Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carson, CA to Redlands, CA
If you’re looking for a road trip that offers a combination of stunning natural scenery, historic sites, and incredible food, you need to take the drive from Carson, California, to Redlands, California. This scenic drive is approximately 60 miles long and will take you about 2 hours to complete, depending on the number of stops you make along the way.
Halfway Point: Anaheim Hills, CA
Before diving into the unexpected stops, it's worth mentioning the halfway point of the journey. Anaheim Hills is a beautiful place that's well worth a visit. It's a quiet residential community with a great range of attractions, including hiking trails and beautiful parks. Disney fans will love a stop at the Disneyland Theme Park while craft-beer enthusiasts will love the new OC Brewhouse.
1. Tongva Park
The first unexpected stop on your drive is Tongva Park. Located in the beautiful beach city of Santa Monica, this stunning 6-acre park is an urban oasis that's perfect for a peaceful stroll amongst nature. The park features a beautiful community garden, serene water features and lots of open space for you to relax in. Visit the interactive playground for a fun-filled day with the family or explore the many walking trails.
Food to try: Grab a burrito from Gilbert's El Indio just a couple of miles from the park.
2. Olvera Street
Located in downtown Los Angeles, Olvera Street is a vibrant marketplace that immerses you in Mexican culture. This pedestrian plaza was created in 1930 to preserve the city's Mexican heritage and provides visitors with a unique shopping and dining experience. The street is lined with colorful crafts stores, galleries, and restaurants, providing a truly unique atmosphere.
Food to try: You can't miss the famous tacos from Cielito Lindo, a long-standing Olvera Street institution.
3. Santa Ana Zoo
Located in Santa Ana, the Santa Ana Zoo is home to over 50 species of animals. The zoo is perfect for a day out with the family or a romantic stroll with a loved one. Animal lovers can also enjoy the zoo's animal conservation program, which aims to protect and raise awareness about endangered species. Take a ride on the zoo's famous train, carousel or climb the zoo’s giant monkey structure.
Food to try: Don't leave without tasting the delicious barbecued meatballs from Maui Chicken bowls stand.
4. Wine Tasting in Temecula
Temecula Valley Wine Country is located between Los Angeles and San Diego, perfect for a quick pit stop during your road trip. The area boasts over 40 wineries and vineyards that offer tastings and tours, making it a fantastic destination for wine lovers. Enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the breathtaking views of the valley, and then sit down to a tasty meal at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Food to try: Grab some local artisan pizza from 1909 Temecula.
5. San Bernardino National Forest
Lastly, a scenic stop for nature lovers is the San Bernardino National Forest. This stunning mountain range offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and camping. The forest spans across over 800,000 acres, and visitors can enjoy its vast beauty and peaceful atmosphere year-round. Make sure to visit the beautiful Running Springs Waterfall.
Food to try: Grab a world-famous deli sandwich at Paoli's across the street from the waterfall.
Conclusion
The drive from Carson, California, to Redlands, California, is a fantastic road trip that must be on everyone's bucket list. With a diverse range of unexpected stops and a combination of stunning natural landscapes and delicious food, this journey has something for everyone. So, embark on this scenic adventure to create timeless memories with your loved ones.