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A couple of weeks ago I packed my bags and hit the road.
With this kid:
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This was our first mother+son getaway and if I'm being honest I really wasn't sure what to expect. We were meeting 4 other Macaroni Kid publisher moms (each bringing one kiddo) in Big Bear, CA just under 3 1/2 hours from Las Vegas.
Growing up in Southern CA I visited Big Bear regularly, mostly in the winter. When I think Big Bear I think snow and all the things that go with snow - snowboarding/skiing, sledding, hot cocoa. I figured we had been invited to stay at The Club at Big Bear Village during the off season. I was soon going to find out that Big Bear does not have an off season. It is just as incredible in the fall and there is so much to do any time of year.
I think our adventure really started when we transitioned from the flat desert driving to the winding roads of the mountains. Right about this time is when the trees start to change too and I start saying "look at that!" and "wow did you see those colors!" while pointing out the window and keeping one eye on the road.
Before we got to the resort we stopped at the visitors center where we were given information on kid friendly activities (like the zoo!) and checked out the interactive map. You can grab free Big Bear stickers and postcards there, too!
The Club at Big Bear Village is just down the road from the Visitor's Center. I pulled up to the property with the idea that we were going to be staying in cabins, since that's how I envision mountain getaways. Once again I was in for a surprise.
Check out our 2 bedroom suite at The Club at Big Bear Village
Where we Stayed: |
1. The People:
From the moment we pulled up to the gate (yes, the property is gated!) we were greeted by a friendly voice that welcomed us in. We were given maps of the property, the Village, recommended activities (play the Selfie Bingo) and restaurants, and told to call the desk if we needed absolutely anything. Every time we came across property staff they greeted us and made conversation. It was like running into neighbors and by the end of the weekend like running into friends.
2. The Suites:
At The Club at Big Bear Village you not only want to stay in the room you might want to move in! I normally don't choose a resort or even a hotel room based on the rooms. I always rationalize that I won't be in the room that much anyway. The suites are spacious yet cozy. Each suite features a full kitchen; refrigerator, stove, microwave, toaster and coffee maker to name a few things. The cupboards have cups and plates, the drawers have silverware and cooking utensils, and under the sink you will find soap and a sponge. You can even request small appliances like crock pots. It's a perfect mixture of the comforts of home and the convenience of a hotel.
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The 2 bedroom suite has a bedroom on either side of the living room giving the rooms a sense of privacy. There are also 2 restrooms, plenty of seating, and a balcony that is perfect for enjoying a cup of morning coffee, gazing at the stars at night, or just hanging out and enjoying the mountain air. The master bedroom has a modern tub that gives the perfect ending to a day of adventure.
Each suite also comes with a garage, where your car will most likely stay during your visit. The entire property is easily walkable with paved paths and lighting. The heated pool (yes, heated!) and Clubhouse are centrally located so you can walk over for a cup of coffee, to grab a book from the library, get a bag of fresh popped popcorn or take the kids to one of two kid's rooms. There is a room for Littles and one for Bigs with books, pretend play and comfy chairs in the Littles room and ping pong, pool and air hockey tables for the Bigs.
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The property also features a gym, billiards room, free little library, outdoor patio with beautiful views, and a Great Room with fireplace. The Club House is inviting and there is always a friendly smile to greet you.
3. The Location:
After seeing everything The Club at Big Bear has to offer on property there is almost no reason to leave. Then again part of the allure of the property is the location. It is located at the start of the Village which means you can walk to shops, attractions, restaurants, and even the lake. We only got in the car once during our weekend visit.
What We Did: |
1. Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain encompasses the 4 season spirit of Big Bear. and is a fun experience for all ages. A short walk from The Club at Big Bear Village you will find fun for every season. Glide down in alpine slides, fly down the mountain in the Soaring Eagle, play a round of mini golf and race around in go-karts. During winter the Magic Mountain is open for snow play and in the summer water slides take guests into a heated pool.
What exactly is an alpine slide? The only authentic bobsled experience in Southern California! We each hopped on the chairlift to ride to the top of the mountain. Once at the top we got individual sleds to ride down quarter mile cement tracks. You control the speed and there is a track for newbies and riders that prefer a slower pace. Once you get the hang of it (just once for my adventure seeker) you can switch over to the faster side.
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The Soaring Eagle takes riders up backwards 100 feet vertical and 500 feet long before launching forward at speeds up to 28 mph. See our ride here.
The Alpine Slide and Soaring Eagle do have height restrictions and require a waiver.
2. Gold Mining Adventures was our next stop. This was a highlight of the trip for the kids. They each chose an experience from a list that included mermaids, outer space, gold, and pirates. Some of the experiences involve digging for the treasures while others come with a bucket of sand and treasures and the kids use a sifter like a gold miner. My son found "invaluable" stones. Each experience comes with a guide to help identify the rocks, geodes and treasures.
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3. The Village is where the shopping, dining and entertainment happen in Big Bear Lake. Walk out of the gates of The Club and you are at the start of The Village where you can walk to gift shops, restaurants, and experience the beauty of this little town. I loved all the wood carved bears around the village. They even sell them in all sizes in the shops. My son liked the toy stores, self serve candy shop, and ice cream shop. Each store has something interesting to see or try and The Village loops around so you end at The Club.
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Where We Ate: |
Oakside Restaurant + Bar: Located directly next to The Club at Big Bear Village we walked through the pedestrian gate and directly into this restaurant that looks like a wood cabin. It has 3 levels, features live music and a large menu (including vegetarian options). The menu offers pastas, pizzas, steaks and fish options. The kid's menu includes spaghetti, grilled cheese and chicken strips. Make sure to save room for dessert. The Crispy Bread Pudding Bites and Oakie Dough are divine!
El Jacalito: This family owned and operated restaurant is in the heart of The Village (walking distance from The Club) and walking in the door you know you've made a fabulous dining choice. The restaurant was packed the entire time we were there and from the smell of the food it was easy to understand why. We enjoyed guacamole and ceviche with signature margaritas. The trio fajitas are delicious and definitely shareable. The kid's menu is for kids under 12 and includes bean & cheese burritos, crispy or soft tacos, cheese enchiladas, cheese quesadilla, mac & cheese or chicken nuggets. All kid's menu combos come with beans & rice or french fries & carrots.
Saucy Mamas: This pizzeria prides itself on fresh ingredients. You can create your own pizza or choose from one of their masterly crafted options, order from classic Italian dishes or enjoy a huge salad. Many of us ate family style sharing pizza and salads. The kids menu includes individual pizzas or pastas. The atmosphere is family friendly and the service is fantastic.
What We Loved: |
I went into this trip with many unknowns and ended it with new friendships, memories for a lifetime and an appreciation for Big Bear greater than the nostalgic wintertime thoughts. The Club at Big Bear Village is worth a return visit for a weekend getaway, family reunion or gathering with friends. We loved walking the village, trying new restaurants and enjoying the amenities of the beautiful resort.
See more of our Big Bear adventures in our Instagram stories and see what our Macaroni Kid friends had to say about our trip.
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**We were graciously hosted by Blue Green Vacations during our stay but all opinions are my own**
