Famous lawman, Wyatt Earp, and his family came to the San Bernardino Valley from Iowa
in 1864 in a wagon train led by his father Nicholas Earp. Surprisingly, Nicholas Earp's
description of the area remains fairly accurate. These pleasurable amenities are still
here to be enjoyed.
Most tourists are quite familiar with the major attractions of California. But what of
those out-of -the-way, "off-the-beaten- path" treasures that the Golden State
has kept as its own secret? Travelers looking for something different, a twist to the
normal Southern California itinerary, will find San Bernardino has a backyard full of
hidden secrets. Come and explore with us some of those lesser known, but much adored
treasures.
The San Bernardino Civic Light Opera Association offers a dazzling star-studded
line-up of first-rate Broadway plays and musicals each year, performed in the renowned California
Theatre of Performing Arts.
The San Bernardino County Museum is a must see for any visitor. The main museum
facility houses collections on three floors. The nationally renowned Wilson C. Hanna
Ornithology display of birds and more than 40,000 eggs is one of the largest in the United
States. Also featured are Earth Science, fossils, historical, and artistic exhibits.
Various special exhibits are shown throughout the year.
History buffs should visit our neighboring city of Redlands where you can still
catch a glimpse of the opulent Victorian Mansions of old California such as the French
Chateau style Kimberly Crest Home & Gardens.
The San Bernardino Mountains offer a resort paradise second-to- none. Lake Arrowhead
is home to famous stars, past and present, and the mountain community of Crestline
offers Lake Gregory, an 86-acre park and lake facility. Fishing is available
year-round and summer swimming is terrific. The San Bernardino National Forest provides
unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation. The quaint town of Oak Glen has a
number of apple farms and orchards where U-pick programs flourish annually. A day can
easily be filled meandering up the winding road to Oak Glen and its unique village areas.
Stop at the Oak Tree Village and don't forget to get a fresh slice of apple pie at
the Los Rios Ranch Bakery. Mmmmm!
Southern California is also proud of its Temecula Valley wineries. Just a short
drive from San Bernardino are eleven vineyards and wineries where award winning vintage
wines have been produced for many years. Tasting and tours are conducted daily. Browse the
beautiful gift shops and bring a picnic lunch to enjoy!
San Bernardino is also host to many fantastic and unique annual special events such as
the Renaissance Pleasure Faire, the Citrus Fruit Fair and Music Festival,
and the nostalgic Route 66 Rendezvous (see special event calendar for dates and
additional listings).
The list of attractions goes on as does the delight of welcomed guests who add a unique
San Bernardino Valley twist to their Southern California vacation. And don't worry, you're
no farther than an hour away from beach areas, Palm Springs Desert Resorts, or the Magic
Kingdom. Enjoy!