· US

San Fernando

San Fernando, California, United States

San Fernando, located in California, United States, is a charming city rich in history and cultural significance. Known for its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere, San Fernando offers a variety of attractions and acti…

#Southern California#Los Angeles County#Suburban#San Gabriel Mountains#Historic Mission

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

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

Top Hotels in San Fernando

Top Flights to San Fernando

Popular activities

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

Tours

Explore San Fernando Mission

A historical site that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural past of California.

Shopping

San Fernando Swap Meet

A bustling marketplace offering a wide range of goods from fresh produce to unique crafts.

Outdoor

Hiking in O'Melveny Park

Enjoy a variety of hiking trails in one of the largest parks in Los Angeles.

Location videos

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

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in San Fernando.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The estimated total population of San Fernando, California is approximately 24,000.

Languages

Spanish, English, Filipino

Average weather

San Fernando

Jan

20°8°

Feb

21°9°

Mar

22°10°

Apr

24°11°

May

26°13°

Jun

29°16°

Jul

33°19°

Aug

34°19°

Sep

32°18°

Oct

28°15°

Nov

24°11°

Dec

20°8°

Local guide

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

What people love

San Fernando, California, located in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles County, offers several attractions and activities for visitors. Some of the pros of traveling to San Fernando include:

Outdoor Recreation: San Fernando is close to several outdoor recreation areas, including Hansen Dam Recreation Area and the Angeles National Forest. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities in these scenic locations.
Cultural Diversity: The city of San Fernando is known for its diverse population, which contributes to a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore different cuisines, shops, and cultural events that reflect the area's rich diversity.
Historic Landmarks: San Fernando has several historic landmarks, such as the Lopez Adobe historic site, which offers a glimpse into the area's past. History buffs can explore these sites and learn about the city's heritage.
Convenient Location: San Fernando is located within driving distance of popular attractions in Los Angeles, such as Universal Studios Hollywood, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Griffith Observatory. This makes it a convenient base for exploring the wider Los Angeles area.
Local Events: Throughout the year, San Fernando hosts various events and festivals that showcase local talent, food, and culture. Visitors can join in these events to experience the community spirit of the city.

Overall, traveling to San Fernando, California, offers a mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, historic sites, and convenient access to nearby attractions, making it a compelling destination for visitors.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to San Fernando, California, located in Los Angeles County, include:

Traffic congestion: Like many areas in Los Angeles County, San Fernando can experience heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. This can lead to delays in getting around the city and to nearby attractions.
Air quality: Los Angeles County, including San Fernando, has known air quality issues due to high levels of pollution. This may pose health risks, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions.
High cost of living: California, in general, has a high cost of living compared to other parts of the country. Travelers may find that accommodations, dining, and entertainment options in San Fernando are more expensive than in other destinations.
Limited public transportation: While there are public transportation options available in San Fernando, they may not be as extensive or convenient as in some other cities. Renting a car may be necessary for getting around efficiently.
Crime rates: While San Fernando is generally considered a safe city, like any urban area, it may have pockets of higher crime rates. Travelers should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Limited tourist attractions: San Fernando is mainly a residential city and may not offer as many tourist attractions or activities compared to other destinations in California. Travelers seeking a bustling tourist scene may find the city lacking in this aspect.

Overall, San Fernando may not be the ideal destination for travelers seeking a bustling tourist scene, pristine air quality, or low costs. However, it can still offer a unique experience for those looking to explore a residential area in Los Angeles County.

San Fernando, California, is a city located in the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles County. It has a rich history that dates back to the late 18th century. Here's a detailed history of San Fernando:

Early History

The Mission Era (1797): The area that would become San Fernando was originally inhabited by the Tongva people. In 1797, Spanish missionaries established Mission San Fernando Rey de España, named for St. Ferdinand. This mission was part of a chain of 21 missions built in California and played a crucial role in the spread of Spanish culture and religion among the indigenous peoples.

19th Century

Mexican Independence (1821): When Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, California became a part of Mexico, and the missions were secularized in the 1830s. This led to the distribution of mission lands to private individuals, often in the form of ranchos.
American Era (1848): After the Mexican-American War, California was ceded to the United States in 1848. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo formalized this transfer, and San Fernando became part of the expanding U.S. territory.

20th Century

Incorporation (1911): San Fernando was incorporated as a city on August 31, 1911. It was one of the first cities to be incorporated in the San Fernando Valley, an area that was largely rural and agricultural at the time.
Population Growth and Development: The arrival of the railroad and the construction of the Los Angeles Aqueduct in the early 20th century spurred growth and development in the valley, including San Fernando. The city became a hub for agriculture, particularly citrus farming.

Mid to Late 20th Century

Industrialization and Suburbanization: Post-World War II saw a boom in housing and population as the San Fernando Valley became a suburban extension of Los Angeles. San Fernando transitioned from an agricultural hub to a more residential and industrial community.
Cultural Shifts: The latter half of the 20th century saw significant demographic changes, with an increase in the Latino population, which has become a prominent part of the city’s cultural fabric.

Significant Events

Northridge Earthquake (1994): Although the epicenter was in nearby Northridge, San Fernando was significantly affected by the 1994 earthquake, experiencing damage to structures and infrastructure.

Important Landmarks

Mission San Fernando Rey de España: The mission remains an important historical and cultural landmark. It houses a museum, a church, and the Bob Hope Memorial Garden.
San Fernando Courthouse: A key government building in the city.
San Fernando’s Historic Downtown: Features a variety of shops and restaurants and is known for its historic architecture.

Notable Figures

Bob Hope: Although not a resident, the famous entertainer is buried at the Mission San Fernando Rey de España.

San Fernando's history reflects a blend of indigenous, Spanish, Mexican, and American influences, with the mission era playing a foundational role in the city's development. Today, it is known for its vibrant community and cultural diversity.