What to do in Big Bear City, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

A lakeside view with a large wooden house and several smaller buildings, surrounded by trees and rocks.
A waterfront town at dusk with snow-covered buildings and a calm river reflecting the sky.
A lake surrounded by forested mountains, a rocky island with buildings, and clear blue water.
A snow-covered village with a frozen lake, surrounded by mountains.
A lakeside community with houses, a dock, and a sunset.

Things to do

Private Hiking Tour to Bluff Lake Reserve

Big Bear Jeep off-road tour with Hike to Bluff Lake Reserve

฿2,504
per adult
Big Bear Jeep off-road tour with Hike to Bluff Lake Reserve
Family-Friendly Nature Hike around the Big Bear Valley

Family-Friendly Nature Hike around the Big Bear Valley

฿1,235
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Family-Friendly Nature Hike around the Big Bear Valley
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What to do in Big Bear City

Stay near popular Big Bear City attractions

Big Bear Solar Observatory

8.4/10 (9 reviews)
You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Big Bear Solar Observatory during your trip to Big Bear City. Wander through the lakeside and lush forest in this quaint area.
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Where to stay in Big Bear City

Find the best Big Bear City areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A mountainous landscape with a clear blue sky, a lake, and scattered trees.

Moonridge

Skiing and mountain views are notable features of Moonridge. You might consider stopping by Big Bear Mountain Resort while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

A white observatory dome by a lake with a forested mountain backdrop.

North Shore

If you're spending some time in North Shore, Big Bear Lake and Big Bear Solar Observatory are top sights worth seeing.

A clear blue river with rocky outcrops, a forested hillside, and a cabin.

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.

A mountainous landscape with a winding road, a waterfall, and snow-covered peaks.

Whispering Forest

When in Whispering Forest, you can plan a visit to Community Arts Theater Society and Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A lake with a dock, surrounded by mountains and houses.

Peter Pan

Peter Pan might not have many top sights, but Community Arts Theater Society and Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Day trip destinations from Big Bear City

A marina with boats docked, a lighthouse, and a forested hill in the background.

Big Bear Lake

A lake with a dock, surrounded by mountains and houses.

Fawnskin

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 Theatre Society with a three-day escape to Big Bear City. On average, most travellers 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 neighbourhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city centre, 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 kilometres from the centre, and Meadowbrook Estates, which is roughly 3 kilometres 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 holidaying 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 neighbourhoods 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.