San Bernardino
· US

San Bernardino

San Bernardino, California, United States

Escape the Ordinary in San Bernardino, California! Nestled at the foot of the majestic San Bernardino Mountains, San Bernardino, California, offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural splendor. More than just…

#City#California#United States#Inland Empire#Southern California
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into San Bernardino.

Top Hotels in San Bernardino

Top Flights to San Bernardino

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in San Bernardino.

Tours

Historic Route 66 Drive

Take a nostalgic drive along the historic Route 66, exploring various landmarks and attractions along the way.

Arrowhead Springs Resort Tour

Discover the history and natural beauty of the Arrowhead Springs Resort, a once-famous hotel with hot springs.

San Bernardino History & Railroad Museum

Explore exhibits dedicated to the area's rich railroad and social history at this fascinating museum.

Shopping

Inland Center Shopping Spree

Spend a day shopping at Inland Center, featuring a wide variety of shops and eateries.

Victoria Gardens Tour

Explore the open-air shopping center at Victoria Gardens, featuring upscale shops and eateries.

Outdoor

San Bernardino National Forest Excursion

Explore the vast and scenic San Bernardino National Forest with opportunities for hiking, camping, and picnicking.

Shandin Hills Golf Club Visit

Enjoy a day at Shandin Hills Golf Club, known for its challenging layout and natural beauty.

Glen Helen Regional Park Adventure

Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and swimming at Glen Helen Regional Park.

Big Bear Lake Exploration

Experience the stunning Big Bear Lake with opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking nearby.

Silverwood Lake Boat Adventure

Discover Silverwood Lake with recreational boating, fishing, and picnic areas.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in San Bernardino.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
Information not available.
Languages
English, Spanish
Average weather
San Bernardino
Jan
clear
20°6°
Feb
clear
21°7°
Mar
clear
23°8°
Apr
clear
25°10°
May
sun
28°13°
Jun
hot
32°16°
Jul
hot
36°19°
Aug
hot
36°19°
Sep
hot
33°17°
Oct
clear
28°13°
Nov
clear
23°8°
Dec
clear
19°5°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on San Bernardino.

What people love

San Bernardino, located in California, United States, offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers to enjoy. Here are some of the pros of traveling to San Bernardino:

  1. Natural Beauty: San Bernardino is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the San Bernardino National Forest and the San Bernardino Mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities in these beautiful areas.

  2. Historic Sites: The city of San Bernardino has a rich history, with several historic sites and landmarks to explore. This includes the Heritage House, a Victorian-era home, and the California Theatre of the Performing Arts, a historic theater that hosts concerts and events.

  3. Local Culture: San Bernardino is home to a diverse population, resulting in a vibrant local culture. Visitors can explore cultural events, festivals, and cuisine that showcase the city's unique diversity.

  4. Family-Friendly Attractions: San Bernardino offers a range of family-friendly attractions, such as the San Bernardino County Museum, which features exhibits on natural history and regional culture. There are also amusement parks and recreational areas that are perfect for families with children.

  5. Convenient Location: San Bernardino is located in close proximity to other popular destinations in Southern California, such as Los Angeles, Palm Springs, and Big Bear Lake. This makes it a convenient base for exploring the region.

Overall, traveling to San Bernardino provides an opportunity to experience both natural beauty and urban attractions in a diverse and culturally rich city.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to San Bernardino, California, include:

  1. Crime rates: San Bernardino has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, particularly in terms of property crimes like theft and burglary. It's important for travelers to be cautious and aware of their surroundings to avoid becoming victims of crime.

  2. Traffic congestion: Traffic congestion can be an issue in and around San Bernardino, especially during peak travel times. This can lead to delays and frustration for travelers navigating the area by car.

  3. Air quality: San Bernardino, like many parts of Southern California, can experience poor air quality due to factors such as vehicle emissions and industrial pollutants. This may be a concern for travelers with respiratory issues or sensitivities.

  4. Limited public transportation: While there are public transportation options available in San Bernardino, the coverage and frequency of service may not be as extensive as in other major cities. Renting a car may be necessary for travelers who want to explore the area efficiently.

  5. Limited tourist attractions: Compared to other cities in California, San Bernardino may have fewer tourist attractions and cultural amenities. Travelers seeking a bustling nightlife or a wide range of dining options may find the city lacking in comparison to larger cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco.

Please note that these are general considerations and individual experiences may vary. It's always a good idea to research specific areas of interest and consult local resources for the most up-to-date information before traveling to San Bernardino.

San Bernardino, California, located in the Inland Empire region of Southern California, has a rich and diverse history shaped by indigenous cultures, European colonization, and American development.

Early History

  • Indigenous Peoples: The area was originally inhabited by the Serrano and Cahuilla Native American tribes. They lived in the region for thousands of years before European contact.

Spanish and Mexican Periods

  • 1770s-1800s: The Spanish explored the area in the late 18th century. The San Bernardino Valley was named by the Spanish after Saint Bernardino of Siena.
  • 1810: Spanish missionaries from the Mission San Gabriel Arcángel established Rancho San Bernardino as a mission outpost.
  • 1821: Mexico gained independence from Spain, and the area became part of Mexico.
  • 1842: Rancho San Bernardino was granted to the Lugo family by the Mexican government.

American Period

  • 1848: After the Mexican-American War, California became a part of the United States through the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
  • 1851: Mormon settlers purchased Rancho San Bernardino from the Lugo family and established the city’s first colony. The city of San Bernardino was officially incorporated in 1857.
  • 1860s: The Mormons returned to Utah due to tensions, but the area continued to grow with the arrival of other settlers.

Development and Growth

  • 1870s: The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad spurred economic growth, facilitating agriculture and trade.
  • 1905: The Santa Fe Railroad established a significant presence, further boosting the local economy.
  • 1940s-1950s: Norton Air Force Base was established during World War II, contributing to the city’s growth and economic development.

Modern Era

  • 1960s: San Bernardino became a regional hub, with the development of major highways and the rise of the automobile industry.
  • 1980s-1990s: Economic challenges emerged with the closure of Norton Air Force Base in 1994, leading to economic decline.
  • 2000s: The city faced financial difficulties and filed for bankruptcy in 2012. Efforts to revitalize the city have been ongoing.

Significant Events

  • San Bernardino Massacre (2015): A terrorist attack occurred at the Inland Regional Center, resulting in significant loss of life and drawing national attention.

Important Landmarks

  • San Bernardino County Courthouse: An iconic building representing the county’s judicial system.
  • California Theatre of the Performing Arts: A historic venue for cultural and entertainment events.
  • McDonald's Museum: Located on the site of the original McDonald's restaurant, it celebrates the history of the fast-food giant.
  • San Manuel Stadium: Home to the Inland Empire 66ers minor league baseball team.
  • San Bernardino National Forest: Offers recreational opportunities and natural beauty, bordering the city to the north.

Historical Figures

  • Jedediah Smith: An American explorer who traversed the region in the 1820s.
  • The Lugo Family: Prominent early landowners and influential figures in the transition from Mexican to American governance.

San Bernardino’s history reflects the broader trends of Southern California, from indigenous cultures to Spanish and Mexican influences, and finally to modern American urban development.