About Big Bear
Big Bear is a small city located in San Bernardino County, California. Between 2000 and 2010, the population decreased from 5,438 to 5,019. However, the population increases to over 100,000 every weekend because it is home to many iconic attractions. The Serrano people were the first inhabitants who settled there in 450 BC and were the first Spanish highlanders in the area.
Big Bear is home to Big Bear Lake, the biggest recreational lake in California. The lake has a length of seven miles and a width of one mile. The most popular activities in the city are boating, swimming, and fishing. Tourists from different parts of the world come here to enjoy these activities year-round. It is also a popular place for filmmakers so you will not have any trouble finding a filming space in Big Bear.
Filming Options in Big Bear
Do you ever ask yourself why filming in Big Bear is popular? The city has many unique features that attract filmmakers from around the world. Over the years, various sectors in the city have experienced positive changes. The number of professionals has increased, and several activities have become popular.
- Transportation
To get the best out of your experience in this part is California, you need access to convenient transportation services. Mountain Transit manages the operations of many local bus services, also called Mountain Area Regional Transit Authority (MARTA). They provide transportation services on fixed routes from downtown San Bernardino to Big Bear Lake and Big Bear Valley. In addition, the Big Bear City Airport, the primary aviation airport in the city, serves Big Bear Lake.
- Furniture Rentals
If you want to rent furniture for your home or film shoot location, you can select from any Furniture rental companies in Big Bear. Most companies focus on claiming condemned woods and refining them into something beautiful. You can get a customized piece of furniture that suits your taste. Finding a reliable company may seem difficult, but you can read reviews online to see which one is right for you.
- Catering
Big Bear is known for fishing. Most city restaurants have menus exploring various meal combinations with fish. The city might not have a world-class culinary scene. But it is home to many restaurants that offer local and international meals. You can visit any of these restaurants after engaging in physical activities, like skiing, hiking, or snowboarding. Meals can also be delivered to your home or workplace.
Filming Companies in Big bear
The conducive and peaceful environment of the city makes it easy for companies to thrive and stay productive. Whether a large-scale or small-scale business, the city provides room for growth. Filming in Big Bear is enjoyable because these companies provide satisfactory services.
- Big Bear Cab
Big Bear Cab is the city's only registered and licensed taxi shuttle service. The cabs can come to your home or workplace and take you to your destination. The company offers airport transportation services. It is more economical than most shuttle services. The cabs can also drive non-emergency medical patients to the hospital. The services are accessible and available to everyone.
- The Furniture Store of Big Bear
The furniture store was established in 2021 to offer attractive furniture options to people in Big Bear. They focus on reclaiming barn wood furniture from Montana and renting it out. They rent chairs, tables, kitchen cabinets, and bed frames to companies or individuals. They also offer home or office decoration services. The employees have adequate knowledge about furniture and are well-mannered.
- Pines Lakefront
The pines Lakefront was established in 1920 to offer dining and full-catering services. Customers can enjoy an amazing view of the Lake and nearby mountains. The restaurant is a cozy space with a beautiful ambiance. They offer a diverse menu that includes poultry, seafood, fish, Black Angus Beef, and Midwestern pork. They also offer various games like elk, venison, and wild boar. Salads and soups are also included on the menu. Filmmakers can visit the restaurant or order meals online to taste their services.
Pros and Cons of Filming in Big Bear
To enjoy filming in Big Bear, it is important to understand its attractive and unattractive features. Most filmmakers ignore the unattractive features and focus solely on the attractive ones. You must pay equal attention to both categories to have a productive experience.
Advantages
- Cost of living
The cost of living in Big Bear is higher than the national standard. The costs of groceries, transportation, utilities, and other important items are higher than in most cities in the state.
- Low crime rate
You don't have to worry about your safety when shooting a film. The crime rate here is lower than in other suburban cities. The people are hostile, and they support one another.
- Numerous parks
If you are a fan of outdoor activities, Big Bear is the place for you. The city is home to many parks with amazing features that allow people to enjoy activities such as hiking, snowboarding, and skiing.
Disadvantages
- Traffic
The city is plagued with severe traffic. If you are filming here, it will help hire drivers who know the city's terrain.
- Extremely hot weather
Big Bear can get extremely hot during summer. This may disrupt various outdoor activities. It would help to stay hydrated to prevent dehydration.
- Population size
Over the years, the population of the city has declined. As a result, the labor force has decreased, and economic prosperity has declined.
Famous Locations in Big Bear
- Big Bear Mountain Resort
The Big Bear Mountain Resort is the best place to go snowboarding or skiing in California. It is located close to Big Bear Lake. The resort is divided into two unique mountain areas, Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. These areas have base areas placed two miles from one another and distinguishing features that attract visitors. Visitors will have to collect tickets to access the mountains and enjoy over 400 skiable acres. Snow Summit has features like Aprea ski entertainment, restaurants, and hotels.
- Big Bear Discovery Center
If you are going on vacation to the city, Big Bear Discovery Center should be the first place you visit. The center has many educational and recreational resources. Visitors can learn about the San Bernardino National Forest. The facility offers visitors an Adventure pass, which is needed to park vehicles at trailheads. Various elements depicting the beauty of wildlife and the ecosystem are displayed through the discovery center. Presentations and other exciting events also occur in the evening outside the amphitheater.
- Big Bear Alpine Zoo
The Big Bear Alpine Zoo was formerly known as the Moonridge Animal Park. The zoo has significantly contributed to the rehabilitation of wildlife. Unlike other zoos, Apline zoo focuses on housing wounded or orphaned animals. It also hosts animals not strong enough to live in the forest. After a while, most animals are released into their natural habitat. Visitors see a wide variety of species, such as foxes, snow leopards, and black bears. Birds like great horned owls and golden eaglets are also housed in the facility. The zoo keeper brings a specie outside the amphitheater daily to educate visitors.