Attractions and Places To See around San Bernardino - Top 20

The San Bernardino area offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit Etiwanda Falls for a refreshing hike through a shady canyon. For an easy stroll along a lake, Lake Gregory Trail in Crestline is a great option, offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, and fishing. Additionally, the Box Springs Mountain Peak provides expansive views overlooking Riverside and Moreno Valley. The vast San Bernardino National Forest, Big Bear Lake, and Lake Arrowhead also offer diverse landscapes for outdoor activities.

Yes, San Bernardino is rich in history and culture. You can explore the historic San Bernardino Santa Fe Depot, a Mission Revival landmark that also houses the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum. The Original McDonald's Site and Museum offers a nostalgic look at fast-food history. Other notable sites include the iconic Wigwam Motel on Route 66, the San Bernardino County Courthouse, and the Mormon Trail Monument. For arts and performances, consider the California Theatre of the Performing Arts or the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFM).

Families can enjoy several attractions. Etiwanda Falls offers a short, accessible hike suitable for a family stroll. Lake Gregory Trail is perfect for a day out with hiking, swimming, and fishing. Caroline Park in Redlands is a hidden gem with hiking trails and wildlife viewing. Glen Helen Regional Park features two lakes, a swimming complex, and hiking trails. The Santa Ana River Bike Path is also a family-friendly option for cycling or walking.

For stunning views, head to Box Springs Mountain Peak, which offers panoramic vistas of Riverside and Moreno Valley. The Arrowhead Landmark, a natural geological formation in the foothills, is visible for miles and holds historical significance. Additionally, driving the Rim of the World Scenic Byway provides sweeping views of the valley and connects to popular forest attractions like Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead.

Beyond the well-known spots, San Bernardino has some unique finds. Caroline Park in Redlands is described as a tiny hidden gem with hiking trails and native wildflowers. Deep Creek Hot Springs offers a relaxing escape with natural hot springs, accessible via a 2.5-mile hike. The Wigwam Motel on Route 66 provides a unique overnight experience in a teepee, and Mitla Cafe is a historic institution that inspired Taco Bell.

There are numerous hiking opportunities near San Bernardino. You can enjoy a short hike to Etiwanda Falls through a shady canyon. For an easy stroll, the Lake Gregory Trail is ideal. The San Bernardino National Forest offers extensive trails, including those leading to peaks like San Gorgonio Mountain. For more options, explore the hiking routes around San Bernardino, which include easy, moderate, and difficult trails.

Yes, cycling is a popular activity in the area. The Santa Ana River Bike Path offers a quiet and scenic stretch for cyclists. You can find various cycling routes, including road cycling and touring bicycle options, with different difficulty levels. For detailed routes, check out the cycling guides around San Bernardino and road cycling routes around San Bernardino.

Absolutely. The hike to Etiwanda Falls is short and suitable for a stroll, especially enjoyable on a hot day due to the shady canyon. The Lake Gregory Trail offers an easy stroll along the lake shore. Caroline Park also features easy hiking trails. These are great for a relaxed outing.

The San Bernardino area, with its diverse landscapes, offers outdoor activities year-round. For hiking and exploring natural features like Etiwanda Falls or Box Springs Mountain, spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures. Summer is great for water activities at Big Bear Lake or Lake Arrowhead, though it can be hot in the lower elevations. Winter brings opportunities for skiing and snowboarding in the higher parts of the San Bernardino National Forest.

While specific dog policies can vary, many natural areas and trails in the San Bernardino National Forest and regional parks are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always recommended to check specific park or trail regulations before visiting. For example, Caroline Park is a local favorite for walks, and many open space trails welcome leashed dogs.

While specific accessibility details for all attractions vary, many modern facilities and some natural parks strive for accessibility. Glen Helen Regional Park, for example, has paved areas and facilities that may be accessible. For cultural sites, the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum and the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFM) are likely to have accessible features. It's advisable to contact specific venues directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information.

Parking information for hiking trails is often available at the trailhead or on park websites. For instance, you can park your car at the North Etiwanda Preserve Parking Lot for the Etiwanda Falls hike. For Lake Gregory Trail, there are three parking lots around the lake, which require a fee. Always check local park or preserve websites for current parking regulations and fees before your visit.

Visitors appreciate the refreshing escape offered by places like Etiwanda Falls, especially the shady canyon and cool water on a hot day. The easy strolls along lake shores, such as Lake Gregory Trail, are highly enjoyed for their relaxing atmosphere and opportunities for swimming and fishing. The scenic views from summits like Box Springs Mountain Peak are also a highlight, providing a sense of tranquility and connection with nature.