Ontario lies 45 minutes east of Los Angeles in the beautiful Cucamonga Valley. The city’s location at the intersection of several major freeways, yet set aside from the congestion of greater LA, make it an ideal base to visit Southern California attractions. But Ontario itself has much to offer visitors.
Ontario was established in the late 19th Century as an agricultural town. Citrus and dairy farms thrived in the area, along with Olive groves and vineyards. The Sunkist plant located in town is a reminder of the town’s roots in citrus growing. One of the first wineries in the state of California was built in the area in 1839. The Graber Olive House, established in 1894, continues to produce olives in Ontario to this day. It is the oldest olive packer in the U.S. still in operation. A tour of Graber Oliver House is a unique way to experience early California history and learn about the processes of grading, curing, and canning olives.
Other popular attractions in town include Ontario Mills, one of the largest shopping and outlet malls in the area. Across from Ontario Mills is the former site of the Ontario Motor Speedway, which hosted major racing events from 1970-1980. The Museum of Art and History is an excellent way to explore the historical heritage of Ontario and the surrounding area. It offers free admission to exhibits Thursday through Sunday each week. The Citizens Business Bank arena is home to the Ontario Reign, an ECHL hockey team. Ontario Reign games have an impressive turnout by a local supportive fan base.
The 15th largest cargo airport in the United States is located in Ontario. The LA/Ontario International Airport is pivotal to managing the freight traffic that comes from LA and Long Beach and that feeds out to the rest of the country. The city is home to large business, warehousing, and manufacturing spaces, yet the southern part of town retains several dairy and other agricultural farms.
There is plenty to see and do in Ontario. Visitors will enjoy wineries, golf courses, spas, shopping malls, theatres, museums, and excellent dining and lodging options. With Ontario’s location at the intersection of several freeways and interstate highways, visitors can easily access Southern California’s beaches, theme parks, landmarks, and everything else within an hour’s drive or less.
Ontario borders the communities of Rancho Cucamonga, Pamona, and Chino. It is 30 minutes from San Bernardino and 45 minutes from LA. To learn more about activities and lodging in Ontario, view the navigation on the left.
