Top Hidden Gems in Ontario, California you need to visit in 2025!

Beyond the familiar attractions of Ontario, California lies a network of lesser-known spots that offer rich experiences for nature lovers, history buffs, and curious explorers alike. Whether you’re seeking serene mountain trails, quirky architectural wonders, peaceful parks, or seasonal spectacles, the surrounding region is full of unique destinations waiting to be uncovered. From panoramic vistas atop Potato Mountain to the surprising charm of the Egyptian Building in Chino Hills, each location brings its own character and charm, perfect for weekend adventurers or spontaneous day trips. Dive in and discover some of Southern California’s best kept secrets just a short drive from Ontario.

1. Mountain View Park

Overview: Mountain View Park, located in the east Coyote Hills provides stunning views of the surrounding area. Standing at the central viewpoint in the park a brass plaque guides you through the surrounding views, including the Downtown Los Angeles skyline, Mt. Baldy Peak of the San Gabriel Mountain and Santiago Peak of the Santa Ana Mountains.
Location: 2601 N. State College Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92835

2. Potato Mountain

Overview: Explore this 4.3 mile out and back trail near Claremont, California, rated moderately challenging and averaging 2.5 hours to complete. Popular for hiking, running, and birding, it’s open year-round and offers scenic views, especially at sunset. The trail leads to the summit of Potato Mountain, where you’re likely to spot wildlife like acorn woodpeckers and hawks. Dogs are welcome on a leash. Parking is limited to the trailhead; if full, park along Mount Baldy Road and walk up to the start.
Location: Mt Baldy Rd Claremont, CA 91711

3. North Etiwanda Preserve

Overview: The North Etiwanda Preserve was established on February 10, 1998, when SANBAG provided 762 acres of land to offset environmental impacts from the 210 Freeway construction. The area protects Riversidean Alluvial Fan Sage Scrub habitat, supporting species like the Coastal California Gnatcatcher. Ongoing conservation has expanded the preserve to over 1,200 acres.
Location: North end of Etiwanda Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, California 91739

4. Egyptian Building

Overview: The Egyptian Building is a building in The Commons at Chino Hills, a small shopping mall in Chino Hills, California imitating the style of the temples of Abu Simbel in Egypt. The building was constructed to hold the Egyptian restaurant Farou Food in 2019. It had planned to open in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic postponed the opening date to 2024.
Location: 4525 Chino Hills Pkwy Chino Hills, CA 91709

5. Crystal Lake

Overview: Crystal Lake is a naturally formed sag pond, a rarity in Southern California. It is snow and spring fed and has no other artificial means of being replenished. Geographically it sits in bed of decomposed granite. There is a fissure located at the bottom of the lake that depletes its water during and after the rain and snow season. Because of this, the lake’s depths vary dramatically from a mean low of 35 feet (10.7 m) to a probable high of 150 feet (45.7 m), depending on seasonal precipitation.
Location: San Gabriel Canyon Azusa, CA 91702

6. English Springs Park

Overview: English Springs Park spans 8.2 acres and features a variety of amenities, including a playground, three gazebos, picnic tables, restrooms, two basketball half-courts, a pond, two bike racks, and a water bottle fill station. The park also plays an important role in stormwater management, with its lake serving as a catch basin to hold excess water during periods of rain. For safety reasons, the park is closed when water levels rise and will reopen once conditions are deemed safe by City staff.
Location: 2201 Grand Ave Chino Hills, CA 91709

7. Claremont Hills Wilderness Park

Overview: Located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest, the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park offers nature lovers a five-mile walking loop, along with smaller trails. The loop is one of the most popular in the Inland Empire, offering moderate elevation and dramatic views stretching to Downtown L.A., Catalina Island, and the Inland Empire basin. The 2.8-mile Thompson Creek Trail that abuts the park’s southern point is also popular with walkers, runners, bicyclists and leashed dogs.
Location: 4031 N Mills Ave Claremont, CA 91711

8. Rancho Jurupa Park

Overview: Rancho Jurupa Park is located along the Santa Ana River near historic downtown Riverside. This 200-acre regional park offers a natural setting with shady cottonwood trees, two lakes, a splash pad, rock climbing playground, miniature golf, disc golf, and fishing. Visitors can camp at Lakeview Campground, which welcomes tents and RVs, or at Cottonwood Campground, designed for RV campers. Comfortable rental cabins are also available for a relaxing stay.
Location: 4800 Crestmore Rd Riverside, CA 92509

9. Cucamonga Peak

Overview: Cucamonga Peak rises to 8,862 feet and offers one of the most stunning summits in the San Gabriel Mountains. This popular hike features spectacular views from Southern California’s high peaks to the city below. The trail is challenging but manageable, with beautiful scenery throughout and a rewarding summit. You might even spot bighorn sheep along the way.
Location: Mt Baldy Rd Mount Baldy, CA 91759

10. Hidden Hills

Overview: Hidden Hills Park, located on Rancho Hills Drive near Avenida Hacienda, covers 3.6 acres and offers a range of amenities for visitors. The park features a playground, picnic areas, two basketball half-courts, restrooms, and BBQs, making it a great spot for both relaxation and recreation.
Location: 2000 Rancho Hills Dr Chino Hills, CA 91709

11. Hillcrest Park

Overview: Hillcrest Park, a 37.8-acre landmark opened in 1922, features scenic stone steps, mature trees, and war memorials honoring local veterans. Recent renovations include a restored 1920s WPA fountain, upgrades to the Great Lawn, and the addition of the popular Hillcrest Stairs with scenic viewing decks. Centrally located in Fullerton, the park is a favorite for picnics, walks, and fitness.
Location: 1155 N Lemon St Fullerton, CA 92832

12. Thoroughbred Christmas Lights

Overview: Each year, Rancho Cucamonga Police, Fire, and Engineering assess safety around the popular Thoroughbred and Jennet Street holiday lights display. To manage growing crowds, “Drive-Thru Only” restrictions and limited parking and pedestrian access will continue on high-traffic evenings for public safety.
Location: 8110 Thoroughbred St Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91701

13. Chino Hills State Park

Overview: Chino Hills State Park is unique in that it provides refuge for both biodiversity and solitude to the visitors who enjoy their outdoor experiences. There is no other location in the LA Basin where people can drive a short distance and be swept away with scenic vistas, hike, bike, or ride a horse on over 90 miles of trails. At 14,102 acres, the park is managed as an open space habitat where all plant and animal life are protected.
Location: 4721 Sapphire Rd Chino Hills, CA 91709

Ready to discover the best of Ontario, California? Once you’ve checked out these hidden gems — from tucked-away parks to charming local eateries — you’ll want a comfy, convenient place to recharge. That’s where Best Western Ontario Mills Mall comes in! Located just minutes from the city’s top attractions and the massive Ontario Mills shopping center, it’s the ideal spot to relax after a day of exploring. Whether you’re in town for a weekend getaway, a family trip, or a quick business stop, you’ll love the clean, modern rooms and friendly service. Book your stay now and make the most of your Ontario adventure in 2025!