Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Ontario, California

Ontario, California, is often recognized for its world class shopping, convenient location, and thriving business community. However, there is much more to this Southern California city than many people realize. Rich in history, culture, and innovation, Ontario has evolved from a small agricultural settlement into one of the region’s most important economic and transportation centers. Whether you are visiting for business, leisure, or simply passing through, you may be surprised by the many fascinating facts and hidden stories that have shaped Ontario into the dynamic city it is today: Best Attractions & Nearby Escapes!

1. Ontario Is Home to the Largest One-Story Mall on the West Coast

• Ontario Mills features more than 200 stores and is packed with popular outlet and factory retailers, making it one of the region’s biggest shopping destinations.

2. Major Music Stars Have Performed in Ontario

• The Citizens Business Bank Arena has hosted well-known performers such as Cher, Kacey Musgraves, and Lady Antebellum. With seating for 11,000 people, it is the largest covered arena in the Inland Empire.

3. Ontario Has a Hockey Team with an Impressive Fan Base

• The Ontario Reign regularly attracts more than 5,000 fans per game and has led the East Coast Hockey League in attendance for multiple seasons.

4. The City Once Had a Major Motor Speedway

• Before its demolition in 1980, the Ontario Motor Speedway was one of the country’s premier racing facilities and was sanctioned by all four major racing organizations.

5. A Famous Clothing Brand Started Here

• Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker founded Famous Stars and Straps in Ontario in 1999. The brand later became popular among musicians, skateboarders, and celebrities.

6. Ontario Offers Boating Without Leaving the City

• Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park features two lakes where visitors can enjoy pedal boating, fishing, and family-friendly outdoor activities.

7. The City Has a Rich Theater Tradition

• The Gardiner W. Spring Auditorium hosts plays and performances and is connected to Chaffey High School’s nationally recognized theater program.

8. Ontario’s Museum Is Always Free

• The Museum of History & Art, Ontario, offers free admission and showcases exhibits focused on the region’s history, culture, and local artists.

9. Ontario’s History Goes Back Further Than Most People Realize

• Although the Chaffey brothers founded Ontario in 1882, the area had Hispanic settlers dating back to the Californio period of the 1840s.

10. The City’s Name Comes from Canada

• The Chaffey brothers named the Ontario Model Colony after their hometown province of Ontario, Canada.

11. Ontario Once Hosted the World’s Longest Picnic Table

• During the 1941 All-States Picnic in Ontario, which attracted around 120,000 attendees, Euclid Avenue featured a massive picnic table that stretched across the street and later earned a place in Ripley’s Believe It or Not! as the world’s longest.

12. Ontario Still Celebrates Summer with Outdoor Concerts

• The historic Jack Mercer Community Bandstand remains a gathering place for live music and community performances.

13. Christmas on Euclid Is a Long-Standing Local Tradition

• Artists and craftspeople line at Euclid Avenue each December to sell handmade goods and raise money for charitable causes.

14. Ontario Has One of Its Oldest Operating Businesses from the 1800s

• The Graber Olive House has been producing olives since 1894 and remains one of the city’s oldest buildings.

15. A Historic Movie Theater Was Brought Back to Life

• The Granada Theater, originally built in 1926, was restored in 2013 and once again serves as an entertainment venue.

16. Ontario Has a Building That Symbolizes Its Early Success

• The Frankish Building stands as a reminder of the city’s commercial growth and entrepreneurial spirit.

17. You Can Explore California’s Native Plants Nearby

• Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden AKA (California Botanic Garden), located in nearby Claremont, is the largest botanical garden dedicated entirely to California plants.

18. Ontario’s Food Scene Is Surprisingly Diverse

• From authentic Lebanese cuisine and Thai specialties to classic deli favorites, the city offers flavors from around the world.

19. The City Has Deep Agricultural Roots

• Even today, places like Voortman’s Egg Ranch continue Ontario’s long farming tradition, which once played a major role in the local economy.

20. Local Comedy Talent Gets a Chance to Shine Nearby

• Flappers Comedy Club hosts “First Timer Funnies,” giving aspiring comedians the opportunity to perform in front of live audiences.

21. Ontario Has a Strong Appreciation for the Arts

• From museum exhibits and theater productions to holiday art fairs, creativity remains an important part of the community.

22. Euclid Avenue Is More Than Just a Street

• Many of Ontario’s biggest events, celebrations, and traditions take place along this iconic avenue, making it one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

For travelers eager to discover more than just Ontario’s famous shopping and business districts, Best Western Ontario Mills Mall is an affordable place to stay in Ontario, CA. Conveniently located near many of the city’s top attractions, museums, parks, and entertainment venues, the hotel makes it easy to experience the history, culture, and hidden gems that make Ontario a destination worth exploring.

Book your stay today and enjoy easy access to Ontario’s top attractions.