Ontario Travel Guide

Read on for an in-depth travel guide to Ontario in California, including the top places to visit, hiking and biking routes, things to do, and local culture and customs.


Introduction to Ontario

Ontario, California, is a city in San Bernardino County, located in the Desert region of the United States of America. Known for its vast outdoor recreation opportunities, diversity, world-class attractions, and astounding mountainous landscapes, Ontario is much more than just a desert town. It is a bustling city that redefines the heart of the golden state, offering pristine temperatures, endless sunshine, and a range of experiences perfect for everyone, from breathtaking natural scenery to fun-filled activities for all ages.

List of Places to Visit in Ontario

If you are looking for a memorable getaway full of sunshine, delicious food, and endless adventure, Ontario, California, is the perfect destination. Here are some of the must-see places to visit in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of History and Art, Ontario - Discover the stories behind the city’s rich history at this museum that showcases Ontario’s historical artifacts, art exhibitions, archives, and library resources.

  • Chaffey Community Museum of Art - Located in the heart of downtown, this museum is dedicated to promoting the arts and cultures of the community and features galleries, exhibitions, and art classes.

  • Ontario Heritage Museum - This museum houses a collection of locally significant artifacts and exhibits related to the early settlers of the Inland Empire.

Natural Attractions of Ontario: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Baldy - A popular hiking spot, Mount Baldy’s peak stands at 10,064 feet above sea level and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.

  • Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park - This park features a 250-acre recreation area with two lakes, picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, an outdoor pool, and a water park.

  • California Citrus State Historic Park - This 248-acre park preserves the cultural landscape of the citrus industry that has been an important part of Southern California’s economy and heritage since the 1800s.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ontario

Ontario, California, offers spectacular hiking and biking trails and routes. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Pacific Electric Inland Empire Trail - This trail runs for 21 miles and is perfect for walkers, joggers, and bikers. It is located near Montclair and connects Claremont to Rialto.

  • Cucamonga Peak Trail - This challenging hike is a favorite of many adventurous hikers. It is a 12-mile out-and-back trail that takes approximately 8 hours to complete and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Etiwanda Falls Trail - This 4.2-mile trail in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains features a waterfall, streams, and diverse wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Ontario: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the top things to do in Ontario, California:

  • Ontario Mills Outlet Mall - This is the largest shopping mall in the Inland Empire, featuring over 200 stores, a food court, and a range of dining options.

  • Grab a Burger at Fatburger - This iconic burger chain originated in Los Angeles and now has several locations that serve up mouth-watering burgers, fries, and shakes in Ontario.

  • Water Parks - Ontario and the surrounding areas offer a variety of water parks, such as Raging Waters, Splash Kingdom, and Surf City.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ontario

To fully experience everything Ontario, California, has to offer, consider the following week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the city’s downtown district, having lunch at the local restaurant and visiting the Museum of History and Art

Day 2: Spend the morning hiking the San Gabriel Mountains and visit the wine country in the afternoon.

Day 3: Drive to the west of Ontario and spend the day at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park.

Day 4: Head to Joshua Tree National Park and camp overnight.

Day 5: Drive to Palm Springs and spend the day golfing and exploring the city’s architecture.

Day 6: Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise over Temecula Valley, then head back to Ontario for some shopping at the Ontario Mills Outlet Mall

Day 7: Visit the museums and galleries, then spend the afternoon at the Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park

Food and Drink Scene of Ontario

Ontario, California, boasts a thriving food scene, with a diverse range of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops to choose from. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Inland Empire Tacos - These are unique, as compared to other tacos, they utilize pork and chicken as the primary proteins, topped with delicious guacamole and lime-cilantro sauce.

  • Lemonade - Local restaurants serve freshly squeezed lemonade that utilizes the region’s famed juicy and succulent lemons.

Local Beverages

  • California Craft Beer - Ontario is home to some of the best, locally brewed craft beers, like Hangar 24, Oak Hills Brewing, and Ritual Brewing Company.

  • Constance Estate Tea - Served at the historic Graber Olive House, this is a delicious blend of locally grown and roasted teas that you’re sure to love.

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

Ontario offers numerous accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Here are a few noteworthy places to stay:

  • Ontario Grand Inn & Suites - This hotel features free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center.

  • Hyatt Place - This modern hotel has a restaurant, bar, free parking, and pool.

  • Holiday Inn Ontario Airport - This hotel is located near the airport and offers a gym, bar, and pool.

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

When visiting Ontario, some of the best souvenirs include:

  • Graber Olives - The Graber Olive House is one of the oldest existing businesses in Ontario, California. They make and sell award-winning olives and olive oils.

  • Wine from Mount Baldy - Ontario is home to Mount Baldy, which hosts a range of vineyards that produce some of the most exceptional wine in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Ontario

Ontario is a diverse city with a mix of cultures and customs. Visitors should respect these customs. Some of the customs include:

  • No cell phones while eating - In a show of respect for the meal that has been prepared, it is considered polite not to access cell phones during meal times.

  • Greetings - Depending on the customs of an individual, Ontario residents will either bow or shake hands.

Best Time to Visit Ontario

Ontario, California, is a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is warm, and the crowds are thinner.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ontario

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Ontario:

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment - Visitors should respect the environment and ensure that all litter is properly disposed of.

  • Try the local cuisine - Ontario is home to numerous top-rated restaurants, so do take time to experience their food.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget sunscreen - With its sunny weather, it is easy to get sunburned. Ensure that you have sunscreen at all times.

  • Don’t wander alone in the dark - For your safety and security, avoid walking alone at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ontario

Ontario, California, has a relatively low rate of criminal activities. It is, however, important for visitors to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.

Health in Ontario

Ontario has health clinics and hospitals located throughout its city. Visitors must carry their health insurance cards with them. Additionally, individuals should consult with their physicians before visiting the region, if they have a specific medical history.

Getting to Ontario: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ontario is well connected by air and road transport.

Airports Near Ontario

Ontario International Airport is the main airport serving the city, which has direct flights from a variety of cities throughout the United States and other countries.

Bus Stations Near Ontario

The Greyhound Bus Terminal is located in the neighboring city of San Bernardino and provides frequent bus services to Ontario.

Other Options

Ontario has an Amtrak train station and a robust commuter rail system, with regular service on the Metrolink network.

How to Get Around Ontario

Ontario is relatively easy to get around, with several transport options, such as taxis, buses, and rental cars.

Where to Go Next from Ontario: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ontario, California, is centrally located in the region, making it easy to access numerous destinations.

  • Los Angeles - The city of angels is only an hour’s drive away, home to numerous attractions and landmarks.

  • Palm Springs - This is a popular destination for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway. Palm Springs is renowned for its hot springs, spas, and golf courses. After spending some time in Ontario, you can head over to Palm Springs for a more relaxing and laid-back atmosphere.

Conclusion

Ontario, California, offers a wealth of experiences and attractions that make it a must-visit destination. With its rich history, diverse culture, beautiful natural landscapes, and abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation, Ontario is the perfect destination for anyone looking for an exciting and unforgettable getaway.

Aerial view of freeways, Ontario CA Aerial view of freeways, Ontario CA