Things to Do in Big Bear

Welcome to Big Bear Lake! Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, or a relaxing getaway, there's something for everyone. Explore our curated list of top attractions and experiences to make the most of your stay at Little Deer Chalet.

🥾 Outdoor Adventures

Explore miles of scenic trails, lakeside fun, and peaceful wildlife spots perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

• Big Bear Hiking Trails
  Discover over 100 miles of scenic trails in the San Bernardino National Forest, suitable for all skill levels.
• Big Bear Lake Boat Rentals
  Rent pontoons, fishing boats, jet skis, and more from Big Bear Marina for a day on the water.
• Alpine Pedal Path
  A 2.5-mile paved path perfect for biking, walking, and wildlife viewing along the lake's north shore.
• Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve
  A serene spot for birdwatching and nature walks, offering a peaceful retreat into nature.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun

Enjoy engaging wildlife encounters, educational exhibits, and a variety of outdoor and recreational activities perfect for all ages.

• Big Bear Alpine Zoo
  Home to native wildlife, this zoo offers educational exhibits and up-close animal encounters.
• Big Bear Discovery Center
  Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the local environment through hands-on activities.
• Big Bear Lake Golf Course
  A scenic 9-hole course nestled in the mountains, perfect for beginners and experienced golfers alike.
• Mountain Biking Trails
  Explore numerous mountain biking trails ranging from easy rides to challenging downhill paths.
• Snow Summit Ski Resort
  Popular ski and snowboard resort offering runs for all skill levels, plus lessons and rentals.
• Bear Mountain Ski Resort
  Known for terrain parks and varied slopes, great for family skiing and snowboarding.
• Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
  Experience year-round tubing and alpine slide rides for family fun.
• Go-Kart Track at Bear Valley Lanes
  Exciting go-kart racing for kids and adults.
• Bear Valley Lanes Bowling
  Classic bowling alley with lanes, arcade games, and a snack bar.
• Fishing on Big Bear Lake
  Enjoy fishing for trout, bass, and catfish in the beautiful lake — licenses and gear rentals available locally.

🛍️ Shopping

Discover unique boutiques, artisan crafts, outdoor gear, and gifts throughout Big Bear’s charming shopping areas.

• The Village at Big Bear Lake
  Explore a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants in this charming mountain village.
• The Cabin Store
  Outdoor gear, apparel, and gifts perfect for mountain adventures.
• The Toy Store
  Family-friendly shop with a wide selection of toys, games, and gifts.
• Bear Valley Music
  Music store offering instruments, lessons, and repairs.
• Blue Sky Gift Shop
  Unique gifts, souvenirs, and local artisan crafts.
• Wood & Wire
  Handcrafted furniture, décor, and artisan goods inspired by nature.
• Big Bear Soap Company
  Handmade soaps, bath products, and natural skincare.
• Backyard Big Bear
  Outdoor gear and lifestyle apparel with a focus on local adventures.

🍽️ Dining

Savor a variety of dining experiences from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants offering local and international flavors.

• De La Nonna
  Enjoy Sicilian-style pizzas and seasonal dishes at this popular lakeside eatery.
• Peppercorn Grille — Upscale dining offering a seasonal menu with fresh, local ingredients and an elegant atmosphere.
• The Copper Q — Cozy spot serving hearty American comfort food and craft cocktails with a mountain lodge vibe.
• Saucy Mama’s Pizzeria — Popular local pizzeria known for its creative toppings and wood-fired, thin-crust pizzas.
• Big Bear Lake Brewing Company — Craft brewery and pub featuring house-made beers, classic pub fare, and live music events.
• Himalayan Restaurant — Authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine with flavorful curries, tandoori dishes, and vegetarian options.
• Nottinghams Tavern — Historic tavern with a rustic feel, serving hearty pub favorites and a wide selection of beers.
• Himalayan Yak Restaurant — Serving authentic Nepalese and Indian dishes in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.
• Grizzly Manor Cafe — Famous for hearty breakfasts and huge portions served in a quirky, cabin-style diner.
• 572 Social Kitchen & Lounge — Trendy spot offering modern American cuisine and creative cocktails in a lively setting.
• Sweet Basil Bistro & Wine Bar — Upscale bistro serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes and an extensive wine list.
• Teddy Bear Restaurant — Family-style diner serving classic American comfort food since 1944.
• Blanca's Restaurant — Cozy spot known for hearty breakfasts and generous portions.
• Thelma's Family Restaurant & Bakery — Cozy diner and bakery offering breakfast and brunch favorites.
• Murray's Saloon & Eatery — Casual bar and eatery serving American dishes in a relaxed setting.
• Azteca Grill Mexican Restaurant — Vibrant Mexican restaurant offering traditional dishes and margaritas.

☕ Coffee & Sweet Treats

Find your perfect pick-me-up or dessert at these beloved local coffee shops, bakeries, and ice cream parlors.

• Big Bear Lake Coffee Roasters — Local coffee roaster and café offering freshly brewed coffee and pastries.
• Bear Claw Bakery — Popular bakery known for breads, cookies, cakes, and desserts.
• Big Bear Ice Cream — Classic ice cream parlor with a wide variety of flavors and sundaes.
• The Chocolate Chalet — Artisan chocolatier specializing in handmade chocolates and truffles.
• Moonridge Coffee & Ice Cream — Cozy café serving coffee and ice cream.
• A Special Blend Coffee House — Local coffeehouse serving specialty coffee drinks and pastries.
• Village Grind Coffee & Tea — Community favorite for coffee, tea, and baked goods.
• Season’s Bakery — Artisan bakery offering breads and seasonal sweets.
• Mary’s Pizza & Ice Cream — Family-friendly spot offering pizza and classic ice cream parlor treats.
• Paradise Bay Coffee — Specialty coffee shop serving freshly roasted beans and espresso drinks.

🎉 Seasonal Events

Keep up with Big Bear’s vibrant calendar of festivals, markets, and live entertainment throughout the year.

• Big Bear Events Calendar
  Stay updated on upcoming festivals, concerts, and community gatherings throughout the year.
• Big Bear Lake Farmers Market
  Every Tuesday, 8:30am - 1pm (April - September).
• Big Bear Chamber Of Commerce Events Calendar
  Events calendar featuring festivals, markets, concerts, and community activities throughout the year.

🧘‍♀️ Relax & Unwind

Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and wellness experiences to refresh your body and mind.

• Indigo Mountain Wellness Center & Day Spa — Rejuvenating massages and wellness treatments.
• Altitudes Massage & Spa — Expert massage and spa services.
• Elevations Wellness Center — Holistic wellness and therapy treatments.
• Aromatic Massage Spa — Massage and spa services in a calming environment.
• Wilderness Wellness Experiences — Outdoor wellness experiences to connect with nature.

🌲 Local Tips & Hidden Gems

Discover peaceful parks and scenic spots perfect for relaxing or capturing stunning photos.

• Eagle Point Park
  A perfect spot for sunset views overlooking the lake.
• Boulder Bay Park
  Ideal for a peaceful picnic or a leisurely stroll by the water.

Ready to explore all that Big Bear has to offer? Book your stay at Little Deer Chalet and create unforgettable memories!