Idyllwild is a popular getaway for Californians seeking refuge from their hectic lives. It was only a matter of time before the rest of the U.S. discovered this serene sanctuary town located on the western slope of the San Jacinto mountains about an hour’s drive from Palm Springs.
Idyllwild is surrounded by national forest lands, and the scenic area has been a favorite locale for filming television shows and movies for many decades. The opening scene of the popular TV show “Bonanza” was filmed in and around the San Bernardino National Forest. If you look closely, you can picture the Cartwright family riding into the show’s opening scene.
Elvis fans recognize the community as a stop on a sacred mecca to find the king. From his birthplace in Tupelo, Mississippi, to the mountains of California, tour buses rock and roll following in his footsteps as fans seek out the filming location of “Kid Galahad”, one of the 31 movies Elvis made. You can learn more about the filming of that movie and some of the many other movies filmed in this locale at the Idyllwild Historical Society Museum.
The small cabin is a short walk from downtown. It includes exhibits pertaining to the history of the community as well as a large exhibit devoted to Tahquitz Rock featuring the progression from vintage to modern day climbing tools and equipment. Tahquitz Rock is challenging, to say the least, and is considered one of the best free climbs in Southern California.
The mountain setting naturally lends itself to an array of outdoor activities. In addition to rock climbing- camping, hiking, mountain biking and bouldering are all popular pastimes in Idyllwild. If you’re looking to get away from it all, you can do so in the many parks, trails and scenic vistas in this quiet town.
You won’t find big box stores or chain restaurants here. This quiet, mountainside community is home to locally owned shops, boutiques and restaurants. Locals and visitors alike relax at Higher Grounds, the locally owned coffee shop. While you’re there, you can wave hello to Max, the unusual mayor, whose paws-itive outlook has served the community well. Mayor Max II and his two deputies can be seen making the rounds, especially where treats like pizza and ice cream are involved.
Enjoy an excellent meal at one of the bistros- Restaurant Gastronome is our favorite. The establishment offers rustic mountain elegance and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The wine list allows you to find the perfect complement to your meal whether you’re dining indoors or out. No need to worry about the calories you ingest. After lunch, you can tour the nature center and historical museum before tackling one of the trails for some recreational exercise.
If you have a day to explore, grab a coffee and spend time meandering through the eclectic mix of shops where you’ll find anything from antiques, to clothing. Or browse among the many galleries for handcrafted pieces of art.
If you can stay longer, you can fully immerse yourself in the artsy, outdoorsy culture of Idyllwild. Accommodations range from camping to comfortable B & B’s to exquisite vacation homes with stunning views. I’ll warn you though, if you’re anything like me, one visit to Idyllwild won’t be enough.
Have you been to Idyllwild? If not, what do you think you’d enjoy most?
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© 2017, Tonya Prater. All rights reserved.
Akiko says
There is a great art school in Idyllwild, too. I spent a week up there one Christmas holiday with friends and kids. It is a quaint town, but I had no problem keeping myself occupied there. Great little ceramic shop in the center of town that lets you bring your own wine or beer. Makes for a great afternoon for friends. There is also a little coffee shop (sorry I don’t remember the name) that makes delicious London Fogs.
Chubskulit Rose says
We love outdoor adventure and this fit right into our alley. I’m not sure about California weather but around here in WV, outdoor is always fun.
Kita Bryant says
I don’t even know how to pronounce that town name! ha! It sounds like an adorable and fun place though.
Sage says
As someone who tends to gravitate to No Cal over So Cal, this places has definitely captured my interest. Going to add it to my travel list!
Sandy N Vyjay says
Idyllwild seems to hold the promise of some thrilling times in the outdoors. Rock climbing is something I would love to do. A great place to get away from the cities.
Toni | Boulder Locavore says
This is a great place to explore! Would love to visit here with my family soon!
Claudia Krusch says
Idyllwild looks like a great spot to explore. We will be in that area in the winter. I will have to see if we can work it into our schedule.
brianne says
Wow this place looks amazing. I will have to keep this in mind next time we are there!
Sara Welch says
That is some really nice scenery. I really love the art displayed as well!
Pam says
I have never been to Idyllwild. It sounds like a really cool place to visit. I like that there are no chain restaurants.
Our Family World says
A nature lover’s paradise! OMG, the views are fantastic. I would love to go there sometime. Maybe in spring, we’ll be able to do a bit of traveling. I will make sure we add California to our list so we can do a side trip to Idyllwild.
travel blogger says
I have never been here, but it sounds like such a great place to vacation. My hubby and I love to find off the beaten path places to explore, and we would love to camp here. We will have to keep this in mind the next time we go to California.
Liz Mays says
Oh this seems like such a cool part of California. I want to visit for the outdoor experiences! This would be a really good getaway choice.
Maureen says
You weren’t kidding when you said artsy, this is certainly an artsy community. I love that doggy, adorable and looks super happy to be there. I think I will have to add this to my bucket list of places to visit!
Dogvills says
Idyllwild sure looks like a gorgeous place to visit and explore. The views are just stunning! No wonder it has become a popular location for a movie shoot. If I were to visit, I think I’d like to stay there for a week!
candy says
We always like to find the little off the wall places to eat with the locals when we travel. Californian certainly has some different places to visit that off off the wall different.
Tomi C says
Don’t laugh but I heard about this place shortly after the Outkast movie titled “Idylwild” came out and had to visit. We lived in the SF Bay Area and made a day trip. It did not disappoint. Beautiful folksy small town feel with a huge heart.
Tonya Prater says
I’m so glad you were able to experience Idyllwild for yourself and enjoyed it as much as I did! I’m really hoping to make another trip back with my husband. This time, I’d like to experience more of the outdoors.
Amber Myers says
Oh wow, what a gorgeous town. I would love to explore it. I’ve always been a fan of small towns.
Jeanette says
I absolutely love traveling. I basically work so I can afford to travel. I have never heard of this community but I am definitely going to check them out.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
Oh my gosh, this looks like such an amazing place! I love the fun, eclectic feel of the who place! Super cool!
robin rue says
We are big on those outdoor activities, especially hiking, so this is definitely an area that I would love to visit. I might just have to plan a trip….