Ontario 16-Day Itinerary: A Journey through History, Nature, and Adventure

Wednesday, January 3: Discover the Historical Charm of Downtown Ontario

Start your trip by exploring the rich history of downtown Ontario. In the morning, visit the Ontario Museum of History and Art, where you can delve into the city's past through fascinating exhibits. Afterward, head to Graber Olive House for a tour and sample their renowned olives. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Euclid Avenue Historic District, admiring the beautifully preserved Victorian homes. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at historic Sycamore Inn.

  • Ontario Museum of History and Art: Cost: $5, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Graber Olive House: Cost: Free (tour), Time spent: 1 hour
  • Euclid Avenue Historic District: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Sycamore Inn: Cost: $30-50 per person, Time spent: 2 hours

Thursday, January 4: Escape to the Charming Town of Claremont

Embark on a short trip to Claremont, a picturesque town known for its tree-lined streets and college town atmosphere. Start your day with a visit to the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, where you can explore beautiful gardens and trails. In the afternoon, wander through Claremont Village, filled with charming shops, art galleries, and cafes. Don't miss a visit to the Folk Music Center, a legendary music store. In the evening, catch a live performance at the Candlelight Pavilion Dinner Theater.

  • Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden: Cost: $10, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Claremont Village: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Folk Music Center: Cost: Free (window shopping), Time spent: 1 hour
  • Candlelight Pavilion Dinner Theater: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 3 hours

Friday, January 5: Thrilling Adventures at Raging Waters Los Angeles

Splash into excitement at Raging Waters, one of California's largest water parks. Spend the whole day enjoying thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. Cool off from the winter chill with the park's heated pools. End the day with a relaxing picnic at Bonelli Park, located nearby, and enjoy the serene lake views.

  • Raging Waters: Cost: $40-50, Time spent: Full day
  • Bonelli Park: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Saturday, January 6: Explore the Natural Beauty of Chino Hills State Park

Immerse yourself in nature at Chino Hills State Park, home to stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. Spend the morning hiking through scenic trails, taking in breathtaking views. In the afternoon, have a picnic near the Rolling M Ranch, a historic ranch within the park. If you're lucky, you might spot some deer or coyotes. Wrap up the day with a relaxing sunset at Harkins Peak, overlooking the park.

  • Chino Hills State Park: Cost: $5, Time spent: 4-5 hours

Sunday, January 7: Discover the Excitement of Auto Club Speedway

Get your heart racing at the Auto Club Speedway, a premier motorsports facility. Spend the day witnessing thrilling races or, if available, participate in a driving experience around the track. Afterward, unwind at the Lewis Family Playhouse and enjoy a captivating theater performance.

  • Auto Club Speedway: Cost: Varies (race tickets, driving experience), Time spent: Full day
  • Lewis Family Playhouse: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Monday, January 8: Experience the Majestic Beauty of Mount Baldy

Embark on an adventure to Mount Baldy, the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains. Take a scenic drive up to the Mount Baldy Village and immerse yourself in the picturesque surroundings. In the morning, hike one of the trails to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of tubing or skiing at the Mount Baldy Ski Lifts. End the day with a cozy dinner at the Top of the Notch restaurant overlooking the stunning scenery.

  • Mount Baldy Village: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Mount Baldy Hiking: Cost: Free, Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Mount Baldy Ski Lifts: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Top of the Notch: Cost: $30-50 per person, Time spent: 2 hours

Tuesday, January 9: Discover Old Towne Orange's Historic Charm

Step back in time and explore the nostalgic charm of Old Towne Orange, a quaint historic district. Spend the morning browsing through the antique shops and art galleries that line the streets. Enjoy a delightful lunch at one of the farm-to-table restaurants in the area. In the afternoon, visit the Orange County Museum of Art to admire contemporary artworks. End the day with a relaxing stroll around Hart Park and enjoy the serene surroundings.

  • Old Towne Orange: Cost: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Orange County Museum of Art: Cost: $15, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Hart Park: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Wednesday, January 10: Shop 'til You Drop at Ontario Mills Mall

Indulge your shopping desires at Ontario Mills Mall, one of the largest outlet malls in California. Spend the day exploring a wide range of stores offering discounted prices on popular brands. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the mall's many restaurants. Catch a movie at the Edwards Ontario Palace Stadium 22 to wind down after a day of shopping.

  • Ontario Mills Mall: Cost: Varies, Time spent: Full day
  • Edwards Ontario Palace Stadium 22: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Thursday, January 11: Experience the Magic of Disneyland Resort

Embark on a magical adventure at Disneyland Resort. Spend the day exploring the enchanting Disneyland Park or the futuristic world of Disney California Adventure Park. Take in thrilling attractions, meet beloved Disney characters, and enjoy world-class entertainment. End the day with the dazzling fireworks show.

  • Disneyland Resort: Cost: $150-200, Time spent: Full day

Friday, January 12: Relaxation at Huntington Beach

Unwind at the iconic Huntington Beach, known as "Surf City USA." Spend the morning walking along the golden sands and breathing in the fresh ocean air. Indulge in beachside activities like surfing, paddleboarding, or beach volleyball. Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants. In the afternoon, explore the Huntington Beach Pier and visit the International Surfing Museum. Witness a beautiful sunset over the Pacific Ocean before heading back inland.

  • Huntington Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • International Surfing Museum: Cost: $5, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Saturday, January 13: Journey to Joshua Tree National Park

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey to Joshua Tree National Park, a desert oasis filled with stunning rock formations and unique wildlife. Spend the day hiking through the park's picturesque trails, marveling at the iconic Joshua Trees. Visit Keys View to enjoy panoramic views of the Coachella Valley. Witness the mesmerizing starry night sky as evening falls upon the park.

  • Joshua Tree National Park: Cost: $30, Time spent: Full day

Sunday, January 14: Historic Exploration in Riverside

Discover the fascinating history of Riverside, an inland empire city. Begin your day with a visit to the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa, a stunning historical landmark. Explore the beautiful architecture and gardens, and learn about the hotel's rich history. In the afternoon, wander through the Riverside Metropolitan Museum, which showcases the region's cultural heritage. End the day with a serene boat tour on Lake Evans and admire the sunset.

  • Mission Inn Hotel and Spa: Cost: Free (tour), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Riverside Metropolitan Museum: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Lake Evans Boat Tour: Cost: $20, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, January 15: Glimpse into California's Past at The LA County Fairplex

Visit The LA County Fairplex, where history comes alive with various exhibits and events. Spend the morning exploring the Fairplex Museum with its fascinating displays on Southern California's past. In the afternoon, enjoy thrilling rides and games at the Pacific Park Carnival. Indulge in fair-style food and experience the lively atmosphere. In the evening, catch a concert or special event happening at the fairgrounds.

  • The LA County Fairplex Museum: Cost: $8, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Pacific Park Carnival: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 3-4 hours

Tuesday, January 16: Experience Urban Excitement in Downtown Los Angeles

Discover the vibrant energy of downtown Los Angeles. Start your day at The Broad, a contemporary art museum offering an unforgettable visual experience. Afterward, stroll through the historic Olvera Street, filled with colorful Mexican markets and shops. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city. End the day with a delightful dinner at one of Downtown LA's trendy restaurants.

  • The Broad: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Olvera Street: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Griffith Observatory: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Wednesday, January 17: Journey into the Wilderness at Mount San Jacinto State Park

Embark on a scenic adventure to Mount San Jacinto State Park, a wilderness oasis. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to reach the mountaintop. Spend the day hiking through lush forests, enjoying breathtaking vistas, and searching for wildlife. Explore the charming town of Idyllwild nestled in the mountains, known for its artistic community and quaint shops. At the end of the day, savor a delicious meal at a mountain lodge.

  • Mount San Jacinto State Park: Cost: $26 (tram ticket), Time spent: Full day
  • Idyllwild: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Thursday, January 18: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Ontario has numerous hidden gems and local favorites worth exploring. Venture off the beaten path and discover the beauty of Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park, a serene oasis with fishing lakes, picnic areas, and paddleboat rentals. Indulge in delicious Mexican street food in Ontario's vibrant East Los Angeles neighborhood. Visit Ontario Convention Center for special events, exhibitions, or concerts. Wrap up your trip by exploring the stunning surroundings of the Ontario Mills Preserve, perfect for a peaceful nature walk.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While visiting Ontario, make sure to venture beyond the well-known attractions and explore some hidden gems and local favorites. One such gem is the Ontario Improv, a comedy club that showcases talented comedians in an intimate setting. It's a great place to unwind, laugh, and enjoy a fun evening. Another local favorite is the Graber Olive House, where you can taste and purchase a variety of delicious olives and olive products. The house has a rich history and is a true culinary delight. Lastly, don't miss the Ontario Farmers Market, held on weekends, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and a bustling community atmosphere.

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