Rancho Cucamonga Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, accommodations, and more in Rancho Cucamonga, California with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Rancho Cucamonga

Located in San Bernardino County, in the Desert region of California, United States, Rancho Cucamonga is a beautiful city offering a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Visitors to the city can explore its outdoor beauty with a variety of hiking or biking trails or delve into its rich history and heritage through the many museums and cultural landmarks.

List of Places to Visit in Rancho Cucamonga

Here is a list of the must-see attractions and places to visit in Rancho Cucamonga:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cucamonga Service Station: A beautifully restored 1915 California bungalow gas station and convenience store.
  • Chaffey-Garcia House: A late Victorian, Queen Anne-style historical landmark house.
  • John Rains House: An adobe brick home built in 1860, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Route 66: An iconic American highway with its western endpoint located in Rancho Cucamonga.
  • Museum of History and Art: A museum that showcases the city’s history and art collections.

Natural Attractions of Rancho Cucamonga: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • North Etiwanda Preserve: A 3,000-acre natural reserve with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views.
  • Cucamonga Canyon: A beautiful canyon with several scenic trails and waterfalls.
  • Maloof Foundation for Arts and Crafts: A beautiful 18-acre botanical garden with natural beauty and mountain views.
  • Day Creek Park: A public park with a play area, picnic facilities, and trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rancho Cucamonga

Rancho Cucamonga offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, including:

  • Etiwanda Falls Trail: A 3.5-mile hike with a waterfall and beautiful views.
  • North Etiwanda Preserve: An extensive network of hiking and biking trails with beautiful views and various routes.
  • Deer Canyon Preserve: A 3.7-mile hike with scenic landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Rancho Cucamonga: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours in Rancho Cucamonga:

  • Wine Tasting Tours: Visit some of the area’s wineries and vineyards for a taste of local wines.
  • Cultural Landmark Tours: Take a guided tour of the area’s historical and cultural landmarks for an overview of the city’s rich history.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Go hiking, biking, or camping, and explore the natural beauty of the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rancho Cucamonga

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Rancho Cucamonga:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the North Etiwanda Preserve and explore its hiking trails and scenic views.
Day 2 Visit the Museum of History and Art to learn about the region’s history and art collections.
Day 3 Take a wine tasting tour of the area’s local wineries and vineyards.
Day 4 Explore the Chaffey-Garcia House, a late Victorian, Queen Anne-style historical landmark house.
Day 5 Spend the day playing and picnicking in Day Creek Park.
Day 6 Go on a guided tour of the city’s cultural landmarks.
Day 7 Hike the Deer Canyon Preserve and take in the beautiful natural scenery.

Food and Drink Scene of Rancho Cucamonga

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the must-try dishes in Rancho Cucamonga include:

  • In-N-Out Burger: A favorite fast-food chain serving classic American burgers and fries.
  • Joey’s BBQ: A local favorite serving delicious BBQ ribs, pulled pork, and other meat dishes.
  • Magic Lamp Inn: A classic steakhouse that’s been around since 1955.

Local Beverages

Rancho Cucamonga is home to several wineries and vineyards, offering a variety of local wines for visitors to sample.

Where to Stay in Rancho Cucamonga: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Rancho Cucamonga offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses.

Some of the best options include:

  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Rancho Cucamonga: A comfortable and spacious hotel with a variety of amenities, including complimentary breakfast and evening receptions.
  • Courtyard Ontario Rancho Cucamonga: A modern and sleek hotel with a heated outdoor pool and fitness center.
  • Best Western Plus Heritage Inn Rancho Cucamonga/Ontario: A reasonably priced hotel with a pool, fitness center, and restaurant.

What to Buy in Rancho Cucamonga: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Rancho Cucamonga has many shops and stores that sell local products and souvenirs. Some of the best items to bring home include:

  • Wine from Local Wineries: Take home a bottle of local wine from one of the many wineries in the area.
  • Crafts and Artwork: Browse the many shops and galleries in the area to find unique handmade crafts and artwork.
  • Route 66 Memorabilia: Take home a souvenir from America’s most famous highway, which has its western endpoint in Rancho Cucamonga.

Local Culture and Customs of Rancho Cucamonga

Rancho Cucamonga has a rich history and culture, with a strong influence from its Native American and Spanish origins. Visitors should be respectful of the city’s heritage and traditions, including its local food, art, and architecture.

Best Time to Visit Rancho Cucamonga

The best time to visit Rancho Cucamonga is in the spring or fall when the weather is cooler. Summer temperatures can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making outdoor activities less enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rancho Cucamonga

Do:

  • Visit the North Etiwanda Preserve.
  • Take a wine-tasting tour of the local wineries.
  • Explore the city’s historical landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the city’s cultural heritage and history.
  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rancho Cucamonga

Rancho Cucamonga is a safe city with low crime rates. Visitors should still take necessary precautions, such as staying in well-lit areas and not leaving valuable items in their cars.

Health in Rancho Cucamonga

Visitors to Rancho Cucamonga should ensure they have up-to-date medical insurance and receive any necessary vaccinations, especially if they plan to spend time outdoors in areas with wildlife.

Getting to Rancho Cucamonga: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rancho Cucamonga is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Airports Near Rancho Cucamonga

The two closest airports to Rancho Cucamonga are LA/Ontario International Airport and John Wayne Airport.

Bus Stations Near Rancho Cucamonga

Greyhound Bus Lines and local transit agencies, such as Omnitrans, provide bus service to Rancho Cucamonga.

Other Options

Driving to Rancho Cucamonga is also an option for visitors, with several highways and interstates running through or near the city.

How to Get Around in Rancho Cucamonga

Visitors can easily get around Rancho Cucamonga by car or public transportation. Local transit agencies, such as Omnitrans, provide bus service throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Rancho Cucamonga: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Rancho Cucamonga can explore the nearby cities of Ontario or Fontana, which offer their unique attractions and activities. The city is also near the San Bernardino Mountains, providing endless outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Rancho Cucamonga is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture, offering visitors a mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and historical landmarks. With its blend of modern conveniences and small-town charm, it’s an ideal destination for those looking for a unique and enjoyable getaway.