Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Colton, California

Colton is a city with a population of approximately 54,000 located in the Inland Empire region of San Bernardino County, California. Recognized as a suburban area of San Bernardino, it is often referred to as Hub City.

The climate in Colton is pleasant year-round, complemented by numerous parks, recreational facilities, dining establishments, and shopping centers, including Grand Terrace Shopping Center and Plaza Las Glorias.

Throughout the year, various festivals and events occur in the city, among them the Inland Empire Greek Fest on the Hill.

Below is a curated list of 15 exceptional activities to experience in and around Colton, California.

1. Learn About the City’s History at the Colton Area Museum

The Colton Area Museum is committed to preserving and disseminating the city’s historical narrative through an array of exhibits and interactive events held throughout the year.

Exhibits include topics such as the Earp Family History, memorabilia from pioneering Colton families, Hometown Heroes, early industries, and women’s fashion from the 19th and 20th centuries. Additionally, tributes to the fire and police departments are included.

2. Spend an Afternoon in Prado Park

While Prado Park is smaller than most city parks, its amenities and open areas provide an ideal mid-day retreat.

On-site facilities include a playground, picnic areas with barbecue options, and water fountains. Restroom facilities are also accessible.

3. Enjoy a Round at Colton Golf Club

Golf enthusiasts of varying abilities value the layout at Colton Golf Club. The course is accommodating to novices while presenting sufficient challenges for experienced players.

This well-kept 18-hole, par-57 course is enveloped by picturesque scenery, and it also features a practice area equipped with a driving range, putting green, and chipping green.

4. Enjoy Dinner and a Show at Tibbies Center Stage Theater

For an enjoyable night out in the Colton area, a brief drive to neighboring Fontana reveals one of the top dinner theaters in the region.

The Tibbies Center Stage Theater offers exquisite culinary fare accompanied by outstanding live performances. The evening commences with a multi-course dinner, inclusive of an appetizer, main dish, and dessert, complemented by a selection of wine and cocktails.

This elegant venue is equipped with some of the most advanced audio, video, and lighting systems available.

Expect to be entertained by renowned local and touring artists; the theater serves as the home for the Tibbies Great American Cabaret and hosts numerous professional Broadway-caliber shows.

5. Dine on French and Creole Cuisine at Le Rendez-Vous Cafe

At Le Rendez-Vous Cafe, patrons are treated to delightful, high-quality meals in a charming and contemporary café atmosphere. This establishment specializes in French and Creole cuisine, with each dish presented to be as visually appealing as it is flavorful.

The café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, featuring a broad selection of menu items.

Choices range from appetizers and omelettes to pasta dishes, salads, and main courses such as beef stroganoff, meatloaf Bordelaise, and French dip sandwiches. Options for vegetarian, gluten-free, and paleo diets are also available.

6. Experience the NASCAR World at Richard Petty Driving Experience

If you have ever fantasized about getting behind the wheel of a genuine NASCAR race car, this dream can become a reality at the Richard Petty Driving Experience located in nearby Fontana.

This remarkable experience allows you to operate an authentic NASCAR race car, previously driven by racing legends. Who knows, you may have the opportunity to drive a vehicle that your racing hero once piloted.

7. Catch Some Thrills at Fiesta Village Family Fun Park

Fiesta Village Family Fun Park, the region’s premier amusement park, offers exhilarating attractions suitable for the entire family.

On warm days, the water park features a variety of slides that provide much-needed relief from the heat. The park also boasts carnival rides, such as The Scrambler and the Dragon Roller Coaster.

Additional attractions include an arcade, batting cages, roller skating areas, mini-golf, go-karts, laser tag facilities, and a bounce house.

8. Visit the Mary Vagle Nature Center

Located in nearby Fontana, the Mary Vagle Nature Center offers a mix of indoor and outdoor nature experiences.

Outside, guests can explore a lovely green area situated at the base of the scenic Jurupa Hills. The site includes various nature trails, with ponds, water features, and vibrant gardens highlighting local flora.

Internally, the center hosts several exhibits related to the geology and natural history of the region.

9. Sample Local Craft Beer at 3 Iron Brewing Company

At the 3 Iron Brewing Company, visitors can sample an array of handcrafted beers brewed on-site, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail to ensure a smooth and refreshing taste.

The taproom, adorned with a golf theme, offers a selection of brews, such as Eagle IPA, Bogey Brown, Par 4 Pale Ale, and Pineapple Orange Wedge.

The brewery hosts a variety of entertaining events throughout the year, including holiday-themed celebrations.

10. Learn About Civil War History at the Lincoln Memorial Shrine

The United States has a rich and captivating history, with the Civil War era standing out as particularly significant.

The Lincoln Memorial Shrine, located in nearby Redlands, offers insights into this period and the leadership of President Abraham Lincoln during such a critical time.

Constructed in the early 1930s, the building itself is noteworthy, featuring excerpts from Lincoln’s speeches adorning its outer walls. The exterior grounds are complete with water fountains, benches, and patio areas for visitors to relax.

As guests peruse the museum’s exhibits, they will encounter numerous artifacts, photographs, and artworks commemorating Lincoln’s life and the pivotal events of the Civil War.

Some featured exhibits include Camp Life of a Soldier, Lincoln in Mexico, The Sultana Disaster, the 1860 Election, Lincoln the Lawyer, and the New York City Draft Riots.

11. Test Your Limits at Endgame Escape Rooms

While the concept of escape rooms is well-known, Endgame Escape Rooms provides a distinctive experience that allows participants to create the conclusion based on their choices throughout the game.

Various themes are available, and individuals may select their desired level of difficulty according to their familiarity with escape games.

12. Enjoy Local Entertainment at Raquel’s Jazz Lounge

Raquel’s Jazz Lounge, situated nearby in Rialto, presents an enjoyable atmosphere where patrons can relish good food, beverages, and exceptional music. This stylish venue features some of the finest jazz performances, including live shows by local musicians and bands.

For those less inclined towards jazz, the lounge frequently hosts comedy performances and themed events on specific evenings. Regardless of when you visit, a pleasant, laid-back experience can be anticipated in a cozy setting.

13. Visit the Rialto Historical Society

The Rialto Historical Society maintains a museum and oversees several historical structures within the area.

Housed in a historic building that once served as a church school, the museum exhibits various artifacts relevant to the city’s past.

While exploring the museum, visitors will encounter items related to the former doctor’s office and packing house. Displays also include military memorabilia like medals and uniforms, alongside a collection of artworks.

For those seeking deeper insights into the history and items on display, guided tours are available.

14. Check out the Wigwam Motel

The Wigwam Motel is an iconic location along Route 66 in Rialto, offering both a unique overnight experience and a prime spot for photography.

Notably, the motel’s rooms are designed in the shape of Native American teepees, providing a distinctive lodging option.

While you are not obliged to rent a room to appreciate this striking architecture, if you choose to stay, you’ll have access to outdoor barbecue amenities and a swimming pool. Its central location ensures proximity to many key attractions in the area.

15. Explore the Parrish Pioneer Apple Ranch

Located about a half-hour drive from Colton in Yucaipa, the Parrish Pioneer Apple Ranch showcases the region’s picturesque landscape during the journey.

Once the residence of the Parrish Family, this ranch is now a well-frequented destination offering a gift shop, dining options, and an art studio.

The standout feature of this property is its wooden structure, built in 1867, which is considered the oldest of its kind in the county. Additionally, numerous sequoia trees planted in the early 1900s can be found throughout the ranch.

As visitors traverse the ranch, they will have the opportunity to interact with various resident farm animals, including horses, sheep, goats, and donkeys.