San Bernardino is the center of a thriving metropolitan area where the San Bernardino Valley has been a destination since the early pioneer times, over one hundred fifty years ago. An intriguing medley of diverse options are choices for visitors who are there for exploration. Wineries, quaint villages, mountain resort areas and the solitude of the desert unfold for diverse interests.
The region encompasses the San Bernardino National Forest, and the mountain resorts and recreational areas around Gregory, Arrowhead, and Big Bear lakes.
San Bernardino has an “old west” history in this mountainous vastness when the gold rush hit the area in the 1860’s In 1926 it became an outpost for missionaries; and yet in more current times in the 1960’s, Route 66 was developed. The steady development of the areas and the draw to the San Bernardino Mountain range has brought continuous growth to the location.
The city is renowned for the gigantic, natural Arrowhead near the mountains. The Indians knew of the medicinal value of the Hot Springs and often gathered there to bathe. The Mormons referred to the mark as the "Ace of Spades".
The Arrow measure 1,360 feet long and 450 feet wide and the arrowhead is visible from as far away as 30 miles on a clear day. It was commonly believed at one time that the Indians had made the arrowhead to mark the location of the hot springs. However, geologists now say that it is a natural phenomenon, a natural uplifting of the soil. The face of the arrowhead consists of light quartz, supporting a growth of short white sage.
Today, the warm waters are available as professional body treatment services, salon treatments and California’s only red clay mud bath. Some of the offerings are available at the Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa, Club Mud, Nature’s Day Spa. They offer relaxing subtropical settings with stately palms, flowing bougainvillea and dazzling waters.
Accommodations
The Radisson Hotel San Bernardino Convention Center is a business-oriented Hotel that is situated near City Hall, and is located 25 minutes from Ontario International Airport. The Best Western on Hospitality Lane also is a nearby fine choice.
Restaurants
The first McDonald’s Brothers Hamburger Stand was in San Bernardino, and the original McDonalds is now a museum. A sampling of the diverse restaurants throughout the area include delicious cuisines that can be enjoyed at: The Castaway Restaurant and the Cabazo Delhi Palace-cuisine of India and numerous other exceptional selections as well.
Shopping
The Ontario Mills is the largest outlet mall in California with over 200 stores, including numerous attractions, theaters, fine dining, and more at the Mall. The Cabazon Outlet has 17 upscale Outlet stores.
In downtown San Bernardino, a charming haven is in the midst of the lively downtown area. Court Street Square is a welcoming place to have lunch and enjoy the surroundings.
Arts/Music
San Bernardino celebrates having its own Symphony with many excellent offerings. The city also extends its celebrations outdoor activities each month of the year. Some the special events include: the Open Sky Music Festival, Old Miners’ Days, the Pop Secret 500, Big Bear Lake International Film Festival, the Bluegrass Festival, Oktoberfest, the Grape Harvest Festival, the Harvest Fair, the New years Eve Gala.
Major Attractions
Since 1911, The National Orange Show Events Center has provided a variety of ongoing innovative undertakings. The versatility of the facility of the Events Center has the capability of handling crowds in excess of 60,000 and has ongoing ample varieties to choose from.
The San Bernardino National Forest, a vast region that has cool pine scented mountain air and breathtaking views of the desert, encompasses 660,000 acres of the San Bernardino Mountain. Elevations range from 1,000 feet to the highest at Mount San Gorgonio at 11,502 feet.
Hikers can explore over 500 miles of trails and wilderness that penetrate not only the forest's mountain pines, but that also roam through a fascinating extensive collection of desert flowers. The Desert cactus’ contrast against snow-peaked mountains in the distance is an intriguing site. The forest's large bodies of water, (including Big Bear Lake) serve as a recreational refuge for southern Californians and travelers. Hikers have the opportunity to experience a wide variety of habitations from lush trails, mountainous ranges and desert diversity.
Written by: Karen J. Lee
