Fontana Travel Guide

Looking for a complete travel guide to Fontana, CA? Look no further! Our guide includes detailed information on attractions, dining, accommodations, safety, and much more. Check it out now!


Introduction to Fontana

Located in the Desert region of San Bernardino County, California, Fontana is a travel destination that has everything outdoor enthusiasts could ask for. From breathtaking natural landscapes to hiking and biking trails, Fontana is a paradise for nature lovers. Additionally, the city is also home to a rich cultural heritage with a wide range of museums and historical places. Whether you are looking for a quick weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, Fontana has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Fontana

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are a history buff, Fontana has everything you need, from museums to historical sites. Here are some must-visit attractions:

  • Auto Club Speedway: This state-of-the-art race track is ideal for anyone who loves car racing and the thrill of high speed.
  • The Mary Vagle Museum & Nature Center: Located in the heart of Fontana, this museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and culture of the city.
  • Fontana Art Depot: This historic rail station turned into an art depot is the pride of Fontana and attracts tons of art enthusiasts.

Natural Attractions of Fontana: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who love the outdoors, Fontana offers endless possibilities:

  • North Etiwanda Preserve: This 1,400-acre preserve is an ideal place for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
  • Martin Tudor Jurupa Hills Regional Park: This park is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The panoramic view of the valley from the lookout point is breathtaking.
  • Mount Jurupa: Located to the north of Fontana, this mountain is perfect for hiking, camping, and scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fontana

If you’re up for an outdoor adventure, Fontana offers some of the most scenic hiking and biking trails that are sure to leave you with lifelong memories. The following are some of the most popular routes:

  • Summit Bike Trail: This 5.5-mile trail is an ideal place for cycling enthusiasts, offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Southridge Trail: This trail is recommended by hikers for a good reason. It offers breathtaking views of the valley and is home to various types of wildlife.
  • Lytle Creek Trail: This 12-mile trail is perfect for those who love challenging routes. The trail features steep terrain and offers a spectacular view of the Lytle Creek Canyon.

Best Things to Do in Fontana: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Fontana offers numerous activities, including thrill rides and sightseeing tours:

  • California Speedway: This is an adrenaline-pumping experience for all race lovers, offering the chance to ride shotgun with a professional race car driver.
  • Fontana Park Aquatic Center: This multi-pool facility provides an array of activities for people of all ages.
  • Fontana Heritage Trail: This trail will take you around the city to visit some the well-known attractions like the Route 66 Museum.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fontana

Here is a rough itinerary for a week-long vacation in Fontana:

  • Day 1: Visit the Mary Vagle Museum & Nature Center and the Auto Club Speedway.
  • Day 2: Hike the Mount Jurupa trail and spend the afternoon at the Martin Tudor Jurupa Hills Regional Park.
  • Day 3: Take a cycling tour of the Summit Bike Trail in the morning and visit the Fontana Park Aquatic Center in the afternoon.
  • Day 4: Visit the North Etiwanda Preserve in the morning and explore the city’s historic downtown district in the afternoon.
  • Day 5: Spend the day on a sightseeing tour of the city and visit popular destinations like the California Speedway and the Route 66 Museum.
  • Day 6: Spend the day exploring the natural beauty of Lytle Creek Trail.
  • Day 7: Wind up your vacation with a relaxing day at your hotel, spa, or shopping in local markets.

Food and Drink Scene of Fontana

No vacation is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. In Fontana, you’ll find local delicacies that are must-tries:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barbeque: Try the local barbeque that is famous for its smoky flavors and tender meat. You’ll love the taste!
  • In-N-Out Burger: This popular fast-food chain is a must-visit destination to indulge in some mouth-watering burgers.
  • Panda Wok: If you are a fan of Chinese food, head over to Panda Wok for some fantastic dishes.

Local Beverages

While in Fontana, you should try some of the local beverages such as:

  • Sarsaparilla: This is a popular drink in Fontana and is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
  • Mountain Dew: This refreshing drink is widely available in Fontana and is a hit with the locals.

Where to Stay in Fontana: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fontana has a range of accommodation types to suit various budgets such as:

  • Hilton Garden Inn Fontana: A luxurious hotel with an outdoor pool.
  • Motel 6 Fontana: An affordable lodging option for budget travelers.
  • Comfort Inn Fontana: Modern hotel located in downtown Fontana which is ideal for business travelers.

What to Buy in Fontana: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

While in Fontana, make sure to check out the local markets to buy souvenirs and local products to take back home. Here are some must-buys:

  • Route 66 Souvenirs: Purchase some souvenirs that will remind you of the classic American highway that runs through Fontana.
  • Barbeque Sauce: If you love barbeque, take home some of the local barbeque sauce so you can enjoy it back home too.
  • Orange Blossom Honey: A must-try when you’re in Fontana, the orange blossom honey is a sweet, fragrant treat that is unique to this region.

Local Culture and Customs of Fontana

It’s always important to understand the culture and customs of any city you visit. Fontana is a culturally diverse city with the following customs:

  • People in Fontana tend to be courteous and welcoming.
  • Dressing up casually is the norm in this city. However, it is essential to check for dress codes if you are visiting museums, temples, or other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Fontana

The best time to visit Fontana is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is pleasant. These two seasons tend to have moderate temperatures that are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fontana

Here are some do’s and don’ts for travelers visiting Fontana:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Be courteous and friendly to the locals.
  • Tip the servers at restaurants.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or pollute any public places.
  • Don’t smoke in prohibited areas.
  • Don’t carry any illegal substances or weapons while traveling.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fontana

Fontana is generally a safe city to visit. That said, travelers should take precautions to ensure their safety while traveling, such as taking care of their valuables and locking their hotel rooms. Travelers should also be aware of their surroundings and avoid isolated areas.

Health in Fontana

It’s essential to take the necessary precautions to ensure good health while traveling. It’s always advisable to carry a first aid kit when traveling to remote areas, stay hydrated, and follow good hygiene protocols while consuming food.

Getting to Fontana: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fontana

The nearest airport to Fontana is the LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT), located just 12 miles away. Other nearby airports in San Bernardino include Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) located 67 miles away and Long Beach Airport (LGB) located about 66 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Fontana

Amtrak and Greyhound buses offer bus services to Fontana. The Fontana Metrolink Station is served by the San Bernardino Line.

Other Options

Car rental services in Fontana make it easy to get around. Ride sharing services are also available in Fontana.

How to Get Around in Fontana

The best way to get around Fontana is by renting a car, taking a taxi, or using ride-sharing services.

Where to Go Next from Fontana: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Fontana is ideally located, making it easy and convenient to plan day trips to some of the nearby destinations, including:

  • Palm Springs
  • Joshua Tree National Park
  • Anaheim and Disneyland

Conclusion

Fontana is a hidden gem that has something for everyone. With its historic museums, natural scenic views, and rich cultural heritage, Fontana is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So, start planning your itinerary and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Fontana.