We were featured on the Rent. blog for new residents of San Bernardino, CA! Check out the recent article we were quoted in: 10 Unique Things to Do in San Bernardino, CA.
Located just two hours east of Los Angeles, San Bernardino, CA, is the 4th most affordable place to live in Southern California. With its perfect combination of beautiful mountains, natural landscapes, and a lively downtown, San Bernardino is an exceptional location for all activities, especially outdoor ones like hiking and camping.
Interested in this charming city, but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve compiled 10 of the most unique things to do in this once-major stop along Route 66. So, whether you’ve just moved into your rental home in San Bernardino, are apartment hunting, lived in your San Bernardino home for years, or are just visiting, you’re sure to find at least one unique activity to add to your list.
1. Stop by the local farmers market
Looking to shop small and support local businesses? Add the Twin Peaks Farmers Market to your list! Occurring every Thursday, this farmers market “featur[es] the best of the inland empire’s agriculture as well as cuisine and artisans.” Here you can cure your cravings, complete your weekly grocery list with the freshest produce with farms from Ontario to Tulare, and even connect with the local community.
2. Snow bike at Big Bear Lake
With winter on the horizon, why not take a trip to Big Bear Lake? This spot is a popular destination for a reason with its variety of snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. Sticking to this article’s theme, however, we suggest trying out snow biking! This snow sport combines the elements of mountain biking and snowboarding with the use of fat bikes with oversized tires. This activity is a fun alternative to the other more mainstream snow sports and with the San Bernardino Mountains, you really can’t go wrong.
3. Satisfy your sweet tooth
If you’re like us and always in the mood for a sweet treat, look no further than Marie’s Bakery. This family-run business specializes in “custom cookies, candy, and other bite-sized treats,” says owner Rachel Lewis. This home-based bakery is only available by phone or online order so we recommend either ordering treats for a special occasion (perhaps a housewarming party?) or picking up a treat box and having a picnic at the park. Our perfect pairing? Their flavor of the month cookies and lollipops, your loved ones, and Glen Helen Regional Park.
4. Day trip to Joshua Tree
Just under two hours away lives one of California’s best and most popular national parks – Joshua Tree. If you’re looking to plan your perfect Joshua Tree experience and learn more about the park, we recommend visiting the Yucca Valley California Welcome Center first. “[Their] employees and ambassadors…are happy to show you the best places to eat and shop, as well as where to play while you’re getting settled in your new home in our amazing desert,” says director of operations Linda Poindexter. Here you’ll be able to learn all about Joshua Tree and the surrounding areas in Morongo Basin so you can have the best visit possible.
5. Visit the first McDonald’s
Maybe you’ve seen The Founder, are a fast food history buff, or just love french fries… either way, you need to check out the original McDonald’s in downtown San Bernardino. Free to enter, the first McDonald’s is now a museum with lots of the franchise’s memorabilia. Enjoy lots of nostalgia and take in all of the chain’s lore at this one-of-a-kind archive.
6. Take an art class
Unleash your inner artist and take an art class at the Community Art Center and Gallery in Wrightwood. Drawing Together offers a variety of events like monthly paint nights and drawing workshops for you to connect with other San Bernardino locals while tapping into your creative side. Whether you’re excited to start a new hobby or hone your craft, this spot is great for all skill levels. They even “feature monthly art exhibitions that rotate between local and regional artists [and] we sell art supplies,” says founder Jamie Crooke Powell, making it the perfect stop for all your artistic needs.
7. Shop the local craft market
Looking for a gift or just to treat yourself? The Three Little Blue Byrds Boutique hosts a Makers Market every Friday night “where local artisans display their handcrafted goods — making it a wonderful way to connect with the local creative community,” says co-founder Tia Lynn Johnson. If you can’t make the market, check out the brick-and-mortar store! Their emphasis on featuring local artisans is what makes this store one of our favorites. Here they “showcase a curated collection of fashion, accessories, and home goods, with a special focus on supporting local makers [for the perfect] unique blend of creativity, culture, and community.”
8. Take a hike to the falls
Contrary to the song, we suggest you do go chase waterfalls. If you’re wondering which one, Big Falls is a must. “Nestled in the sleepy mountain town of Forest Falls stands the majestic Big Falls, a towering 500-foot waterfall that reigns as the tallest in the San Bernardino Mountains,” describes Ca Hiking Adventures’ Phillip Rivera. “A visit to this natural wonder is nothing short of awe-inspiring, [but] if you plan to visit, be sure to arrive early, as this stunning landmark has grown into a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers,” recommends Phillip.
9. Try an escape room… or two!
Perfect whatever the weather, an escape room is a great activity for friends, family, a corporate outing, or as a date night! Escape Games At The River offers immersive escape rooms designed to both captivate and challenge you. At their premier escape room experience, you’ll enjoy solving intricate puzzles and engaging in their thrilling storytelling while working on valuable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and quick thinking.
Confusion Escapes also offers incredible escape room experiences that are guaranteed to “transport you to captivating worlds filled with puzzles and challenges.” Perfect for friends, families, and colleagues alike, their unique experiences truly cater to all. You’re sure to not only strengthen your teamwork skills but also unleash creativity and enjoy the thrilling adventure full of fun and excitement.
10. Grab a handcrafted pint
It’s happy hour somewhere and what better place to sip than at Escape Craft Brewery. This spot started with just one goal in mind: “brewing tasty and creative beer.” Safe to say they do just that while offering the best third location to meet friends, sip on delicious, handcrafted beer, and nibble on their one-of-a-kind pizza. With over thirty beers on tap along with wine, cider, kombucha, and soda, along with veggie and gluten-free options, this place is perfect for all.