Greater Ontario, CA Visitors Guide 2026

Historic Downtown Ontario

Downtown Ontario offers a walkable mix of history, dining, arts, housing, and community spaces anchored by restored landmarks and year-round events. Blending historic charm with a growing creative and culinary scene, the district is centered around City Hall, the University of La Verne campus, and beautifully revitalized icons like the Bank of Italy and Citrus Motors Ford buildings—now home to rooftop dining, a hidden speakeasy, and local favorites along its pedestrian-friendly streets.

HISTORIC SITES

Preserved architecture includes the Ontario Museum of History & Art, historic post office, Euclid Avenue median, and restored icons like the Bank of Italy and Citrus Ford buildings, which highlight the city’s long legacy of adaptive reuse.

EATS & DRINKS

Enjoy dining and drinks at rooftop bars and speakeasies, plus new cafes, a ramen restaurant, and a brewery—along with cozy coffee shops and smoked favorites from local eateries.

SHOPS

Local boutiques offer decor, vintage finds, apparel, sweets, handcrafted goods, and specialty gifts that celebrate small businesses and creativity.

MODERN LIVING

Discover luxury units with courtyards just steps from amazing restaurants and Town Square, including contemporary mixed-use developments like C-Block.

ARTS & EVENTS

Emporia Arts District, murals, installations, and the Ontario Art Walk complement year-round programming at Ontario Town Square, creating a vibrant hub for culture and community.

Downtown Happenings

Stay up to date on all things Downtown Ontario!

Make the most of any visit by following Downtown Ontario on social media for the latest updates. Discover what’s new in Downtown Ontario and tag your adventures for a chance to be featured.

downtownontario.org @downtownontarioca @downtownontario.doia #DowntownOntario

Welcome to Greater Ontario

Welcome to Greater Ontario, the ultimate home base for your Southern California adventure.

If you’re here for business, welcome to our innovative city, home to the Ontario Convention Center and an international airport that makes getting in and out of SoCal a breeze. (Sorry, LAX!) Or perhaps you’re here with the fam for a few days of fun in the sun. Turn to page 30 for a full list of ways to play in Greater Ontario and beyond.

It’s safe to say that Greater Ontario is having a moment. 2026 is a pivotal year for our region as we welcome a host of new openings and expansions (details on page 14). And since our region is on the verge of big things, it was a great time to freshen up this magazine. This redesigned visitors guide highlights the best of our region, from restaurants (p. 48) and shopping (p. 54) to outdoor activities (p. 24) and annual events (p. 58).

Follow along on our socials to stay in the know on the latest and greatest happenings around Greater Ontario. Spoiler alert: There’s a lot!

Happy travels,

Michael K. Krouse President and CEO, Greater Ontario California (GOCAL)

PRESIDENT/CEO

Michael K. Krouse, CHME, CASE

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Ray Roa, CSEP

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Kelsie Woodward

REGIONAL DIRECTOR FINANCE

David A. Jefferis

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Arlette Garibay

MARKETING MANAGER Sindy Gardea

INDUSTRY RELATIONS

Lorraine Chapman

2000 E. Convention Center Way Ontario, CA 91764

Toll-free: 800-455-5755 / Local: 909-937-3000 Email: info@GO-CAL.org go-cal.org

Stay connected.

BY

WanderlustContentStudio.com @WanderlustContentStudio

Nicole Bordges & Martha-Page Althaus Publishers and Co-Founders nicole@wanderlustcontentstudio.com marthapage@wanderlustcontentstudio.com

Editorial Director Lauren Bonney

Managing Editor LeeAnne Jones

Design Director Michael Youngsma

Business Development Managers

Mary-Clifton Everette, Lisa Magnus

Custom Content Editor Monica Wallis

Photo Editor Jennifer Brazil

Copy Editor Ben Fromson

Cover Illustrator Lucie Rice

Photographer Mike Medby

Greater Ontario California and Wanderlust Content Studio have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of information presented in the guide, but assume no responsibility for errors, changes, or omissions.

36 Take It All In

Where to see art, experience a play, and listen to live music.

38 5 Great Days in Greater Ontario

Discover prepackaged adventure plans for different types of travelers.

48 Greater Ontario à la Carte

No matter the time of day, you’ll find something delicious on offer at local restaurants.

54 The Shopaholic’s Guide

The area’s shopping scene offers something for everyone.

18 Route 66: Mine, Yours, Ours

As the Mother Road turns 100, a Rancho local reflects on its presence in her life.

22 SoCal’s Best Travel Tip

A quick guide to Ontario International Airport.

24 Outside Adventure for All Seasons

Skiing in winter, boating in summer, and many more ideas for seasonal fun.

30 8 Ways to Play

Where to putt, swing, jump, and fly nearby.

58 Save the Date

Don’t miss signature events happening each month in Greater Ontario.

60 Get Together

Go big with your event at the Ontario Convention Center.

62 Great Stays

With more than 6,000 rooms, you’ll find one perfect for your stay.

66 Ride the GOAT

Discover a new hybrid and electric shuttle service.

U.S. Bank

U.S. Bank is proud to serve as the Official Bank Partner of Toyota Arena and Ontario Convention Center, two iconic landmarks bringing energy, connection, and opportunity to the Inland Empire. Together, U.S. Bank and the community are fueling what makes this region truly exceptional: its people, its culture, and an unstoppable spirit of growth, progress, and innovation. From unforgettable concerts and community events to the conventions that power local businesses and creativity, these venues embody the heartbeat of the IE. Through partnership, U.S. Bank is investing in the moments and relationships that move the community forward—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

usbank.com

@usbank

It All Starts Here

For a Southern California adventure, Greater Ontario is your ultimate Point A.

Welcome to Greater Ontario, California, the heart of Southern California’s Inland Empire. Or in other words, the ultimate Point A! You’re just pages away from discovering why Ontario is the perfect home base for a Southern California visit. For starters, the Ontario International Airport (ONT) makes it easier than ever to get in and out of SoCal. A variety of hotels offer great value in a safe, welcoming environment. World-class shopping awaits at two major shopping centers. And if your itinerary calls for a day trip to one of Ontario’s neighbors, you’ll find that it’s an easy drive to Disneyland

Resort, Big Bear Lake, Laguna Beach, Palm Springs, downtown LA, and more. Long story short: You could be hiking in Big Bear, posing with Mickey at Disneyland, or surfing Laguna’s legendary waves in just an hour’s drive from Greater Ontario.

When you come to Ontario, you get the conveniences of an innovative big city with the historical charm of Rancho Cucamonga. The two cities share a border and you often don’t even realize when you’ve crossed one town limit into the next. Nestled against the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, Rancho Cucamonga is affectionately known as “the city of trees,” and for good reason. The city’s landscape is dotted with swaying palms, stately oaks, and vibrant jacarandas. The vibe is decidedly more relaxed and residential here, in an area that boasts a rich history.

Ready to plan your Inland Empire adventure? Turn the page!

Go for a Drive:

Inland Empire

Awaits

Did You Know?

The Inland Empire is the 12th-largest metropolitan area in the United States (based on population).

Road Trip

Head east from Los Angeles and discover an area full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Encompassing Riverside and San Bernardino counties, the Inland Empire is home to scenic alpine settings (Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, and Idyllwild), picturesque wine country (Temecula), sprawling cities (Riverside and San Bernardino), and desert landscapes (Mojave).

There’s no bad time to explore the Inland Empire. Winter brings snow-filled fun in Big Bear, from snowboarding to tubing. After the snow melts, the poppies grow bright in natural areas all over the region. Lake life reigns supreme in the summer— find your favorite lake, rent a pontoon or drop a line, and savor the sunshine. Fall colors are on majestic display in the area’s surrounding mountain ranges, and the

hiking is just as spectacular. And best of all? Thanks to the Inland Empire’s central location in Southern California, all of these places are within an easy drive of one another.

Get your bearings at the California Welcome Center in Ontario Mills, then head out on the highway to explore. You never know where the road will take you.

By the

Numbers

By LeeAnne Jones

How does Greater Ontario add up?

Here are some

fun facts and figures.

664

Length, in feet, of the Prado Dam Bicentennial Mural, completed in 1976 and deemed the largest patriotic mural in the United States. Clearly visible from State Route 91, it is also considered the gateway to the Inland Empire.

7,200,000

Year the Southern California Fruit Exchange is established in Claremont. In 1907, an advertising campaign begins marketing their oranges as “sunkist,” which ultimately becomes the name of the company.

1893

Number of passengers traveling through Ontario International Airport in 2005, the airport’s peak traffic year. Numbers are currently trending back up, with 2024 surpassing 7 million.

80,500

Dollars that a Sam Maloof–designed walnut and ebony rocking chair achieved at a Bonhams Los Angeles auction in 2012, a record for such a piece from the area’s most famous artist.

86

Number of episodes of Workaholics, a Comedy Central sitcom that ran from 2011 to 2017. Its plot revolves around three roommates who are coworkers at a Rancho Cucamonga–based telemarketing company.

12

Year the Temperance Fountain was dedicated on Euclid Avenue and C Street in Ontario. These fountains encouraged abstinence from alcohol by providing clean, safe, and free drinking water to the public.

Number of life-size nativity scenes on display along Ontario’s Euclid Avenue from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. The Christmas tradition dates to 1958. 1908

30

Number of theater screens at AMC Ontario Mills, which was the largest multiplex in the world when it opened in 1996. (Several others have since tied its 30 screens.)

4,500,000

Square feet of Amazon’s largest U.S. warehouse, which opened in Ontario in July 2024. The six-story building employs more than 2,000 people—and 7,000 robots— and can process as many as one million shipments per day.

22,000

Number of native plants at the 86-acre California Botanic Garden in Claremont, the largest garden dedicated to the state’s flora.

A new Minor League Baseball team headlines several exciting new developments.

Coming Soon

By Casey Cantrell

The future looks bright in Greater Ontario, with expanded venues, new sports teams, refurbished trail systems, and more.

If You Build It …

Ontario isn’t just getting a new baseball field; it’s getting an empire. In March 2026, Ontario Sports Empire launches with the opening of ONT Field, the 6,000-seat home of new single-A Los Angeles Dodgers affiliate, the Ontario Tower Buzzers. Then in October 2026, additional recreational facilities and fields open: 20 long fields (soccer/ lacrosse), 8 full-size baseball diamonds, 14 youth diamonds, and 8 football/rugby fields. At nearly 200 acres, it will be the largest sports complex of its kind west of the Rockies.

Beyond Ball

Just steps away from the action at ONT Field and the Ontario Sports Empire, athletes and fans will certainly make use of Stadium Village. The hospitality and entertainment development will include a 227-room full-service hotel, a retail and dining district, and public spaces for events and community activities.

Enter the Arena

Already home to the 11,000seat Toyota Arena, the Arena District is gearing up to bring even more fun to the region with the development of an entertainment hub rivaling any in SoCal. The expansion, which broke ground in winter

lot and trail system to better accommodate hikers looking to explore a tranquil landscape characterized by sweeping wilderness views and the oasis-like Sapphire Falls.

My Little Soda Pop

Get a unique, behind-thescenes look at the making of a classic soda drink with a tour of the Reyes CocaCola Bottling plant in Rancho Cucamonga—the first new Coca-Cola production facility in California in more than 60 years. After a three-year, $500

million expansion, the facility will reopen in summer 2026.

Speed Racer

The popular jaunt between Los Angeles and Las Vegas is about to become even easier. Debuting in fall 2029, high-speed passenger rail line Brightline West will connect the destinations at 200 mph. With a new station adjacent to Metrolink in Rancho Cucamonga, Greater Ontario visitors and residents can reach the spectacles of the Strip in half the time as driving I-15.

2025, will transform the area into a pedestrian-friendly haven, with nearly 200,000 square feet dedicated to open public space, luxury retail and dining, and event venues—including a 2,500seat performing arts center.

On the Trail Again

After 13 long years, Cucamonga Canyon is set to make its highly anticipated reopening in May 2026. A favorite hiking spot among locals, Cucamonga Canyon was closed to the public in 2013 after social media posts highlighting the area went viral, sparking an overwhelming boom in popularity. To address issues of overcrowding and safety, the city of Rancho Cucamonga built a new parking

Stay in the Know

Discover Ontario’s newest places to shop, visit, stay, eat, and drink—plus insider updates on what’s coming next. Follow @OntarioEDA on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to stay inspired and in the know! ontariothinksbusiness.com @ontarioeda

Through Time Travel

By Jordan Fraser

Here’s a crash course on the history of Greater Ontario, featuring its earliest inhabitants and modern economic developments.

1839

Mexico grants Tiburcio Tapia land to plant the area’s first vineyards. His original adobe home no longer stands, but the site (and a newer 1860 home built by John Rains) is now a museum.

1887

Euclid Avenue introduces “gravity mule car” service between the Ontario and Upland train stations. The streetcar runs uphill pulled by two mules (taking 1.5 hours) and downhill coasting with the mules onboard (taking 20 minutes).

1200

1881

Canadian brothers George and William Chaffey establish an agricultural colony and name it Ontario in honor of their homeland. Their eponymous Chaffey College is California’s oldest community college.

Italian immigrant Secondo Guasti establishes one of the most extensive vineyards in the Cucamonga Valley. His estate is a cultural hub, offering ItalianAmericans a slice of Tuscany in SoCal.

1891

Ontario incorporates as a city.

Indigenous villages occupy what’s now the Red Hill neighborhood of Rancho Cucamonga. The city’s name is believed to derive from the Tongva word kukamonga, meaning “sandy place.” 1901

1923

Friends and aviators Waldo Waterman and Archie Mitchell establish an airstrip called Latimer Field and begin offering passengers flight tours around the area. It eventually evolves into Ontario International Airport, with the first commercial flight occurring in 1949.

1994

The Rancho Cucamonga Metrolink station opens, serving regional commuters on the San Bernardino line.

1997

The Ontario Convention Center opens, considered the first “smart” center in the U.S. with fiber optic ports in the exhibit hall and full video conferencing in meeting rooms.

1913

The newly expanded Pacific Electric Railway helps farmers ship produce and connects the region with greater Los Angeles.

1977

Rancho Cucamonga incorporates as a city on November 30.

1996

Amid a rise of suburban population and infrastructure, Ontario Mills mall opens, boasting more than 200 retailers and restaurants.

2008

What is now known as Toyota Arena opens in Ontario. With 11,089 spectators at full capacity, it is the largest and most modern arena in the Inland Empire.

Mine, Yours, Ours Route 66

By Sue Oxarart

In my neighborhood, the famous Mother Road, Route 66, is known as Foothill Boulevard.

It is my local road, the main drag, and has been a part of my life for seven decades.

It is where family vacations started and ended, and for me it symbolizes the importance of heading out on the road.

Driving north from downtown Ontario, you come to the intersection of Euclid Avenue and Foothill Boulevard where a Madonna of the Trail statue stands. She is a tribute to the pioneer women who established permanent homes after surviving the grueling

wagon journeys west—and one of 12 such monuments along the National Old Trails Road, part of which became Route 66. From this intersection, you have an intriguing choice: Head west toward the ocean or east toward the desert.

Since it was established 100 years ago, Route 66 has become an icon, and visitors from all over the world come to experience portions of its 2,450-mile, eight-state journey from Chicago to Los Angeles. There are myriad historic and nostalgic stops (more than 250 on the National Register of Historic Places)

Celebrate the Centennial

Every autumn, the Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion transforms downtown Ontario into a car-lover’s dream— and it will be extra special for the road’s big anniversary. Head to Euclid Avenue to view 1,000 classic cars, from Model Ts to hot rods, plus listen to live music and shop from car-culture vendors. Info at gocalevents.org.

yard. Stopping by the historic Cucamonga Service Station on Route 66, restored and operating as a museum, was a unique opportunity to engage in conversations with people discovering the area’s history and creating their own memories on a roadway that many of us locals take for granted. Here, you walk in a stranger and leave as an old friend, having passed the time reminiscing about the good old days.

Route 66 in Rancho Cucamonga

Visit the historic attractions along the local stretch of the Mother Road.

Cucamonga Service Station

Built in 1915, this landmark was restored in 2015 to its butter-yellow Richfield station look from the 1930s and is open to the public as a museum.

nestled amid contemporary centers of commerce. Along the seven-mile stretch in Rancho Cucamonga, where I live, you can find restaurants, shops, hotels, and entertainment venues, plus historic gas stations, hiking trails, and wineries.

Recently, some out-of-state guests allowed me to serve as a tour guide in my own back-

From there, we headed to the Pacific Electric Trail and Route 66 Trailhead Park, where historical displays can be found as well as a small stretch of the original road. Needless to say, a lot of photos are taken walking on this piece of history and capturing the nearby Route 66 overpass emblazoned with classic cars on one side and the eight route-hosting states on the other. Several other spots are nearby, including a building remaining from Thomas Winery, the first registered winery in the state of California.

Magic Lamp Inn

The kitschy steak house—easy to spot with its epic neon signage—first opened in 1955. Come for the filet mignon and stay for the music of Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley.

Sycamore Inn

Started in the mid-1800s as a stagecoach stop, this historic inn turned steak house serves up a famous minestrone and offers a porch view of the highway.

Vince’s Spaghetti

The Route 66 location of this regional restaurant chain opened in 1945 and still serves generous plates of pasta in its wine barrel–decorated dining room.

Thomas Winery

CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: ROUTE 66 SIGN ON FOOTHILL BOULEVARD; MADONNA OF THE TRAIL STATUE; MAGIC

INN; FERRIS WHEEL AT ROUTE 66 REUNION; CRUISING AT ROUTE 66 REUNION; CLASSIC CAR AT ROUTE 66 REUNION; THOMAS WINERY PLAZA

From its classic shield-shape road sign to the 1940s song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66,” the Mother Road has become a state of mind and a catchphrase for travelers everywhere. This year, on its 100th anniversary, celebrations provide a call to action: Get out there, choose your adventure, and make memories on the road. You’ll see me driving by.

California’s oldest winery, established in 1839, is no longer in operation. But you can visit its historic buildings, now housing shops and cafes, as well as some artifacts, at Thomas Winery Plaza.

Pacific Electric Trail

The 21-mile multiuse walking, cycling, and horseriding trail runs along the former Pacific Electric Railway corridor. At the Route 66 Trailhead Park, a small stretch of the historic road is preserved.

SoCal’s Best Travel Tip

A quick guide to Ontario International Airport, including where to park your car and what to do before you depart.

By Jordan Fraser

Ontario International Airport (ONT) is Southern California’s answer to travelers seeking convenience and comfort without the chaos and congestion of other LA-area airports. ONT is a modern hub with plenty of gate-side amenities, plus nonstop flights to 30 destinations, including New York, Taipei, Las Vegas, and Guadalajara. Significant upgrades are underway— including two additional TSA screening lanes—so you can get where you want to be more efficiently and enjoyably.

Getting To and From

To ease your arrival, ONT offers seemingly endless options. On-site parking lots, including two with free electric vehicle charging stations, are available for discounted prebooking, as is curbside valet for the ultimate convenience. The rental car center houses 10 major providers, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis, and a courtesy shuttle runs every five to 20 minutes to the terminal. Rideshares, taxis, and limousines are also readily accessible; just follow the appropriate signage. For local drivers, timing the perfect airport pickup is easy, thanks to the cell phone waiting lot along

John Bangs Drive. If you prefer public transportation or are connecting from the Metrolink, the ONTConnect shuttle service is comfortable, with ample space for luggage.

On-Site Amenities

Shop, play, explore, and more, all while staying connected with complimentary Wi-Fi. Forgot headphones?

Pop into 3Sixty for lastminute essentials, then fill up a reusable bottle at one of 16 hydration stations. Dining options range from classic chains—no airport is complete without an Einstein Bros. Bagels—to local favorites such as Brewery X, where the pub fare pairs perfectly with a craft beer or seltzer. Young travelers can burn off some energy in

the play area, while nursing stations offer parents comfort and privacy. In Terminal 4, time flies thanks to the California Science Center’s rotating digital exhibits. Or skip it all and head straight to the lounge; ONT has two full-service Aspire lounges and a 10,000-squarefoot USO lounge. But what really sets it apart is the ONT+ Visitor Pass Program, which allows vetted visitors to access post-security areas and amenities without a boarding pass. Who said the days of accompanying your loved one to the gate were over forever?

Outside Adventures for All Seasons

Skiing in winter, boating in summer, and many more ideas for seasonal fun in Greater Ontario’s great outdoors.

By Michael Dean Clark

Southern California’s wonderful weather makes outdoor adventures possible yearround. Enjoy a walk through wildflowers, a paddle across a reservoir, or a race down a mountain in an inner tube. Here are some ideas for each season.

Winter

When snow arrives, the closest place to reach it is 10,000-foot Mount San Antonio, better known as “Mount Baldy.”

Visitors to the Mt. Baldy resort, a 45-minute drive from the Greater Ontario area, can ski and snowboard down 26 trails while younger visitors tube and sled in a kids’ play area. (Return in summer to ride a thrilling zip line, accessed from the resort’s Sugar Pine lift.)

There is lodging at the resort, but booking early is a must.

With approximately 4,000 feet of elevation gain and rocky terrain, hiking Ontario Peak isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s an

excellent winter hike for those up for the challenge. Accessed via the Ice House Canyon trailhead, the route is approximately 13 miles round trip and traverses steep inclines and creeks. At higher elevations, snow and ice provide additional challenges, so be sure to have traction gear in your bag. But the summit, while you rest your legs atop one of the boulders, rewards with snow-dusted panoramic views.

Spring

People love getting out and active in the North Etiwanda Preserve, a 1,200-acre conservation area protecting native sage scrub and the coastal California gnatcatcher (a small gray songbird). Follow the main trail, a moderately challenging 3.4-mile loop around the preserve. You may spot blooming wildflowers like blue ceanothus and yellow clematis. Then, head north from the preserve sign to Etiwanda Falls Trail, a rocky 3.2-mile out-and-back hike that follows East Etiwanda Creek and leads to a lovely waterfall.

For urban hiking, the Pacific Electric Inland Empire Trail is a good choice. Following the path of the former electric railway, the wide, mostly paved route cuts 19 miles through Upland and Rancho Cucamonga, welcoming foot and bike traffic. Traverse Upland’s downtown (on Saturdays, make a stop at the farmers market), through Rancho Cucamonga’s Central Park, and past the historic Isle House and Etiwanda Pacific Electric Depot. In spring, keep an eye out for jacaranda trees bursting with purple blooms.

Celebrating the Dog Days

All Year

When it’s time to entertain four-legged family members, Ontario’s James R. Bryant Dog Park offers separate areas for large and small dogs, shade, natural grass, and agility equipment. The Bark at Central Park in Rancho Cucamonga boasts generous open space, off-leash play, and beautiful views of the San Gabriels. And if your dog enjoys dressing up, put Upland’s annual Dogtoberfest on your calendar.

At mealtime, give your dog a seat at the table. In Rancho, the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar and King’s Fish House both have pet-friendly patios. For more economical fare, the burgers at Farmer Boys in Ontario has you covered. And if the occasion calls for a smaller, local place, let Molly’s Souper in Upland fill your bowl.

Summer

Locals know CucamongaGuasti Regional Park is the place to go when summer heats up. The 150-acre outdoor space is home to a swim complex with waterslides, a splash pad, two lakes for fishing, shaded picnic areas, and play structures. From volleyball matches to sitting in the shade to walking the concrete paths that weave through it all, the park offers a space for every visitor.

For a farther-flung getaway with even more water play, head 40 miles to the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains and 3,300-acre Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area. The small reservoir has two designated swimming areas with beaches plus a marina for launching boating,

waterskiing, and fishing fun. (Creative planning tip: Three of the picnic areas can only be reached by boat!) While there, pop into the Nature Center to see artifacts from the area’s Indigenous civilizations and learn about local wildlife, or pitch a tent at any of the 136 campsites for a longer stay.

Fall

Autumn is the season to visit the Sam Maloof House, a hand-built Craftsman-style house at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains that blends with 5.5 acres of surrounding gardens. The grounds feature large palms, olive trees, and Japanese maples wearing bright fall colors. Book a tour and check out the home and gardens, now a museum displaying the distinctive woodworking and furniture designs of its namesake.

Explore the mountains more directly just to the north by taking on Cucamonga Peak. The path climbs past bighorn sheep and a deserted gold and copper mine to an 8,862-foot peak with spectacular views of the valley below. Described as “tough but not brutal,” the hike is 12 miles round trip, and getting an early start is strongly encouraged. Look for vibrant colors through Ice House Canyon, where oaks and maples show off in late October.

Where to putt, swing, jump, and fly nearby.

By Michael Dean Clark

Find your fun, from lowstakes games like pickleball and mini golf to adrenaline rushes like go-karts and indoor skydiving.

In a Pickle

Pickleball is an undeniable smash with plenty of places to play. The Westwind Community Center in Ontario and Red Hill Community Park in Rancho Cucamonga offer free access and beautiful views. Or, for a fee, book a court and some lessons at Upland Arena Pickleball

Tee Time

Tucked away in southern Ontario, Whispering Lakes

Golf Course has broad, walkable fairways lined with trees. Warm up at the range, then swing away on the 18-hole, par-71 course that challenges players of all skill levels.

Putting Around

If all you want from golf is the greens, Bullwinkle’s in Upland offers three themed mini-golf courses indoors and out. Bring the family and make a day of it: The center also offers laser tag, bumper boats, and batting cages.

Green Light

For more driven visitors, K1 Speed’s highperformance electric go-karts offer a chance to live out racing dreams. The facility’s two indoor asphalt tracks blend winding paths with hairpin turns to make the competition fast and fun.

Pins and Pixels

Bowling alleys have evolved for adult patrons, striking a balance between lanes and other diversions. At Big Al’s in Ontario, bowling and arcade games blend with a sports bar feel, while Punch Bowl Social in Rancho Cucamonga adds karaoke, tabletop games, and hangout vibes.

On Skates

Take a twirl on the ice—or at least pull yourself around the perimeter wall. Both the Ontario Ice Skating Center, a community fixture for more than half a century, and the NHL-size rink at Ontario’s Center Ice Arena host public skating sessions, figure skating lessons, and hockey matches.

Take Flight

Trampolines not high-altitude enough? At the Ontario location of iFly, you can don a suit, helmet, and goggles, and float in the air amid the upward winds of powerful fans. It feels like sky diving without the whole jumping from an airplane thing.

House of Bounce

Sky Zone Trampoline Park is a great stop for kids big and small with energy to burn. From trampoline dodgeball to a freestyle bouncing section to a ninja warrior–style obstacle course to a zip line, time spent there is perpetual motion.

All In Take It

Where to see art, experience a play, and listen to live music.

By Michael Dean Clark

There’s a venue nearby offering something entertaining, whether you’re into intimate theater productions, bombastic arena shows, or the card table at a casino.

Art & Museums

Ontario is home to two spaces dedicated to collecting, exhibiting, and advancing regional art: the Ontario Museum of History & Art, housed in the former 1937 city hall building, and the Chaffey Community Museum of Art. Additionally, the Wignall Museum of Contemporary Art in Rancho Cucamonga hosts a variety of free annual exhibitions by working artists. All three offer free admission.

Live Music

With more than 11,000 seats, the Toyota Arena in Ontario gives concertgoers the spectacle of a big show in a midsize venue (and also hosts home games for Ontario Reign hockey and Empire Strykers soccer). In the summer, the music scene heads outdoors at a number of public venues. The Ontario Summer Concert Series presents weekly performances on Wednesdays at Town Square and Thursdays at Celebration Park. A variety of free shows are also offered through the Upland Lemon Festival, Upland Moonlight Movies & Music in Magnolia Park, and the Rancho Cucamonga Summer Concerts at Red Hill Park.

Stage Shows

Part of the Victoria Gardens Cultural Center, Lewis Family Playhouse hosts concerts, comedy shows, and

theatrical productions yearround in an intimate 560-seat venue. For comedy, Ontario Improv is the go-to spot for seeing established comedians and discovering up-andcomers. And for more drama, Chaffey College Theatre in Rancho Cucamonga stages productions and concerts throughout the year.

Gaming & Entertainment

About 30 miles east is the highly rated Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, which hosts big names in music and comedy including Pitbull, Tim McGraw, and Leslie Jones. Another 35 miles southeast will land you at Morongo or Soboba, both popular destinations for gambling as well as concerts.

5

in Greater Ontario Great Days

By Jordan Fraser

Choose your own adventure with our curated plans for different types of travelers.

Whether you’re here on a family vacation, in town solo for a work conference, or a local seeking some new adventures, these itineraries will give you plenty of ideas for fun.

Looking for More Fun?

Family and Friends

Traveling with kids? You’ll find something to entertain every age—adults, too— on this activitypacked day.

MORNING:

Hit the ground running with a visit to the Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center for a hands-on dive into nature and history (including fossils) or have some family competition at Bullwinkle’s in Upland. With go-karts, bumper boats, and mini golf, there is no shortage of ways to keep score.

AFTERNOON:

Imagine not having to order lunch at just one place! Choose from more than 30 food stalls at Haven City Market in Rancho Cucamonga, then grab a table together to listen to live music or play trivia games. If a picnic is more your

speed, get your food to go and head three miles away to Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park, where paddleboats, playgrounds, and picnic tables abound. On warmer days, its splash pad for kids is especially inviting. Then, pop over two blocks to satisfy your sweet tooth at Logan’s Candies Candy canes are just the tip of the 600-variety sugar iceberg at this familyowned confectionery.

EVENING:

The food and decor are both larger than life at the Rainforest Cafe, where you can leave Ontario to dine in the jungle without worrying about mosquitoes or airfare. Post-dinner entertainment options also at the Ontario Mills mall include Dave & Buster’s and an AMC movie theater, so you can enjoy the whole night without having to repark the car. For a more bespoke evening, check out the events calendar at Ontario Town Square, which hosts concerts, farmers markets, and movies throughout the year.

Business Travelers

Shut the laptop and hit the town. Greater Ontario has no shortage of activities and restaurants catering to solo and group travelers.

MORNING:

After fueling up at Klatch Coffee in Rancho Cucamonga (try the iced honey latte), start the day with a cultural experience at the Ontario Museum of History & Art The permanent exhibition Gem of the Foothills offers a unique look at how Ontario’s community and landscape evolved from the Indigenous Tongva people to the logistical hub of the Inland Empire.

AFTERNOON:

If you’re feeling lucky, head 30 miles east to Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, voted Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas in the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Go for the slots and stay for lunch at the 909 sports bar.

With more than 150 screens, 78 seats for bar-top gaming, and 32 craft beers on tap, it’s a great place to hide away or make new friends. If gambling’s not your thing, take a swing at Topgolf or strike some pins at Big Al’s Complete with food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere, both venues take their respective sports of golf and bowling to the next level.

EVENING:

For a refined dinner, head to Paul Martin’s American Grill, where chatting to the barfly in the neighboring stool pairs perfectly with a medium-rare filet mignon.

(Check out the steak toppings such as truffle butter.) Plus, the bar is known for its cocktails.

Cap the night off with a live comedy show at Ontario Improv, which hosts an almost nightly calendar of big names and up-and-comers, or at a hockey game at Toyota Arena, home of the Ontario Reign AHL team.

History Buffs and Nostalgia Seekers

Go back in time with the area’s iconic early eateries, a hidden architectural gem, and an exhibit of military aircraft.

MORNING:

There’s no better start to a historical tour of Ontario than breakfast at throwback diner the Iron Skillet. Its oversize specials include The Ontario Airport: three eggs, two French toast triangles, two pancakes, bacon, ham, sausage, and home fries or hash browns. Located on Euclid Avenue, it’s also the perfect place to start a stroll amid historic homes and public art.

AFTERNOON:

Flight enthusiasts will love the unique vantage point at the intersection of Jurupa Street and Dupont Avenue

for watching planes take off and land at Ontario International Airport

Elevate your experience at Planes of Fame Air Museum in Chino, which houses a collection of nearly 100 aircraft—many restored to flying condition—spanning the earliest days of aviation through World War II and beyond. Visit on a weekend to go inside a Boeing B-17.

EVENING:

Drive by the Paul Williams Building to view the former post office’s Renaissance Revival architecture at golden hour. Then, head seven miles east to sample flights at sunset on the patio of San Antonio Winery, one of California’s oldest wineries. When it’s time for grub, get your fill at 80-yearold Vince’s Spaghetti on historic Route 66, where you can contribute to the 21 tons of spaghetti served each month. On a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, step back in time (and burn off some carbs) on the dance floor at That 80’s Bar. Themed attire strongly suggested.

Savvy Shoppers

Fill your bags with everything from big labels to unique collectibles.

MORNING:

When you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, it’s easy to spend hours at Treasures N’ Junk Antique Mall, a multivendor space packed with vintage furniture, collectibles, and repurposed treasures that reflect the area’s history. Ontario Mills (California’s largest outlet mall) and Montclair Place offer classic shopping experiences, with clothing, housewares, dining, and more, all under one roof. When your appetite’s worked up, stop for a Louisiana-style seafood boil at Pier 88 Boiling Seafood & Bar

AFTERNOON:

Find your edge at Stardust Alley, Upland’s home for horror, rock ’n’ roll, and novelty items. Need another graphic tee? This is the place. The vibes are

complementary next door at Rad Coffee, and the cold brew packs a real punch. Next, scoot over to Gameology for a wide selection of card and board games, collectibles, miniatures, and other great gifts for the gamer in your life. If you time it right, you might even catch an in-store tournament.

EVENING:

Finish the shopping spree at Victoria Gardens, an outdoor center with a boutique feel and national retailers. Find a boho-chic top at Free People, a belt bag at Lululemon, or a ceramic GreenPan in an exclusive color at Williams Sonoma. When you’re ready for dinner, choose from 46 distinct dining options. Or just treat yourself to something sweet: It’Sugar has childhood favorites like peach rings and giant jawbreakers as well as treats for more refined palates like chamoy candies or Danish wine gummies.

More

Places to Shop

5

Like Outside Adventure?

Active Adventurers

In Ontario, you can be as active as you want to be. Here are the top ways to break a sweat while exploring.

MORNING:

Start the day with a round of golf at Whispering Lakes Golf Course. Or take a hike; there are plenty of trails. Etiwanda Falls Trail is family friendly with a waterfall payoff and scenic views, while Ice House Canyon rewards with alpine vistas. When you return, indulge in a healthy way with a buildyour-own organic acai bowl from IV Juice Bar

AFTERNOON:

In winter, head for Mt. Baldy ski resort, which has 26 trails reachable by four ski lifts plus a seven-lane tubing park. In summer, head there all the same, and ride the Sugar Pine chairlift to Top of the Notch restaurant for lunch with 7,800-foot views of the Angeles National Forest. (Of course, hiking to the restaurant is an equally viable option, if you’re up for that.)

EVENING:

Back at sea level, take a walk along any stretch of the 20-mile Pacific Electric Trail, which follows the former railway corridor, to see the jacaranda trees and historical markers. Better yet, rent an electric bike to cover more ground. If the weather’s not prime for enjoying the outdoors, go vertical at Hangar 18, where indoor rock climbing is accessible to all skill levels. Then, head over to Heroes Restaurant & Brewhouse for a wellearned dinner. Try the Philly cheesesteak and a housebrewed beer (the Boxcar Blonde is a crowd favorite).

Ontario à la Carte

By Ethan Fletcher

No matter the time of day, you’ll find something delicious on offer at Greater Ontario’s restaurants.

Chic rooftop dinners?

Charming outdoor brunch destinations? Hidden lunch gems? The dining scene offers all that and more in Greater Ontario, which is home to a wonderfully diverse range of bites to satisfy any craving. Here’s your all-day guide to noshing around town, along with tips from popular local foodie and influencer Joel Greene, aka the “Inland Empire Explorer.”

Breakfast Bonanza

Comforting classics to Instagram-able innovations

Located in a charming historic home in downtown Upland with ample patio dining, old-school Molly’s Souper serves up affordable, bountiful portions of down-home breakfast staples such as chicken-fried steak and eggs smothered in country-style gravy. Chilaquiles and micheladas tip the Oaxacan influence at Gina’s Kitchen, which also delivers

Joel Greene’s pick: Nashville hot chicken Benedict at Popping Yolk Café in Ontario

“Juicy, spicy, and packed with flavor, this

dish

is unlike anything I’ve ever had.”

traditional brunch staples in an airy Rancho Cucamonga setting. Just down the street, the mimosa, margarita, and coffee flights liven up the contemporary brunch offerings at Haven Haus Cafe. In Ontario, the new Scrambler’s Cafe offers a fun Hawaiian twist on breakfast that includes kalua pork omelets and ubecoconut pancakes, while Take Ur Seat Too lures a.m. diners with its ethereal cloud pancakes and photo-worthy Asianinfluenced brunch specialties.

Global Lunch

Scratch-made Italian to soulful Peruvian

Craving Asian? The chicken katsu sandwich with kimchi butter at Shootz is the main draw inside Ontario’s Rodeo X Public Market; Vietnamese pho stars at Bone & Broth in east Ontario; and Get Sum Dim Sum prepares traditional Chinese dim sum six days a week on the west side. Housemade items such as pasta and porchetta fill the menu at Pinwheel Pasta, a hidden gem tucked just off I-210 in Rancho Cucamonga. Authentic Peruvian dishes such as lomo saltado are made with love at Picante in Ontario, while Upland’s Belgian gastropub the Back Abbey fries up traditional fish and chips that can be enjoyed with hardto-find European ales. Can’t

decide? Upscale poutine at the Kroft and Korean stir-fried rice cake at Jaws Topokki are just two of the lunch options at Haven City Market, a food hall with an array of 30-plus vendors in Rancho Cucamonga’s Civic Center Plaza

Joel Greene’s pick:

Cuban sandwich at Calle Ocho Cuban Cafecito in Rancho Cucamonga

“This

is the real deal: crispy golden bread, tender meats, cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed to perfection. Every bite takes you straight to the heart of Miami. And don’t even get me started on the Cuban coffee!”

Joel Greene’s pick:

60-day dry-aged rib eye burger at the Cut Modern American Eatery & Bar in Rancho Cucamonga

“It’s one of the most sublime bites I have ever had. This is not just a burger—it’s an experience.”

Discerning Dinner

Family fun to date night

Enjoy a prime rib with all the fixings at Rancho Cucamonga’s historic Sycamore Inn Prime Steakhouse, a way station for hungry travelers along Route 66 since 1848 and a time capsule back to the area’s pioneering roots. For a trendier setting, head east to the Durango Cocina and Rooftop, which pairs contemporary Mexican dishes such as bone-in morita-glazed short ribs with sweeping views atop the Sanctity Hotel. (You can also order tacos off the casual bar menu.) Similarly, Kulturas Latin Kitchen & Cantina and PV’s Prime Grill & Tequila deliver upscale Latin food, drinks, and flair in stylish digs. For something more casual, kids and adults can enjoy bowling, arcade games, and massive platters of nachos at Big Al’s. Level up family pizza night with the Parlor Pizzeria’s gorgeous Sicilian-style deep dish pies. And silverware is optional for the fall-off-the-bonetender barbecue smoked low and slow at Oak & Ember

Chef Says

Ivo De

Gioia of Guido’s

Argentinian Italian Pizza & Deli

Ivo De Gioia doesn’t consider himself a chef by title, but rather “a highly experienced and passionate cook, with a strong foundation in cooking techniques and years of hands-on experience.” For that, he credits one person above all. “Much of my knowledge comes from observing and learning from my mother.”

His mom, Marisa Furno, was born, raised, and attended culinary school in Argentina. She then brought her passion for Argentinian comfort food to the United States, first with a home catering business and later, in 2014, when she purchased Guido’s, a popular Italian deli in Rancho Cucamonga.

De Gioia began working at the deli at age 17, where he received a crash course in both perfecting Guido’s old favorites—cheese raviolis, Italian subs, pepperoni pizza—as well as his mother’s new recipes. Those include ground beef empanadas, a choripán sandwich with Argentinian sausage and chimichurri sauce, and the signature fugazzeta: a six-pound, Argentinian-style, deep-dish pie stuffed with mozzarella and topped with caramelized onions.

Having just turned 30, De Gioia continues to hone his craft with the expectation of eventually carrying on his mother’s legacy in a community he loves.

“I’ve spent countless hours experimenting, watching cooking shows, reading about culinary techniques, and studying the work of various chefs,” he says. “We’ve built relationships with many generations of families and watched each other grow along the years.”

Delectable Dessert

DIY popsicles to fresh candy canes

Authentic French crepes bursting with Nutella, fresh strawberries, sweet honey, and more (plus fresh-squeezed lemonade) await at the Sweet Spot inside the Ontario Mills mall. Customize your own gelato, sorbet, or yogurt popsicle with a variety of dipping and topping options at Popbar, which is open late inside the Haven City Market. The new O’s Ice Cream Shop

scoops out flavors both classic (French vanilla, Rocky Road) and creative (taro, horchata) with a retro, family-friendly feel in historic downtown Upland. Honey-miso croissants and ube Basque cheesecake are among the Asian-tinged sweets made from scratch at Rancho Cucamonga’s +Bake Cafe, while Old Town Baking Company bakes up timeless favorites such as lemon pound cake and rainbow sprinkle cookies.

“If you are looking for a very special, familyrun, authentic candy store experience, check out Logan’s Candies. And grab a sample of an amazing warm candy cane. There’s nothing else like it.”

Let’s Get a Drink

Looking to go out for drinks? Check out these local craft beer and wine makers.

Craft Beer

The Ontario area is an embarrassment of riches for craft beer lovers. In the city proper, try one of Strum Brewing Co.’s fruit-forward beers while listening to live music. Close by, San Clemente–based Left Coast Brewing Co. brings beach vibes to its Ontario location. Rancho Cucamonga’s Hamilton Family Brewery covers the spread from smooth lagers and seltzers to hoppy ales. If it’s a night out with friends, add trivia or karaoke to your tasting at Rowdy’s Brew Co. In Upland, enjoy your beer on the pet-friendly patio of Pro-Five Brewing Company or add a delicious meal at Rescue Brewery and Gastropub

Local Wine

San Antonio Winery’s tasting room and gift shop is a long-time destination for wine lovers. Visitors can walk in and explore wines on the shelves or schedule a tasting on the country-style patio. For locally produced wine, Rancho Cucamonga is home to several family-owned wineries with deep roots in the community. Biane Winery traces its heritage back to the 19th century and is a great setting for a tasting or wedding. Adding a viognier and petite sirah to its offerings, Rancho de Philo Winery has made its award-winning Triple Cream Sherry for more than 50 years in the Rancho Cucamonga Valley. The winery only opens to the public once a year during its annual November sales event.

Raising Cane’s

Chicken Fingers

Raising Cane’s has one love: quality chicken-finger meals. From individual boxes to large group tailgates, Cane’s is serving up hot, fresh chicken and their one-of-a-kind sauce! Order on the Raising Cane’s mobile app or at order.raisingcanes.com @raisingcanes

Mr. Fries Man

Voted a local favorite for a reason, Mr. Fries Man turns comfort food into craveable art—loaded, handcrafted, and made to share. Stop by the Ontario location for bold flavor, good vibes, and fries worth talking about.

mrfriesman.com @mrfriesmanfranchise | @mr_fries_man

The Shopaholic’s Guide to Greater Ontario

By Caitlin Emmett

Looking for sporty sneakers? A beach read? The shopping scene offers something for everyone.

Whatever you’re in need of, you’ll find it locally at a mall or indie shop. Here are but a few examples.

BEST

FOR:

Outdoor Gear

At nearly 180,000 square feet, the Bass Pro Shops store in Rancho Cucamonga has enough inventory to find all you need. Grab a Cabela’s tent, a Daiwa fishing rod, and an Ascend kayak at this one-stop shop.

BEST

FOR:

Gifts for Gals

Browse items from local makers and curators at Rustic & Modern Collective in Upland. Your bestie is sure to love a seasonally themed coco soy candle from Six Pieces Candle Co. along with a card by watercolor artist Jessica Darling Studio.

BEST FOR: Sporty Sneaks

Holy Ground Sneaker Shop in Upland is a sporty shoe lover’s paradise. Head there before exploring the town to try on a wide array of Nikes and Jordans. The store will also buy your new and good-condition kicks if you’re looking for some extra shopping money.

BEST FOR: Band Fan Gear

Upland’s Stardust Alley is the place for all things rock ’n’ roll, including a plethora of band T-shirts. Wear your love for your favorites such as the Smashing Pumpkins, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, and Pink Floyd.

BEST FOR: Good Reads

Newsboy Books in Ontario originally opened in 1957 as a newsstand selling newspapers and magazines. You can still find those here (including vintage copies of National Geographic) along with an eclectic selection of new and old books.

BEST FOR: Cali-Style Hats

Complete your outfit with the right head gear to take on Southern California and beyond at Blvd. 66 in Rancho Cucamonga. There’s trucker and straw hats, fedoras and snap caps, and great pieces from the brand Brixton. New arrivals are stocked weekly.

BEST FOR: Bridal Gowns

Getting married or know someone who is? At LUV Bridal in Rancho Cucamonga, up to five friends can enjoy refreshments in a private suite while the bride finds “the one.” There’s no shortage of designer dresses—from modern and feminine Evie Young to Australian-based Madi Lane— in inclusive sizing, 2 to 28.

BEST FOR: Unique Antiques

At 17,000 square feet, Ontario’s Treasures N’ Junk is the largest antique store in the Inland Empire. It’s been open for more than 50 years and has a bit of everything. Inventory changes constantly, but think comics, timeless pieces, furniture, and old-school signs.

BEST FOR:

Stylish Sunglasses

Rancho Cucamonga Optometric Center isn’t just for reading glasses and prescription lenses. Its robust selection of sunglasses offers something for every style preference, including athletic Oakley, lux Versace, and colorful Spy.

BEST FOR: Makeup

Dependable Macy’s is the area’s go-to for Bobbi Brown cheek highlighter, Urban Decay eye shadow, and MAC lipstick. The Upland location in Colonies Crossroads offers a unique one-story, boutiquesize experience while providing a breadth of products.

BEST FOR:

Permanent Jewelry

Make a commitment to a “forever” bracelet or anklet from So Lovely Jewels in Rancho Cucamonga. Your choice of a solid gold, sterling silver, or gold-filled chain will be customfit and then welded into a closed loop. Other accessories are also available if you’re not ready to take the plunge.

BEST FOR: Kids’ Backpacks

You’ll find great clothing options at Creative Soul in Ontario, but its inventory of backpacks reigns supreme. Get kids geared up with brands like Cookies and Sprayground; both characterinspired prints and solid options are on hand.

Double the Shopping Power

Greater Ontario visitors and locals alike are spoiled with two vibrant shopping destinations within three miles of each other.

Ontario Mills, which opened in 1996, is the only indoor outlet mall in Southern California and boasts more than 200 stores, including Foot Locker, Calvin Klein, and the Disney Store. Just-opened Pop Mart is wildly popular for its Labubu dolls and other mystery-box toys. For refueling, you’ll find food court standards like Sbarro and Hot Dog on a Stick, but Ontario Mills notably offers the last remaining Rainforest Cafe location in the state—a family-friendly restaurant serving up tropicalinspired dishes alongside animatronic animals.

Victoria Gardens in Rancho Cucamonga is a 147-acre open-air shopping center that opened in 2004. The more than 150 retailers and eateries include upscale options such as Williams Sonoma, Rolex, and Anthropologie, while wallet-friendly JCPenney serves as one of its anchors alongside Macy’s. Gear up for the Los Angeles sports scene with caps and jerseys at the Dodgers Clubhouse. Feeling peckish? Treat yourself to a cream puff from Beard Papa’s or a cup of pressed sugar cane and fruit juice from Coastal Cane.

After a long day of shopping, kick up your tired feet and enjoy a movie. Both destinations have on-site AMC Theatres.

Save the Date

JANUARY

Road to California

Quilter’s Conference and Showcase, Ontario

This quilting event includes competitions, classes, lectures, and exhibitions of antique, traditional, art, and modern quilts, plus 225 vendors. road2ca.com

FEBRUARY

CREEP IE

Con

The Inland Empire’s Premier horror and pop-culture convention delivers three full days of spooky fun, celebrity guests, themed panels, vendors, interactive exhibits, food trucks, and photo ops. Dive into immersive experiences that bring the genre to life. creepiecon.com

MARCH

NHRA Winternationals, Pomona

Four days of qualifying and racing make this annual National Hot Rod Association drag race at the Pomona Raceway a fan favorite. nhra.com

APRIL

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, Indio

Spread across two weekends, this massive event includes music from today’s hottest stars, longstanding legends, and emerging performers. coachella.com

National Orange Show Fair, San Bernardino

Started in 1915, this fiveday event celebrates the region’s citrus heritage, featuring a carnival, petting zoo, and live entertainment. nosevents.com

Riverside International Film Festival

The festival includes world premieres of international and independent shorts, comedies, mysteries, and documentaries. riversidefilmfestival.org

Ramona, California’s Official Outdoor Play, Hemet

First performed in 1923, this is not only California’s official outdoor play, it’s the longest continuously running play in North America. ramonabowl.com

Redlands Bike Classic, Redlands

The longest continuously running invitational stage race in the country invites the public to cheer on world-class athletes. redlandsclassic.com

Stagecoach Music Festival, Indio

The three-day country music festival features top bands and recording artists as well as rising stars. stagecoachfestival.com

MAY

LA County Fair, Pomona

The month-long fair is one of the largest in California, with exhibits, festival food, carnival rides, flower and garden shows, and concerts. lacountyfair.com

Comic Con Revolution, Ontario

The more than 350 exhibitors at this event include comic creators and dealers of new and vintage comics, toys, and collectables. comicconrevolution.com

San Bernardino County Fair, Victorville

This nine-day event features concerts, exhibits, animals, a demolition derby, monster trucks, and carnival rides. sbcfair.com

Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival, Temecula

The festival includes earlymorning hot air balloon flights, an evening balloon blow, wine tastings, craft beer, and live music. tvbwf.com

The Backyard, Ontario

At Toyota Arena from May through September, this series offers a variety of live entertainment on the outdoor patio. Dates and artists vary. toyota-arena.com

JUNE

Lavender Festival, Cherry Valley

Each summer, 123 Farm at Highland Springs Ranch & Inn celebrates the beginning of the lavender harvest with workshops, live music, kids’ activities, horse-drawn hayrides, and lavender-infused food and products. 123farm .com/lavender-festival

Ontario

Summer Concerts at Town Square

These free concerts run on various dates in June and July, presenting a variety of musical genres from symphony to rock to pop. ontariotownsquare .org/events

Upland Lemon Festival

Celebrate the region’s citrus heritage with rides, food, crafts, and the Upland’s Got Talent contest in historic downtown. uplandlemonfestival.com

JULY

Big Bear Chili CookOff, Big Bear Lake

A stop on the sanctioned world-qualifying International Chili Society chili cookoff, this event is free to attend with entertainment and activities for all ages. bigbear.com/events

Independence Day Parade, Ontario

The annual patriotic parade features floats, marching bands, walking groups, and equestrian units. ontarioca.gov

Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular, Rancho Cucamonga

Rancho Cucamonga’s fireworks show at LoanMart Field includes patriotic festivities, field games and activities, entertainment, and concessions. cityofrc .us/cityhall/cs/events

Greater Ontario Restaurant Week

Discover the region’s culinary scene over 10 days and two weekends, from mom-and-pop diners to gourmet experiences. gocvb.org/greater-ontariorestaurant-week

Ontario Summer Movies at Town Square

Bring a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy a variety of free family films. ontariotownsquare .org/events

AUGUST

Big Bear Lake Classic Car Show and Fun Run

The Antique Car Club’s fun run features a car show with 500-plus roadsters, classics, antiques, and hot rods lining the streets of Big Bear Village. antiquecarclub.org

City of Rancho Cucamonga Summer Concert Series

Free concerts are held at the Red Hill Community Park Amphitheater on Thursday nights, June–August. Arrive early for a spot. cityofrc.us

SEPTEMBER

Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion, Ontario

Celebrate the famed Route 66 with more than 1,000 classic cars from all over the United States, plus food and fun. Held on historic Euclid Avenue,

this free event is a Southern California favorite. GO-CAL .org/route-66-cruisin-reunion

Oktoberfest, Big Bear Lake

This authentic German celebration runs weekends only for nearly two months, featuring traditional food like bratwurst and apple strudel, music, contests, and, of course, beer. bigbear.com/events/ oktoberfest

OCTOBER

Ontario Festival of the Arts

At this free event, peruse artist exhibits of functional, decorative, and visual art, and enjoy live music and walking tours of historic buildings in downtown Ontario. ontariomuseum.org

San Manuel Pow Wow, San Bernardino

This free, three-day celebration features traditional bird singers and dancers, as well as crafts and cuisine representing tribal nations across North America and Canada. socalpowwow.com

Village Venture Arts & Crafts Faire, Claremont

At this one-day craft extravaganza, browse 400 vendors selling their art, crafts, apparel, and products. claremontchamber.org

NOVEMBER

Founders Day Parade, Rancho Cucamonga

Celebrate the 1977 merging of three communities— Cucamonga, Etiwanda, and Alta Loma—with floats, equestrian units, and marching bands. cityofrc.us

Christmas on Euclid Nativity Scenes, Ontario

A tradition since 1958, a dozen life-size nativity scenes will be displayed on the median of Euclid Avenue, between C and F streets, from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. GO-CAL.org

Festival of Lights, Riverside

Marvel at 5 million holiday lights and 200 lighted and animated figurines at the historic Mission Inn. Named the Best Holiday Lights Display in the Nation by USA Today, the event draws 500,000 people annually. missioninn.com

DECEMBER

Christmas on Euclid Experience, Ontario

Kick off the holiday season with a light parade and treelighting ceremony on the first Saturday of December. Return the second Saturday for craft vendors, snow play, and live music. GO-CAL.org

For more information, specific dates, and a full list of events, visit GO-CAL.org.

Get Together

Go big with your event at the Ontario Convention Center.

When it comes to event planning, the Ontario Convention Center makes thinking big a whole lot easier.

Just a five-minute drive from Ontario International Airport, the hypermodern venue is designed to make your boldest ideas become a reality. Planning a trade show or a major convention? With more than 225,000 square feet of floor space and more than a dozen hotels within walking distance, there’s plenty of room to showcase the best of your industry.

Organizing a sports tournament? The center’s state-of-the-art tech and column-free space mean it can accommodate even Olympic-caliber events. Throwing a gala?

The convention center’s expert event-planning staff—paired with an award-winning catering team—will take it to the next level and help make your celebration unique. Putting together a corporate gathering? Flexible layouts allow for both massive conferences and small breakout meetings and everything in between.

And there’s even more space coming soon.

The center is currently undergoing a major expansion, adding more than 247,000 square feet in new exhibit halls, meeting rooms, and a ballroom, plus a new 600room convention hotel just in time for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Find Your Space

Whether you’re planning a wedding, a corporate meeting, or something even bigger, Greater Ontario has the right venue for you

TOYOTA ARENA

Massive sports and entertainment facility with multiple venues, including the 11,000-seat arena and 36 luxury suites; features on-site catering

Max capacity: 11,089

Total event space: 225,000 square feet indoors, plus 750,000 in the parking lots for outdoor events

VICTORIA GARDENS CULTURAL CENTER

Dynamic, full-service venue with a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a 560-seat performing arts theater; on-site catering offered

Max capacity: 639

Total event space: 12,000 square feet

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HOTEL ONTARIO AIRPORT

Home to the largest ballroom in Ontario, plus several meeting spaces ideal for smaller work gatherings

Max capacity: 2,000

Total event space: 36,727 square feet

DELTA HOTELS ONTARIO AIRPORT

A choice of 15 event rooms equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment

Max capacity: 655

Total event space: 20,546 square feet

RED HILL COUNTRY CLUB

Bucolic, Tuscany-style clubhouse with access to a historic golf course in the heart of Rancho Cucamonga; offers full-service event planning and on-site catering

Max capacity: 200

Total event space: 2,700 square feet

Great

Stays

It’s all about location, location,

location.

Greater Ontario is conveniently located where two interstate freeways meet, making the region a central access point to all of Southern California. In less than an hour in any direction, the area’s scenic mountains, deserts, vineyards, theme parks, and metropolitan areas unfold under a sun-kissed sky.

Whatever your budget—and whether you are visiting for business, attending a convention, or embarking on a family vacation—you’ll find a perfect night’s sleep. There are a variety of options within walking distance to the Ontario Convention Center, located less than two miles from Ontario International Airport. Most hotels offer free shuttle service to and from the airport, and all Greater Ontario hotels offer free parking.

Visit GO-CAL.org to book your room at any of the hotel properties.

Aloft Ontario-Rancho Cucamonga 10480 Fourth St. Rancho Cucamonga 909-484-2018

Ayres Suites Ontario Mills Mall 4370 E. Mills Cir., Ontario 909-481-0703

Azure Hotel Ontario Airport 1945 E. Holt Blvd. Ontario 909-390-7778

Baymont Inn & Suites 1655 E. 4th St., Ontario 909-986-7000

Best Western Ontario Mills Mall 4395 E. Ontario Mills Pkwy. Ontario 909-987-5940

Best Western Plus Heritage Inn Rancho Cucamonga/ Ontario 8179 Spruce Ave. Rancho Cucamonga 909-466-1111

Best Western Plus Ontario Airport 209 N. Vineyard Ave. Ontario 909-937-6800

Comfort Inn & Suites 3333 Shelby Dr. Ontario 909-948-7000

Comfort Suites Ontario Airport 1811 E. Holt Blvd. Ontario 909-605-0700

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson 4674 E. Ontario Mills Pkwy. Ontario 909-204-5365

Country Inn

Ontario 2359 S. Grove Ave. Ontario 909-923-1887

Courtyard by Marriott Ontario/Rancho Cucamonga 11525 Mission Vista Dr. Rancho Cucamonga 909-481-6476

Days Inn Ontario 1405 E. Fourth St. Ontario

Delta Hotel by Marriott 2200 E. Holt Blvd. Ontario 909-975-5000

DoubleTree by Hilton

Ontario Airport

222 N. Vineyard Ave.

Ontario

909-937-0900

Element Ontario

900 Via Piemonte Ontario

909-360-0010

Embassy Suites

Ontario Airport

3663 E. Guasti Rd. Ontario

909-605-0281

Extended Stay America

3990 E. Inland Empire Blvd. Ontario

909-944-8900

Extended Studio

Hotel Ontario 1818 E. Holt Blvd. Ontario 909-391-6033

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, Ontario

Rancho Cucamonga 9550 Pittsburgh Ave. Rancho Cucamonga 909-529-8605

Four Points by Sheraton Ontario-Rancho Cucamonga 11960 E. Foothill Blvd. Rancho Cucamonga 909-204-6100

Hampton Inn & Suites Ontario 4500 E. Mills Cir. Ontario 909-980-9888

Hampton Inn & Suites Ontario

Rancho Cucamonga 11669 Foothill Blvd. Rancho Cucamonga 909-294-5233

Hilton Garden Inn Ontario/Rancho Cucamonga

11481 Mission Vista Dr. Rancho Cucamonga 909-481-1800

Holiday Inn

Express & Suites

Ontario Airport 2280 S. Haven Ave. Ontario 909-930-5555

Holiday Inn

Express & Suites

Ontario Airport-Mills Mall 9589 Milliken Ave. Rancho Cucamonga 909-581-3846

Holiday Inn

Ontario Airport

2155 E. Convention Center Way Ontario 909-212-8000

Homewood Suites by Hilton Ontario/Rancho Cucamonga 11433 Mission Vista Dr. Rancho Cucamonga 909-481-6480

Hotel d’Lins

3400 Shelby St. Ontario 909-466-9600

Hotel Hacienda 2425 S. Archibald Ave. Ontario 909-923-2728

Hotel Seville Ontario 2441 S. Euclid Ave. Ontario 909-983-7721

Hyatt Place Ontario/Rancho Cucamonga

4760 E. Mills Cir. Ontario 909-980-2200

La Quinta Inn & Suites Ontario Airport 3555 Inland Empire Blvd. Ontario 909-476-1112

Lotus Inn

724 S. San Antonio Ave. Ontario 909-988-7969

Mayfair Inn Ontario 1120 E. Holt Blvd. Ontario 909-984-9655

Motel 6 Ontario Airport 1560 E. 4th St. Ontario 909-984-1169

Ontario Airport Inn 1801 E. G St. Ontario

909-983-3600

Quality Inn Ontario Airport Convention Center 514 N. Vineyard Ave. Ontario 909-937-2999

Ramada by Wyndham Ontario 1841 E. G St. Ontario 909-906-7521

Motel 6 Ontario Convention Center 231 N. Vineyard Ave. Ontario 909-347-7902

Ontario Airport Hotel & Conference Center + Hyatt 700 N. Haven Ave. Ontario 909-980-0400

Residence Inn by Marriott Ontario Airport 2025 E. Convention Center Way Ontario 909-937-6788

Residence Inn by Marriott Ontario/Rancho Cucamonga 9299 Haven Ave. Rancho Cucamonga 909-727-8100

Rodeway Inn

Ontario Mills Mall

4075 E. Guasti Rd., Ontario

909-390-8886

Sheraton

Ontario Airport Hotel 429 N. Vineyard Ave. Ontario

909-937-8000

Sonesta Essential 204 N. Vineyard Ave. Ontario

909-937-9700

Spring Hill Suites

Ontario Airport

3595 E. Guasti Rd., Ontario 909-937-5000

SureStay by Best Western

3201 E. Centre Lake Dr. Ontario

909-390-9855

TownePlace Suites by Marriott

Ontario Airport 9625 Milliken Ave.

Rancho Cucamonga 909-466-1100

Travelodge by Wyndham Ontario 1150 N. Grove Ave. Ontario

909-467-3788

Holiday Inn Ontario Airport

Stay, relax, and recharge at Holiday Inn Ontario Airport, where comfort meets convenience. The fully renovated hotel features modern guest rooms, upgraded amenities, a full-service restaurant, versatile meeting spaces, a refreshing pool and spa, and a fitness center. The hotel is at 2155 E. Convention Center Way, near the Ontario International Airport and Ontario Convention Center. Call and book your perfect stay today at 909-212-8000. holidayinnont.com

Introducing GOAT

Launching in January 2026, GOAT (Greater Ontario Area Transportation) is a new electric and hybrid shuttle service delivering visitors between Ontario International Airport and area hotels and destinations. It’s sustainable, free, and easy to use. Book rides in advance or on demand through the GOAT app.

Learn more at ridethegoat.org.

San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County is the premier destination for recreation, housing, and jobs. The county offers countless family-friendly activities, local attractions, business opportunities, and a strong commitment to public safety. The result? An outstanding quality of life for 2.1 million residents! Discover more ways to explore at sbcounty.gov

@sanbernardinocounty | @sbcounty

@sbcountytiktok | @sbcountypio

Omnitrans

Opening this fall, Omnitrans’ sbX Purple Line/West Valley Connector will redefine how the Inland Empire connects the greater area, bringing clean, all-electric bus rapid transit to Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga. Designed for speed, comfort, and innovation, this new service will feature dedicated lanes for quicker travel, 10–15 minute bus frequency, and enhanced stations equipped with advanced technology. Most exciting of all, the Purple Line links you to the region’s top destinations— Ontario International Airport, Ontario Mills, Victoria Gardens, Toyota Arena, and three Metrolink stations—making it easier than ever to explore, commute, and thrive. Plan your journey today!

omnitrans.org

@omnitrans

Views for Days!

Picture yourself here. Turn to page 24 for more outdoor inspiration in Greater Ontario, then get ready to plan that trip.

Looking for Fly ONT. stress-free travel into So Cal?

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, keep your travel stress-free. Ontario International Airport is the fastest and easiest airport experience in Southern California, with up to 90 nonstop flights a day to more than 30 major destinations. Not to mention navigating in and out of ONT is a breeze, with quick freeway access, easy parking and fast lines. Because let’s be honest, faster is always better when it comes to your airport.

Keep your trip hassle-free — plan your journey through ONT today.