A small town known for its ski resorts, Big Bear City is a residential area lined with boutiques, gift shops and restaurants. A hotspot for nature enthusiasts, Big Bear City lies within the San Bernardino National Forest and offers excellent access to the surrounding wilderness.
Things to do in Big Bear
Much of Big Bear City’s appeal revolves around its excellent skiing opportunities and water sports available at Big Bear Lake. The area offers easy access to the two major ski resorts in the area, Snow Summit Ski Resort and Bear Mountain Ski Resort.
In addition to skiing and exploring the lake, Big Bear City offers a myriad of other outdoor adventures. Get a bird’s-eye view of the area on a helicopter tour, while boat tours offer a laid-back way to see the sights.
Big Bear Valley Historical Museum offers a glimpse into earlier days of Bear Valley, with cabins depicting local life from the late-19th to early-20th centuries. Visitors are invited to try their hand at gold panning or watch blacksmiths hard at work.
Big Bear City has an alluring dining scene within its limits, along with a range of themed restaurants within a short drive away at Big Bear Lake. Check out some of the city’s restaurants, including the beloved Thelma’s Family Restaurant.
Getting around Big Bear
Getting to Big Bear City without a car is possible, but a rental car offers you valuable flexibility. The drive from Los Angeles takes around two hours, while a trip from San Diego is only 30 minutes longer.