About
The Big Bear Valley Historical Museum in Big Bear City offers an extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia that tell the story of the area's past. Also known as the Eleanor Abbott Museum, this incredible landmark features nine antique buildings with a variety of exhibits.
The displays feature gold mining, logging, and ranching items, along with historical photographs and documents. These let you delve into the lives of those who lived around Big Bear Lake during its formative years.
Consider one of the docent-led historical tours for a deep dive into the past. The featured speakers share their knowledge about the area's past, which makes learning more enjoyable.
It is open every Wednesday and on weekends from Memorial to Labor Day and is close to other landmarks and attractions. Such convenience makes planning a day of adventure easy. After hiking the boardwalk at the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve, swing by the museum. Or once you've explored the history of Big Bear Valley, take the gang to Mountain Room Escapes to test your wit, grit, and teamwork skills.
Big Bear Valley Historical Museum is a must-visit place to learn about local history while having fun.
Big Bear Valley Historical Museum: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Founder Eleanor Abbott was a woman on a mission! Not only was she a local historian and author, but she also started the Big Bear Historical Society in 1967.
Fast forward to 1981, and she helped build the museum full of amazing artifacts. You'll discover antiquity from the gold mining era and the indigenous community that once lived there. It was important to Eleanor to preserve the peaceful legacy of the native culture.
Docent tours are available upon request, ranging from in-depth historical discussions to immersive adventures like panning for gold! No matter which type of tour you choose, you will come away with a wealth of knowledge about the area's history.
A cool feature is the on-site craftsmen demonstrating the art of blacksmithing. Watching these artists forge metal into tools using fire and hammer will appeal to all ages. Be sure to check out the gift shop, which is full of souvenirs to remember your visit.
Another outstanding feature is the proximity of restaurants. Before your tour, grab a hearty breakfast at the Lumberjack Cafe, or afterward, stop at Captain's Anchorage Restaurant and Bar to reminisce about your experiences.
Today, the non-profit Big Bear Historical Society operates the facility, which is staffed by volunteers. This adds up to a family-friendly adventure where learning about the past is fun!
Getting There
Here are step-by-step directions to the Big Bear Valley Historical Museum:
- Take Highway 18 and turn onto Greenway Drive.
- Follow Greenway Drive until you come to Mill Creek Road.
- Turn left onto Mill Creek Road and continue for 1 mile.
- Turn right onto Division Drive.
- The museum is on the corner of Division Drive and Pine Knot Avenue.
- Address: 800 B Greenway Dr.
Local Tips
- Photographers bring you cameras! Not only are there incredible outdoor exhibits, but the views of Big Bear Lake are stunning from this vantage point.
- Sundays are a great day to visit, as the museum hosts free lectures and special events.
- The museum is also home to a gift shop where visitors can purchase unique souvenirs to remember their experiences.
- Be sure to visit Eleanor Abbott's original homestead, located just across the street from the museum.
