San Bernardino: Gateway to the Inland Empire, California – Travel Guide

Planning Your Trip to San Bernardino

Location & Time

USA, California

GMT -8 (Pacific Standard Time)

Language & Currency

English, Spanish

US Dollar (USD)

San Bernardino Weather & Climate: A Monthly Snapshot

Planning your trip around the weather? Here’s a general guide to San Bernardino’s climate throughout the year:

January: Average highs in the mid-60s (°F), lows in the low 40s (°F). Possible rain.
February: Similar to January.
March: Temperatures start to rise, highs near 70 (°F).
April: Pleasant weather, highs in the low 70s (°F).
May: Warm and sunny, highs in the low 80s (°F).
June: Hot and dry, highs in the low 90s (°F).
July: Hottest month, highs often above 95 (°F).
August: Similar to July.
September: Still hot, but temperatures begin to decrease slightly.
October: Mild and sunny, highs in the mid-80s (°F).
November: Cooler, highs in the mid-70s (°F).
December: Coolest month, highs in the mid-60s (°F), lows in the low 40s (°F).

San Bernardino City Overview

San Bernardino, California, is a city rich in history and culture, nestled in the heart of Southern California’s Inland Empire. It’s your gateway to outdoor adventures with the nearby San Bernardino Mountains. From its roots as a citrus and railway hub, San Bernardino blends historic charm with modern development. Explore Route 66 landmarks, a bustling downtown, and experiences for every traveler. Its central location makes it a great base for exploring Southern California. Whether you’re into hiking, history, or delicious food, San Bernardino has something for you.

Best Time to Visit San Bernardino, CA

Thinking about when to go? Consider these seasonal pros and cons:

Spring (March-May): Ideal weather for outdoor activities. Pros: Wildflowers, comfortable temperatures. Cons: Can be crowded.
Fall (September-November): Mild weather, fewer crowds. Pros: Beautiful foliage, less expensive. Cons: Occasional heat waves.
Summer (June-August): Hot but great for water parks and mountain getaways. Pros: Endless sunshine, outdoor events. Cons: Extreme heat, higher prices.
Winter (December-February): Cooler, chance of rain or snow in the mountains. Pros: Skiing/snowboarding nearby. Cons: Cooler weather, potential for rain.

How to Get to San Bernardino & Visa Information

Planning your arrival? Here’s what you need to know:

The closest major airport is Ontario International Airport (ONT), about 20 miles from San Bernardino. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about 70 miles away. You can rent a car, taxi/rideshare, or use public transportation from either airport. San Bernardino has a Metrolink station for train access from Los Angeles and other SoCal cities. Check with the U.S. embassy/consulate for visa requirements.

San Bernardino History & Culture

Fun Fact: The Birthplace of McDonald’s

San Bernardino is where the McDonald’s fast-food chain began! In 1940, Richard and Maurice McDonald opened their first restaurant (a drive-in barbecue) on 14th and E Street. In 1948, they streamlined the menu to hamburgers, fries, and shakes, pioneering the “Speedee Service System” that revolutionized the industry. The original building is gone, but its legacy lives on.

Famous Personalities from San Bernardino

Gene Hackman: Academy Award-winning actor.
Audra McDonald: Six-time Tony Award-winning actress and singer.

Top 10 Attractions in San Bernardino & Nearby

San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum

Learn about San Bernardino’s history and its railroad heritage.

Address: 1170 W 3rd St, San Bernardino, CA 92410

California Theatre of the Performing Arts

A historic theater hosting concerts, plays, and musicals.

Address: 562 W 4th St, San Bernardino, CA 92401

Original McDonald’s Site

A historical landmark commemorating the original McDonald’s restaurant.

Address: 1398 N E St, San Bernardino, CA 92405

San Bernardino National Forest

Vast national forest offering hiking, camping, and scenic drives. Great for outdoor enthusiasts!

Address: 602 N Tippecanoe Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92408

Glen Helen Regional Park

A large park with lakes, swimming areas, and picnic spots.

Address: 2555 Glen Helen Pkwy, San Bernardino, CA 92407

Lake Arrowhead (Nearby)

Picturesque mountain lake for boating, fishing, and hiking (approx. 30 minutes from San Bernardino).

Address: Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352

Rim Nordic Ski Area (Nearby)

Winter recreation area for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing (approx. 40 minutes from San Bernardino).

Address: 24510 Rim Nordic Dr, Running Springs, CA 92382

Splash Kingdom Waterpark (Nearby)

Family-friendly waterpark with slides, pools, and attractions (approx. 15 minutes from San Bernardino in Redlands).

Address: 1101 N California St, Redlands, CA 92374

Route 66 Rendezvous (Event Only)

Annual classic car show and street festival celebrating Route 66 in Downtown San Bernardino.

First Original McDonald’s Museum

A privately run museum dedicated to the history of the Original McDonald’s restaurant.

Address: 1398 N E St, San Bernardino, CA 92405

San Bernardino Hidden Gems & Local Experiences

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino (Formerly San Manuel Casino)

Entertainment with gaming, dining, and live performances.

Address: 777 San Manuel Blvd, Highland, CA 92346

Seccombe Lake Park

Serene park in the city center, ideal for picnics and walks.

Address: 5th Street and E Street, San Bernardino, CA 92410

Loma Linda University Drayson Center

State-of-the-art wellness center open to the public.

Address: 25040 Stewart St, Loma Linda, CA 92354

San Bernardino Festivals & Events Calendar

Route 66 Rendezvous: Annual classic car show and street festival.
San Bernardino County Fair: Rides, games, and agricultural exhibits.
National Orange Show Festival: Celebration of the region’s citrus heritage.

Day Trips from San Bernardino

Big Bear Lake: (Approx. 1 hour) Mountain resort town for skiing, snowboarding, and summer activities.
Joshua Tree National Park: (Approx. 1.5 hours) Desert landscape with Joshua trees.
Palm Springs: (Approx. 1 hour) Desert resort city with spas, golf courses, and mid-century modern architecture.
Temecula Wine Country: (Approx. 1 hour) Explore Southern California’s wineries.

San Bernardino: Instagram-Worthy Photo Spots

Lake Arrowhead: Mountain lake scenery.
Rim of the World Scenic Byway: Panoramic views of the San Bernardino Mountains.
California Theatre of the Performing Arts: Architectural details.
Glen Helen Regional Park: Landscapes with the lake and surrounding greenery.

Where to Stay in San Bernardino & Getting Around

Recommended Length of Stay in San Bernardino

3-4 days

Top Places to Stay in San Bernardino

Budget Hotels in San Bernardino

Motel 6 San Bernardino South
- Address: 850 Hospitality Ln, San Bernardino, CA 92408
Days Inn by Wyndham San Bernardino Near San Manuel Casino
- Address: 1450 S E St, San Bernardino, CA 92408
Travelodge by Wyndham San Bernardino
- Address: 950 E Highland Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92404

Mid-Range Hotels in San Bernardino

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Bernardino
- Address: 285 E Hospitality Ln, San Bernardino, CA 92408
Holiday Inn Express San Bernardino North
- Address: 195 N Sierra Way, San Bernardino, CA 92410
Homewood Suites by Hilton San Bernardino
- Address: 1455 S E St, San Bernardino, CA 92408

Luxury Hotels near San Bernardino

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino
- Address: 777 San Manuel Blvd, Highland, CA 92346
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa (Riverside – nearby)
- Address: 3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
The Langham Huntington, Pasadena (Pasadena – nearby)
- Address: 1401 South Oak Knoll Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91106

Getting Around San Bernardino: Transportation Options

San Bernardino has limited public transportation (buses, Metrolink). Taxis and rideshares (Uber, Lyft) are available. Walking is possible in some areas, but a car is recommended for exploring the wider region.

San Bernardino Travel Tips & Preparation

What to Pack for Your San Bernardino Trip

Light clothing for warm weather, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. If visiting in winter, pack layers, a jacket, and warm accessories.

Useful Apps for Visiting San Bernardino

Google Maps: For navigation.
Yelp: For finding local restaurants and businesses.
Uber/Lyft: For transportation.

San Bernardino Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette

Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas. Respect local customs and traditions. Be mindful of the environment and dispose of trash properly.

San Bernardino Food, Fun & Shopping

Top Restaurants in San Bernardino

Mitla Cafe: Historic Mexican restaurant serving traditional dishes.
- Address: 602 N Mt Vernon Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92411
Rosa Maria’s Mexican Food: Family owned and operated since 1984.
- Address: 1850 E Highland Ave A, San Bernardino, CA 92404
The Salted Pig: Specializing in pork-centric dishes and craft beer. (nearby in Riverside)
- Address: 1295 University Ave #101, Riverside, CA 92507

Must-Try Dishes in San Bernardino

California Burrito: A burrito filled with carne asada, fries, and cheese.
Street Tacos: Authentic Mexican tacos with various fillings.

Nightlife & Entertainment in San Bernardino

The Vault Bar & Grill: Drinks, food, and live music.
- Address: 1400 E Highland Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92404
Yaamava’ Resort & Casino: Entertainment options, including live music and gaming.
- Address: 777 San Manuel Blvd, Highland, CA 92346

What to Buy in San Bernardino: Souvenirs & Shopping

Route 66 Memorabilia: Unique souvenirs at shops along Route 66.
Local Crafts: Support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts at local markets and fairs.