Attractions and Places To See around Fontana - Top 20

Fontana offers several natural attractions for visitors. You can explore Etiwanda Falls, a refreshing spot in a shady canyon, or enjoy the quiet and scenic views along the Santa Ana River Bike Path. The Mary Vagle Museum and Nature Center, located at the base of the Jurupa Hills, provides trails and interactive displays focused on local flora and fauna.

Yes, Fontana has a rich history reflected in its landmarks. The Mount Rubidoux Summit and Cross features historic landmarks like the Peace Tower. You can also visit the Art Depot, originally a 1905 railway station, or the historic Center Stage Theater (now Stage Red), built in 1937. The Steelworkers' Auditorium also stands as a symbol of the city's industrial heritage.

For cultural insights, the Art Depot hosts seasonal art exhibitions by local artists. The Steelworkers' Auditorium offers various arts programs and events, including theater and music. You can also visit the Heritage Neighborhood Center and Museum to learn about Fontana's history through exhibits and artifacts, or see local art showcased at City Hall.

Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. Etiwanda Falls is a family-friendly hike, and the Santa Ana River Bike Path is great for a leisurely ride. Fontana Park features a skate park, dog park, playgrounds, and sports pavilions. The Fontana Park Aquatics Center offers a large swimming pool, splash park, and slides, making it a popular spot for water activities.

Beyond specific attractions, Fontana is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the North Etiwanda Falls and Preserve Loop or the Jurupa Mountains Trail. For cycling, explore routes like the Pacific Electric Trail or the Santa Ana River Trail. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Fontana and Road Cycling Routes around Fontana guides.

Yes, there are trails for various skill levels. For easy hikes, consider the Mary Vagle Nature Center Trail or parts of the Jurupa Mountains Trail. Moderate options include the North Etiwanda Falls and Preserve Loop and the Jurupa Hills Hike. You can find more detailed information on these and other routes in the Hiking around Fontana guide.

The Santa Ana River Bike Path offers a quiet and scenic ride alongside the river with nice views. For longer routes, consider the Pacific Electric Trail, which has sections suitable for cycling. You can explore various road cycling routes, including loops from Fontana, in the Road Cycling Routes around Fontana guide.

Fontana is home to the Auto Club Speedway, built on the former Kaiser Steel Mill site. It hosts major racing events like the Xfinity Indie Car Series and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Visitors can experience laps on the track or watch races. Additionally, the Auto Club Dragway offers thrilling drag racing events and competitions.

Fontana boasts several parks. Fontana Park is a widely visited spot with a skate park, dog park, playgrounds, and scenic trails. Martin Tudor Hills Regional Park provides lush greenery and beautiful vistas for picnics and unwinding. Coyote Canyon Park and Southridge Park also offer sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails for recreation and leisure.

Southern California generally enjoys mild weather, making outdoor activities pleasant for much of the year. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures ideal for hiking and cycling. Winter months are also mild, and some aquatic centers even heat their pools. Summers can be hot, so early mornings or evenings are best for outdoor pursuits during that season.

While not widely advertised, the Smoke Stack Trail offers dirt paths leading into the mountains and desert areas surrounding Fontana, known for its serene environment and scenic views away from the crowds. The Heritage Neighborhood Center and Museum also provides a deeper dive into local history that might be less known to casual visitors.

Fontana's industrial heritage is deeply tied to the former Kaiser Steel Mill. The Auto Club Speedway is built on its site, and the Steelworkers' Auditorium stands as a symbol of this past. The Fontana Historical Society is dedicated to preserving this heritage, with collections including artifacts and photographs that inform the public about the city's history.

Yes, for panoramic views, you can hike to the peak of Mount Jurupa, which overlooks Fontana. The Hidden Valley Viewpoint offers views over the Santa Ana River valley, complete with a shade tree and informational maps. The Mount Rubidoux Summit and Cross also provides a serene spot for reflection and appreciation of the surrounding landscape.