Fontana, California: 10 Short Day Trips You’ll Love
10 Easy Road Trips from Fontana, California for a Fun Day Out
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| From palm-lined historic streets and mountain tram views to beach-town charm and desert drives, these easy day trips from Fontana turn one free day into a real escape. |
Need a quick escape from Fontana, California? You’re in a great spot for it. Since Fontana sits in San Bernardino County, you can jump in the car and reach beaches, mountains, desert views, and famous city sights without planning some huge vacation.
This guide rounds up 10 short out-of-county road trips near Fontana that are perfect for a day trip, a nearby getaway, or even a casual weekend trip. The best part? Every pick is outside San Bernardino County, so you can explore something fresh while still keeping the drive pretty reasonable.
I always think the best road trips are like hitting the reset button. You leave your usual streets behind, grab a snack, roll down the window, and suddenly the day feels bigger. If that sounds good right about now, here are some great things to do near Fontana.
1. Explore Downtown Riverside and the Mission Inn Museum
County: Riverside County, CA
Approximate drive from Fontana: about 20 to 30 miles
If you want one of the easiest day trips from Fontana, CA, head to Riverside. Downtown Riverside has charm, history, and plenty to do without needing a packed schedule.
The star of the area is the famous Mission Inn. Even if you just walk around outside, the building feels special. The architecture is full of detail, and the whole block has that old California feel that makes you want to slow down and look around.
You can also enjoy:
- Local coffee shops
- Boutiques and gift stores
- Historic streets for an easy stroll
- Nearby restaurants for lunch or dinner
This is a great nearby getaway when you want something simple but memorable.
2. Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
County: Riverside County, CA
Approximate drive from Fontana: about 70 to 80 miles
Want a road trip that feels a little more dramatic? Palm Springs is a solid pick, and the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the big reason why.
You board the tram in the desert and rise up into cooler mountain air. It’s kind of like trading one season for another in less than an hour. On warm days, that change feels amazing.
At the top, you’ll find scenic views, hiking trails, and places to sit and take it all in. If you’re traveling with family or friends, this one usually gets a lot of “wow” moments.
Tip: Bring a light jacket even if Fontana feels hot. The temperature can be much cooler at the top.
3. Spend the Day at Disneyland Park in Anaheim
County: Orange County, CA
Approximate drive from Fontana: about 45 to 55 miles
If you’re looking for iconic things to do near Fontana, Disneyland is hard to top. It’s one of those places that turns a regular day into something you remember for years.
Yes, it can be busy. But for many people, that’s part of the fun. There’s energy everywhere, music in the air, and something happening around every corner.
This day trip works well if you:
- Love classic theme park fun
- Are traveling with kids
- Want a nostalgic weekend trip idea
- Need a close escape that feels totally different from daily life
Even if you’ve been before, each visit has its own feel. That’s part of the magic.
4. Walk the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
County: Los Angeles County, CA
Approximate drive from Fontana: about 45 to 60 miles
For a calmer day trip, head to San Marino and visit the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. This spot is beautiful, peaceful, and easy to enjoy at your own pace.
The gardens are the real highlight for many visitors. You can wander from one area to another and feel like you’ve traveled much farther than you actually have. One section might feel quiet and shady, while another opens up with bright colors and wide paths.
It’s a great pick for couples, solo travelers, or anyone who wants a break from crowded attractions.
Bring comfortable shoes. You’ll want to keep exploring “just one more section” over and over again.
5. Take in the Views at Griffith Observatory
County: Los Angeles County, CA
Approximate drive from Fontana: about 55 to 70 miles
Some road trips are worth it just for the view, and this is one of them. Griffith Observatory gives you sweeping sights of Los Angeles, plus that fun feeling of being above the city instead of stuck in it.
You can walk around the grounds, look through exhibits, and snap photos of the skyline. On a clear day, the views stretch far, and it’s easy to see why this is one of the most famous day trips in Southern California.
If you time it close to sunset, even better. Watching the light change over LA is a little like seeing the city switch from one mood to another.
6. Relax at Balboa Island and Newport Beach
County: Orange County, CA
Approximate drive from Fontana: about 55 to 70 miles
Need a beach day? Balboa Island and Newport Beach make an easy and fun road trip from Fontana, California. You get coastal views, walkable streets, and that laid-back Southern California vibe people travel across the country to find.
You can spend the day:
- Walking along the waterfront
- Watching boats pass by
- Renting bikes nearby
- Grabbing dessert or seafood
This is a perfect nearby getaway when you want ocean air and a slower pace. Sometimes that’s all it takes to feel recharged.
7. Visit Red Rock Canyon State Park
County: Kern County, CA
Approximate drive from Fontana: about 115 to 135 miles
If desert scenery is more your style, point the car toward Red Rock Canyon State Park. This is one of the best short road trips for dramatic landscapes without going too far off the grid.
The colorful rock formations look almost painted, especially when the light hits them just right. It’s a very different feel from Fontana, which is what makes it such a good day trip option.
This stop is especially good for:
- Scenic drives
- Easy photo stops
- Nature lovers
- Travelers who want something less crowded
Bring water, sunscreen, and gas up before you head out. Desert trips are fun, but it’s always better to be prepared.
8. See the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley National Park
County: Inyo County, CA
Approximate drive from Fontana: about 220 to 250 miles
This one is longer, but if you start early, it can still work as a big day trip or an overnight weekend trip. The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley are unforgettable.
The landscape feels huge, quiet, and almost unreal. If you’ve never stood in a wide dune field before, it’s hard to explain. It’s like looking at ocean waves that suddenly turned to sand and froze in place.
Go during cooler months if possible. Death Valley heat is no joke. But when conditions are right, this is one of the most iconic nearby getaways you can take from Fontana.
9. Wander Through Oatman’s Historic Route 66 Streets
County: Mohave County, AZ
Approximate drive from Fontana: about 180 to 210 miles
Looking for something quirky and fun? Oatman, Arizona is a memorable Route 66 stop with a wild-west feel. It’s known for its old mining town vibe and the burros that wander through town.
That’s right, donkeys in the street. If you want a road trip story people will actually enjoy hearing later, this is a good one.
You’ll find old storefronts, tourist shops, and lots of photo spots. The drive itself adds to the experience too, especially if you enjoy classic American road trip scenery.
This is a great pick when you want a day trip that feels playful and a little unexpected.
10. Walk the Las Vegas Strip for a Fast-Paced Escape
County: Clark County, NV
Approximate drive from Fontana: about 210 to 240 miles
Yes, Las Vegas is a longer drive, but it’s still one of the most popular weekend trips from Fontana and can work as an ambitious day trip if you don’t mind an early start.
The Las Vegas Strip is over-the-top in the best way. Lights, huge hotels, themed attractions, people from everywhere, and plenty of places to eat—it all comes at you fast. But that’s what makes it fun.
You don’t even have to gamble to enjoy it. You can simply walk, sightsee, people-watch, and enjoy the energy.
If your idea of a nearby getaway is swapping quiet streets for nonstop excitement, this is your move.
Quick Tips for Planning Day Trips from Fontana
- Leave early: Traffic can change your whole day, especially toward Los Angeles or Orange County.
- Check the weather: Beach, desert, and mountain conditions can all be very different.
- Pack simple essentials: Water, snacks, phone charger, sunglasses, and a light layer are always smart.
- Know your goal: Want adventure, rest, scenery, or food? Pick a trip that matches your mood.
Sometimes the best road trip isn’t the farthest one. It’s the one that fits your day and gives you exactly what you needed.
Final Thoughts on the Best Road Trips Near Fontana, California
One of the best things about living in or visiting Fontana, CA is how many easy escapes are within reach. You can head toward the coast, chase desert views, explore famous city landmarks, or turn a simple drive into a full mini adventure.
So, which trip sounds most like you right now? A beach day in Orange County? A garden stroll in Los Angeles County? A Route 66 run into Arizona?
If this list helped you find your next day trip from Fontana, share it with a friend or family member who loves a good drive. And if you’ve already taken one of these road trips, leave a comment and share your favorite stop. I’d love to hear which nearby getaway you’d do again.
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