2026 Ontario California Travel Resolutions: Places to Visit in the New Year!

2026 Ontario California Travel Goals: Top Places to Visit

As the calendar turns 2026, Ontario, California offers an inviting mix of suburban charm, Southern California access, and new opportunities for exploration. Nestled in the Inland Empire and less than an hour from Los Angeles, the city has grown into a destination with its own unique personality, from outlet shopping and live entertainment at Toyota Arena to scenic parks and trails. With exciting projects on the horizon, including the much-anticipated ONT Field stadium opening in spring 2026, Ontario is ready to welcome travelers and locals alike. This new year is the perfect time to discover the places and experiences that will make Ontario a memorable stop on any travel list.

Ontario’s Signature Attractions

A. Toyota Arena & Live Entertainment: Toyota Arena, located in Ontario, Southern California, is a multi-purpose venue that hosts a variety of indoor events, including concerts by major artists, family shows like Disney on Ice, and professional sporting events such as basketball and ice hockey games. The arena features a modern facility with 11,000 seats and has a flexible design allowing it to be quickly converted from an ice rink to a concert or basketball court.

Upcoming events:

PBR: Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour (January 16^th and 17^th, 2026)
A Souldies Valentines (February 14^th, 2026)
TobyMac Hits Deep Tour (February 21^st, 2026)

B. Ontario Mills & Shopping Adventures: Ontario Mills is California’s largest indoor outlet mall, offering a climate-controlled environment with over 200 stores, dining, and entertainment options like movie theaters and arcades, it’s an all-day adventure. For 2026, resolve to explore new outlets, catch a movie, or try unique eateries within the complex. Shoppers can find brands such as Coach, Nike, and Sephora, alongside a food court and various amusements. The mall is a popular shopping destination, particularly known for its large size as the largest one-level shopping mall in Western North America.

Outdoor & Nature Escapes

A. Cucamonga‑Guasti Regional Park: The park provides 150 acres of outdoor recreation activities in an urban setting. There is a wide range of activities including two lakes for fishing, a swimming complex with water slides, splash pads, picnic tables and group picnic shelters for corporate events, large parties and family reunions.

Amenities:

Picnic Shelters
Playground
Splash Pad
Fishing

B. Hiking & Day Trips: Ontario is a gateway to some of Southern California’s most beautiful outdoor escapes, offering everything from peaceful nature walks to challenging mountain adventures. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or panoramic views, 2026 is the perfect year to set out on a new trail

Etiwanda Falls Trail – A local favorite, this moderate hike rewards you with a refreshing waterfall and shaded paths just minutes from the city.
San Gabriel Mountains – Endless options for day hikes, from scenic ridge trails to summit climbs with sweeping views.
Chino Hills State Park – Rolling hills and wildflower displays make this an ideal spot for springtime hiking or biking.
Mt. Baldy – For seasoned hikers, this iconic peak offers challenging routes and some of the best vistas in Southern California.
North Etiwanda Preserve – A protected area with multiple trails, offering serene landscapes and educational signs about local wildlife.

Seasonal & Event-Based Picks

1. Spring: Ontario Festival of the Arts

It takes place annually in downtown Ontario.
Features local artists, live performances, and interactive art workshops.
Visitors can enjoy art exhibits, street performances, and food vendors.
Perfect for creative inspiration and community connection.

2. Summer: Outdoor Concerts and Local Street Fairs

Ontario hosts a freeee summer concert series in parks and plazas.
Street fairs and food festivals bring live entertainment and artisan stalls.
Warm evenings are ideal for music, local food, and family fun.
It is a great opportunity to enjoy the city’s outdoor social scene.

3. Fall: Cultural Celebrations and Farmers’ Markets

Farmers’ markets overflow with seasonal produce and handmade crafts.
Cultural festivals celebrate Ontario’s diversity – from Dia de los Muertos to heritage parades.
Visitors can experience live music, dance, and authentic foods from around the world.
A season to embrace Ontario’s community traditions and fall atmosphere.

4. Winter: Holiday Lights and Seasonal Performances

Ontario transforms with festive lights and holiday decorations across downtown and local parks.
Tree lighting ceremonies and parades mark the holiday spirit.
Enjoy seasonal performances, such as Christmas concerts or local theater shows.
The perfect time to experience Ontario’s warm and family-friendly holiday vibe.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March – May) and Fall (September – November) are the most pleasant times to visit Ontario, California. During these seasons, temperatures are mild, skies are clear, and outdoor activities are at their best.
Spring brings blooming landscapes, perfect for park visits, art festivals, and day trips to nearby mountains.
Fall offers cooler evenings, ideal for exploring cultural events, farmers’ markets, and wine-tasting excursions.
Summer can be hot, with temperatures often reaching the 90s (°F), so plan for indoor attractions like Ontario Mills or Toyota Arena events.
Winter is mild compared to most regions, making it great for holiday lights and regional mountain getaways.

Getting Around

Car travel is the most convenient option, as many attractions and neighboring cities are spread out. Rental car services are available at Ontario International Airport (ONT) and throughout the city.
For shorter trips, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are reliable and cost-effective.
Public transportation is improving, with Omnitrans buses and Metrolink trains connecting Ontario to nearby areas such as Riverside, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles.
Consider planning your route in advance, as Southern California’s traffic can be unpredictable during rush hours.

Where to Stay: Best Western Ontario Mills Mall

Located just steps from Ontario Mills Mall and minutes from Ontario International Airport, Best Western Ontario Mills Mall is a convenient and comfortable stay option for both business and leisure travelers. Guests appreciate its clean rooms, friendly staff, and easy access to shopping, dining, and major highways (I-10 & I-15).