14 Best Things to Do in Beaumont (CA)

Nestled in the picturesque San Gorgonio Pass, where Southern California’s desert vistas meet the majestic mountains, lies Beaumont, California – a hidden gem often overlooked but brimming with surprising charm and diverse experiences. Forget the bustling cityscapes; Beaumont offers a refreshing blend of natural beauty, quaint local attractions, and a welcoming community spirit that makes it an ideal escape for anyone seeking a more laid-back adventure.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, you’ll discover something truly special here. The best time to visit Beaumont is typically in the spring (April-May) when the weather is mild and orchards are in full bloom, or in the fall (September-October) for pleasant temperatures perfect for outdoor exploration. Prepare to be enchanted by its unique blend of small-town appeal and easy access to incredible natural wonders.

Pick the Cherries at B & R Cherry Orchard

Imagine strolling through rows of vibrant, ripe cherries, the sun warming your face as you pluck the perfect fruit straight from the branch. This delightful experience awaits you at B & R Cherry Orchard, a true local treasure and a quintessential Beaumont activity during the spring season. What makes this place so special is the hands-on opportunity to connect with your food source, offering a nostalgic, wholesome outing for all ages. You can fill buckets with sweet, juicy cherries, creating memories as you pick.

It is not just about the cherries; it’s about the simple joy of being outdoors, surrounded by nature’s bounty. Families especially love this spot, as children delight in the adventure of picking their own snacks. Beyond the picking, you often find picnic areas where you can enjoy your freshly gathered treats right on site, soaking in the serene orchard atmosphere. The quality of the fruit here is exceptional, often lauded by locals as some of the best in the region.

Get a Beer at the Craft Lounge

After a day of exploring Beaumont’s outdoor wonders, there’s nothing quite like unwinding with a refreshing drink in a welcoming atmosphere, and the Craft Lounge delivers just that. This local favorite stands out for its impressive selection of craft beers, showcasing both regional brews and popular national labels. It is a true haven for beer aficionados, offering a rotating tap list that ensures there’s always something new and exciting to try.

Beyond the beer, you will find a relaxed, friendly vibe, making it perfect for a casual evening out with friends or a low-key date night. The lounge often features comfortable seating, sometimes with board games or a dartboard, encouraging a laid-back social experience. While it is primarily a bar, the focus on quality craft beverages elevates it beyond a typical watering hole, making it a genuine destination for those who appreciate fine brews and good company.

Play Some Golf at the Morongo Golf Club

For golf enthusiasts, or even those just looking for a beautiful natural setting to enjoy a swing, the Morongo Golf Club offers a truly exceptional experience. This isn’t just any golf course; it is a championship-level course known for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape. The course itself is meticulously maintained, offering challenging layouts that cater to both seasoned pros and recreational players.

You will find yourself navigating rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and pristine greens, all while being immersed in the serene beauty of the region. The club also boasts excellent practice facilities, including a driving range and putting greens, allowing you to warm up or hone your skills before your round. It is a fantastic option for a solo game, a friendly foursome, or even a corporate outing, providing a top-tier golfing experience within a breathtaking environment.

Follow the Historic Trails at Wildwood Canyon State Park

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of Wildwood Canyon State Park. This expansive park is a fantastic destination for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape into the tranquility of the California landscape. What makes Wildwood truly unique are its historic trails, remnants of old stagecoach routes and pioneer paths that wind through oak woodlands, chaparral, and grasslands.

As you follow these trails, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, making for a truly immersive experience. You will encounter diverse flora and fauna, and if you are lucky, spot some of the local wildlife. The trails vary in difficulty, offering options for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging ascent to viewpoints that offer breathtaking vistas of the San Gorgonio Pass. It is an ideal spot for a morning hike, a family picnic, or simply to enjoy the quiet solitude of nature.

Watch Some Sports at the Sand Trap Sports Bar and Grill

When the big game is on, or you are simply craving classic American comfort food in a lively atmosphere, the Sand Trap Sports Bar and Grill is Beaumont’s go-to spot. This isn’t just a place to eat; it is a community hub where locals gather to cheer on their favorite teams, enjoy good company, and indulge in delicious pub fare. The large screens broadcasting various sports events create an energetic backdrop, making you feel right in the heart of the action.

You can expect a menu featuring everything from juicy burgers and crispy fries to wings and other casual favorites, all prepared with that satisfying “comfort food” touch. It is an excellent choice for families looking for a casual dinner, friends wanting to catch a game, or even solo travelers seeking a friendly face and a good meal. The welcoming staff and lively ambiance ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience every time you visit.

Visit the Edward-Dean Museum and Gardens

Step into a world of elegance and history at the Edward-Dean Museum and Gardens, a true hidden gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into art, antiques, and horticulture. This unique museum houses an eclectic collection of European and Asian decorative arts, including furniture, paintings, ceramics, and sculptures, meticulously curated by its founders, Edward and Dean. What makes this place so special is the intimate setting; it feels less like a sterile museum and more like walking through a grand private estate.

Beyond the captivating indoor exhibits, the meticulously maintained gardens are a serene oasis, featuring various themed sections, fountains, and sculptures. You can wander through rose gardens, enjoy the tranquility of a Japanese garden, or simply relax amidst the beautiful flora. It is a perfect destination for art lovers, history buffs, or anyone seeking a peaceful and culturally enriching experience.

Hike through Mount San Jacinto State Park

For those craving a truly epic outdoor adventure, a hike through Mount San Jacinto State Park is an absolute must-do, even though it requires a short drive from Beaumont. This majestic park offers a dramatic change in scenery, transporting you from the desert floor to alpine forests and towering peaks. What makes this park so extraordinary is its accessibility via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which whisks you up 8,500 feet in minutes, offering unparalleled panoramic views.

Once at the top, you will find a network of diverse hiking trails ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous backcountry treks, leading you through ancient pine forests and past granite boulders. The air is crisp, the views are breathtaking, and the sense of being high above the world is truly invigorating. It is an ideal destination for serious hikers, nature photographers, or anyone looking to experience California’s stunning mountain wilderness.

Visit the Giant Cabazon Dinosaurs

A quirky and iconic roadside attraction that is a must-see for anyone passing through the Beaumont area is the Giant Cabazon Dinosaurs. These colossal concrete dinosaurs, Dinny the Brontosaurus and Mr. Rex the Tyrannosaurus Rex, have been captivating visitors for decades with their sheer size and whimsical charm.

Originally built to attract customers to a roadside diner, they have evolved into a beloved landmark, famous for their appearances in films like “Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.” You can actually go inside Dinny, which houses a gift shop, and climb up into Mr. Rex’s mouth for a unique photo opportunity! It is a fantastic stop for families with children, pop culture enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates a bit of roadside Americana. The sheer scale of these prehistoric giants is impressive, and they offer a fun, quick, and memorable photo op that will surely bring a smile to your face.

Visit the Malki Museum in Banning

Just a short drive from Beaumont, in the neighboring city of Banning, you will find the Malki Museum, a true cultural treasure dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of the Cahuilla people. This is California’s oldest non-profit museum, founded by members of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, making it an incredibly authentic and significant institution. What makes Malki Museum so special is its commitment to telling the story of the Cahuilla from their own perspective, through a rich collection of artifacts, photographs, and educational exhibits.

You will learn about their traditional way of life, their artistry, their spiritual beliefs, and their resilience. It is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in Native American history, anthropology, or simply gaining a deeper understanding of the indigenous cultures of Southern California. A visit here is a powerful and humbling experience, offering profound insights into a vibrant living heritage.

Shop for Treats at Dowling Fruit Orchard

For a taste of local goodness and a delightful shopping experience, head over to Dowling Fruit Orchard. This charming roadside stand and orchard is a beloved stop for locals and visitors alike, offering an array of fresh, seasonal produce, particularly their famous peaches and nectarines when in season. What makes Dowling so appealing is the emphasis on fresh, locally grown fruits, often picked right from their own orchards or sourced from nearby farms.

You will find not just fruits, but also a selection of homemade jams, jellies, local honey, and other artisanal treats that make perfect souvenirs or delicious snacks. It is a wonderful place to stock up on healthy, delicious provisions for your travels or to simply enjoy the simple pleasure of fresh, ripe fruit. The friendly staff are often happy to share tips on what’s in season and how to best enjoy their produce.

Visit the Gilman Ranch

Step back into the rugged past of early California ranching at the Gilman Ranch, a wonderfully preserved historical site that offers a tangible connection to the region’s pioneering days. This ranch, once a stagecoach stop and later a working ranch, showcases the life and times of the Gilman family, who were instrumental in the development of the San Gorgonio Pass. What makes the Gilman Ranch so special is its authenticity; you can explore original buildings, including the ranch house, barn, and blacksmith shop, all filled with period artifacts.

Knowledgeable docents often share captivating stories about the family and the challenges of life in the 19th century, bringing history to life before your eyes. It is an excellent educational outing for families, a fascinating stop for history buffs, and a peaceful place to reflect on the area’s rich heritage. The ranch often hosts special events and living history demonstrations, so check their schedule before you visit.

Make a Day Trip to the Whitewater Wilderness Preserve

Escape into a pristine natural sanctuary with a day trip to the Whitewater Wilderness Preserve, a stunning expanse of protected land just a short drive from Beaumont. This preserve is a true ecological marvel, home to the rare and beautiful Whitewater River, which flows year-round, creating a vital oasis in the desert landscape.

What makes this destination so unique is its incredible biodiversity; you will find lush riparian habitats contrasting sharply with arid desert flora, creating a haven for a wide array of bird species, including the endangered Southwestern willow flycatcher, and other wildlife like bighorn sheep. You can enjoy serene walks along the river, embark on more challenging hikes into the surrounding mountains, or simply sit and observe the abundant birdlife. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone seeking profound connection with untouched nature, offering a sense of peace and wonder that is truly restorative.

Play Some Pinball at the Banning Pinball Museum

Prepare for a blast from the past and an explosion of lights and sounds at the Banning Pinball Museum, a truly unique and incredibly fun destination just moments from Beaumont. This isn’t your average arcade; it is a dedicated museum showcasing a vast collection of vintage and modern pinball machines, all meticulously maintained and, best of all, available for you to play! What makes this museum so special is the opportunity to experience the evolution of pinball, from classic electromechanical games to cutting-edge digital machines.

You will hear the satisfying clack of flippers, the jingle of bells, and the triumphant ding of high scores as you try your hand at dozens of different tables. It is an absolute delight for nostalgic adults, curious teenagers, and anyone who loves a bit of friendly competition. Spending an hour or two here is pure, unadulterated fun, a perfect indoor activity for any day.

Plan Your Visit

Beaumont, California, may not always be on the top of everyone’s travel list, but as you’ve discovered, this charming Southern California community and its surrounding areas offer an incredibly rich tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. From the simple joy of picking cherries in a sun-drenched orchard to the majestic heights of Mount San Jacinto, and from quirky roadside attractions to profound cultural insights, there’s a unique adventure around every corner. You’ll find yourself reconnecting with nature, delving into fascinating history, indulging in local flavors, and perhaps even rediscovering the thrill of a pinball game.

So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to be pleasantly surprised. Beaumont is more than just a stop along the highway; it is a destination brimming with authentic charm and endless possibilities. Start planning your unforgettable escape to this delightful corner of California today!