Inland Empire, California Travel Guide

Discover the diverse charm of Inland Empire, California - from scenic mountains and historic towns to vibrant local culture and outdoor adventures.

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Inland Empire

Nestled in the heart of Southern California, the Inland Empire offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to every type of traveler. From the rugged beauty of its mountainous landscapes to the vibrant cultural scene in its cities, this region is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures, historical sites, and modern entertainment venues, all within a short drive of each other. The Inland Empire is home to several charming towns and cities, each with its own unique character. Riverside, with its historic Mission Inn and bustling downtown area, provides a perfect blend of history and modernity. San Bernardino, known for its scenic surroundings and rich cultural heritage, offers visitors a chance to experience local festivals and events. For nature enthusiasts, the Inland Empire is a paradise. The San Bernardino Mountains and the San Jacinto Mountains offer numerous hiking trails, picturesque views, and opportunities for skiing in the winter. The region's parks and lakes, such as Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake, are ideal for boating, fishing, and camping. Wine lovers will also find delight in the local wineries that dot the landscape, offering tastings and tours of their vineyards.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Inland Empire.

Visit the Mission Inn in Riverside for a dose of history and unique architecture.
Explore the hiking trails in the San Bernardino Mountains for stunning views.
Check the local calendar for festivals and events in San Bernardino to experience the local culture.
Take a day trip to Big Bear Lake for outdoor activities like boating and fishing.
Don't miss out on wine tasting at the local wineries to savor the regional flavors.

Top City Travel Guides in Inland Empire

The cities of Inland Empire, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Sequoia National Park

Venice Beach

Los Angeles

San Diego

Laguna Beach

Destinations in Inland Empire

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Death Valley National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Santa Catalina Island

San Diego Beaches

Explore Inland Empire: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Inland Empire

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Lake Arrowhead Village

Discover Lake Arrowhead Village, a picturesque shopping and dining destination nestled in the stunning San Bernardino Mountains of California.

4.6

Castle Park

Experience unforgettable thrills and family fun at Castle Park, a premier amusement destination in Riverside, California, featuring rides, games, and a water park.

4.3

Mount Rubidoux Park

Discover the stunning vistas and rich history of Mount Rubidoux Park in Riverside, California – a perfect nature escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

4.8

Big Bear Alpine Zoo

Visit Big Bear Alpine Zoo to witness rescued wildlife in a stunning alpine environment, committed to conservation and education.

4.5

Best landmarks in Inland Empire

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Experience unparalleled views and thrilling adventures at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, connecting desert beauty to mountain serenity.

4.8

Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

Discover the historical elegance and modern luxury of Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Riverside, California, a perfect getaway for relaxation and celebration.

4.5

Palm Springs Air Museum

Explore the Palm Springs Air Museum, a fascinating destination for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, showcasing vintage aircraft and engaging exhibits.

4.8

Salvation Mountain

Explore Salvation Mountain, a vibrant artistic landmark in California's desert, where creativity meets spirituality in a colorful oasis.

4.5

Best restaurants in Inland Empire

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Pappy + Harriet's

Discover Pappy + Harriet's in Pioneertown – where mouthwatering barbecue meets unforgettable live music in a rustic Wild West setting.

4.5

The Old Spaghetti Factory

Experience the charm of Italian dining at The Old Spaghetti Factory in Riverside - where family-friendly meets delicious cuisine.

4.3

Riverside Food Lab

Discover diverse culinary experiences at Riverside Food Lab - where every dish tells a story.

4.5

Benihana

Savor the art of Japanese cuisine at Benihana with teppanyaki-style dining that entertains as much as it delights your palate.

4.1

Best bars in Inland Empire

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Yard House

Experience the vibrant flavors of Yard House in Riverside, where delicious food and a lively bar atmosphere come together for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.4

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse in San Bernardino, where delicious food meets craft brewing.

4.3

Lake Alice Trading Co.

Experience Riverside's vibrant dining scene at Lake Alice Trading Co., where delicious grilled dishes and friendly service meet local charm.

4.3

DUKE'S BAR & GRILL

Discover Duke's Bar & Grill in Riverside, CA - where delicious American cuisine meets lively karaoke and thrilling sports entertainment.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Inland Empire

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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Hunters Palm Springs

Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious American cuisine at Hunters Palm Springs, the ultimate gay bar and restaurant in downtown Palm Springs.

4.4

Downtown Experiment

Dive into the energetic nightlife of Downtown Experiment, Riverside's top night club with themed events, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere.

3.5

Copa Nightclub

Discover the lively Copa Nightclub, Palm Springs’ premier nightlife destination offering live music, DJs, and unforgettable nights filled with fun and excitement.

4.3

Carnaval Nightclub

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Carnaval Nightclub in Pomona, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere await every night.

2.8

Best shops in Inland Empire

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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Ontario Mills

Discover Ontario Mills, Southern California's largest outlet shopping mall, where fashion meets fun in a vibrant retail experience.

4.5

The Outlets at Orange

Explore The Outlets at Orange for incredible savings on top brands and a fun-filled shopping experience in sunny California.

4.4

Victoria Gardens

Explore the vibrant Victoria Gardens in Rancho Cucamonga, California, a shopping mall offering retail therapy, dining delights, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.6

The Shops at Santa Anita

Explore shopping, dining, and entertainment at The Shops at Santa Anita, where style meets leisure in Arcadia, California.

4.5

Explore Inland Empire on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Inland Empire, mapped for you.

Inland Empire Essentials

The Inland Empire is located in Southern California, east of Los Angeles. The primary airports serving the region are Ontario International Airport (ONT) and Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). From Los Angeles, you can also drive via I-10 or I-15 freeways, which connect directly to the Inland Empire. Amtrak and Metrolink trains provide service to various cities within the region, offering a convenient public transportation option.
Public transportation within the Inland Empire includes Omnitrans and Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) buses that serve the San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. Car rentals are also a popular option, especially for exploring the expansive areas. For a more scenic route, consider taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway or the Metrolink trains that connect to Los Angeles and Orange County.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available across the region, including in smaller towns. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also commonly accepted.
The Inland Empire is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Some areas, particularly certain neighborhoods in San Bernardino and Riverside, have higher crime rates. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Hospitals and urgent care facilities are widely available across the Inland Empire. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are abundant, providing access to over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, as the climate can be quite warm. Avoid overly revealing clothing in more conservative areas. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting religious sites, such as dressing modestly and maintaining a quiet demeanor. Public Transport: Do be respectful of other passengers and keep noise to a minimum. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and drinks, and tipping is customary in restaurants (15-20%). Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience the Inland Empire like a local, visit the numerous farmers' markets for fresh produce and local crafts. Attend events at the Auto Club Speedway in Fontana or catch a minor league baseball game with the Inland Empire 66ers. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking in the San Bernardino National Forest or Joshua Tree National Park is a must. Also, don't miss the vibrant art and music scene in cities like Riverside and Redlands.

When is the best time to visit Inland Empire?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Inland Empire

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Inland Empire. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [Hey]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [See ya]
- YesYeah
  [Yeah]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomeNo prob
  [No prob]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryMy bad
  [My bad]
- How are you?How’s it going?
  [How's it going?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Good. You?]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [You speak English?]
- I don't understandI don’t get it
  [I don’t get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI’m vegetarian
  [I’m vegetarian]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
  [Can I get the check?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Leave me alone!
  [Leave me alone!]
- Call the Police!Call 911!
  [Call 911!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI’m lost
  [I’m lost]
- I'm illI’m sick
  [I’m sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just browsing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [How much?]
- That's too expensiveThat’s pricey
  [That’s pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can you cut me a deal?
  [Can you cut me a deal?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's 1 o'clock
  [It's 1 o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past 10
  [Half past 10]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [What’s the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me on the map?
  [Can you show me on the map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to ...
  [A ticket to ...]

History of Inland Empire

Before European settlers arrived, the Inland Empire was home to several Native American tribes, including the Gabrielino, Serrano, and Cahuilla. These tribes thrived on the region's abundant natural resources, creating complex societies with rich cultural traditions and trade networks.
In the late 18th century, Spanish missionaries began to establish missions throughout California. The San Gabriel Mission, founded in 1771, played a significant role in the Inland Empire’s history. The mission system aimed to convert Native Americans to Christianity and integrate them into Spanish colonial society, profoundly impacting the local indigenous cultures.
Following Mexico's independence from Spain in 1821, large tracts of land in the Inland Empire were distributed as land grants to influential families. These ranchos became the backbone of the region's early agricultural economy, with cattle ranching and farming dominating the landscape.
The mid-19th century saw an influx of American settlers, particularly after California became a U.S. state in 1850. The nearby Gold Rush attracted thousands of fortune-seekers, some of whom settled in the Inland Empire, fostering the growth of towns and infrastructure.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries heralded the 'Citrus Boom,' which transformed the Inland Empire into one of the world's primary citrus-growing regions. The development of irrigation systems and railroads allowed for the mass production and distribution of oranges and lemons, leading to economic prosperity and population growth.
During World War II, the Inland Empire became a vital center for military training and manufacturing. After the war, the region experienced substantial growth due to the expanding aerospace industry and the development of suburban communities, attracting veterans and their families.
Today, the Inland Empire is known for its diverse population, thriving economy, and cultural landmarks. It continues to grow rapidly, balancing its historical roots with modern development. Key cities like Riverside and San Bernardino serve as cultural and economic hubs, offering a blend of historical sites and contemporary amenities.