San Bernardino Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to San Bernardino with this comprehensive tour guide. Discover all the amazing attractions, activities, and local culture of this California city.


Introduction to San Bernardino

San Bernardino is a city in San Bernardino County, located in the Desert region of California, United States of America. It is the 17th largest city in California by population and is known for its diverse culture, historical landmarks, natural beauty, and outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in San Bernardino

Here is a list of top places to visit in San Bernardino:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum: This museum showcases the history of San Bernardino, including the development of the railroad and local industries.
  • Route 66 Museum: Learn about the famous Route 66 and its significance to the American road networks.
  • Original McDonald’s Site and Museum: A must-visit for fast food enthusiasts, this museum displays the history of the McDonald’s franchise.
  • California Theatre of the Performing Arts: Watch performances, concerts, and shows in a beautifully restored theater built in 1928.

Natural Attractions of San Bernardino: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • San Bernardino National Forest: Enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and numerous other outdoor activities in this beautiful national forest.
  • Lake Arrowhead: A beloved vacation spot for both San Bernardino locals and tourists, this lake offers boating, swimming, fishing, and scenic hiking trails.
  • Glen Helen Regional Park: A perfect place for family picnics, featuring playgrounds, a water park, basketball courts, and lovely gardens.
  • Strawberry Peak Fire Lookout: Hike to the top of Strawberry Peak to witness the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Bernardino

San Bernardino offers plenty of hiking and biking routes for adventure enthusiasts, including:

  • Stoddard Peak Trail: A 6.6-mile loop hike with moderate difficulty, taking you through lush forests and valleys.
  • Santa Ana River Trail: A 28-mile bike trail stretching from San Bernardino to Huntington Beach, featuring scenic views of rivers and shores.
  • San Sevaine Trail: A 9.3-mile out-and-back hike with moderate difficulty, leading to the beautiful San Sevaine Peak.
  • Rim of the World Trail: A 20-mile bike trail with awe-inspiring views of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Best Things to Do in San Bernardino: Activities and Tours

Some of the best things to do in San Bernardino include:

  • Visit the California State University, San Bernardino, campus and enjoy art galleries, concerts, and cultural events.
  • Attend a baseball game of the Inland Empire 66ers, a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Los Angeles Angels.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride for a scenic view of San Bernardino and Lake Arrowhead.
  • Go on a food tour and try local delicacies like Mexican street tacos, carne asada fries, or Korean barbecue.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Bernardino

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for your San Bernardino trip:

Day Activity
1 Visit the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum.
2 Hike the San Sevaine Trail.
3. Go on a hot air balloon ride.
4 Visit the Original McDonald’s Site and Museum.
5 Explore Glen Helen Regional Park.
6 Take a food tour to discover local cuisine.
7 Relax and enjoy a game at the San Manuel Casino.

Food and Drink Scene of San Bernardino

San Bernardino’s food and drink scene is known for its diverse international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Carne Asada Fries: A popular local dish with fries, cheese, guacamole, and deliciously seasoned carne asada.
  • Korean BBQ: Savor this marinated grilled meat of your choice served with rice and numerous marinated side dishes such as kimchi and bean sprouts.
  • Mexican Street Tacos: Satisfy your craving for street food with delicious and flavorful tacos made with fresh and spicy salsa and traditional toppings.

Local Beverages

  • Big Bear Lake Brewing Company: Enjoy local craft beer along with their famous Mexican food in a cozy, art-filled environment.
  • Myung Ga Korean Restaurant and Market: Try a traditional Korean rice beverage, Makgeolli, at this popular restaurant.

Where to Stay in San Bernardino: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are our top picks for hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in San Bernardino:

  • Hilton Garden Inn San Bernardino: A luxurious hotel with a beautiful outdoor pool.
  • Best Western Plus Arrowhead Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel with cozy rooms and free breakfast.
  • Rodeway Inn San Bernardino: A comfortable and affordable motel for an overnight stay.

What to Buy in San Bernardino: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

San Bernardino offers several unique souvenirs and local products that you can bring home as a souvenir, including:

  • Route 66 memorabilia: You can find keychains, t-shirts, and posters inspired by the famous Route 66.
  • Citrus fruits: San Bernardino was once known for citrus fruits, and you can still find delicious oranges and lemons at local farmers’ markets.
  • Spitz seeds: a beloved local snack, sunflower seeds that are roasted and flavored with a combination of lemon juice, salt, and cayenne pepper.

Local Culture and Customs of San Bernardino

San Bernardino is a diverse city with a mix of cultures and customs. The city is home to many Mexican, Korean, and Chinese communities. While English is the most widely spoken language, many people speak Spanish and Korean.

Best Time to Visit San Bernardino

San Bernardino weather is mostly mild with warm and sunny summers and mild winters. The best time to visit San Bernardino is between April and October, when the weather is pleasant, and the outdoor activities and festivals are at their peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Bernardino

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to San Bernardino:

Do:

  • Do bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the bright sun.
  • Do try the local and international cuisine.
  • Do bring your hiking and outdoor gear for exploring the scenic trails and natural parks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or pollute the environment.
  • Don’t forget to carry cash, as some food trucks, cafes, or small stores may not accept credit or debit cards.

Safety and Health

Safety in San Bernardino

While San Bernardino has a reputation for crime, proper precautions can enhance your safety in the city. Stay in well-lit areas and avoid deserted streets after dark. It is also advisable not to leave your valuables unattended in public areas.

Health in San Bernardino

San Bernardino has many quality hospitals and healthcare facilities to ensure your well-being while traveling. Standard healthcare precautions like carrying your medication, staying hydrated, and washing your hands regularly are recommended.

Getting to San Bernardino: Transportation Options and Logistics

San Bernardino is well-connected to major highways and airports. Here are some transportation options to get to San Bernardino:

Airports Near San Bernardino

  • Ontario International Airport: 20 miles away from San Bernardino
  • Los Angeles International (LAX): 75 miles away from San Bernardino

Bus Stations Near San Bernardino

  • San Bernardino Transit Center: Connects to several local, regional, and national bus services.

Other Options

  • Metrolink: A commuter rail service that connects San Bernardino to nearby towns and metropolitan areas.
  • Greyhound: A popular bus service connecting San Bernardino to several nationwide destinations.

How to Get Around in San Bernardino

The best way to get around San Bernardino is by car. However, there are several other transportation options, including bikes, buses, and taxis. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.

Where to Go Next from San Bernardino: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations that you can visit from San Bernardino:

  • Palm Springs: Known for its hot springs, spas, and historic mid-century architecture.
  • Joshua Tree National Park: Discover stunning rock formations and scenic nature trails in this rugged national park.
  • Disneyland: One of the best family destinations in California, with an iconic theme park and several attractions.

Conclusion

San Bernardino is a fascinating city with plenty of attractions, outdoor activities, and a diverse food and drink scene. This comprehensive tour guide can help you plan your perfect San Bernardino trip, from exploring historical landmarks and scenic trails to discovering local cuisine and culture.

San Bernadino City Hall San Bernadino City Hall