Family-Friendly Adventures
Big Bear Lake, CA, is the perfect family-friendly destination with a wide variety of activities for kids and parents alike. From exploring wildlife at the Alpine Zoo to thrilling rides at the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, Big Bear offers fun for all ages. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best family adventures, including attractions, outdoor activities, kid-friendly restaurants, and more.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is a must-visit for families and one of the most beloved attractions in Big Bear. This rescue and rehabilitation facility is home to native wildlife from the San Bernardino Mountains and offers an educational experience for kids while providing a safe space for animals that cannot be returned to the wild.
• Location: 747 Club View Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: Kids will be thrilled to see mountain lions, black bears, bald eagles, wolves, and more up close. The zoo features daily educational talks, animal feedings, and interactive exhibits that teach children about local wildlife conservation efforts.
North Pole Fudge & Ice Cream Company
Located in the heart of The Village, North Pole Fudge is a sweet stop for families exploring Big Bear. Offering a wide selection of homemade fudge, ice cream, and other sweet treats, it’s a fun spot for kids and adults alike.
• Location: 618 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: Whether it’s choosing from a variety of fudge flavors or enjoying an ice cream cone, North Pole Fudge is the perfect spot for a treat after a day of adventuring in Big Bear.
Santa Land in The Village (Winter Only)
If you’re visiting Big Bear during the winter, Santa Land in The Village is a magical holiday experience for families. The Village turns into a winter wonderland filled with holiday lights, music, and festive cheer.
• Location: The Village, Big Bear Lake, CA
• What to Expect: Kids can meet Santa Claus, enjoy holiday-themed snacks, and take in the stunning holiday decorations. It’s a perfect holiday tradition for families, offering festive fun during the winter months.
Pirate Ship Tour
For a unique family adventure, set sail aboard the Big Bear Pirate Ship for an interactive and fun-filled tour of Big Bear Lake. The replica pirate ship offers a themed experience that kids will love.
• Location: 398 Edgemoor Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: Families will enjoy a narrated lake tour complete with pirate-themed entertainment, games, and fun photo ops. It’s a fun and engaging way to explore the lake, especially for little ones with big imaginations.
• More Info: Visit the Big Bear Pirate Ship Website for tour information and booking.
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
For an exhilarating experience, the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is a family favorite. It features Southern California’s only authentic bobsled experience, offering a thrilling ride down a quarter-mile track.
• Location: 800 Wildrose Ln, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: Ride in a controlled sled down the hillside on a winding bobsled track. The Alpine Slide also transforms into a snow play area in the winter, offering tubing and sledding fun for the entire family.
• More Info: Check out the Alpine Slide Website for ticket information and hours.
Gold Rush Mining Adventures
Step back in time and experience the excitement of panning for gold at Gold Rush Mining Adventures. This interactive attraction allows kids to pan for gold, gemstones, and fossils in a fun, hands-on environment.
• Location: 40016 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: Kids can pan for gold, crack open geodes, and dig for fossils, providing a mix of education and excitement. It’s a great way for kids to learn about history while having fun.
• More Info: Visit the Gold Rush Mining Adventures Website for activity details.
Euro Bungee at Snow Summit
Located at the base of Snow Summit, Euro Bungee is a trampoline-like activity that allows kids to harness up and jump high into the air, performing flips and tricks. It’s a great way for energetic kids to have some fun while parents relax.
• Location: 880 Summit Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: Kids will love bouncing and flipping while harnessed in, and the activity is safe and supervised. It’s a perfect way to break up a day of skiing or exploring Big Bear.
Best Lake and Beach Spots for Kids
Big Bear Lake offers several safe and fun spots for kids to enjoy swimming and lakeside play.
Boulder Bay Park
Boulder Bay Park is one of the most beautiful and family-friendly spots in Big Bear Lake. With its scenic views, calm waters, and open grassy areas, it’s an ideal location for families to enjoy lakeside fun. While swimming is not officially allowed, it’s a great place for kids to enjoy lakeside play, paddle around in kayaks, or explore the iconic rock formations.
• Location: Boulder Bay Park, 39148 CA-18, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: Boulder Bay Park offers picnic areas, restrooms, and plenty of open space for kids to run around. The calm waters make it perfect for kids to paddle in kayaks or canoes, and the park’s scenic beauty makes it a great spot for family photos.
Meadow Park
Meadow Park is one of the best family-friendly spots, offering a sandy beach area, a playground, and picnic areas for a fun day by the lake.
• Location: 41220 Park Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: The beach area is safe for kids, with lifeguards on duty during the summer months. The park also offers a playground, perfect for little ones needing a break from the water.
Swim Beach at Meadow Park
This designated Swim Beach is the top swimming spot for families, offering a roped-off swim area with lifeguards and calm waters.
• Location: 41220 Park Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: It’s the perfect spot for kids to splash around safely, and the beach area is great for building sandcastles and relaxing by the lake.
Kid-Friendly Biking Trails
Big Bear offers several family-friendly biking trails that are ideal for beginners and kids looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Alpine Pedal Path
The Alpine Pedal Path is a paved, easy trail that runs along the north shore of Big Bear Lake. It’s perfect for family bike rides and young kids.
• Location: North Shore Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• Difficulty: Easy
• What to Expect: The 5-mile round-trip trail offers beautiful lake views and spots to rest along the way. It’s ideal for a leisurely ride with the whole family.
Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk
The Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk is a short, easy ride perfect for younger kids. The boardwalk provides stunning marsh views and a flat, smooth surface.
• Location: Stanfield Cutoff, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• Difficulty: Easy
• What to Expect: The boardwalk is a great choice for a short ride, offering beautiful views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Big Bear
After a day of adventuring, enjoy a meal at one of Big Bear’s many kid-friendly restaurants.
Teddy Bear Restaurant
Teddy Bear Restaurant is a local favorite, offering home-style comfort food in a relaxed setting.
• Location: 583 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: Kids will love the casual atmosphere and menu filled with burgers, pancakes, and milkshakes. It’s perfect for a family meal after a day of exploring.
Magical Mountain Pizza
For a pizza night, head to Magical Mountain Pizza, where kids can enjoy delicious pizza in a fun environment.
• Location: 618 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• What to Expect: With plenty of kid-friendly menu options, it’s the perfect place to unwind with a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Big Bear is packed with family-friendly adventures and activities that will keep kids entertained and parents relaxed. From wildlife experiences at the Alpine Zoo to thrilling rides at the Alpine Slide and beachside fun at Meadow Park, there’s no shortage of things to do with kids in Big Bear. Be sure to explore these top spots for a memorable family getaway.