Why Big Bear is Perfect for Families

Big Bear is perfect for families because it offers something for everyone — plus it doesn't take hours to get there from the city. If you have adventurous, outdoorsy kids, there are endless activities; those seeking relaxation will find plenty of options too. 

Must-See Local Attractions in Every Season

One of the beautiful things about Big Bear is that it offers an outdoor getaway no matter what time of the year you visit. You can spend the warmer months hiking or playing in the lake, while colder months offer snow activities.

Spring and Summer Activities in Big Bear with Kids

1. Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain 

This bobsled operates year-round, starting with a scenic chairlift (hold onto your little ones!) before you race down the 1/4 mile track. The great thing about the Alpine Slide is that you can control your speed, so more cautious kiddos won't have a terrifying experience. Other activities at this mini theme park include go-karting, an 18-hole mini golf course, and, for the most adventurous kids, the Soaring Eagle. In the summer, the park has two waterslides so kids can cool off from the mountain sun.

Slide into kid-friendly fun in Big Bear. 

2. Big Bear Alpine Zoo 

This small zoo is located just outside Big Bear Village, giving kids the opportunity to see alpine wildlife up close. Exhibits include black bears, a bald eagle, a bobcat, coyotes, a golden eagle, a gray wolf, mountain lions, raccoons, striped skunks, a turkey vulture, and much more! The zoo is open year-round, though it may be closed or have limited hours on snowy days. 

3. Big Bear Discovery Center 

The Discovery Center is a major activity hub in Big Bear. The center puts on weekly programs, eco-tours, concerts, theater productions, and interpretive programs. 

4. Big Bear Speedway 

You'll find the speedway at Big Bear Snow Play during the warmer months when snow tubing isn't an option. This speedway features state-of-the-art mini race cars (think go-karts) that have real-life auto features like self-adjusting hydraulic brakes and vacuum fuel pumps. To ride a single go-kart, kids must be 14 years old and 62" tall, or have a valid driver's license. Double race car drivers must be over 18, while their passenger must be at least 42" tall.

5. Pirate Ship Tour on Big Bear Lake 

Any Time Bandits fans out there? Whether or not you love the Terry Gilliam classic, you'll love the pirate ship tour aboard the Time Bandit. Yes, this old wooden boat was featured in its namesake film, launching out onto Big Bear Lake every two hours for a 90-minute tour. With corny jokes, beautiful scenery, and historical tidbits, think of it as an extended version of Disneyland's Jungle Cruise. 

6. Action Tree Zipline 

Action Tours offers a plethora of activities in Big Bear, with its zipline tour being one of the most notable. This is actually a year-round activity, with tours being hosted in the winter as well as the summer. You'll fly through the forest on nine separate ziplines and one suspension bridge, taking in views of Mt. St. Gorgonia and the Johnson Valley. To participate in the tour, you must be at least eight years old.

7. Boulder Bay Park 

This small park is a great place to launch kayaks or paddleboards, do a little fishing, and even take a swim. There are several docks that provide access to the lake and offer up excellent views of the boulder-strewn cove.

8. Wildflower Hikes 

When the timing is right in wildflower season, Big Bear is one of the best places to take in the colorful floral scenes. Some easy wildflower hikes in the area include Big Bear Lake Woodland Trail, Eye of the God Trail from Burns Canyon Road, and Big Bear Discovery Center Nature Trail.

9. Fishing 

Speaking of Boulder Bay Park, one of the best places to fish is at this lakeside park. Other recommended locations for fishing include Stanfield Cutoff, Juniper Point, and Northfield Landing.

Winter and Fall Family Fun in Big Bear

10. Snow tubing

There are a few different places you can snow tube in Big Bear. The most iconic is at the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, though Grizzly Ridge Tube Park is another great option.

RELATED: Snow Play Near Los Angeles: Places LA Families Can Pretend It's Winter

Tubing? Sledding? Big Bear is where to go for winter adventues near LA. 

11. Glow tubing 

If regular old snow tubing isn't exciting enough, Big Bear Snow Play offers "Glow Tubing" on Friday, Saturday, and holiday evenings. Neon lights color the snow in brilliant hues.  

12. Snowshoeing 

You can take a guided snowshoe tour from the Big Bear Discovery Center or through Action Tours (who also offer the rope climbing course). The best part about Action Tours is that you can customize your tour according to your ability/physical fitness. 

13. Skiing 

There are a few options for skiing in Big Bear. Snow Summit is a great choice for beginning skiers (though it does have a couple of Black Diamond runs), with lessons available through the Adventure Academy. For more experienced skiers, Bear Mountain offers a wider range of runs for everyone from beginners to experts. 

Kid-Friendly Day Trips from Big Bear

14. Joshua Tree 

Joshua Tree is about an hour from Big Bear Lake but provides a completely different experience. Instead of soaring mountains and pine forests, you'll find breathtaking rock formations and sweeping desert expanses. 

15. Palm Springs 

Palm Springs is another great desert day trip for those staying in Big Bear. Unlike Joshua Tree, where the main appeal is natural beauty and outdoor excursions, Palm Springs is a hub for shopping, art and relaxation in the Coachella Valley. Plus, don't miss the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. 

16. Lake Arrowhead 

Lake Arrowhead is more similar to Big Bear than the previous two desert day trips. In the winter, it's a snowy wonderland with plenty of kid-friendly activities, and in the warmer months, it's the perfect alpine getaway for swimming, hiking, fishing, and more. Check out the Skypark at Santa's Village and Lake Arrowhead Queen tours. 

Where to Stay — Kid-Friendly Hotels & Cabins

17. Big Bear Lakefront Cabins 

These cabins are just minutes from the lake and the ski resorts, so no matter what time of the year you visit, this collection of cabins is a great choice for your Big Bear trip.

18. Airbnb or Vrbo 

If privacy is what you're looking for, a vacation rental might be the best choice for you. There's an endless supply of cabins and homes surrounding Big Bear Lake, so you shouldn't have a problem finding one that suits your needs.

Restaurants Locals Love (and Kids Do Too)

Keep in mind that restaurants get very busy during peak tourist seasons. Make sure you plan meals ahead of time and don't wait until the kids are hungry to try to get a table! We've definitely waited an hour or more to get seated at Big Bear restaurants.

19. Grizzly Manor Cafe 

This is a great place to grab breakfast, with a build-your-own omelets, waffles, and pancakes, and a whole mess of uniquely-named breakfast platters. 

20. Hacienda Grill 

If you're looking for Mexican food, head to Hacienda Grill. They have most of your standard fare from south of the border, like burritos and tortas, plus a large kids' menu.

21. Teddy Bear Restaurant 

The Teddy Bear Restaurant serves lunch, breakfast, and dinner, plus it sells delicious homemade pies using 100-year-old recipes! Founded in 1944, you can expect typical comfort food that's filling and delicious. 

22. Santana Maverick’s Bar n Grill 

This restaurant is located right on the shore of Big Bear Lake, providing a unique ambiance not found at many eateries in the area. The food is French-Italian-Mexican fusion, offering something for everyone.

Tips for a Stress-Free Big Bear Family Trip

• Plan ahead 
• Consider the altitude change
• Take into account the weather — is it snowy and icy or very hot?
• Always supervise children around water 

FAQs About Visiting Big Bear with Kids

When is the best time to visit Big Bear with kids?

Big Bear is a wonderful place to visit throughout the year! The lake and hiking trails are ideal for warmer months, while during the winter, there are plenty of activities like snowshoeing, skiing, and sledding. 

Do we need snow chains in winter?

It depends on CalTrans's requirements on any given day. If you're traveling to Big Bear in the winter, it's advisable to bring chains with you. If there's a snow chain mandate from CalTrans and you don't have chains, you can be fined and won't be permitted to pass any checkpoints. Even if you're car is Four Wheel Drive, California law requires you to use chains when mandated.

Are dogs allowed at Big Bear Lake?

Yes! Well-behaved, leashed dogs are allowed on many hiking trails and at the lake. You can also bring your dog onto the lake in a boat or a paddleboard. Many of the restaurants in the village have patios that are pet-friendly.

What’s the altitude and will it affect my kids?

The altitude ranges from 6,750 feet in the village to 9,000 feet at some peaks. Usually, altitudes above 8,000 are more likely to cause altitude sickness. Every kid is different, and sensitive children may be affected by altitude sickness in Big Bear. If you're worried about altitude sickness, it's recommended that you ascend as slowly as possible, stay hydrated, and avoid physical exertion for the first day or two you're visiting. 

All photos courtesy of BigBearGuide.com