Ontario, California: 10 Short Day Trips to Explore
10 Short Road Trips from Ontario, California for Easy Day Trips and Nearby Getaways
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| Trade Ontario’s routine for beach sunsets, desert roads, mountain tram views, and iconic LA overlooks on these easy California day trips. |
Need a quick escape from Ontario, California? You’re in a great spot for it. Since Ontario sits in San Bernardino County, you can head out in several directions and land somewhere fun in just a couple of hours. From beach towns and desert views to mountain air and famous city sights, these day trips from Ontario, CA make it easy to trade your normal routine for something a little more memorable.
I’ve always loved how a short road trip can feel like hitting a reset button. Pack some snacks, cue up a playlist, and suddenly even an ordinary Saturday feels like a mini vacation. If you’re searching for things to do near Ontario, California that are outside San Bernardino County, this list is for you.
1. Huntington Beach Pier in Orange County
If you want that classic Southern California beach day, Huntington Beach Pier is a strong pick. It’s about 50 to 60 miles from Ontario, depending on your route, and the drive usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours without heavy traffic.
The pier is iconic for a reason. You get ocean views, surfers, sea breeze, and that laid-back California feel people picture in postcards. Walk the pier, rent a bike, or just sit on the sand and do absolutely nothing for a while. Honestly, that can be the best part.
- Great for: beach lovers, couples, families
- Best activity: sunset walk on the pier
- Why it works as a day trip: easy drive and lots to do nearby
2. Disneyland Resort Area in Anaheim, Orange County
Looking for a fun-filled weekend trip vibe packed into one day? Head to the Disneyland Resort area in Anaheim. Even if you don’t go into the parks, Downtown Disney offers dining, shopping, and a lively atmosphere that feels festive right away.
From Ontario, this nearby getaway is usually around 40 miles away. It’s one of the easiest day trips near Ontario, CA if you want something upbeat and family-friendly.
If you do book park tickets, start early. A Disney day can move fast, kind of like trying to eat your favorite dessert before it melts. The earlier you arrive, the more you enjoy.
- Great for: families, friend groups, Disney fans
- Best activity: strolling Downtown Disney or spending the day in the parks
- Travel tip: check parking and ticket plans before you go
3. Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles County
For one of the most famous road trips from Ontario, California, head to Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. It’s roughly 50 miles away, though traffic can stretch the drive. Even so, it’s worth it.
The views over LA are the big draw. On a clear day, you can see the skyline, the Hollywood Sign, and miles beyond. The observatory itself is fun too, especially if you like space, science, or just cool old buildings with a great view.
I always think spots like this make you feel small in the best way. You look out over a giant city and remember how much there is to explore.
- Great for: first-time visitors, photo lovers, couples
- Best activity: sunset views and exhibits inside
- Bonus: free admission to the building
4. Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles County
If your ideal nearby getaway includes ocean air and a lively boardwalk, Santa Monica Pier checks every box. From Ontario, the trip is usually around 65 to 75 miles.
This is one of those places that blends beach charm with classic California energy. There’s the ferris wheel, the arcade, the beach path, and lots of places to eat nearby. It’s touristy, yes, but sometimes touristy is fun.
Want a simple plan? Park, walk the pier, grab fish tacos, then put your feet in the sand. That’s a solid day right there.
- Great for: beach days, casual dates, out-of-town guests
- Best activity: ride the ferris wheel or walk along the shoreline
- Travel tip: weekdays are usually less crowded
5. Mission Inn Museum and Downtown Riverside in Riverside County
Not every great day trip needs to be far away. Downtown Riverside is a short and easy escape from Ontario, usually under 25 miles, making it one of the closest options on this list.
The star here is the Mission Inn area, which has beautiful architecture and plenty of local character. The downtown streets are walkable, with coffee shops, restaurants, and spots to browse. It’s perfect when you want a slower-paced outing without a long drive.
This kind of trip feels like finding a good local café in a new neighborhood. It’s comfortable, easy, and still feels special.
- Great for: history fans, relaxed day trippers, couples
- Best activity: stroll downtown and admire the Mission Inn exterior
- Why go: quick, charming, and low-stress
6. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway in Riverside County
For a day trip that feels completely different from Ontario’s everyday scene, drive out to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. It’s about 70 miles away and makes for one of the most scenic road trips near Ontario, California.
You board the tram in the desert and ride up into cooler mountain air. It’s a dramatic change, almost like flipping channels from one landscape to another. Down below: palm trees and sun. Up above: pine trees, hiking trails, and sweeping views.
This is a smart pick when summer heat kicks in and you want a break from it.
- Great for: nature lovers, couples, visitors wanting big views
- Best activity: tram ride and short mountain walks
- Travel tip: bring a light jacket, even on warm days
7. Joshua Tree National Park in Riverside County
Yes, part of Joshua Tree reaches into San Bernardino County, so to stay outside Ontario’s county, focus your visit on park access and areas tied to the Riverside County side. This makes it a valid and exciting option for a short desert weekend trip or long day trip.
From Ontario, the drive is usually around 90 to 110 miles depending on your entry area. The landscape feels almost unreal, with twisted Joshua trees, giant rock piles, and wide-open skies.
Have you ever gone somewhere that made you put your phone down for a minute? Joshua Tree can do that. The scenery kind of demands your attention.
- Great for: hikers, photographers, nature fans
- Best activity: scenic drives, short trails, rock views
- Travel tip: bring lots of water and start early
8. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area in Clark County, Nevada
If you’re up for a longer but still doable adventure, Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas is a stunning desert escape. It’s in Clark County, NV, and the drive from Ontario is usually around 230 miles. That makes it better for an early-start day trip or a quick overnight if you want a little more breathing room.
The red cliffs and scenic loop are the big draw here. It’s a great choice if you want dramatic natural beauty without diving deep into a long wilderness trek. You can enjoy a lot even from the car and a few easy stops.
Think of it as desert scenery turned all the way up.
- Great for: scenic drivers, hikers, photographers
- Best activity: the scenic drive and viewpoint stops
- Travel tip: go in cooler months for the most comfortable visit
9. Death Valley National Park in Inyo County
For a bold and unforgettable road trip from Ontario, CA, consider Death Valley National Park through the Inyo County side. It’s a longer haul, usually about 230 to 250 miles, but it’s one of the most iconic landscapes anywhere near Southern California.
This is not your average casual drive. It feels wild, open, and almost otherworldly. Salt flats, mountain views, colorful rock formations, and huge stretches of sky make it unforgettable. If you love unique places, this one sticks with you.
That said, plan carefully. Summer heat can be extreme, so cooler months are best.
- Great for: adventure seekers, photographers, national park fans
- Best activity: scenic viewpoints and short stops at famous overlooks
- Travel tip: fill your gas tank and check weather conditions first
10. Calico Ghost Town Regional Park in Kern County? No — Better Pick: Tehachapi Loop Area in Kern County
Since Calico is in San Bernardino County and off-limits for this list, a better out-of-county choice is the Tehachapi Loop area in Kern County. From Ontario, it’s roughly 120 to 140 miles away and offers a very different kind of day trip.
The Tehachapi Loop is famous for its engineering and train views. If you enjoy watching trains, open landscapes, or simply discovering something a little different, this is a fun pick. The surrounding area also has small-town charm and wide scenic views.
It may not be as flashy as a beach or theme park, but that’s part of the appeal. Some trips are about big energy. Others are about fresh air, quiet roads, and seeing something you’ve never seen before.
- Great for: train fans, curious travelers, scenic drivers
- Best activity: watch trains navigate the loop and explore Tehachapi nearby
- Travel tip: bring binoculars and check weather before heading up
Quick Tips for Planning Day Trips from Ontario, California
Before you head out, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Leave early to avoid Southern California traffic.
- Bring water and snacks, especially for desert trips.
- Check entry fees and hours before you go.
- Have a backup plan in case of weather, crowds, or road delays.
- Use layers since beach, mountain, and desert temperatures can change fast.
Final Thoughts on Nearby Getaways from Ontario
One of the best things about living in or visiting Ontario, California is how many easy escapes are within reach. You can go from city streets to beach sand, mountain air, or wide-open desert in just a few hours. That’s a pretty amazing choice to have.
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip, a scenic road trip, or a simple weekend getaway, these spots offer some of the best things to do near Ontario without staying in San Bernardino County.
Have a favorite trip from Ontario that you love? Share this article with friends who need travel ideas, and drop a comment with your top nearby getaway. I’d love to hear where you’d go next.
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