Things to do in Big Bear City

Activities, attractions and tours

View of Big Bear Lake
Aerial view of Big Bear Lake and town in California with the lake frozen on a sunny blue sky day in the Winter with pine trees below.
Beautiful view Big Bear Lake with snow at sunset. Big Bear,CA ,USA
big bear california
Castle Rock Trail. This is a short hike about a mile, but the view is second to none. It's is the best spot to be in awe of the whole city, especially the lake. Beside hiking this trail, you can also do some rock climbing, which the rock itself has plenty of quick draws to latch your rope, to do some climbing. #Hiking

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What to do in Big Bear City

Popular places to visit

Big Bear Discovery Center

Enjoy the mountain views and explore Big Bear Discovery Center, a lovely green space in Big Bear City. Amble around this quaint area's lakeside, or seek out the ski slopes.

Big Bear Discovery Center

Community Arts Theater Society

You can make plans for a show at Community Arts Theater Society on your trip to Big Bear City. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Community Arts Theater Society

Alpine Pedal Path Trail 1E50

You can take time to visit Alpine Pedal Path Trail 1E50 during your travels to Big Bear City. Stroll along the lakeside or experience the area's art scene.

Alpine Pedal Path Trail 1E50

Gold Mountain Memorial Park

Explore the lovely green spaces of Gold Mountain Memorial Park and enjoy the ski slopes in Big Bear City. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Gold Mountain Memorial Park

Big Bear Solar Observatory

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Big Bear Solar Observatory in Big Bear City. Wander the lakeside and lush forest in this quaint area.

Big Bear Solar Observatory

Chair 7

You can take time to visit Chair 7 during your travels to Big Bear Lake.

Chair 7

Green Spot Picnic Area

Explore the lovely green spaces of Green Spot Picnic Area and enjoy the ski slopes in Big Bear City. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Green Spot Picnic Area

North Shore Recreation Area

Explore the lovely green spaces of North Shore Recreation Area and enjoy the ski slopes in Big Bear City. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

North Shore Recreation Area

Juniper Point

Explore the lovely green spaces of Juniper Point and enjoy the ski slopes in Big Bear City. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Juniper Point

Areas of Big Bear City

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North Shore

While visiting North Shore, you might make a stop by sights like Big Bear Lake and Big Bear Solar Observatory.

North Shore
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Meadowbrook Estates

While Meadowbrook Estates isn't home to many top sights, Gold Mountain Memorial Park and Bear Mountain Golf Course are some notable places to visit nearby.

Meadowbrook Estates
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Peter Pan

When in Peter Pan, you can plan a visit to Community Arts Theater Society and Gold Mountain Memorial Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Peter Pan
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Whispering Forest

Though Whispering Forest might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Community Arts Theater Society and Alpine Pedal Path Trail 1E50.

Whispering Forest
Big Bear Lake showing a lake or waterhole, a bay or harbor and tranquil scenes

Big Bear Lake

San Bernadino Mountains from camp trail. Spectacular variance with fire burnt forest, rocky terrain, and old growth next to Santa Anna river.

Angelus Oaks

Frequently asked questions

Is Big Bear City worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Big Bear City is explore Snow Summit. Tick this leading attraction off your agenda, then discover more of the area's walking trails and hiking.
How do I spend a day in Big Bear City?
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain and Big Bear Marina are two good places to start your adventures. Be sure to check out the retail and dining options in Big Bear City while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Big Bear City?
The top tourist attraction in Big Bear City is Snow Summit, so make sure to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Big Bear City?
You can easily enjoy top attractions like Snow Summit, Big Bear Alpine Zoo and Community Arts Theater Society with a three-day escape to Big Bear City. On average, most travelers plan three days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to San Bernardino.
Is Big Bear City a walkable city?
With popular neighborhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city center, Big Bear City is a great place to tour on foot. Have fun wandering between Green Spot Picnic Area and Gold Mountain Memorial Park. Then take a stroll around Woodlands, located 2 kilometers from the center, and Meadowbrook Estates, which is roughly 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Big Bear City with kids?
Deciding what to do in Big Bear City with kids has never been easier. Whether you're vacationing with toddlers or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep them entertained here.
What to do in Big Bear City for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or thrill seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Big Bear City for adults including Gold Mountain Memorial Park.
Are there free things to do in Big Bear City?
In Big Bear City, Eagle Point is a must-see spot for anyone looking to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in Big Bear City.