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Ontario, California is a vibrant city in San Bernardino County, part of the Inland Empire region of Southern California. Located approximately 35 miles east of Los Angeles, Ontario has transformed from a citrus-growing agricultural community into a major commercial and logistics hub. The city is perhaps best known for Ontario International Airport, which serves millions of passengers annually and connects the region to destinations across the country. Ontario’s strategic location near major highways, including Interstates 10 and 15, has made it a key distribution center for goods moving throughout Southern California and beyond.
The city’s name reflects its agricultural heritage, derived from the Ontario Sugar Orange, a citrus hybrid developed locally in the late 19th century. Despite rapid urbanization, Ontario has preserved elements of its pioneer past, including the historic Ontario Powerhouse and the charming downtown district. The city continues to grow as a destination for shopping, dining, and family entertainment, with major developments drawing visitors from across the region.
The land that now comprises Ontario was originally inhabited by the Tongva and Serrano peoples, indigenous communities who lived off the land for thousands of years before European contact. The region featured abundant natural resources, including game, fish, and wild plants that sustained these communities.
European settlement began in the mid-19th century when settlers arrived to farm the fertile valley land. The Southern Pacific Railroad extended its line through the area in the 1870s, establishing a station that would become the foundation for the modern city. The arrival of the railroad transformed Ontario from a scattered farming community into a coordinated town with regular transportation links.
Ontario’s early economy centered on citrus cultivation, with orange and lemon groves covering the valley floor. The city gained national recognition when local horticulturist Cerro G. Ontario developed the Ontario Sugar Orange, a seedless fruit prized for its sweetness. The success of the citrus industry attracted investors and settlers, leading to rapid growth in the early 20th century.
The mid-20th century brought significant change as Los Angeles expanded eastward and Ontario transformed from farmland into suburbs. The opening of Ontario International Airport in 1941 accelerated this growth, providing the region with crucial air connectivity. Industrial and commercial development followed, creating jobs and attracting new residents. The Ontario Mills shopping complex, opened in 1996, established the city as a regional retail destination and catalyzed further development in the surrounding area.
Ontario offers visitors a diverse mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options that reflect its status as a major regional hub. The city attracts shoppers with its combination of outlet stores, major retailers, and local businesses.
Ontario Mills stands as the city’s premier shopping and entertainment destination. This massive outlet mall features more than 200 stores, including major designer outlets and popular retail chains. The complex also includes AMC Dine-In Theatres, a Dave & Buster’s, and numerous restaurants, making it a full-day destination for visitors. The mall’s central location and ample parking make it convenient for those traveling from across Southern California.
The Historic Downtown Ontario district preserves the city’s early 20th-century architecture and offers a contrast to the modern commercial areas. Euclid Avenue is lined with mature trees and historic buildings housing boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. The Ontario Powerhouse, a beautifully restored 1894 electrical substation, now serves as a venue for community events and gatherings.
The Museum of History and Art showcases the city’s heritage through rotating exhibitions and permanent collections. The museum’s collection includes artifacts from Ontario’s citrus-growing era, Native American cultural items, and works by regional artists. Special programs and events throughout the year provide educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.
Ontario’s blend of natural and built attractions provides visual interest and recreational opportunities for visitors exploring the city and its surroundings.
Civic Center Park serves as the heart of the community, featuring manicured gardens, walking paths, and public art installations. The park hosts numerous community events, including farmers markets, concerts, and seasonal festivals. The adjacent Ontario Convention Center brings conferences and expos to the city, drawing visitors from across the region.
The Ontario Recreation and Parks Department maintains numerous facilities throughout the city, including parks, sports complexes, and community centers. Westwind Park features a splash pad, playground equipment, and picnic areas, while Centennial Park offers sports fields and walking trails. These green spaces provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and family gatherings.
Prado Regional Park lies just east of Ontario in Chino, offering a more extensive natural setting with campgrounds, fishing lakes, and equestrian trails. The park’s early history dates to the early 20th century when it served as a gathering place for local ranching communities. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and wildlife observation in this scenic setting.
Ontario enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, typical of Southern California’s Inland Empire region. The city can be visited year-round, though different seasons offer distinct advantages.
| Season | Avg. High | Conditions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | 78°F | Pleasant, occasional rain | Shopping, outdoor activities |
| Summer | 94°F | Hot, dry | Evening events, Ontario Mills |
| Fall | 85°F | Mild, comfortable | Hiking, park visits |
| Winter | 66°F | Cool, rain possible | Indoor attractions, museums |
Spring brings comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers to the surrounding hills, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and park visits. The mild weather is perfect for exploring downtown Ontario’s shops and restaurants without the summer heat.
Summer brings warmth that can be intense, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Visitors during this season should plan outdoor activities for morning or evening hours. The air-conditioned Ontario Mills and other indoor attractions provide comfortable options during the hottest part of the day. Summer evenings bring community events and outdoor concerts to Civic Center Park.
Fall often provides the most pleasant weather, with temperatures cooling from summer highs while remaining comfortable for outdoor exploration. The harvest season brings fresh produce to local farmers markets, and the slightly smaller crowds make shopping at Ontario Mills more enjoyable.
Winter sees the coolest temperatures and highest rainfall, but the climate remains mild compared to much of the country. Indoor attractions like the Museum of History and Art provide engaging options during inclement weather. Winter is also the easiest time to find deals on hotels and flights, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious travelers visiting Southern California.
Here are some of our recommended things to do in Ontario. Take your pick!
Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park is a lush 150-acre oasis in Ontario, California, centered around two sparkling fishing lakes surrounded by manicured lawns and mature shade trees. The park sits just minutes from Ontario International Airport and provi…