attraction is packed with several fun activities for visitors of all ages for a perfect adventure if you are in Big Bear Lake, most especially during winter.

This premier location is a hot spot for snow tubing down a long man-made hill.

If you want to climb back up to the hill again, it will be very easy with the availability of the magic carpet lift.

Apparently, Big Bear Snow Play is home to Southern California’s longest tube runs, with well-made elevation.

Visitors have access to the place all-day from November to the Easter season every year.

If the snow is not enough to make the place more fun, the facility has a blast Lenko Fan snowmaking machine to make artificial snow all around the ground with a lot of fluff to enhance visitors’ fun.

There is a snack bar in this amazing area in Big Bear Lake where you can buy tasty candy and also rest because there is a lodge as well.

On special occasions, Big Bear Snow Play offers Glow Tubing, also, in summer, there is a rope course that you can try out, but it is more suitable for adults.

The rope course rises over 35 feet above the ground, which makes it more challenging and fun.

Address: 42825 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

3. Alpine Pedal Path Trail 1E50

If you find Pineknot Trail 1E01 too challenging, Alpine Pedal Path Trail 1E50 is another place you can visit in Big Bear Lake.

The Pedal is a beautiful pathway designed for hikers as well as bikers.

It spans 3.2 miles across Big Bear Lake on the northern shore.

The path runs from Serrano Campground to Stanfield Cutoff, then passes through the Big Bear Solar Observatory to the Big Bear Discovery Center. These show you will see many things just as you walk around this area.

Walking on the path is a fun free, and exciting thing to do in Big Bear Lake, California.

Because the path is flat, there are plenty of benches along the way that can serve as shade if you want to rest.

Alpine Pedal Path is equally excellent for people of all fitness and ages.

You will surely come across bald eagles, parrots, and many other birds.

This offers a great chance for ornithology enthusiasts to come with binoculars and cameras to view and capture the surrounding environment, which is really gorgeous.

Of note, this stunning location can be quite noisy at times because you will see many people traveling or hiking with all sorts of methods of their choice.

Some people make up some of these amazing amenities to explore the place.

Equipment such as scooters, Rollerbladers, bikes, some parents pushing strollers, and more.

Above all, if you want to have a picnic, you can stop at Juniper Point along the way to use the BBQ grills and tables available.

Address: 740 Stanfield Cutoff, Big Bear, CA 92314, United States

4. Boulder Bay Park

Boulder Bay Park is a small, beautiful, and quiet park in Big Bear Lake.

It is approximately two miles from Big Bear Dam east and provides a picturesque, perfect image of Big Bear Lake.

Boulder Bay Park opened in 2010, and it has ever since been a great park with several attractions and some amazing facilities.

These facilities include restrooms, a huge dock for gazing and fishing with a spectacular view of the park, and a large bandstand.

It appears to be one of the free places that visitors can visit whenever they are in Big Bear Lake to relax and enjoy themselves.

Visiting this attraction provides lots of options as to how to spend your time during your vacation.

Picnicking in this environment with your family is an excellent way to enjoy the serenity of the Park.

Also, canoeing, hiking, and kayaking are some of the other exciting activities to do.

You can visit during winter to try out some of the snow sports perfect for the season.

Of course, the park is a perfect location for a photo shoot, and if you are a photographer, you will certainly have a lot of fun here, especially during spring when the scenery gets more beautiful and colorful.

There is a provision for visitors that wish to stay for a longer period around the park.

Rental Homes, Cabins, and apartments are several places that are available to be rented at a very convenient rate.

Boulder Bay Park is recognizable all over the state because of its appearance.

Which includes mountains, big islands of rocks perfect for hikers, tall trees, and lots of green space for both children and adults.

Address: 39080 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States 

5. Action Tours California

Action Tours California is an excellent and fun place to visit in Big Bear to get a bird’s-eye view of the city.

It is one of the best locations for those that are not afraid of heights and a great opportunity for those that want to conquer their fear of heights.

Action Tours California provides a great way for adrenaline lovers to get a different perspective and view of Big Bear Lake, California.

The tour is boasting with over nine different zip lines that go at high speeds but are safe for visitors.

Action Tours California is always open throughout the year from Mon-Sun 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, respectively.

Notably, the first couple of zip lines are easy for first-timers and teenagers, but they get more challenging and difficult as you progress.

The 85-foot elevations with 45mph speeds across zip lines are what you will explore, and some may be long as 869 feet and as short as 138 feet.

If you decide to explore the place, you will be rewarded with gorgeous views of the surrounding environment as you whizz by.

Your safety is this site’s first priority. Therefore, you are in safe hands, and they will make sure you get to enjoy your time during your visit.

Address: 40957 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

Do you want to explore other cities outside Big Bear Lake? If you do, you can check out places like Palm Desert, West Covina, Victorville, Orange County, and Alameda!

6. Big Bear Discovery Center

Big Bear Discovery Center is one of the most hospitable and most visited tourist destinations in Big Bear Lake.

Visitors who have to arrive here are always get charmed by all its attractive amenities.

Some visitors come here to get all the information they need about Big Bear Lake as regards camping, biking, hiking, and the nearest and most fun environment in the region.

At the Discovery Center, you will get different Adventure Passes for trailheads and book tours that are led by naturalists.

If that does not interest you, you can participate in their live performances and night programs.

The Center has several fascinating exhibits that entail the history of different ecosystems and wildlife of the surrounding environment.

You should also expect to come across Nature Discovery Zoo caters that are suitable for young children between the ages of three to seven.

It is for sure that you will enjoy lots of exciting activities in Big Bear Discovery Center, apart from hiking or joining their night programs.

Address: 40971 North Shore Drive/Hwy 38, Fawnskin, CA 92333, United States

7. Stanfield Marsh Wildlife And Waterfowl Preserve

Do you love wildlife, or are you a nature enthusiast?

If you are, the best and most beautiful place for you to visit is Big Bear Lake, California.

This amazing location is certainly Stanfield Marsh Wildlife And Waterfowl Preserve.

The Marsh Wildlife is Big Bear Lake’s most stunning and pleasant place to visit for those who seek to know more about nature and wildlife.

It is on Big Bear Boulevard and Stanfield Cutoff that visitors see as a breathtaking nature preserve environment and retreat.

Visiting is a smart way to escape the bust and noise of city life to a more relaxed, reserved outdoor area.

Of note, visitors can walk on the wooden boardwalks, cutting across the match and providing a convenient and better way to view different wildlife and enjoy the beautiful gifts of nature.

There is an area perfect for birdwatching, or visitors can drop by the wooden gazebo, where there are several posters of wildlife, as well as the picnic area.

The posters provide visitors with detailed educational information on the species that live in the preserve.

Address: 42300 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear, CA 92314, United States

8. Big Bear Alpine Zoo

Big Bear Alpine Zoo was opened in 1959 as a rehabilitation center for injured and homeless animals.

This fantastic establishment hosts only wounded or orphaned animals and some other animals that can’t live in their natural habitat.

The zoo is to rehabilitate wildlife and later introduce or reintroduce them to the wild.

But if the animals can’t still cope in their natural habitat, they will be brought back to the zoo to get a permanent home.

This, as a result, has made the zoo one of the most adored attractions in Big Bear Lake.

It is home to over 180 animals across 90 different species that presently take shelter in the Big Bear Alpine Zoo.

Most of the creatures you will see are the American badgers, owls, coyotes, black bears, arctic foxes, grizzly bears, mountain lions, golden eagles, gray wolves, flying squirrels, bobcats, snow leopards, and many more.

Of note, most of these animals are not permanently living in the zoo; therefore, you may not see some animals here any longer.

But during their period in the zoo, the animals interact directly with their keepers, so trust is another adorable thing between them and the keeper.

So, if you love animals, visiting the zoo will certainly be one of the best things to do for yourself and your family.

Address: 747 Club View Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

9. Castle Rock Trail

Castle Rock Trail is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US, as confirmed by several tourists.

It is a short path where you can enjoy the 2.7-mile in Big Bear Lake.

But it is generally seen as a moderately challenging route that will take an average of 1 h 30 minutes to cover. It is challenging because of the rocky and steep terrain underfoot.

Castle Rock Trail is a very popular area for hiking, mountain biking, and more. Tourists encounter other fun things with people while exploring the environment.

However, some tourists choose to ride mountain bikes to get up to Castle Rock Trail, but hiking is a good way to get to the top.

Because you will get the chance to fully take note of the beautiful surroundings.

The Trail serves as a prime spot that brings hikers from all across the country together, so you don’t have to miss out on meeting some amazing hikers.

In the end, regardless of how to choose to get to the top of Castle Rock Trail, you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the lake of San Bernardino National Forest and its surroundings.

Address: Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

10. Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is sapphire water filled with several things to do or can serve as an alternative environment for a nice relaxation.

It is in the San Bernardino National Forest.

Of note, Big Bear Lake is a man-made lake to honor a wide range of scenic exploration.

In the lake, you can go kayaking, swim, ride a canoe, and rent a jet ski or boat for fishing, among others.

There are several marinas along the shoreline of Big Bear Lake. You can fuel up some water vessels as well as rent them for fun.

The shore provides a 22 miles area for plenty of options for spots you can check to explore.

Equally, there are lots of charter fishing expeditions, tandem parasailing, flyboarding experiences, and picnic areas in this exciting area for visitors.

Both kids and adults can enjoy some memorable moments in the lake, and it is also safe for visitors of different ages.

Apart from having fun, what can be better than feeling safe and warm?

Address: Big Bear Lake, CA, United States

11. Big Bear Planetarium Projector Museum

The Planetarium Projector Museum is a hidden gem in Big Bear Lake, among all other tourist attractions and destinations in the city.

It is owned by a great individual called Owen Pharis.

The Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of planetarium projectors.

With over 15 large projectors to make up different collections and selections, their gigantic size is one of the reasons behind the record held by the museum.

Some of the most attractive ones at the Museum is the Spitz STS projector.

A very small S-3 projector in the museum is one of only three projectors that remain on earth as of now.

But all these projectors in the Planetarium Projector Museum are still working and are perfect for use.

You will see the joy on the owners of the museum’s faces whenever they want to demonstrate how the projector works.

Another attribute of the museum is that it hosts different shows, with the most popular one known as Captain Corona in the Overcast of Doom.

Interestingly, despite the fact that the Planetarium Projector Museum is located in Big Bear Lake, it is a museum that travels across different states and countries.

You can check out the museum to see if the projector is in town whenever you visit Big Bear Lake.

Address: Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

Why not explore other places like Pismo Beach, Downtown LA, Oceanside, Malibu, and Bakersfield within this beautiful state? 

12. Rockin’ Burritos & The Cave

Listening to music is yet another way to get information and to see different cultures.

Rockin’ Burritos & The Cave is a hot spot full of entertainment in Big Bear Lake, California.

The fun visitors get to enjoy here draws several other tourists and locals to the venue. They get to watch performances, live theater, and lots of other fun events.

Visitors are always glad and fun-filled whenever they visit because they will see different performers.

There are lots of fun activities happening at The Cave, ranging from local band performances to concerts. From theatrical acts to movies, screenings are a few of the activities you will see.

Magical shows, drama, music festivals, and more add some spice to the excitement.

There is also an onsite eatery where you can eat good and well-made meals at a reasonable price.

Some of their most ordered meals are nachos, burgers, burritos, cocktails, and drinks that are really affordable and enjoyable.

Address: 40789 Village Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

13. Alpine Slide At Magic Mountain

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is a big and amazing location for exciting activities and amusement, with a bobsledding experience.

This is one of the most stunning and entertaining places I will recommend you visit. You can visit with your family, especially if you are with kids.

Of note, what you are to expect in Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is high-banked bobsledding slides. Visitors do enjoy sliding down safely regardless of the season.

Amazingly, visitors can sled down safely with younger children, too. Another feature is you will get to choose your level of speed as you rush down tracks.

Amateurs will have the most enjoyable time on the right-hand track in the play area. Also, they will be safe.

Visitors can equally decide the amount of time they want to spend on the ride.

It is apparent that visitors get a lot of freedom in the amazing attraction.

But that is not all; there are several other amusing activities tourists can explore as well.

Address: 800 Wildrose Ln, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

14. Big Bear Bluff Lake Reserve

For nature enthusiasts, Bluff Lake Reserve is another amazing site to visit on 7,900 feet of square land.

Obviously, it is a reserve, as the name suggests. The reserve is home to meadow flowers, outcrops of rock and quartz, and pine trees.

Not just that, it has a wide range of beautiful, rare fauna and flora.

Nature lovers, most especially those that love adventure.

Even if you are interested in hidden treasures, you will find this exciting place to be the best among others.

Tourists can also come for a picnic with their friends and family. You can equally come with a camera to capture memorable moments.

Visiting with binoculars is another piece of equipment you can come with for birdwatching.

Address: Mill Creek Rd, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, United States

15. Big Bear Lake Brewing Company

Big Bear Lake Brewing Company is another attraction suitable for adults.

The company is a fantastic option for those that desire to know how alcohol is made.

You will enjoy the brewery, and there is a restaurant that offers delicious meals that will go in line with your drink.

However, if you do not like beer, the tasty spirits wines offered will certainly interest you and their cocktails as well.

Visit the Brewing Company will make you love the calm and welcoming atmosphere.

Apparently, the atmosphere is perfect for a date with friends and family or solo touring.

You can also try out their seasonal beers as well.

Note you can order a takeaway at a very friendly rate, but delivery is not available.

One of the combinations of the most ordered meal is the delicious Margarita pizza, soft pretzel perfect, and the avocado bomb with tasty flavors.

With just a small dollar from your pocket, you will have a fantastic time at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company, California.

Address: 40827 Stone Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

16. Big Bear Valley Historical Museum

Big Bear Valley Historical Museum is the best place to visit if you desire to learn more about the culture, inhabitants, history, and legacy of Big Bear Lake.

It is a perfect place for a researcher as well.

The museum features different relaxing environments with lots of educational information.

Equally, they provide several unique artifacts on display, and the gallery is filled with lots of historical items you have never seen before.

Visitors at Big Bear Valley Historical Museum usually get a pan for gold, and this will help to enhance their learning about the old days of the gold rush.

You can learn about ranchers, winter sports fans, and miners if you decide to visit.

The museum is mostly open on Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and from Saturday -Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, respectively.

As you browse through archives, relics of artifacts, equipment, and photos, you will see the masterpieces of the head to the centerpiece.

Also, don’t forget to explore the general store that opened in 1929 but later relocated to the parkland close to the museum in the early 1970s.

Address: 800 B Greenway Dr, Big Bear, CA 92314, United States

17. Big Bear Butler Peak Fire Lookout

Butler Peak Fire Lookout is one of the high-altitude lookout posts in the National Forest of California.

It is this very particular lookout that provides gorgeous and different views of Big Bear Lake.

The fire lookout is located in an 8,535-foot environment that is moderately difficult to access.

It is so high up, so the deep snow on the ground usually makes it even tough to complete.

But the challenging part makes it one of the most suitable places for hikers.

If you hike to the top, you will be rewarded with beautiful views of Big Bear Lake, which is obviously mind-blowing.

However, you will come across a dirt road that is not easy to get past.

With the rewarding views, Butler Peak Fire Lookout is definitely not a regular tourist hotspot.

It is a highly reclusive spot, and most visitors are always amazed whenever they visit because their expectations are always met.

With all these, it is sure that a visit to Butler Peak Fire Lookout will be worth the stay.

Address: 39607 2N13C, Fawnskin, CA 92333, United States

18. Big Bear Jeep Experience

Searching for a more fun and adventurous way to explore Big Bear Lake?

You don’t have to search further because you are in the right place to get the options.

Big Bear Jeep Experience is a lovely spot to visit to try out new things.

It is an off-road, educational adventure with professional drivers to ensure visitors’ safety.

They provide lovely tours of the city and are a safe way so for visitors to learn to drive and manage high vehicles.

Also, while driving, you get to enjoy the wonderful history of the places they pass.

With Big Bear Jeep Experience, you can rent a Jeep at a very low price. With the aid of their professional guide and off-roader, you will learn the right, safe and best way of driving.

Equally, you will get to learn different techniques through their two-way radio.

Visitors will be opportune to choose from different levels to know their ability to drive.

Above all, drivers are available for families with children and beginners as well.

But the challenging roads are for those that love extreme fun.

Address: 42011 Big Bear Blvd A, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

If you love adventure, then you should consider visiting Irvine, Sausalito, Humboldt County, Anaheim, and San Luis Obispo

19. Big Bear Lake Cougar Crest Trail

Most of the attractions in Big Bear Lake are the kind that would amaze hikers and nature-enthusiast.

Cougar Crest Trail is one of those attractions.

The trail is seen as one of the best places to visit in Big Bear Lake.

It is obviously a part of California’s San Bernardino National Forest, over 5.3 miles around.

Cougar Crest Trail is appropriate and safe for professional mountain biking and hikers to explore.

The trail is sometimes challenging and is most accessible from the month of March to November every year.

In fact, hiking or biking here overlooks Big Bear Lake and provides magnificent views of the natural environments surrounding it.

Without leaving out the stunning wildflower that led to paved nice and smooth paths.

Interestingly, from Cougar Crest Trail, you can hike or bike to the Big Bear Discovery Center.

Address: Big Bear Lake, CA 92314, United States

20. Big Bear Pines Lakefront

The Pines Lakefront is a fine dining establishment that showcases the gorgeous views of the lake and the beautiful nature of California.

They offer a wide-ranging menu, with several options for gluten-free diets and vegetarians.

It is open for all three meals daily and offers a unique twist to the most common and rare favorites of American dishes.

Some of the dishes served are venison, lamb, pork, seafood, fish, and beef, as well as sandwiches, pasta, burgers, and light salads.

In fact, a yummy children’s menu is also available.

To perfect it all, there’s an impressive list of different wines, both from Australian and Italian stalwarts.

With all this uniqueness, visitors will think that the food served will be expensive, but you will be surprised at how the prices are low.

Address: 350 Alden Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

21. Bear Valley Bikes

Lovers of bicycles may be thinking or may have concluded that they don’t stand a chance in Big Bear Lake.

Well, it is normal to have reached such a quick conclusion.

But Big Bear Lake has something stunning for its visitors, regardless of their areas of interest.

So, if you derive joy in riding bicycles of all designs and models, Bear Valley Bikes is a dream turned reality for you.

It is an authorized bicycle repairer and dealer that has been operating for some years.

In fact, since its establishment, they have always been one of the most favorite visitor destinations, mostly among bicycle lovers.

Their services here are top-notch, and you will definitely enjoy every moment spent here.

Above that, the bicycle store is also the perfect place to visit if you have issues with your bicycles. Regardless of what is wrong with the bike, they always have a magical solution that usually stunts visitors.

You can only visit this attraction center between the hours of 10 am to 5 pm from Mondays to Fridays.

Address: 40298 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

22. Big Bear Lake Le Muse Antiques

Le Muse Antiques is a fun place in Big Bear Lake with a stunning environment that has a lot of vendors showcasing a great mix of outstanding antiquity.

Aside from those good attributes, the person in charge always levels a positive impression on their visitors.

That impression alone will make you stay for hours without realizing it.

Like any other store you could imagine, the store’s antiquities collection is dated back to the prehistoric period.

With all these, it shows that Le Muse is an incredible place in Big Bear Lake with wonders.

So, on your next trip to Big Bear Lake, you can check this stunning location out.

Address: Dr #12, 40729 Village Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

23. Big Bear Lake Library

Do you love reading different historical articles or books, or are you on an educational tour?

If you do, there is a fantastic place for you in Big Bear Lake.

This amazing location is no other than Big Bear Lake Library.

The library is open to all visitors of all ages and inhabitants of Big Bear Lake, as well as visitors outside the city.

So, if you are on a trip or a research trip to Big Bear Lake, the library is the perfect and wonderful place to visit.

You will see all sorts of articles and journals that will meet your expectations.

If you are in the city and you are on the lookout for a quiet place to read some books, then Big Bear Lake Library is your spot.

Interestingly, the library is mostly open throughout the year.

It is equally a vital place to find full collections of audiobooks and documentaries as well.

Not only that, the library has a computer zone for all ages.

Address: 41930 Garstin Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

Explore Pasadena also to enjoy lots more of what California has to offer!

24. Big Bear Lake Laguna Grill Restaurant

Laguna Grill Restaurant is one of the best places to visit in Big Bear Lake to eat good food.

Amazing, it is a trendy hotspot boot in Big Bear Lake because of its reputable history.

Their menu focuses on offering traditional Mexican meals with beer and cocktails.

The meals served are known for their delicious tastes and presentable look.

Making the food look presentable always gives their visitors the desire to come for more.

You can even have a good drink at the bar.

In addition to that, their cocktails are always freshly made.

Aside from offering appealing food, Laguna Grill Restaurant also provides fantastic activities for all visitors.

You certainly love the spacious dining area because there are lots of things to see.

In fact, if you love listening to music, you can visit the bar to get another experience.

Address: 40844 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States

Final Remark

Big Bear Lake is a beautiful city because it is a real deal for people from different countries and cultures.

There are several amazing things and places you can visit.

Ranging from great restaurants, museums, parks, markets, and a lot of other things to do. But a few of what you can do to keep yourself busy during your visit are the top pick above.

There are some awesome attractions at Big Bear Lake that are free as well.

You will get to enjoy the pristine and greenery lake.

Be sure to narrow down the things and places you would love to do in your itinerary.

You can also take advantage of our good laydown recommendations whenever you are planning a visit.

Happy Travels!