Things To Do
in Pomona
Pomona sits on the eastern edge of Los Angeles County, blending a historic citrus-town vibe with a growing arts and education scene. The downtown core has undergone a renaissance, anchored by murals, galleries, dining, and the iconic Fox Theatre. Fairplex, home to major events and the LA County Fair, adds a big-city calendar to a small-city feel.
Proximity to the San Gabriel Mountains makes Pomona a convenient base for both urban exploration and outdoor escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Pomona Historic District, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe. As you stroll through the charming streets, admire the beautifully preserved buildings that reflect the city's rich history. Don't forget to stop by the Pomona Fox Theater, an iconic venue that showcases the area's cultural heritage.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant, head to the Pomona Arts Colony, known for its vibrant art scene and eclectic galleries. Here, you can browse through local artworks and perhaps even meet some of the artists. As the afternoon wanes, consider visiting the Pomona Farmers Market to pick up fresh produce and artisan goods.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a popular bistro in the Historic Center, where you can savor delicious, locally inspired dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the district, soaking in the evening ambiance and perhaps catching some live music at a nearby venue. Cap off your night with a sweet treat from a local dessert shop.
Begin your day with a visit to Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park, where you can sip coffee while enjoying the picturesque views of the lake. Engage in some light hiking or rent a bike to explore the park’s scenic trails. If you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife, including birds and small mammals, as you immerse yourself in nature.
After a morning of exploration, settle down for a picnic lunch by the water, surrounded by the serene beauty of the park. Post-lunch, take part in some recreational activities such as paddleboarding or fishing at the lake. Witness the vibrant community atmosphere as families and friends gather to enjoy the outdoors.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot to watch the sunset over the lake, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Transition to dinner at a nearby restaurant that offers outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the warm evening air. End your day with a stroll along the park's trails, listening to the gentle sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment in city center | $1,700-2,400/mo |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $40-100 |
| 🧺Groceries (monthly) | $300-600 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant arts and culture scene in a revitalized downtown
- Convenient access to the San Gabriel Mountains for day trips
- Smaller nightlife compared to nearby Los Angeles neighborhoods
- Some areas require driving to reach from certain hotels or neighborhoods
Places to Visit in Pomona
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic 1931 Art Deco movie palace with a striking marquee and interiors; ideal for marquee shots, interior architecture, and evening lighting.
Colorful street art along Garey Avenue, 1st Street, and surrounding blocks—great for vibrant urban photography and portraits.
Mid-century modern civic architecture with clean lines and landscaped spaces, suitable for architectural photography and dusk shots.
Food in Pomona
Pomona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised meat in tortillas served with a flavorful consommé, widely available at taquerias around Pomona.
Must-Try!
Fries topped with grilled steak, cheese, guacamole, and salsa—a popular casual option.
Traditional masa-wrapped fillings, reflecting Mexican culinary influences common in the region.
Asian-fusion bowls featuring marinated meat over rice with crisp toppings found at several downtown spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts in the downtown core.
Seasonal food stalls and pop-up vendors during events and expositions around the Fairplex area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite, friendly greetings are typical; queue in lines, and respect personal space. In diverse areas, be courteous and culturally aware.
Casual, comfortable attire is common in most venues; downtown venues may be upscale for certain events, so check dress codes if attending a show.
Dispose of trash properly and respect public spaces; many arts areas celebrate creativity and community engagement.
Safety
Tipping in Pomona
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard in the U.S.: 15-20% at restaurants; $1-2 per drink at bars; tip drivers and hotel staff when appropriate. Rounding up at cash-only spots is common but not required.
Most venues accept cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile wallets. Some small eateries may prefer cash; digital payments are widely accepted across larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming landscapes around parks and the foothills; comfortable for outdoor activities and city strolling.
Hot and dry; plan indoor or shaded activities during peak heat, carry water, and enjoy evenings in the downtown area where it’s cooler.
Warm days with cooler evenings; good for outdoor photography in the golden hour and outdoor markets.
Mild and occasionally wet; rain is possible, so bring a lightweight rain jacket and plan indoor experiences as needed.
Pomona at Night
Hiking in Pomona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular day hike in the San Gabriel Mountains with rewarding summit views; route varies in difficulty.
Family-friendly trails offering a quick nature escape within easy reach of Pomona.
Proximate hiking options in the Claremont area with scenic overlooks and manageable routes.
Airports
How to reach Pomona by plane.
Approximately 25-30 miles from Pomona; convenient for domestic flights with car or rideshare access to Pomona neighborhoods and Fairplex.
Major international hub about 35-40 miles west; broad flight options and frequent ground transportation choices.
Also called Bob Hope Airport, about 40-45 miles northwest; smaller airport with domestic routes and quicker security lines.
Approximately 50-60 miles southwest; convenient for southern California trips and nearby coastal access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population with deep-rooted cultural influences and local businesses.
Diverse neighborhoods contributing to the region’s culinary and cultural tapestry.
A core presence in the city thanks to nearby colleges and schools, fostering a youthful, community-oriented atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Auto Club Raceway at Pomona hosts major drag racing events, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond.
Cal Poly Pomona Broncos compete in basketball, baseball, soccer, and other NCAA Division II events; Cal Poly Pomona and nearby colleges offer local varsity sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pomona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie-friendly taquerias and cafés; many spots offer meals featuring beans, rice, veggies, and plant-based proteins. If eating meat-free, ask for substitutions or sides like guacamole, salads, and grilled vegetables.