31 Best and Fun Things To Do In Ontario CA (California)

What comes to mind when you think of Southern California? Los Angeles, San Francisco, and other coastal cities are likely to be represented, as are the residents who are having the time of their lives and taking full advantage of the warm weather. To most people, the term “Ontario” conjures up images of a Canadian vacation spot day trip.

Things To Do In Ontario CA, it’s true that “forty-five minutes from everywhere you want to be” describes the location of San Bernardino Ontario, Calif. on the map. While Ontario is a great place to begin your Californian journey, there are plenty of things to do in and around the city itself.

Let’s take a look at the best Ontario, California activities:

31 List Of Things To Do In Ontario CA Today

1. CCAA Museum of Art

Artists can be found in every destination, so there is always art to be seen. At least as far back as 1899 the local art community has had the Chaffey Community Museum of Art (CCMA), also known as the Chaffey Community Art Association (CCCAA).

You’ll be able to see exhibits from well-known artists, as well as new works from artists you’ve never heard of Ontario Museum.

2. Museum of History and Art

In addition to the Chaffey Community Museum of Art, there is the nearby Museum of History and Art, which is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of regional history through educational displays and events year-round.

The attraction’s beauty doesn’t end with the exterior, which is housed in a beautifully designed historic building. There are a few exhibits that aren’t going anywhere anytime soon at San Diego.

Gem of the Foothills is an exhibit that promotes the city’s unique history, whereas the exhibit Road Ways examines the ways in which the advent of the modern road altered American society.

3. Graber Olive House

You don’t have to travel to the Mediterranean to get your hands on some of the best olives in the world.

Since 1894, family-owned Graber Olives have been produced and cultivated in the same location in the Graber Olive House. If you’ve never had it before, the locals say it’s the best they’ve ever had, and you’ll be tempted to pack your suitcase full of the gourmet treats at Ontario Mills Mall.

In addition, Graber Olive House is the oldest business in Ontario to remain in operation. The best time to visit is between October and December when you can see the entire process of grading, curing, and canning the olives up close and personal lake superior.

4.  Ontario Mills

Visit Ontario Mills, a 1.5 million square foot shopping mall with more than 200 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, while you’re there for some vacation shopping. More than 24 million people visit Ontario Mills each year.

The Rainforest Cafe, Dave & Busters, and an improv comedy club and dinner theater are just a few of the family-friendly attractions you’ll find here, in addition to your usual suspects like Lacoste and Calvin Klein.

5. Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park

If you’re going to be in sunny California, you better make the most of it! 150 acres of recreational activities are all located in an easy and convenient location at the Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park.

Two lakes are available for fishing and boating, as well as a small waterpark for thrill-seekers looking for a good time in the ocean fun things.

6. Whispering Lakes Golf Course

There’s always the Whispering Lakes Golf Course if you’d rather hit the links than splash around in the waterpark.

The city owns the par-72, 18-hole course and recently remodeled it with a new clubhouse and other improvements. While you’re there, you can meet with Gary Nicholas, the course’s PGA Head Golf Professional, for some instruction in mission inn.

Overall, though, the course is relatively easy on both your skills and your shoes, as the flat course allows you to walk your way around rather than take a golf cart.

7. North Etiwanda Preserve

The North Etiwanda Preserve is the best place to go hiking in the area. Your surroundings are stunning as you stroll along the 3.3-mile trail, which takes about two hours to complete and is relatively easy to navigate, though there are some sections with significant rock exposure.

This falls, Etiwanda, is located north of the main trail and is accessible by following the trail for a half-mile north of the parking lot trailhead. You may have to cross private property to get to the falls, but this isn’t necessarily discouraged.

8. Glen Ivy Hot Springs

If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, Glen Ivy Hot Springs is just over an hour’s drive away.

They have been around for a long time, and the land on which they sit was once sacred to the indigenous peoples. New renovations and expansions have been made to Glen Ivy Hot Springs in its 157th year. The newly added saunas should not be missed, as they are made entirely of wood.

9. Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden

A few miles outside of town, the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is the largest botanical garden dedicated to California native plants.

If you’re interested in learning about the animals that live there, this is a great place to visit. All of the plant collections can be explored, as well as hands-on activities or a course in which you can learn more about the subject.

A free bird walk is offered on the first and third Saturdays of each month, so you might want to time your visit to coincide with one of the horticulture or botany classes at national parks.

10. Sycamore Inn

If you’re going to eat, why not have fun with it? Find out how a dirt road led Spanish explorer Juan Batista de Anza and his men to the site of the Sycamore Inn, where they lived with local natives for just over a month with their crew.

It wasn’t long before one of the original soldiers made the decision to stay and build a small community complete with mansions, vineyards, and other amenities.

Before the Civil War, a dirt trail became a major thoroughfare, and an inn was eventually built there. People from all over, especially those with southern sympathies, flocked to it, making it a popular gathering place. The inn survived many changes of ownership before settling into its current form.

11. Citizens Business Bank Arena

Citizens Business Bank Arena hosts a variety of events throughout the year, so there’s something for everyone’s tastes here.

Attend a concert at an indoor football arena, or buy tickets to a sporting event (several upcoming performances include Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Skillet, Britt Nicole and more). Preseason basketball games and professional bull riders are also available. Everything is represented here.

12. Victoria Gardens

The pedestrian-friendly, open-air shopping center Victoria Gardens has all of your favorite stores in one convenient location, so you don’t have to go to a boring indoor mall while on vacation.

As well as big-name stores such as Macy’s or Bass Pro Shops, there are many smaller boutiques in the mall, including bebe and Lush.

A wide variety of restaurants are available, from fast food and budget options to more upscale establishments, making it easy for visitors to find a place to dine that fits their needs and their budget.

13. Planes of Fame Air Museum

When it comes to aviation history, the Planes of Fame Air Museum is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts in the area.

More than 150 aircraft are on display at the museum, including 50 still capable of flight. There are World War II fighter planes on display, as well as a 1903 Wright Flyer.

You never know if you’ll catch an air show if you go on the right day. Every month, they have Living History Flying Days, and in May, they hold their annual Planes of Fame Airshow.

14. Euclid Avenue

For a stroll around town after dinner or in the morning, Euclid Avenue is a must. Art deco, Victorian, and even Googie architecture are just a few of the many styles to be found throughout the city.

Almost every house has a different architectural style and represents a different era, all in a picture-perfect setting. That being the case, what are you still sitting there thinking about? So put on your walking shoes, grab your camera, and set out for a stroll!

15. See the Historic John Rains House

Historic John Rains House for a variety of reasons, this house, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, serves as a historical museum.

It was the home of a prominent California businessman who opened the state’s first commercial winery in 1860, and it featured an innovative cooling system that used creek water.

The house and its owners hosted a number of high-profile events, and a number of powerful figures were in attendance. In the end, the businessman who owned the house was killed, and his widow was forced to give up the property because of his death.

16. Sam And Alfreda Maloof Foundation

The Sam and Alfreda Maloof Foundation, which is also on the National Register of Historic Places, does not have quite the same dramatic history. Maloof was a highly regarded furniture maker, and his rocking chairs were even recognized by several American presidents.

His home was built by him and his helpers, and it reflects his passion for woodworking in every detail. The house was placed on the National Register of Historic Places when highway construction threatened to demolish it.

There is a small exhibit center and gardens with native and Mediterranean plants where you can take a docent-led tour of the house and other parts of the estate.

17. Madonna of the Trail

The Madonna of the Trail in this part of the country is one of 12 monuments dedicated to the pioneer woman’s resilient spirit that were commissioned and installed across the country.

Commencing in Maryland, the National Old Trails Road features these monuments. Because of local efforts and a general sense of pride in the achievements of the women for whom the monument stands, they have been well-maintained since they were first erected in the 1920s.

18. K1 Speed Ontario

At K1 Speed Ontario, you can experience a go-kart ride like no other. You can experience real, authentic racing like you’ve never seen it before, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping, high-performance experience, this is the place for you. For $20, you can participate in a race or two at the track, which is open until well into the night on weekends.

19. Scandia

Even though it’s a long, crowded drive from Ontario, many residents of that province do go to Disneyland.

If that’s not your cup of tea, consider Scandia, a less-expensive, closer-to-home amusement park that, while it’s no Disneyland, is still a lot of fun for the whole family. Because the setting is more akin to a fairground, the rides are on the small side, but the experience is priceless.

To get your feet wet, you can do some Scandia Screamer, Swing Swing or even Viking Ship! You’re not a fan of riding? Try a round of mini-golf or some batting practice. Everything you need is right here, and it’s all Scandinavian-themed!

20. San Antonio Winery

Since 1917, the San Antonio Winery has been making wine in downtown Los Angeles, but it has since relocated to its current location. Now, the winery has expanded to Ontario, where you can find a location. It’s been over 40 years since the Ontario tasting room has been open, and you can sample a wide range of wines there.

This is a great deal for the Daily Artisan Series, which includes four highly sought-after reserve wines for just $15 each. You can even keep the wine glass as a memento! Remember that if your party includes more than six people, you’ll need to make an appointment in advance.

21. Amy’s Farm

Reservations are required for tours of Amy’s Farm, which is located in a picturesque rural setting.

Enjoy a walk through the garden, harvesting your own herbs and vegetables, feeding the farm animals, and even milking the cow! Taking the kids to the zoo is an enjoyable outing for the whole family, as well as an opportunity to see some animals up close and personal that you might not otherwise see.

If you’re there in the fall, don’t miss out on the opportunity to pick your own pumpkin in the pumpkin patch!

22. LOL Kids Club

The LOL Kids Club is a great place to spend a fun-filled day with your children, even if you can’t come by yourself.

There are a plethora of activities for children to engage in, including ball pits, climbing structures, swings, and more. You don’t even have to bring a lunch because there’s a cafe on site!

23. Sixth Street Bar & Grill

Go to Sixth Street Bar & Grill with your partner after the kids have had a fun day of playing. There’s a wide variety of food, drink, and live entertainment.

You can dance the night away to Bachata or Country, or belt out your favorite songs if you show up on a Wednesday. There is karaoke at this bar, so you’ll need to pick a song in advance and have a few shots in your system before you get started. As a result, your money will go further because of the low prices.

24. Murder-Mystery Dinner

It’s understandable if you don’t want to dine with American Idol and want tobes on a karaoke machine while you’re on vacation. Maybe you’d prefer solving a mystery.

Dinner and a murder mystery dinner show at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Ontario is one of the most popular dinners shows in Los Angeles. Having appeared on television and on film, these actors have honed their improvisational skills to the point where you’ll get a one-of-a-kind experience.

25. Ontario Reign

Ontario’s minor league hockey team may not be associated with California, but that hasn’t stopped it from existing. If you’re in town during the season, don’t miss a game!

26. Toyota Arena

The Toyota Arena, which is owned and operated by the City of Ontario, has two floors of facilities, 26 luxury suites, and a concourse that total 225,000 square feet. The Inland Empire’s largest and most technologically advanced arena, it opened in 2008 and has since become a landmark in the region.

The arena, which can hold up to 11,000 people, hosts over 125 events each year, including concerts, sporting competitions, and family-friendly entertainment. There are a number of notable sports teams that play at the Toyota Arena as well. Some of these teams include: The Toronto Fury; The Toronto Reign; The Los Angeles Temptation; and the Agua Caliente Clippers from Ontario.

4000 East Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, California 91764, Phone: 909-244-5500

27. Rock Climb Every Day

To the delight of its members, the Rock Climb Every Day crew approaches its work in an unconventional manner. Rock Climb Every Day is a family-run business in Southern California, employing only the most qualified and experienced climbers.

You can be confident that you’ll learn some of the best rock climbing techniques from some of the best in the business while also meeting other like-minded adventurers in Ontario.

All of the educational programs offered by Rock Climb Every Day are held in unique outdoor settings. They also have options for longer courses that focus on the mind’s focus and perseverance as well as the body’s strength and flexibility.

28. Ontario Convention Center

The Ontario Convention Center is a world-class event venue where you can meet, explore, and connect with others who share your interests.

A state-of-the-art venue with over 225,000 square feet of exhibit, meeting, and function space has hosted numerous trade shows, conventions, and exhibits since its inception.

As well as event space, the Ontario Convention Center is located within walking distance of some of the best hotels and restaurants in the area for visitors from outside of the city. The Ontario Convention Center is well-lit and well-kept, and it boasts stunning architectural features and top-notch customer service provided by courteous and knowledgeable employees.

2000 E Convention Center Way, Ontario, California 91764, Phone: 909-937-3000

29. iFLY Indoor Skydiving Ontario

You don’t have to jump out of a plane in order to experience skydiving. In fact, all you have to do is drive up to the iFly Indoor Skydiving Center in Ontario, Canada.

Divers of all skill levels are welcome at the facility, which fulfills the lifelong dream of flight for all who enter. When it comes to experiencing the exhilarating sensation of free fall, iFly’s experience lasts about two hours and is roughly equal to 1.5 jumps.

Each flight at iFly includes training by an IBA-trained and certified instructor, as well as full gear from the flight suit to the goggles.

4510 Ontario Mills Parkway, Ontario, California, Phone: 909-531-4359

30. Ontario Center Ice Arena

Ice sports enthusiasts in the Inland Empire of California can enjoy the Ontario Center Ice Arena, a family-friendly facility with a single NHL-sized skating surface that can be used for a wide range of activities and events. Several hockey teams and leagues, as well as figure skating teams, call the 85 by 200-foot rink home.

There are also public skating sessions and lessons offered at this rink. Rentals of figure and hockey skates are available for those who are new to the sport, while a full-service pro shop is also located on-site for all of your ice sporting goods needs.

Locals and long-term visitors alike are welcome to take part in programs aimed at improving the skating and hockey abilities of beginners.

201 S. Plum Avenue, Ontario, California 91761, Phone: 909-986-4231

31. Vince’s Spaghetti

Vince’s Spaghetti, which is still run by the Cuccia family, began as a six-seat open-air French dip stand in 1945. Some say Frank Cuccia’s uncle once dined on spaghetti made by his grandmother in front of customers.

As a result of this event, Vince’s Spaghetti came into being. This Italian-style restaurant has been serving delicious Italian food to the neighborhood ever since, and their Spaghetti is a must-try.

Spaghetti with meat sauce is undoubtedly the most popular dish on the menu, but the lasagna, meatballs, and Vince’s Dinner set meal are also worth mentioning. When dining at Vince’s, pair your meal with one of their premium wines and finish with one of their delicious desserts.

1206 W Holt Boulevard, Ontario, California 91762, Phone: 909-986-7074

FAQs Things To Do In Ontario CA