27 Best & Fun Things to Do in Idyllwild (CA)

Looking for the best and fun things to do in Idyllwild, CA?

Idyllwild is located in San Jacinto mountains with a population of approximately two thousand, five hundred and ten.

You can find amazing parks, fun entertainment, interesting and educational activities, and even unique dining locations in this tiny city.

Idyllwild is a city offering an unforgettable experience for everyone who happens to be visiting, living in, or even working for the district.

Are you planning a vacation to Idyllwild? Here are the top things to do in Idyllwild, CA.

Things to Do in Idyllwild

1. Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness

One of the top things to do in Idyllwild is a visit to Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness, and this is a fourteen thousand-acre property.

Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness feature trails from past Mountain meadows across rocky outcrops which head into the high country wilderness through conifer forests.

This is a popular location for hikers, and its trails lead hikers towards the round valley, where they get a clearer view of the historic 1930s ranger station and alpine meadows.

Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness trails are tasking and advisable for experts due to thorny bushes, snow, fallen trees, and more.

Although hiking here is challenging, it is worth it; you get to enjoy the exceptional scenery of the wilderness.

Address:25905 CA-243, Idyllwild, CA 92549, United States.

2. Idyllwild Electric Bikes

If you have always wished to go for a bike ride, now is an opportunity to make your wish come true; visit Idyllwild Electric Bikes for an amazing bike experience.

Idyllwild Electric Bikes offers different kinds of powerful and electrifying bikes, and you might get confused about which one to pick.

They offer bikes for rentals in Idyllwild, which you can use to explore the beautiful city and find out all it has installed that you haven’t experienced yet.

Idyllwild Electric Bikes offers commuters, bike cruisers, Mountain Bikes, and folders; whichever one you desire will be made available at your request.

Don’t worry about getting tired of paddling, as the bikes has a unique feature which you a boost with hill-climbing power powers.

This is one exciting adventure to carry out during your vacation in Idyllwild, and it will get you to smile all through.

Address;54790 North Circle Drive, Idyllwild, CA 92549 United States.

3. Middle Ridge Winery

One of the best wineries in Idyllwild is Middle Ridge Winery, and It is an excellent place that guarantees you a fun experience.

Middle Ridge Winery serves tasty and delightful wines made by a man who wants to share his passion and love of what he does with other people.

The winery features a cozy tasting room and an art gallery in the center of Gilroy in a four thousand square feet building.

Middle Ridge Winery is one of a kind. You will never get bored as visitors are allowed access to the art gallery where they can browse through beautiful artworks made by talented artists in southern California while sipping from their glass of wine.

You get to try out different kinds of wines they produced at the tasting room, including Pinot Noir Pinot Gris, and in a relaxing and calm atmosphere.

Address:54301 N. Circle Dr, Idyllwild, CA 92549,

4. Art in the Park

One of the best things to do in Idyllwild is to visit Art in the Park; you will be fascinated by everything you find here.

Art in the Park is the product of a creative mix of art and nature; they offer jewelry, fibers, ceramics, and glass.

The art park also offers beautiful paintings, woodworking, photography, and many more, which promotes the art and natural beauty in Idyllwild.

Art in the Park is the best place to relax; you also get to enjoy live music entertainment while you browse through the displayed items.

The art park is open on Saturday and Sunday from 9am-5pm; visit Art in the Park and shop for unique gifts for yourself or souvenirs for your family and friends.

Hwy 243, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA United States

5. Idyllwild Park

If you’re planning a fun family outing with friends, Idyllwild Park is the perfect place for an unforgettable experience.

Idyllwild Park occupies two hundred and two acres, and it is located right outside town proper.

The park contains about five trails excellent for hiking, and hikers get to enjoy the extraordinary picturesque views and fantastic scenery produced by the lakes, mountains, trees surrounding the park.

Idyllwild Park features eighty-eight campsites on their simple but well-maintained campsites, each of which contains a fire ring and picnic table.

The park also has a pet-friendly campground that features restrooms, water, a phone, showers, and other essential amenities you might need.

Idyllwild Park is the right place to visit for fun and an unforgettable experience with your friends and family.

Address:54000 Riverside County Playground Rd, Idyllwild, CA 92549,

6. Town Gallery

A visit to Town Gallery is one of the best things to do in Idyllwild, with many fantastic things to offer for an incredible experience.

Town Gallery was built by Jon Millhouse and Martinez, which features a broad selection of unique craftwork.

The gallery helps to helps to showcase the outstanding artworks of local artists, which shows the high number of talented artists.

Town Gallery aside, painting also displays jewelry, glasswork, spiritual creations, pottery, and lots more.

There is always something new and fascinating to behold in this museum, and the museum is available for rentals for special occasions.

Address:54425 North Circle Dr, Idyllwild, CA 92549,

7. Idyllwild Nature Center

If you are a history enthusiast, Idyllwild Nature Center is a place you would absolutely love to visit.

Idyllwild Nature Center hosts educational programs which focus on different essential topics which the residents, including tourists, ought to know.

The center emphasizes on topics like fauna and flora, the Cahuilla Native culture, mountain ecology, habits, and the history of San Jacinto Mountains.

People come together in groups at the center to organize field study trips, guided tours, and several other innovative programs.

Idyllwild Nature Center has reserved areas for picnics, a gift shop where you can shop for gifts for yourself, or souvenirs for your family and friends.

The center features trails for hiking and an educational museum; it is also a venue for numerous annually organized events such as butterfly daze, lemon lily restoration day, wildflower day, and much more.

Plan a visit to Idyllwild Nature Center; it provides a very interesting and exciting experience. Makes one of the top things to do in Idyllwild, CA.

Address:25225 CA-243, Idyllwild, CA 92549, United States

8. Mile High Cafe

A fabulous restaurant that is perfect for that exclusive family and friends hang out in Idllywild is Mile High Cafe.

Mile High Cafe serves delicious meals, and they offer an extensive menu of different Korean and American dishes.

The meals are served fresh and high quality; they also have veterinarian and vegan options, the meals are suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Mile High Cafe provides a free Wi-Fi network for its visitors, so you can come with your laptop and do some work after your meal.

The staff is nice and well trained, creating a friendly atmosphere for the visitors to relax and enjoy their meals.

Mile High Cafe also offers outdoor seating, which is dog friendly; they occasionally host live music entertainment.

Mile High Cafe provides everything you need to make sure you enjoy your meal you’re comfortable.

Address:26600 Hwy 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549, United States

Also, check out our list of things to do in Murrieta, things to do in Lancaster, and things to do in Vacaville for a fun time in these cities of California.

9. Lake Fulmor

Lake Fulmor, located in Idyllwild, is worth visiting, especially if you’re someone who truly appreciates the beauty of nature.

The lake is located in San Jacinto mountains, giving it the breathtaking views you enjoy when you visit the lake.

Lake Fulmor is popularly known in Idyllwild as one of the best places to fish; the lake is about three acres wide.

The lake features short trails perfect for long walks with your travel companions, including pets as well,

You get to enjoy the fantastic scenery created by the beautiful trees, mountains, rocks, and other natural amenities right from the lake area.

Lake Fulmor also has nice areas perfect for family picnics and get-togethers; you will forever cherish this lake after your visit.

Address: Idyllwild, CA 92549 United States

10. Gastrognome

If you’re a foodie, Gastronomy is a restaurant you will love the moment you walk through the door.

Once you’re inside the restaurant, it’s easy to feel luxurious due to its beautifully set up mountain room; the dining room is the main highlight of the cafe, it is found close to the bar.

The dining room is perfect for couples of family and friends, for more interaction while enjoying their meals.

Gastrognome offers a great menu containing contemporary American cuisine such as chicken fajitas, eggplant sandwiches, mini pizzas, grilled king salmon, sausage ragout, and more.

The cafe has a vast outdoor seating popularly known by residents as The Deck, and they also serve tasty and unique wines to complement the dishes.

Gastronomy restaurants should be on your bucket list of things to do in Idyllwild, CA, so that you can try out some of their deliciously prepared dishes.

Address:54381 Ridgeview Dr, Idyllwild, Ca 92549, United States.

11. The Grand Idyllwild Lodge

If you are in search of a very comfortable and safe environment to lodge during your stay in Idyllwild, the Grand Idyllwild Lodge is the perfect place for you.

The Grand Idyllwild Lodge features fully equipped rooms with flat-screen TVs, comfortable sofas, air conditioners, microwaves, and beautiful decorations to help you feel at home.

The bathrooms are clean and packed with toiletries, bathrobes, showers, slippers, hairdryers, and every other thing you need.

The Grand Idyllwild Lodge serves delicious continental and local meals and unique drinks from their full-service bar, ensuring that their visitors are fully satisfied.

They also have a fitness room, a free private parking lot, and a free Wi-Fi network provided throughout the facility.

The Grand Idyllwild Lodge environment is clean, well maintained, and very conducive, coupled with the great staff always willing to attend to their visitors.

Address:54820 Pine Crest Ave, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549, United States

12. La Casita Restaurant

If you search for a unique Mexican restaurant, you found it; La Casita Restaurant is the best place for.

La Casita Restaurant is located in Idyllwild at the mountain village surrounded by Jacinto mountain, which gives it a scenic environment perfect for dining.

The restaurant offers delicious Mexican cuisine such as quesadillas, burritos, nachos, chimichangas, nachos, tostada, tamale, enchiladas, tacos, and many others.

La Casita Restaurant also features a bar containing several kinds of drinks. It also features comfortable outdoor seating, so you might decide to sit out on the deck or inside in the cozy dining section.

The environment is laid back and beautiful, filled with pine trees, making you feel that forest vibes while enjoying your meal.

Stop by La Casita Restaurant with your loved ones and get ready to be blown away by the delicious meals and scenic environment.

Address:54650 N. Circle Dr, Idyllwild, CA 92549, United States

13. Café Aroma

If you haven’t had a meal at Café Aroma in Idyllwild, you are definitely missing out; this cafe is highly recommended.

Café Aroma offers a large food menu containing unique and delightful Asian, Latino, and European dishes.

Some of their best meals are Caesar salads, firecracker shrimps, steak sandwiches, Chicken Fettuccine, mushroom risotto, ribeye, pancakes, calimari sandwiches, Buffalo chicken sandwiches, steaks and eggs, spaghetti and meatballs, eggs Benedict, Alas Vodka, and much more.

Café Aroma features a bar that offers varieties of classic beers and flavorful coffee and juices. You don’t have to worry about your pets, as this is a pet-friendly cafe as long as your pet is under leash.

Visit Café Aroma with your friends and family, and try out tasty meals that will burst your bubbles.

Address:54750 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549, United States

14. Fratello’s Ristorante

A visit to Fratello’s Ristorante is one of the best things to do in Idyllwild, and you won’t be disappointed.

Fratello’s Ristorante has been serving the people of Idyllwild for more than fifteen years, and it is a family-operated restaurant by four brothers who have gathered so much experience from cooking in a different Italian restaurant.

You should visit this restaurant if you’re craving or a lover of Italian cuisine. Fratello’s Ristorante is one of the best when it comes to Italian dishes.

Fratello’s Ristorante is well known for serving the best Italian-inspired wood-fired pizza in Idyllwild and much more.

They offer a comprehensive menu including several kinds of vegetarian dishes, baked pasta, pastas, and many more.

Address:54295 Ridgeview Dr, Idyllwild, CA 92549, United States

15. Buckhorn Camp

If you want to go camping with your friends and family in Idyllwild, Buckhorn Camp is the best option for a memorable camp experience.

Buckhorn Camp is a magnificent campground with about a hundred and twenty acres of land.

Natural amenities solely surround the campground, and it is divided into two separate sections: East and West camps.

The east side is the largest part of the campground which features a housing and dining section with a total capacity of two hundred and sixty people and even more.

While the west side features a smaller dining space and a self-service kitchen with a housing capacity of a hundred and eight, making it the ideal ground for a smaller group.

Another section can be created at the west side, east side, or back when the two main sections are occupied.

Buckhorn Camp also features volleyball courts and basketball courts with a seating of about four hundred people and a large stage.

If you want a more adventurous location, this is the right place for you; the camp is safe and beautiful with a neat environment, so do add to your bucket list of things to do in Idyllwild for a fun time.

Address: 24641 CA-243, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549, United States

Planning a road trip in California? explore this list of things to do in Rancho Cucamonga and things to do in Capitola for a memorable California road trip.

16. Therapeutic Massage

After all the stress, you don’t only need a break from the hustling and bustling of the world, but you also deserve a treat at Therapeutic Massage.

Therapeutic Massage is located in Idyllwild; they offer very beneficial services to the body, brain, and health.

They offer services such as Passive stretching trigger point/Neuromuscular therapy, stress management techniques, Swedish & Deep Tissue Management techniques, Natural learning, and sound healing.

Therapeutic Massage has well experienced and skilled therapists with great knowledge on the best ways to offer massages and other services to their clients.

Make sure you visit Therapeutic Massage; you’re sure to leave feeling more relaxed and refreshed.

Address:54240 Ridgeview Dr. Suite 101, Idyllwild, CA 92549 United States.

17. Mountain Pottery

One of the best things to do in Idyllwild, California is visiting the Mountain Pottery with your family and friends for a more fun experience.

Mountain Pottery is a ceramics studio and gallery which showcases hundreds of lovely handcrafted local ceramics.

They hold classes and workshops on wheel-throwing, clay hand-building, and sculpture, and these classes are open for everyone regardless of their age.

The classes are open seven days a week strictly by appointment for beginners or intermediates; they also offer private or customized classes for two or more people.

Mountain Pottery is available for private parties like birthday parties, family reunions, cooperate gatherings, and more.

The staff is well skilled and experienced with vast knowledge about pottery, and they educate you about all you need to know and how to craft your piece.

Mountain Pottery is open from Monday to Friday from 11am-2pm, and Saturday & Sunday from 11am-4pm.

Visit Mountain Pottery and try out a new exciting skill that will leave you highly proud after producing your first craft.

Address:54716 North Circle Dr, Idyllwild, CA 92549 United States.

18. Mountain Paws Pet Boutique

Mountain Paws Pet Boutique is popularly known as “The dog friendliest Town in America; it is a meeting point for dogs and owners.

The pet boutique is a full-service pet shop which displays gifts, accessories, locally baked items, edibles, and an extensive collection of toys.

Mountain Paws Pet Boutique hosts live mini fairs or music shows for dog events and groups; they also offer suggestions and guidance for special events, catering, and dog groups at your request.

There is a reserved spot for people to rest and watch other pets and their owners; the facility is clean and well maintained, with credible staff available to attend to everyone.

Mountain Paws Pet Boutique is open from Monday to Friday from 11am-5pm, and Saturday & Friday from 11am-6pm.

Take your pet/pets on a wild experience by visiting the Mountain Paws Pet Boutique, where it gets to interact and play with other dogs.

Address:54380 North Circle Drive, Idyllwild, CA 92549 United States.

19. Earth ‘N Fire

Earth ‘N Fire is one of the best places to visit in Idyllwild, making it a popular destination for many families.

Earth ‘N Fire is a painting and pottery studio built in 1996. At the studio, you get to paint whatever you feel inspired to paint.

The owners are welcoming and helpful, always ready to assist without hesitation and corrections when needed.

Earth ‘N Fire offers numerous paint colors for you to choose from; you may decide to bring a bottle of wine while coming so you can drink and paint.

They are open every day of the week from 12:30pm-5pm; Earth’ N Fire is great for kids and parties.

This answers what to do in Idyllwild for a fun time, do add to your checklist of things to do in Idyllwild, CA.

Address:54225 North Circle Drive upstairs in The Fort, Idyllwild, CA 92549

20. Idyllwild Area Historical Society Museum

Idyllwild Area Historical Society Museum is educational, especially for history lovers.

The Museum was built in the 1930s, and it has lots of historical values featuring many historical artifacts about Pine Cove, Garner Valley, Alandale, Mountain communities, Idyllwild, and the mountain center.

Idyllwild Area Historical Society Museum also showcases different exhibits, starting from filmmaking, Mountain recreation, logging camps, Mountain Road travel, cattle ranching, and many others.

It also displays relics, old photographs, and several essential artifacts owned by residents who have lived in the city for a long time.

You also get to interact with other locals and find out more about the town’s history, and you are probably going to learn about things you might never have imagined.

Address:54470 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild, CA 92549, United States.

21. The Rustic Theater & Entertainment Center

A visit to The Rustic Theater & Entertainment Center is one of the best things to do in Idyllwild for a great movie experience.

The Rustic Theater & Entertainment Center is an excellent movie theater for lovers of movies to enjoy their movies.

The theater is well equipped, featuring a wide flat-screen TV, great sound systems, and very comfortable seats for the visitors to feel relaxed.

The Rustic Theater & Entertainment Center offers a wide list of refreshments for you to pick from, as well as pillows and blankets in the auditorium for warmth and comfort.

The facility is neat and properly maintained, the staff offers excellent customer service and a wild movie experience for a reasonable cost.

The Rustic Theater & Entertainment Center is open all day of the week from 5pm-9:30pm.

Address:54290 North Circle Drive, Idyllwild, CA 92549 United States.

22. Eastside Reservoir Project

Eastside Reservoir Project is one of the biggest reservoirs in Southern California, with the construction of rockfill and earth core.

The reservoir was built to serve as an adequate water source, especially during emergencies, droughts, and seasonal needs.

Eastside reservoir project has a maximum capacity of nine hundred and eighty-seven million cubic meters, which served as a way to get water.

Domenigoni and Diamond Valley mountains stand as natural barriers for the reservoir project; this establishment was Kiewit’s collective effort near California’s Diamond Valley Lake and LED.

You may decide to go fishing, where you get to find fishes like trout, bluegill, and bass while enjoying the calm scenic view from the lake.

Address: Idyllwild, CA United States

23. Artspresso

A unique art shop in Idyllwild, perfect for art enthusiasts, which houses several fantastic artworks.

Artspresso helps promote the arts of Idllywild and displays how much significance the history and culture are to the residents.

They display ceramics, sculptures, photographs, jewelry, and paintings made by talented local artists.

Artspresso displays artworks made by Chesney Rheaume, Gene Williams, Gene Peebles, Sergio Naduville, Gerry High, Micheal Gilmore, Stacey Landfield, and more.

Artspresso is open every day of the week from 11am-6pm. Make sure you visit and get ready to be fascinated by the beautiful craft works.

Address:54380 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549, United States

24. Thousand Trails Idyllwild RV Resort

Thousand Trail Idyllwild RV Resort believes that everything is better in California. 

Thousand Trails Idyllwild RV Resort, tucked at an elevation of over 7,000 feet, is among the few places in Southern California with four seasons. 

With nearly 300 sites spread over 200 acres, this campground is a full-service preserve with everything from sites for your RV to tent camping. 

Thousands Trails Idyllwild RV Resort also has cabins to rent if you don’t feel like bringing your rig up the mountain. 

Additionally, it offers a wide range of amenities and activities during summer. The friendly staff is always available to carry you around the RV resort. 

Whether planning a vacation for your whole family, a getaway for two, or a group of friends, there are unlimited unique activities to explore at Thousand Trails Idyllwild RV Resort. 

Address: 24400 Canyon Trail, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549, United States

25. Devil’s Slide Trail

Devil’s Slide Trail is a multi-purpose trail converted from an old highway segment. This 1.3-mile trail offers runners, hikers, equestrians, and bicyclists access to outdoor recreation. 

At provided overlooks, you can relax on benches, look through observation scopes, and admire the view of the rocky coastal waters underneath. 

There are also interpretive signs placed at major points along the trail. These signs explain the geography, history, and the marine and avian communities that migrate here. 

Several convenient amenities include bike racks, pet waste stations, restrooms, and drinking fountains. 

Address:Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA, USA

26. Suicide Rock

Suicide Rock, formerly known as Suicide Peak, is a granite outcrop close to Idyllwild, CA. 

This rock of about 7,510 feet is popular among rock climbers. It is situated near Tahquitz Peak. 

Legend states that the name Suicide Rock originates from a story of a Native American Princess and her lover who chose to commit suicide by jumping off the rock after being commanded to separate. 

Although it is considered a fairly challenging route, Suicide Rock is trendy for running and hiking. 

The beautiful trail is open throughout the year and is free to visit at any time of the year. 

Dogs are not welcome on this trail, so you must leave them at home if you have one. 

Address: Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549, United States

27. Tahquitz Peak

This tourist attraction is an 8,846-foot-tall granite rock formation in Southern California. 

The hike to this lookout tower via the San Jacinto Wilderness presents some gorgeous vistas in the state, including the Salton Sea to the southeast. 

The origin of Tahquitz’s name is gotten from the Cahuilla god Tahquish. It is believed that the peak serves as the god’s home. 

Tahquitz Peak is the highest within the San Bernardino National Forest and also happens to be the only one within a designated wilderness area. 

This lookout is also the most extended continuously operating station in the forest, serving for 77 years. 

Furthermore, Tahquitz Peak is famous for horseback riding and hiking, so you will meet many people while exploring. 

The trail is open throughout the year and free to visit anytime. 

You can bring your dog along, allowing them to roam freely without a leash in some areas. 

Address: Idyllwild, CA, United States

Planning a trip to California, don’t miss our checklist of fun things to do in Corona , things to do in Eureka, and fun things to do in Redwood City.

Plan a trip to Idyllwild

If you’re interested in making Idyllwild, California your next stop, check this handy list of the best things to do in the city.

As stated above, visitors can either choose between outdoor recreation or learn the arts, history, and culture of the city that is also relevant to American heritage.

It never runs out of beautiful places and interesting sites that bring you closer to nature and learn more about history.