Apple Valley City Guide

Food is mostly casual American with some Mexican, Chinese, and Italian options. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but are limited. Late-night options are mostly fast-food drive-thrus.

Nightlife is limited, with a few local bars and pubs. Not known for a lively scene.

Coffee culture is mostly chain and diner spots, with few specialty roasters.

Tipping is customary with 15-20% expected for restaurants, taxis, and services. Coffee shops usually get $1-$2 per drink.

SIM cards are available at AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon stores, and Best Buy. Verizon and AT&T have the best coverage. ID is needed for post-paid plans; pre-paid is easier to get.

Streets and commercial areas are generally clean, with regular waste and recycling services.

Limited 24/7 services; some pharmacies and fast-food drive-thrus operate late.

Supermarkets carry mostly American products with some international items. Stores like Stater Bros., Vons, and Albertsons are common, open from early morning to late evening.

Most businesses accept cards, so cash isn’t usually needed for daily purchases.

ATMs are easy to find at Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and major grocery stores. Using out-of-network ATMs usually costs between $2.50 and $5.00.

Local schools are in the Apple Valley Unified School District. No international schools nearby, instruction is primarily in English. Admissions vary by grade.

Small digital nomad community; most remote workers use nearby larger cities.

Parks like Civic Center and James Woody offer open spaces and shaded paths for walking and running.

Running routes exist in parks and neighborhoods; safety is good during the day. Wildfire smoke can affect air quality.

Several gyms offer standard workout facilities, including some 24-hour options.

Tennis courts are available at Civic Center Park and schools, usually no formal booking or equipment rentals.

Padel courts are not common in the area.

Several yoga studios with drop-in classes and English-speaking instructors; spa culture is limited.

Various martial arts schools offer Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, Aikido, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, with English-speaking instructors.

Nearby ski resorts like Snow Valley and Big Bear offer beginner to advanced runs from late November to early April. Rentals are available.

Limited water sports locally; small lake boating at Mojave Narrows Park and more options about 1 hour at Big Bear Lake.

No surfing locally; closest surf spots are on the coast, 1.5 to 2 hours away.

Diving spots are on the coast or specific lakes, not near Apple Valley.

Healthcare quality is high with English-speaking staff at St. Mary Medical Center. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens have OTC and prescription drugs and usual retail hours.

Tap water meets federal and state standards, but some contaminants have been found above health guidelines in independent tests.

Several playgrounds and parks are available with family-friendly restaurants and baby supplies at major stores. Local museums and the Apple Valley Aquatic Center offer extra activities.

LGBTQ+ acceptance varies, with limited community spaces; discretion may be wise.

Pet-friendly with vet clinics, dog parks, and pet supply stores. Many accommodations and some eateries welcome pets.