Exploring Idyllwild with Mayor Max
There are a few must-do’s on every visitor’s list in Idyllwild: get out in nature, eat a good meal, explore the local shops, and, of course, visit with Mayor Max.
Idyllwild is the only town in America with a canine mayor, and Mayor Max takes his responsibilities seriously. In addition to his regular Thursday-Sunday appearances, Max can be found around town, enjoying everything the town has to offer or attending one of Idyllwild’s events!
Mayor Max’s tour of the town is perfect for people and pets—if you’re spending an afternoon in Idyllwild, here’s his recommendations:
Hit the Trail
Start with a stroll down the Strawberry Creek Community Pathway. This mile-and-a-half trail along Strawberry Creek has 8 entrances. The best place to start is towards the north side of North Circle Drive—check out the map of the path to find it! Enjoy the sound of the creek and the wind in the ponderosa pines while you follow the path towards Strawberry Creek Inn near Highway 243.
Stop for Lunch
Not far before the end of the trail is your real destination—Idyllwild Brewpub. Set up among the trees that line the path, and connecting the trail to the town at the top of the hill, Idyllwild Brewpub is where people and (well-behaved) pooches both gather for lunch, dinner or afternoon beers and bites.
Mayor Max loves the Puppy Bowl, filled with pup friendly ingredients to fuel his busy schedule. Idyllwild residents and visitors flock to the indoor bar and outdoor deck for a pint of house-brewed beer, one of their signature craft cocktails, and hearty plates. Some of their most popular dishes are the Mountain Wedge Salad, the Smash Burgers stacked with toppings, and the Beer-Battered Cod, made with their own Lily Rock Lager.
Before you leave, check out their shop for a souvenir of your visit and a six-pack or crowler of your favorite pour. Mayor Max recommends the dog bandana and, of course, a Mayor Max t-shirt, but there are hoodies, water bottles and more gear for your outdoor adventures, or to remember your visit.
Do Some Shopping
After lunch, walk up the stairs from Idyllwild Brewpub to head into the Idyllwild’s town center to explore the eclectic, artisan shops. With or without pets, you’ll find unique gifts, clothes, art and home goods in the many independent Idyllwild shops—what you won’t find are chain stores! Wander through town, popping into the shops that catch your eye, or plan ahead with our list of local businesses.
Mayor Max can’t resist the treats and toys at Mountain Paws. Whether you’re visiting with your pet or looking for a Mayor Max dog biscuit to bring home, you’ll find it at Mountain Paws.
Say Hi to Max
No visit to Idyllwild is complete without a visit to Mayor Max. You’ll find him in his mayormobile in front of Wooley’s on North Circle Drive Thursdays and Fridays at 4pm, and Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm.
That’s one perfect afternoon in Idyllwild. From there, explore the region’s many trails and waterfalls, relax at your hotel, catch a movie at the restored Rustic Theater, or head back home. We’ll see you soon up in Idyllwild.