The inside of a museum with a dinosaur skeleton hanging from the ceiling in big bear

Top Indoor Activities in Big Bear

Big Bear Lake, California is a fun vacation destination for those who love the outdoors. Whether it’s skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, and so many activities in between, there are so many fun things to do in Big Bear all year long! However, sometimes the summer weather gets a little warm and visitors want to enjoy Big Bear while also staying cool. Luckily, there are plenty of fun things to do in Big Bear when the temperatures rise. Here are a few of our favorite indoor activities in Big Bear to stay cool in the summer!

Big Bear Historical Society

Big Bear has a rich history, and the Big Bear Historical Society is dedicated to preserving this history. The home of the Big Bear Historical Society is the Big Bear History Museum. The current museum has been open since 1982 and is open each year from May through mid-October. Their volunteer staff is rich with knowledge about the history of Big Bear, making this a fun and educational place to stop by when you visit Big Bear!

Big Bear Solar Observatory

Interested in science and the stars? Then be sure to head to the Big Bear Solar Observatory! Free tours for the public are held on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, from late-April through early-October. This hour-long tour will walk you through the telescope and ongoing projects taking place at the observatory.

Big Bear Discovery Center

Since 1998, the Big Bear Discovery Center has been the place to go for all things fun in Big Bear! In addition to exhibits, eco-tours, and hiking trails, the Discovery Center also hosts wonderful nighttime programs that are perfect during the warm summer months. Enjoy a show from their summer concert series or a nighttime performance in the amphitheater!

Contact Us!

If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to contact Big Bear Cabins today about the indoor activities in Big Bear or our incredible vacation rentals!

big bear 4th of july

Big Bear 4th of July!

Get ready to have your Independence Day in one of the most beautiful places in Southern California. Big Bear Lake hosts a fireworks show from a barge on the lake that makes it easy for anyone to view it from almost anywhere in the area. In addition to the light show, Big Bear has plenty of activities for you and your family to partake in during the celebration. Check out some of our favorites below!

Above the Boom: 4th of July at 8,200 feet

Get a view of the fireworks show from 8,200 feet at Snow Summit’s Inaugural Fireworks Viewing Party! The party will offer on-site catering, live music, and an incredibly memorable view of the fireworks show. Just jump on the Sky Chair for a ride to this unique 4th of July destination.

Captain John’s Independence Extravaganza

Captain John’s Marina is an ideal place for friends and family to catch the Big Bear fireworks show. With live Reggae music, Hawaiian BBQ, the option to make your own BBQ and plenty of space for beach blankets and umbrellas, this spot will accommodate families, friend groups, and all ages alike. The event starts at 7 am so make sure you get your spot early!

Big Bear 4th of July Cruise on Miss Liberty Paddlewheel Boat

How about watching the Big Bear fireworks show from a boat? The Cruise on Miss Liberty Paddlewheel Boat will give you a cruise of the lake while offering hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, soft drinks, and snacks at a for-purchase gallery. The cruise is a great opportunity for a romantic 4th of July date or simply for a new experience. To guarantee your spot on Miss Liberty, buy your ticket ahead a time and show up early! Miss Liberty docks at 8 pm.

Contact Us to Experience a Big Bear 4th of July

We want you to have a fantastic Big Bear 4th of July, whether you are a small family, an elderly couple, or a group of singles! Big Bear Lake wants you to experience the magic of our fireworks show! So don’t miss out: Let us accommodate you in one of our rentals while you figure out which event best suits you. Contact us today to learn more!

Kayaking and Canoeing in Big Bear

No matter if you’re at the North Shore landing or hitting the water from the Marina in Metcalf Bay, kayaking is popular all across Big Bear Lake! Whether you prefer the deeper seats of a canoe or the windmill motions of kayak-paddling, these small boats may be the best way to enjoy time on the lake. You get to take total control of your voyage—no driver but you, no passengers but your family or friends! They may be man-powered, but its good, rewarding exercise; with each push of your muscles, you’ll feel the rush of rewarding slide across the surface of the water. You’ll have tons of fun, and you can count it as a workout!

Staying close to the water on a paddled boat like a canoe or kayak is also ideal for feeling in touch with nature. The slower pace helps you familiarize yourself with the surroundings and gives you the chance to pick up on details that you’d miss in a faster vehicle. Plus, they have much better access to little inlets and hidden coves thanks to their smaller size and maneuverability! What will you discover on your canoe trip across Big Bear Lake? If you’re excited to get your kayak or canoe adventure started, here’s where to look.

Pleasure Point Marina

One of the several canoe and kayak rentals in Big Bear, California, Pleasure Point is a fine stop for your boating needs. They even boast their own bait house! Why head out to a lake for an afternoon and return empty-handed?

Holloway’s Marina and RV Park

Another company that boasts boating rentals, Holloway’s also rents out fishing equipment. If you want to kick the speed up a notch, ask these folks about wakeboarding rides as well! These folks are sure to know the perfect spots to paddle out to for a relaxing spell on the water.

Paddles and Pedals

This shop is located on the northern shore of Big Bear, and worth a visit if you’re staying in that area. They’re on N. Shore Lane, not far from the Big Bear Discovery Center on N. Shore Drive. As the name implies, these folks rent out canoes, kayaks, and bikes—if you have some landlubbers in your party, head here before parting ways for your respective enjoyments!

Pine Knot Marina

If you’re not entirely sold on kayaking, check out Pine Knot Marina—they’ve got it all! Whether you want to hit the water in a jet ski, a kayak, or a pontoon, this store has you covered. Trust the good people at Pine Knot Marina to show you how to have a good time on the water!

Big Bear Cabins: The Best in Big Bear!

Kayak, canoe, and more in this terrific town! Check our offerings to learn about the amazing places to stay in Big Bear, or call 877-473-5360 to set up your getaway!

Top Attractions for the Night Owl in Big Bear, CA

While Big Bear, CA may be world-renowned for its year-round outdoor recreation, it has no shortage of nightlife opportunities to offer locals and visitors as well. This means you can play all day and well into the night. Regardless of the type of evening you may be in the mood for, there are options ranging from low-key dive and sports bars to colorful live music and nightclub venues.

Black Diamond Tavern

Black Diamond Tavern is a great spot to get your evening started. It’s a bar and grill that specializes in classic American cuisine. The menu features a wide variety of items, as well as signature cocktails and an extensive wine list. Happy hour is offered throughout the week, and live music plays every Friday and Saturday evening.

Murray’s Saloon

Murray’s Saloon is a community staple in Big Bear. It’s been family-owned and operated for more than 20 years, offering a full bar and a late night food menu. It’s best known for hosting karaoke seven nights a week, and it has a billiards table for added entertainment.

The Bowling Barn/Alley Oops Sports Bar

If you’re looking for a mellow night out, The Bowling Barn can accommodate. It has 16 lanes, a full service snack bar, and arcade games. Once you’ve finished your game, you can head right into Alley Oops Sports Bar to quench your thirst, catch your team on the high-def TVs, or start a round of billiards or darts.

Chad’s Place

Located in the heart of the Village, Chad’s Place proudly holds the top spot as the local watering hole. The establishment has a packed entertainment schedule that fills up the calendar almost every night of the week. From live bands and open mic night to country line dancing and DJ sets, there is always something fun and exciting going on.

AV Bar & Nightclub

When you’re ready to hit the dance floor, AV Bar & Nightclub is the place to see and be seen. Bartenders keep the cocktails flowing, while DJs keep the party going Thursdays through Saturdays until 2AM. There are also a number of flat screen TVs and beer pong and ping pong tables.

With a wide array of places to choose from, you can be sure you will have no problem finding a place to go out and have a good time while in Big Bear. Once you’re ready to retire for the night, make sure you come home to one of the luxurious private rentals we have available at Big Bear Cabins.

Top Reasons to Visit Snow Summit in Big Bear Year Round

1. Great Mountain Access

Snow Summit has 240 skiable acres that incorporate more than 30 trails. The top elevation of the mountain is 8,200 feet with a base elevation of 7,000 feet. Throughout the resort there are 14 total Mountain Lifts 2 High Speed Quad Chairs, 2 Quad Chairs, 2 Triple Chairs, 5 Double Chairs, and 3 Moving Carpet lifts. No matter if it’s the middle of winter with plenty of snow or the middle of the summer, you will be able to access any part of the mountain.

2. Summit Nights

Enjoy the adventure of night skiing and snowboarding during Snow Summit night sessions, a time where skiers and snowboarders can cruise the slopes beneath the stars. Snow Summit’s quintessential beginner to intermediate runs, including Upper Miracle Mile and Summit Run, are open for both skiers and snowboarders, along with the legendary Westridge Park. Boasting plenty of jumps and jibs to get your adrenalin pumping, skiers and riders will find features to suit their style as they ride through the often less crowded terrain park. As if that wasn’t enough, Westridge undergoes a full evening groom during Night session, giving riders the freshest terrain since first chair.

3. Plenty of Nearby Activities, Restaurants, and Attractions

Snow Summit is in a central location, just moments away from some of the top restaurants, attractions, and activities! Visit the Grind & Grill Café to grab a burger before hitting the slopes, or skip the summit entirely and head down town to check out the shops and more – just minutes away! Whatever you want to do, Snow Summit gives you great access, making it a perfect spot to stay near!

These amazing aspects of Snow Summit are available not only during the winter, but also during the summer. Make sure that you incorporate these great aspects into any part of a Big Bear vacation. Check out our 6-bedroom Snow Summit vacation rentals for an incredible vacation. Contact us today to learn more!

Image of an individual rowing in a kayak on a lake finding places to see in big bear

Top Lakes, Rivers, and Waterfalls in Big Bear

Summer is upon us, and with the sun rising high and the temperatures climbing to match, so many of us feel the call of the water! Whether you want to plunge in and play, go out on a boat, or just find a retreat where the water provides some cooling imagery, the mountains around Big Bear Lake have you covered for all aquatic activities. The next question you need to ask yourself is: what are the best places to see in Big Bear?

Places to See in Big Bear Lake

The most obvious choice is naturally the lake that the town is named for! This beautiful lake remains a key feature in the city’s tourism, and for great reason. The calm waters are perfect for going for a swim, whether it’s for exercise or just for fun! Tall boulders surrounding the shore make ideal jumping-off points for a thrilling dive. Water vehicles of all kinds are popular here, and plenty of businesses rent them out. So, if you’ve never had the chance to water ski, jet ski, or kayak, here is the place to try it out!

Bluff Lake

This lake is less popular but much more relaxing. A twenty-five-minute drive southwest on Mill Creek Road takes you to Bluff Lake Reserve. The picturesque lake is home to plenty of flora and fauna, watched over by The Wildlands Conservancy to maintain its unique ecology and charm. This makes Bluff Lake a great place to go bird-watching, take pictures, or introduce children to mountain ecology. Picnics and hiking are also popular here, so long as the environment remains minimally disturbed.

Forest Falls

Forest Falls is more of a trail than a water feature—the falls themselves have been closed off due to the hazardous area. However, the trail remains popular, nestled in the forest about an hour and a half away from Big Bear Lake along CA-38. It requires an adventure pass to hike, so look into getting one of these if you’re an avid hiker. While the easy hike offers gorgeous scenery, Big Falls remains the main attraction, visible from a distance roughly twenty minutes from the parking lot.

Holcomb Creek

If you prefer river fishing to lake fishing, head north past the lake to Coxey Road, and then find Holcomb Creek where the road intersects with Forest Route 3N93. The creek travels partway along Route 3N93, which is a difficult but exciting hike!

Staying in Big Bear

Wherever you go in Big Bear, Big Bear Cabins remains one of the greatest places to stay! We have accommodation for large groups in cabins like Mishka’s Place. Or check out Lakefront in Fawnskin for smaller groups. Be sure to contact us to learn more about our fantastic offerings.

Five More Can’t-Miss Attractions in Big Bear

Some attractions, you simply can’t miss. Anyone who frequents Big Bear knows about them: Big Bear Lake, Boulder Bear Park, Snow Summit, the Alpine Zoo, and more. Then there are others that are less well known, but just as loved! If you want to milk Big Bear for all its worth during your vacation here, the spots below are the places you need to visit.

Big Bear Discovery Center

This is like a visitor’s center mixed with a museum and a hike! The Discovery Center is great to learn more about Big Bear, and makes a great place to start for anyone who plans on doing hiking in the area. The knowledgeable staff and the guided tours will teach you more about the flora and wildlife of the area on the easy nature trails, helping you get the most out of your hikes while you’re here. The activity center helps engage kids to learn more about the Big Bear environment, too!

Butler Peak

Butler Peak was closed for a while, but it’s open again for hikers’ and photographers’ enjoyment! It’s a moderate hike located between Green Valley Lake and Fawnskin. Gear up for this, and you’ll be well rewarded with a fantastic view from atop the peak. If volunteers are stationed that day, they might help you see some neat landmarks!

Pine Knot Village

This is Big Bear’s shopping district, and a splendid one at that! You’ll find plenty of staples here, including restaurants, sweet shops, and clothing outlets that will help you gear up for your excursions. But there’s also tons of surprises, from leather goods to art galleries to paddleboats! Stop by one afternoon and combine lunch with shopping.

Big Bear Valley Historical Museum

This is a neat spot for anyone curious about Big Bear’s history. Kids love the “pan for gold” exhibit, and the blacksmith features delight audiences with all sorts of insight to the bygone era of California’s settlement.

Big Bear Funplex

Don’t fall for the classic trap of thinking a small mountain town can’t enjoy some big-city fun! The Big Bear Funplex boasts all the amenities of a greater-suburbia town, providing all kinds of specialized places to play. Miniature golf, ice skating, laser tag, arcade games, and bowling all await at the Funplex; there’s sure to be something for everyone in your household to enjoy! It’s easy to spend an afternoon or even an entire day here, and with the sports bar, you can even while away some hours in the evening. It’s a great way to squeeze some big-city into your mountain getaway.

Big Bear Cabins!

Alright, so maybe we’re not a “Can’t-Miss” attraction, but you’re really missing out if you stay anywhere else! Browse around or call 877-473-5360 and see why we’re such a great value for a vacation stay in Big Bear, California. Contact us today to learn more about our Big Bear Cabins!

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Top Live Music in Big Bear!

Are you visiting Big Bear, California? Are you a music enthusiast? If you are, then make sure you catch live music in Big Bear and the surrounding areas at these venues!

The Cave

This local favorite has entertainment almost every night of the week, from hip hop to tribute bands! The Cave serves handcrafted drinks and a good time! There’s not a bad seat in the house, so you’ll never have to worry about whether or not you have a good view. You’ll always have one! Now pair that with a state of the art sound system and you are in for a true musical experience! So, join the friendly crowd and have a fun night of sweet sounds at the Cave!

Club Bombay

Catch live music every Friday and Saturday night at Club Bombay! Join the crowds that come out every weekend for a great cocktail and live entertainment that creates an intimate atmosphere. Club Bombay is also a great place to meet locals who have an appreciation for music. You can also cozy up next to a fireplace while you enjoy the sweet sounds of music.  Club Bombay is definitely a place you’ll to stop in during your trip to Big Bear!

Whiskey Dave’s

This incredible dive bar has live music accompanied by a big dance floor just for customers! Catch their acts every Friday and Saturday night beginning at 8:30. Tickets are affordable and the venue is open to all ages. The venue has great acoustics, so be prepared to rock out to the best live music in Big Bear! Then take a break in their VIP seating and enjoy a cold one!

Contact us About More Than Just Live Music in Big Bear!

All in all, you’ll have to set aside a night to experience one of these venues and the exceptional bands that come and perform in their spaces. You can either rock out or slow down depending on the venue, but regardless, make a plan to do it. We’ll make sure you have all of the accommodations you need during your stay, including a comfy bed to land on after a night of rock n roll! Make sure you contact us today to find out more!

big bear getaway

Planning a Girls’ Getaway in Big Bear

We have a reputation for being a place for family vacations, but Big Bear offers great pastimes for all sorts of groups. So, if you’re looking for a great place to get away from it all and enjoy mountain air with your best friends, then grab some of your favorite gal pals and starting thinking about a Big Bear getaway!

Hike and Nature Walks

Leave social media behind for a while and enjoy some of Big Bear’s beautiful scenery. Take it easy on the Woodland Trail and try spotting some critters scampering about. Or, test your mettle on the Cougar Crest Trail, connecting with the renowned Pacific Crest Trail. All these and more make for some great bonding time as you leave civilization behind. And when you do return to social media, you’ll have some great pictures!

Spa Date

Of course, Big Bear has plenty of ways to relax as well! Fabulous spas such as Altitudes Massage and Elevations Day Spa are great ideas for the girls to recuperate, whether from a day of hiking or just general stress of life. Facials and pedicures will have you feeling more beautiful than ever at Elevations Day Spa, while Altitudes’ deep tissue massages will have you feeling limber and energetic! Get a series of couple’s packages or ask them about group pricing. Or enjoy a spa-day in your very own jacuzzi when you book a cabin like Meadow Retreat!

Karaoke

If you want to set inhibitions aside for a little while, then there’s always the tried-and-true method of karaoke! Here in Big Bear, the most popular karaoke bar is Murray’s, a family-friendly saloon that gives you the chance to take the mike any night of the week.

Big Bear Getaway

Big Bear Cabins has a great variety of places to stay, whether you’re looking for something small like the two-bedroom Brown Bears Cabin where you can all sleep in the same room like an old-fashioned sleepover or something larger with plenty of privacy. What they all have in common though is that they’re all fantastic for a girls’ night in! Watch DVDs or use the Wi-Fi to enjoy some Netflix. Take advantage of all your space for anything from a wine-tasting party to a staged picture competition. Whatever you have in mind, our cabins are a great place for it. Call us at 877-473-5360 now to learn more about our great offerings!

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Five Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions You Should Check Out

The beautiful town of Big Bear isn’t just a mountainside haven for adults; it’s a great destination for adventurous visitors of all ages! There are a myriad of kid-friendly attractions and activities in Big Bear available that are sure to have your children cherishing memories of their family vacation for years to come.

With so much to do here in Big Bear year-round, we picked only a handful of our favorite kid-friendly things to do and see, some of them based on whether you plan on visiting during the warm season or the cold season. We hope that you’ll enjoy them as much as our families have!

Big Bear Alpine Zoo

See native forest animals up close at Big Bear Alpine Zoo! This zoo also functions as a wildlife rescue for injured wild or captive animals, and includes fun and educational exhibits and shows on the environment and wildlife of Big Bear. Admission is free for children ages two and under, while kids ages three to nine years old enter for $9.00 each and adult tickets are $12.00.

Alpine Pedal Path

Cruise along the scenic north shore of Big Bear Lake on the pleasant and easy Alpine Pedal Path. Bike rental providers are located all throughout town, though you can also walk, jog, or even rollerblade on this path! It’s free to use the path, which spans two and a half miles and takes you through some of the best scenery in Big Bear.

Skiing and Snowboarding Lessons on Bear Mountain or Snow Summit

If you come during the winter, your little ones can learn from the skilled skiing and snowboarding instructors at any of the local ski resorts, with two of the most prominent being Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. These two resorts share tickets and lift prices, so you can hop from one to the other and explore them both!

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain

In Southern California, it’s rare to come across a place that offers authentic bobsledding, but you’ll believe it when you see the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain! Enjoy panoramic views of Big Bear Lake year-round as you ride the alpine roller coaster down the mountain. Afterwards, there are waterslides, a go-kart track, and a mini-golf course to enjoy during the warmer parts of the year.

Big Bear Pirate Ship Tours

Explore the beauty of Big Bear Lake on an authentic Spanish galleon replica on the Big Bear Pirate Ship Tours! These tours delve into the history of the area and last for an hour and a half, with tickets priced at $14.00 for kids ages twelve and under and $22.00 for adults.

Big Bear Cabins – Bringing You the Best Activities in Big Bear

Contact our reservation specialists to find out more information on what Big Bear, California has in-store for you when you reserve your trip accommodations in one of the lovely vacation rental properties that Big Bear Cabins has to offer today!