San Dimas Travel Guide

Explore the breathtaking beauty and fascinating culture of San Dimas with this comprehensive travel guide featuring hiking trails, natural attractions, cultural landmarks, food and drink, and more.


Introduction to San Dimas

Nestled in the picturesque San Gabriel Valley of Southern California, San Dimas is a hidden gem awaiting discovery. With its mild climate, stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and endless recreational possibilities, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an active outdoor adventure, a historic exploration, or a laid-back vacation, San Dimas is the perfect destination.

List of Places to Visit in San Dimas

San Dimas offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to all ages and interests. Some of the must-visit destinations include:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

San Dimas boasts a plethora of historic landmarks and museums that provide an insight into its rich cultural heritage. Some of these attractions include:

  • Pacific Railroad Museum
  • Walker House Museum
  • San Dimas Pioneer Cemetery
  • La Casa Primera de Rancho San Jose

Natural Attractions of San Dimas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

San Dimas is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, including majestic mountains, serene lakes, and verdant forests. Some of the top natural attractions in San Dimas include:

  • Bonelli Regional Park
  • Frank G. Bonelli Park
  • Puddingstone Reservoir
  • San Dimas Canyon Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Dimas

San Dimas is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with numerous trails offering scenic vistas and challenging terrain. Some of the top hiking and biking routes include:

  • San Dimas Canyon Trail
  • Bonelli Regional Park Trails
  • Frank G. Bonelli Park Trails
  • Puddingstone Reservoir Trail

Best Things to Do in San Dimas: Activities and Tours

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions, San Dimas offers a wide array of activities and tours for visitors. Some of these include:

  • Hot Air Balloon Tours
  • San Dimas Farmer’s Market
  • Wine Tasting Tours
  • Rancho Del Diablo Dormido tours

Week-Long Itinerary for San Dimas

Visitors to San Dimas can enjoy a week-long itinerary to ensure they explore the best of San Dimas while they’re in town. Some of the suggested activities by day include:

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Bonelli Regional Park, + Puddingstone Reservoir
Day 2 Pacific Railroad Museum, + Walker House Museum
Day 3 San Dimas Canyon Trail, + San Dimas Canyon Park
Day 4 Hot Air Balloon Tours, + Downtown San Dimas
Day 5 Frank G. Bonelli Park, + Wine Tasting Tours
Day 6 San Dimas Farmer’s Market, + La Casa Primera de Rancho San Jose
Day 7 Cedar Creek Falls, + Breakfast at Norm’s

Food and Drink Scene of San Dimas

San Dimas is a foodie’s paradise, with an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving a variety of cuisines. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in San Dimas include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Carne Asada Fries
  • Fish Tacos
  • Hamburger with homemade aioli sauce
  • Sizzling Fajitas

Local Beverages

  • Brewery tasting at Karl Strauss Brewery
  • Wine tasting at Galleano Winery
  • Craft beer sold at Last Name Brewing

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

San Dimas offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses include:

  • Best Western San Dimas Hotel & Suites
  • Red Roof Inn San Dimas - Fairplex
  • Extended Stay America - Los Angeles - San Dimas

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

San Dimas is renowned for its arts and crafts scene, offering visitors a great opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs and local products. Some of the top items to buy in San Dimas include:

  • Handcrafted pottery and ceramics
  • Artisan soaps and candles
  • Local wines and craft beers
  • Handmade jewelry and accessories

Local Culture and Customs of San Dimas

San Dimas has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated through its art, music, food, and festivals. Visitors to San Dimas should be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit San Dimas

The best time to visit San Dimas is during the spring and fall months when the weather is cool and pleasant. Summer can get quite hot, and winter is the rainy season.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Dimas

Do:

  • Tip 15-20% at restaurants and cafes
  • Observe the local customs and traditions
  • Be respectful to the people and culture of San Dimas

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Engage in any illegal activities

Safety and Health

Safety in San Dimas

San Dimas is a relatively safe city, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take basic precautions against theft and keep their valuable items safe.

Health in San Dimas

San Dimas has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospital and emergency services. Visitors are advised to carry travel insurance that covers potential medical expenses.

Getting to San Dimas: Transportation Options and Logistics

San Dimas is easily accessible via air, road, and public transportation. Some of the transportation options include:

Airports Near San Dimas

  • LA/Ontario International Airport
  • John Wayne Airport
  • Los Angeles International Airport

Bus Stations Near San Dimas

  • Metrolink San Dimas Station
  • Greyhound Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rental services
  • Uber/Lyft

How to Get Around in San Dimas

Getting around the city is easy, with numerous transportation options available. Visitors can use:

  • Public buses
  • Taxis
  • Bicycle rentals
  • Car rental services

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

San Dimas is ideally located near several other amazing destinations in Southern California, including:

  • Los Angeles, California
  • Santa Monica, California
  • Long Beach, California
  • Big Bear Lake, California
  • Joshua Tree National Park

Conclusion

San Dimas truly offers a unique combination of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or history, San Dimas is the perfect place to visit. We hope this comprehensive travel guide helps you plan your trip and make unforgettable memories in San Dimas.