San Bernardino County, California Travel Guide
Discover San Bernardino County: A blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and vibrant urban life in the heart of Southern California.
San Bernardino County, the largest county in the United States, offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Nestled in the heart of Southern California, it is a diverse blend of sprawling deserts, majestic mountains, and vibrant communities. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or a city explorer, San Bernardino County has something to offer for everyone. The county is home to the stunning Joshua Tree National Park, where you can witness the unique Joshua Trees and awe-inspiring rock formations. For those who love winter sports, the San Bernardino Mountains provide an excellent escape with resorts like Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. In contrast, the Mojave Desert offers a tranquil and otherworldly landscape, ideal for off-road adventures and stargazing. Urban areas like the city of San Bernardino and Ontario add a different flavor to your visit. These cities boast a variety of cultural attractions, shopping centers, and dining options. The historic Route 66 runs through the county, offering a nostalgic journey through Americana. Don't miss out on the San Bernardino County Museum, which provides insights into the region's history, culture, and natural environment.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring San Bernardino County.
- Visit Joshua Tree National Park early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Winter months are ideal for skiing and snowboarding in the San Bernardino Mountains.
- Explore Route 66 and its quirky attractions for a taste of classic Americana.
- Stay hydrated and bring sun protection when exploring the Mojave Desert.
- Check local event calendars for festivals and cultural events happening in the cities.
Explore San Bernardino County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in San Bernardino County
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
Browse the full guide
All Attractions
Rim of the World Scenic Drive
Experience breathtaking views and alpine adventures along Southern California's Rim of the World Scenic Drive in the San Bernardino Mountains.
First Original McDonald's Museum
Relive fast-food history at the First Original McDonald's Museum in San Bernardino, celebrating the iconic chain's humble Route 66 beginnings.
San Bernardino County Museum
Explore the cultural and natural history of Inland Southern California at this Redlands museum. Exhibits, collections, and programs for all ages.
San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum
Explore San Bernardino's past and the impact of the railroad at this free museum in the historic 1918 Santa Fe Depot.
Best landmarks in San Bernardino County
Top-rated picks
Best Landmarks
Browse the full guide
All Landmarks
Kimberly Crest House & Gardens
Discover the historic Kimberly Crest House & Gardens, a stunning blend of architectural beauty and lush gardens in Redlands, California.
Burrage Mansion
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Burrage Mansion, a historical landmark in Redlands, California, perfect for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Arrowhead Viewing Spot & Historical Monument
Explore the Arrowhead Viewing Spot & Historical Monument, a serene landmark in San Bernardino, rich in history and offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Mormon Road Historic Marker
Experience the rich history of the Mormon pioneers at the Mormon Road Historic Marker in San Bernardino, California, a must-visit historical landmark.
Best restaurants in San Bernardino County
Top-rated picks
Best Restaurants
Browse the full guide
All Restaurants
Sundowners Family Restaurant
Experience family-friendly dining at Sundowners Family Restaurant in San Bernardino – where great food meets joyful gatherings!
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Discover BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse in San Bernardino - where delicious food meets craft beer in a lively atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Claim Jumper & Steakhouse - San Bernardino, CA
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Claim Jumper & Steakhouse in San Bernardino - where flavor meets tradition.
Black Angus Steakhouse
Discover the ultimate steak experience at Black Angus Steakhouse in San Bernardino—where flavor meets tradition in every bite.
Best bars in San Bernardino County
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
Browse the full guide
All Bars
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Discover the flavors of America at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse in San Bernardino, where craft beer meets delicious dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lake Alice Trading Co.
Experience Riverside's vibrant culinary scene with delicious grilled food and a lively atmosphere at Lake Alice Trading Co.
Celebrities Sports Grill
Experience the ultimate sports dining at Celebrities Sports Grill, where American classics meet a vibrant atmosphere in San Bernardino.
The Etiwanda Roadhouse Bar & Grill
Discover a lively dining experience at The Etiwanda Roadhouse Bar & Grill in Rancho Cucamonga, where great food meets a vibrant atmosphere.
Best nightclubs in San Bernardino County
Top-rated picks
Best Nightclubs
Browse the full guide
All Nightclubs
Pepes Night Club
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Pepes Night Club in San Bernardino, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
El Palacio Nightclub & Restuarant
El Palacio Nightclub & Restaurant: A premier nightlife destination in San Bernardino, offering vibrant music, dancing, and delicious dining.
La Nueva CopaCabana
Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Nueva CopaCabana, a lively night club and bar in San Bernardino, perfect for dancing and socializing.
El patron Night Club
Discover the lively El Patron Night Club in San Bernardino for a night of dancing, karaoke, and billiards in a vibrant atmosphere.
Best shops in San Bernardino County
Top-rated picks
Best Shops
Browse the full guide
All Shops
Unique Gifts
Discover unique souvenirs and collectibles at Unique Gifts, a must-visit destination in San Bernardino for all tourists.
Little Red Thrift Shoppe
Explore the unique treasures at Little Red Thrift Shoppe, a charming thrift store in San Bernardino, CA, offering sustainable shopping and community support.
E&A Gift Shop
Explore the charming E&A Gift Shop in San Bernardino for unique souvenirs and exceptional customer service to enrich your travel experience.
Aura's Gifts and Blankets
Explore Aura's Gifts and Blankets in San Bernardino for unique gifts and cozy blankets, capturing the essence of local charm and creativity.
Explore San Bernardino County on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in San Bernardino County, mapped for you.
San Bernardino County Essentials
-
San Bernardino County is accessible via several major airports. The closest is Ontario International Airport (ONT), located within the county itself. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and John Wayne Airport (SNA) are also viable options, though they are farther away. From these airports, you can rent a car, use ride-sharing services, or take a shuttle to reach your destination within San Bernardino County.
-
While renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the vast expanses of San Bernardino County, other options include public buses operated by Omnitrans and the Metrolink train service, which connects to various parts of Southern California. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available. Be mindful that some remote areas may have limited public transportation options.
-
The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout San Bernardino County, including in most restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are readily available, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small establishments and remote areas where card payment may not be possible.
-
San Bernardino County is generally safe for tourists, but it is prudent to take standard precautions. Some neighborhoods in the cities of San Bernardino and Victorville have higher crime rates, particularly for crimes targeting tourists. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always be aware of your surroundings. Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
-
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. San Bernardino County has numerous hospitals and clinics for medical emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. For minor health issues, pharmacies are readily available throughout the county.
-
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to weather conditions; layered clothing is advisable for varying temperatures. Avoid overly revealing outfits in more conservative areas. Religion: Do respect religious sites and local customs, especially when visiting churches or Native American reservations. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake or a simple 'hello'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisines and beverages. Don't forget to tip your servers, usually 15-20% of the bill.
-
To experience San Bernardino County like a local, visit the local farmer's markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals at community events and fairs. Don't miss exploring the scenic landscapes, such as the San Bernardino National Forest and Joshua Tree National Park. For a unique experience, take a drive along Route 66, which passes through several charming towns in the county.
When is the best time to visit San Bernardino County?
Useful Local Phrases for San Bernardino County
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
Here are the phrases I use most often in San Bernardino County. 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 problem
[No problem] - Thank youThanks
[Thanks] - Excuse me/SorrySorry
[Sorry] - 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]
- HelloHey
-
- 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?]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
-
- Help!Help!
[Help!] - Go away!Get lost!
[Get lost!] - Call the Police!Call the cops!
[Call the cops!] - Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
[Get a doctor!] - I'm lostI'm totally lost
[I'm totally lost] - I'm illI'm not feeling well
[I'm not feeling well]
- Help!Help!
-
- I'd like to buy...I'm looking to buy...
[I'm looking to buy...] - I'm just lookingJust browsing
[Just browsing] - How much is it?What’s the price?
[What’s the price?] - That's too expensiveThat's pricey
[That's pricey] - Can you lower the price?Can you give me a discount?
[Can you give me a discount?]
- I'd like to buy...I'm looking to buy...
-
- What time is it?What time?
[What time?] - It's one o'clockIt's 1 o'clock
[It's 1 o'clock] - Half past (10)10:30
[10:30] - MorningMorning
[Morning] - AfternoonAfternoon
[Afternoon] - EveningEvening
[Evening] - YesterdayYesterday
[Yesterday] - TodayToday
[Today] - TomorrowTomorrow
[Tomorrow] - 11
[1] - 22
[2] - 33
[3] - 44
[4] - 55
[5] - 66
[6] - 77
[7] - 88
[8] - 99
[9] - 1010
[10]
- What time is it?What time?
-
- 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...?]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
History of San Bernardino County
-
Long before European settlers arrived, San Bernardino County was inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Serrano, Chemehuevi, and Cahuilla. These tribes thrived in the region's diverse landscapes, from the Mojave Desert to the San Bernardino Mountains, practicing intricate systems of agriculture, hunting, and trade. They left behind a rich cultural heritage evident in petroglyphs, artifacts, and oral traditions.
-
In the late 18th century, Spanish missionaries arrived in what is now San Bernardino County, establishing the San Gabriel Mission in 1771. This mission became a focal point for converting indigenous populations to Christianity and implementing European agricultural techniques. The mission era introduced new crops, livestock, and architecture to the region, significantly altering its cultural landscape.
-
In the mid-19th century, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) established a settlement in San Bernardino. Led by Amasa M. Lyman and Charles C. Rich, the settlers founded the city of San Bernardino in 1851. They constructed the first mail route between Los Angeles and Salt Lake City, which facilitated trade and communication. The Mormon influence is still evident in the city’s layout and early infrastructure.
-
The discovery of gold in California in 1848 spurred a rapid influx of miners and prospectors to San Bernardino County, particularly to areas like Holcomb Valley. The region experienced a mining boom, with gold, silver, and other minerals being extracted from the rugged terrain. This period saw the establishment of numerous mining towns, some of which, like Calico Ghost Town, are preserved as historical sites today.
-
The arrival of the Southern Pacific and Santa Fe railroads in the late 19th century transformed San Bernardino County into a major transportation hub. The railroads facilitated the movement of goods and people, contributing to the growth of cities like San Bernardino and Barstow. The iconic Route 66, which passes through the county, became a symbol of American travel and exploration during this period.
-
During World War II, San Bernardino County became a strategic military site. The establishment of the San Bernardino Army Air Field, later renamed Norton Air Force Base, played a crucial role in the war effort. The base trained thousands of pilots and aircrew members, and its presence significantly boosted the local economy. Although Norton Air Force Base closed in 1994, its legacy continues through the San Bernardino International Airport.
-
In the post-war era, San Bernardino County experienced significant population growth and cultural diversification. The region attracted a mix of ethnic groups, contributing to a vibrant cultural mosaic. Events like the National Orange Show in San Bernardino celebrate the county's agricultural heritage, while the Route 66 Rendezvous honors its historic highways. This period also saw the development of educational institutions like California State University, San Bernardino, fostering a rich academic and cultural environment.
Neighbouring Regions of San Bernardino County
The closest regions to San Bernardino County, if you have time for more than one.
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
Explore More of California
Looking beyond San Bernardino County? Discover California for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore CaliforniaSan Bernardino County in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
San Bernardino County: A California Gem of Natural Wonders and Urban Delights
San Bernardino County, the largest county in the United States, offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Nestled in the heart of Southern California, it is a diverse blend of sprawling deserts, majestic mountains, and vibrant communities. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or a city explorer, San Bernardino County has something to offer for everyone. The county is home to the stunning Joshua Tree National Park, where you can witness the unique Joshua Trees and awe-inspiring rock formations. For those who love winter sports, the San Bernardino Mountains provide an excellent escape with resorts like Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. In contrast, the Mojave Desert offers a tranquil and otherworldly landscape, ideal for off-road adventures and stargazing. Urban areas like the city of San Bernardino and Ontario add a different flavor to your visit. These cities boast a variety of cultural attractions, shopping centers, and dining options. The historic Route 66 runs through the county, offering a nostalgic journey through Americana. Don't miss out on the San Bernardino County Museum, which provides insights into the region's history, culture, and natural environment.