Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chino Hills, California to Upland, California

Driving from Chino Hills, California to Upland, California takes approximately 15 minutes, covering a distance of roughly 7.1 miles via CA-71 S and S Euclid Ave. While this distance may seem short, there are plenty of unexpected and exciting stops along the way. Whether you're looking for some adventure, food, or relaxation, you'll find something for everyone along this route.

Halfway Point: Chino, CA

Before delving into the five unexpected places, it is important to highlight the halfway point - Chino, CA. This charming city has been ranked #20 on the list of the best places to live in San Bernardino County. The city boasts of beautiful parks that bring people together, a historic downtown area lined with restaurants and cafes, and a rich cultural heritage that is evident in the beautiful landmarks and architecture.

Now that we have passed through Chino, let's explore five unexpected places to stop along the way.

1. The Planes of Fame Air Museum (Chino)

If you are into aviation, visiting the Planes of Fame Air Museum in Chino is a must-do. The museum has over 160 historical aircraft, including some of the rarest and most significant planes in the aviation industry. From the P-38 Lightning to the F-86 Sabre, the museum showcases some of the most iconic military planes in history. Visitors can learn about the planes, including their history and role in the World War era. You can even watch some of the aircraft take to the skies on the museum's special flight day events.

Favorite food in Chino: Grab a bite at Johnny's Tacos and Sports. The small food joint serves some of the city's best tacos with juicy and flavored meat, fresh veggies, and homemade salsas.

2. Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum (Pomona)

If planes aren't your thing but car racing gets your engine going, visit the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum located in Pomona. The museum houses a vast collection of racing cars that date back to the 1940s, as well as the history of drag racing, its influential personalities, and the evolution of the sport. Visitors can also take part in interactive exhibits, kids' activities, and live performances.

Favorite food in Pomona: Head to The Brick Market & Deli, a small family-owned market where you can find great sandwiches that come wrapped in parchment paper. Try the hot pastrami sandwich overflowing with meat and cheese, fresh veggies, and special sauce.

3. Raging Waters Los Angeles (San Dimas)

Take a dip or splash around at Raging Waters Los Angeles, considered Southern California's largest water park. The park boasts of over 50 attractions, including high-speed thrill rides, giant wave pools, and lazy rivers. Some of the most popular rides include the Anaconda, Tornado, and Vortex. There are also plenty of food options within the park, with something for everyone.

Favorite food in San Dimas: After spending hours in the water park, grab a bite at Julienne's, a quaint eatery that serves traditional American breakfast, sandwiches, and salads. Try their classic turkey club sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries.

4. Claremont Botanical Gardens (Claremont)

For nature lovers, a stop at the Claremont Botanical Gardens is a must-do. This stunning garden boasts of over 2,500 species of plants, including California natives, drought-tolerant options, and rare and exotic specimens. The garden also features a Japanese garden, water-wise garden, butterfly pavilion, and a bird watching area. The garden is open to the public every day, and admission is free.

Favorite food in Claremont: After exploring the enchanting garden, head to Some Crust Bakery, a bakery that has a wide selection of sweet baked goods such as bread, cakes, and pastries. Try their fresh raspberry cake that is moist and airy, with a sweet and tangy taste.

5. Cooper Regional History Museum (Upland)

Learn about the city's fascinating history at the Cooper Regional History Museum located in Upland. The museum has a rich collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that showcase the history and diversity of the city. Visitors can explore the museum's many exhibits, including a timeline of the city's development, a Native American exhibit, and a special exhibit on citrus and the city.

Favorite food in Upland: After an informative trip to the museum, visit The Grove on 16th, located in the heart of downtown Upland. The casual eatery serves delicious salads, soups, and sandwiches. Try their California turkey sandwich that comes with roasted garlic aioli, avocado, and roasted red peppers.

Conclusion

A trip from Chino Hills, California to Upland, California is not just about the destination, but the journey itself. With numerous exciting and unexpected stops along the way, you can have a day full of adventure, learning, and good food. From aviation to car racing, water parks, botanical gardens, and historical museums, there is something for everyone. Don't just take our word for it, embark on this journey and see for yourself.