Mountain towns can feel magical but also overwhelming when you’re trying to pick which one fits your vibe. If you’ve been wondering whether to head to Big Bear or Running Springs, you’re in exactly the right place. Today, I’ll break it down, share the emotional and practical differences, and help you choose the town that will let you relax, recharge, and feel confident in your trip. 

Let’s Dig In!

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Quick Answer: Which Town Should You Choose?

Here’s the bite-sized version for my skimmers:

• Big Bear Lake – Best for variety, scenic adventures, restaurants, and activities. Think Alpine Zoo, Castle Rock Trail, Big Bear Discovery Center, jeep tours, ziplines, and cozy bistros like Sweet Basil. Perfect for first-timers or those who want “mountain everything.”
  
• Running Springs – Tiny, quiet, and slow. A small selection of the foodie spots. Great for introverts, reflective hikes, or as a peaceful base before heading to Big Bear. Limited food options are best for those who appreciate micro-town charm.
  

Pro tip: Many travelers opt for a combination of staying in Running Springs for calm mornings and visiting Big Bear for activities, food, and evening village strolls.

So while this quick snapshot gives you the gist, let’s dive into each town’s vibe, activities, and food so you can pick the perfect mountain escape—or combine both for the ultimate weekend.

Big Bear — Adventure, Variety, and Scenic Fun

Big Bear is the larger, more developed mountain town.

Why People Love Big Bear:

• Activities: Big Bear Alpine Zoo, Big Bear Discovery Center, Castle Rock Trail, Jeep Tour, Zipline, and private tours from LA. 

• Food: Sweet Basil Bistro (cozy comfort food), Himalayan Restaurant (Indian/Nepalese flavors)
  
• Village Energy: Shopping, artisan gifts, and local treats
  
• Water & Winter: Paddleboarding, kayaking, and Snow Summit Sky Chair
  

Emotional Vibe: You’ll leave Big Bear feeling accomplished, entertained, and nourished—both by the food and the views.

Running Springs — Peace, Reflection, and Slow Mountain Energy

Running Springs is small. Like… really small. But if your goal is gentle mornings, solo reflection, or escaping the busier mountain crowds, it’s perfect.

Highlights:

• LuluBelle’s Coffee House & Bakery – pastries, vegan options, and the town’s main culinary hub
  
• Quiet hikes & trails: Keller Peak Fire Lookout, forest walks, and hikes.
  
• Shops: Artistry & Alchemy, Shop Suey, Hilltop Haus, Golden Oaks Thrift Store
  
• Proximity: 20–30 minutes from Big Bear Lake for more dining and activities
  

Emotional Vibe: Calm, intimate, introvert-approved, and grounded.

Adventure vs. Serenity

Pro Tip: If you want both adventure and calm, start in Running Springs for a morning coffee and quiet hike, then spend the afternoon in Big Bear for activities and dining.

Variety vs. Cozy

• Big Bear: Sweet Basil Bistro, Himalayan Restaurant, and lots of dining options
  
• Running Springs: LuluBelle’s Coffee House & Bakery, Belgian Waffle Works, Victoria’s Family Restaurant
  

Tip: For more vegetarian or upscale options, Big Bear is your best bet. Running Springs is small, and your best meals are either at LuluBelle’s or a short drive away.

What Fits Your Travel Style?

• Big Bear: Variety, activity, scenic spots, social energy, bigger crowds
  
• Running Springs: Intimate, quiet, reflective, introvert-friendly, tiny-town charm
  

Think of it this way: Big Bear gives you the full mountain experience, Running Springs gives you the peaceful mountain pause.

Combining Both for a Perfect Weekend

1. Morning in Running Springs — Coffee at LuluBelle’s, hike Keller Peak
   
2. Afternoon in Big Bear — Castle Rock Trail, Alpine Zoo, or Jeep Tour
   
3. Evening in Big Bear Village — Sweet Basil Bistro dinner or Himalayan Restaurant curry
   
4. Optional: Private Tour from LA to hit both without driving stress 

Both towns are magical—it just depends on your travel style. Craving variety, lakeside dining, shopping, and plenty of action? Big Bear is your playground. Prefer calm mornings, forest walks, and slow, introspective mountain vibes? Running Springs is your retreat.

Not sure which to choose? You don’t have to. Many travelers pair the two for the ultimate escape—start slow with my Things to Do in Running Springs: Your Cozy, Relaxed Mountain Escape Guide, then round out the weekend with a little more energy using my San Bernardino Mountain Weekend guide. It’s the perfect balance of rest, adventure, and those small mountain moments that linger long after you leave.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

– Beth