So You Think You Know the Inland Empire?
- Summary
- Things to do
- Gallery
- Events
- Places to Eat & Drink
- Videos
- Podcasts
With its inviting destinations and uncrowded wilderness, this region feels like an insider’s secret amid the bustling excitement of Southern California. Surprising alpine scenery around Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear beckons, with pine-scented trails in summer and winter sports when the snow falls. Drive along legendary Route 66 in San Bernardino County or feel the adrenaline rush of seeing the world’s best NASCAR racers compete at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana. Shop for bargains at Ontario Mills. For a dreamier escape, float in a hot-air balloon above rolling Temecula Valley wine country.
Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.
- Rim of the World Scenic Byway
Rim of the World Scenic Byway
- How to Experience Route 66 in California
How to Experience Route 66 in California
- 5 Surprising Reasons to Visit Big Bear Lake in Winter
5 Surprising Reasons to Visit Big Bear Lake in Winter
- SkyPark at Santa’s Village
SkyPark at Santa’s Village
- Sand to Snow National Monument
Sand to Snow National Monument
- Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa
Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa
- California Welcome Center - Ontario
California Welcome Center - Ontario
- Redlands Bowl
Redlands Bowl
- San Bernardino Museums
San Bernardino Museums
- Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.
- California’s Most Haunted Hotels
California’s Most Haunted Hotels
Encounter a few friendly ghosts, or even celebrity spirits, during your next overnight stay
- 15 Hidden Gems for Families
15 Hidden Gems for Families
Explore these under-celebrated spots and experience classic attractions in new ways
- How to Splurge or Save in Temecula
How to Splurge or Save in Temecula
Highfliers and budget-savvy sippers alike can indulge in SoCal’s wine country
- August 2025 Events in California
August 2025 Events in California
Plan a trip to hear music, sample unique cuisine, or watch dogs surf
- Discover 8 of California’s Best-Kept Secrets
Discover 8 of California’s Best-Kept Secrets
These remote and surprising spots fly under the radar for even the most well-versed California travelers
- Pow Wows in California 2025
Pow Wows in California 2025
Learn how to attend these celebratory gatherings organized by Native American tribes
- July 2025 Events in California
July 2025 Events in California
Make summer memories while enjoying fairs, comic book culture, and craft beer
- 16 Amazing California Lakes
16 Amazing California Lakes
Swim, waterski, wakeboard, paddle, fish, or go houseboating on the Golden State’s lakes
- Great U-Pick Farms in California
Great U-Pick Farms in California
Enjoy the best of California’s berries, apples, mandarin oranges, and more at these local farms
- How to Celebrate the Fourth of July in California
How to Celebrate the Fourth of July in California
Honor America’s birthday in 2025 with fireworks, festivals, and gorgeous settings around the Golden State
Events In:
Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.
- California Wine Month
California Wine Month
September 1–30, 2025
Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.
- How to Splurge or Save in Temecula
How to Splurge or Save in Temecula
Highfliers and budget-savvy sippers alike can indulge in SoCal’s wine country
- August 2025 Events in California
August 2025 Events in California
Plan a trip to hear music, sample unique cuisine, or watch dogs surf
- Discover 8 of California’s Best-Kept Secrets
Discover 8 of California’s Best-Kept Secrets
These remote and surprising spots fly under the radar for even the most well-versed California travelers
- July 2025 Events in California
July 2025 Events in California
Make summer memories while enjoying fairs, comic book culture, and craft beer
- Great U-Pick Farms in California
Great U-Pick Farms in California
Enjoy the best of California’s berries, apples, mandarin oranges, and more at these local farms
- How to Celebrate the Fourth of July in California
How to Celebrate the Fourth of July in California
Honor America’s birthday in 2025 with fireworks, festivals, and gorgeous settings around the Golden State
- June 2025 Events in California
June 2025 Events in California
Embrace summer with beer festivals, classic fairs, and live music
- 2025 California Travel Deals You Can Book This Summer
2025 California Travel Deals You Can Book This Summer
Add a little extra sunshine to your vacation with hotel and theme park discounts
- 10 Super-Scenic California Road Trips
10 Super-Scenic California Road Trips
Follow these classic routes for magical scenery and worthy stops
- 15 Fabulous Music Festivals This August
15 Fabulous Music Festivals This August
Come for blues, rock, or even polka at these colorful—and often delicious—music events
Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.
California 101
Inland Empire’s Rim of the World Road Trip
ZOOM: A Magical Ride Around California
California Dreamers
California Innovation Nation Episode 1: Garage Innovations
Ontario Mills
Hidden Gems
The Off-Road Trails of Big Bear Lake
California 101
Joshua Tree National Park
California Dream Eater
Temecula’s Surprising Sparkling Wine
California 101
Temecula: 5 Amazing Things
Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.
Only-in-California Events
49min
Dean Norris’ Temecula
27min
Josh Meyers' California Favorites
41min
Amazing California Sports Experiences
44min
Wine Tasting in California
49min
Exploring the Inland Empire
54min
Atlas Obscura, Packing Tips, Wine
26min
Skiing and Snowboarding in California
39min
Emma Gannon, Gold Country, Haunted Sites
38min
Road Trips: Route 66 and Beyond
1hr
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Get weekly travel inspiration, offers, contests, and more!
Plus, receive communications from California Grown and their exclusive ebook 'Iconic California Dishes to Celebrate California Wine Month' FREE.