With so many things to see and do around Big Bear, it can be hard to choose the best of the best. Big Bear offers something for everyone, from shopping and dining to historical sites and educational experiences. If your time in Big Bear is limited, you’ll definitely want to take in at least the top five attractions in Big Bear, California– you’ll be glad you did.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
43285 Goldmine Dr.
(909) 584-1299
Big Bear Alpine Zoo is a non-profit organization dedicated to rehabilitating sick and injured local wildlife. Originally opened in 1959 as Moonridge Animal Park, the Big Bear Alpine Zoo showcases local wildlife species such as the bald eagle, badger, arctic fox, black bear, bobcat, and may others. Though most animals that come under the Zoo’s care are released back into the wild, some of the inhabitants are permanent residents, as they are unable to survive in the wild on their own.
Big Bear History Museum
800 B Greenway Dr.
(909) 585-8100
Housed within one of Big Bear’s historical buildings is the fascinating Big Bear History Museum. Run by a group of dedicated volunteers, the museum holds a wealth of artifacts and historical documents related to Big Bear Valley’s colorful history. The museum building itself is part of the exhibit, having been the 1929 Big Bear City Community Market store. The attraction in Big Bear, California also encompasses other donated historical buildings such as the 1900s Shay Meadow Cabin and the old mule barn.
Big Bear Discovery Center
40971 N. Shore Dr. Hwy. 38
(909) 382-2790
As the largest visitor center in Big Bear Valley, the Big Bear Discovery Center is your one-stop Big Bear attraction to learn everything about the Big Bear area. Opened in 1998, the Discovery Center offers information and education about the area, outdoor concerts, theatre productions, interpretive programs, and naturalist led kayak and canoe tours of Big Bear Lake. But wait… there’s more! The Discovery Center is also your first stop when going out camping or hiking, with loads of maps, guidebooks, camping information, permits, and Adventure Passes.
Snow Summit
880 Summit Blvd
(844) GO2-BEAR
For avid cyclists, Snow Summit is California’s premiere lift-served gravity fed bike park. With downhill trails for cyclists of all experience levels, cycling at Snow Summit is a fantastic way for the whole family to spend the day. You are not relegated to just downhill biking though. Snow Summit’s trails connect with over 60 miles of spectacular cross-country trails. For non-cyclists, check out Snow Summit’s 30-foot rock climbing wall, zip line, Eurobungy trampoline, and some of the most awesome hiking trails in the region.
Magic Mountain
800 Wildrose Lane0
(909) 866-4626
If you want a screamingly fun day for the whole family, head over to Magic Mountain. Featuring a wintertime alpine bobsled slide, a summertime water slide, snow tubing, go-karts, and an 18-hole miniature golf course, Magic Mountain offer tons of fun all year round. This is one Big Bear Lake tourist attractions that you don’t want to miss.
