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The “big town with a small town feel,” Redlands, California, has a lot to offer. There’s so much going on in Redlands that we’ve whittled down the best things to do in Redlands, and you’ve found it right here! We’ve also got options for where to eat and where to stay, if you’d like to extend your visit.
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- Best Things to Do in Redlands, CA
- Best Restaurants in Redlands, CA
- Fine Dining in Redlands
- Best Breakfast Restaurants in Redlands
- Best Coffee Houses in Redlands
- Desserts in Redlands, CA
- Best Local Grocery Stores in Redlands
- Shopping in Downtown Redlands
- Best Barre Studio in Redlands
- Hotels in Redlands, CA
- Where is Redlands, California?
- How far is Redlands from Los Angeles?
- How far is Redlands from Palm Springs?
- What is Redlands famous for?
- Is Redlands a small town?
Best Things to Do in Redlands, CA
When you’re looking for what to do in Redlands, you’ll find that many things are located in the downtown Redlands area. But, even though there are a lot of things to do in downtown Redlands, our list will take you all over town!
Most of the things on our list will appeal to all ages in your family or friend group. Some items are more geared to kids, but there’s definitely something for everyone here in the best things to do in Redlands, CA!
1) Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival
The Redlands Bowl is an outdoor amphitheater, built in 1930. Most famously, it is host to the longest-running FREE outdoor concert series in America! (Although no admission is charged, donations are gladly accepted!)
Throughout the summer, live music and theatrical performances happen twice a week under the stars. These are top-notch concerts and performances, and it’s been going strong for almost 100 years! This is the biggest attraction in Redlands during the summer.
Many concert goers bring a picnic dinner and make an evening out of it. Summer concerts at the Redlands Bowl make for a quintessential Redlands summer evening.
The Redlands Bowl also hosts various special events each year, including some graduations.
2) A.K. Smiley Library
One of the most recognized and beloved buildings in Redlands, the A.K. Smiley Library was built in 1898. In addition to its normal collections, there is a lovely children’s room, with books for the younger set. You will also find many items of historical significance and artwork throughout the property.
Even if you’re not looking to check out a book from the library, take a look around the building. There are several spots outside that make for great photo backgrounds.
3) Lincoln Memorial Shrine
Just behind the A.K. Smiley Library sits the Lincoln Memorial Shrine. It is a memorial to the former U.S. president, a Civil War Museum, and a research center. It’s mission statement is as follows: “As a museum and memorial, the Lincoln Memorial Shrine seeks to deepen the understanding of President Abraham Lincoln and the American Civil War and its impacts on generations of Americans through education, interaction, exhibition, and research.”
Whether you’re looking to learn more about President Abraham Lincoln, or the history of Redlands, the Lincoln Memorial Shrine covers both!
4) Olive Avenue
Running through the heart of south Redlands is Olive Avenue. Many prominent Victorian homes are located there, and in recent years, it has become *the* place to go Trick-or-Treating on Halloween. It’s amazing how spooky the old Victorian architecture can become when the sun goes down!
5) LifeHouse Theater
LifeHouse is an independent, interdenominational, faith-based community theater in Redlands. Their plays and musicals are performed by a volunteer cast, and the productions are first-rate. Performances are loved by the “young and young-at-heart,” and they always include an uplifting message.
Grab Your FREE Redlands, CA, Checklist!
What to do & where to eat…all on a handy one-page checklist to take with you on your trip!
6) Downtown Redlands
Downtown Redlands is home to some of the best restaurants and shopping in the area. In addition to historic State Street, lined with large trees and ambiance lighting in the evenings, the adjacent streets also add to the atmosphere.
Find a parking spot, and take a walk through downtown Redlands and its historic buildings!
7) Umbrella Alley Redlands
Redlands’ Umbrella Alley (or Orange Street Alley) is home to 420 multi-colored umbrellas, shading you from overhead. The rainbow of color is perfect for your next Insta-worthy snap.
8) Murals & Outdoor Art in Redlands
The prominence of the arts in the city of Redlands extends to the outdoors. All around downtown Redlands are works of visual arts that can be enjoyed by one and all.
9) Redlands Morning Market (formerly Market Night)
Surrounded by food trucks and other merchandise vendors, Redlands Morning Market (formerly Market Night) is the place to be on Thursday nights. State Street is closed off to regular traffic, and visitors can walk the tree-lined path and buy what strikes their fancy.
10) Kimberly Crest House & Gardens
As a recognized historic landmark in Redlands, the state of California, and nationally, Kimberly Crest is no secret. Built in the late 1800s, this Chateauesque structure is exquisite. Besides the main residence and carriage house, the vast grounds also boast a formal Italian garden and lots of citrus trees.
Tours are offered for a fee, and there are various special programs at Kimberly Crest throughout the year. Some of the most beloved events are the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and Princesses at the Castle.
11) Prospect Park
Adjacent to Kimberly Crest is Prospect Park. Wind through the wide trails, and enjoy the beauty of nature around you.
12) Ford Park
With a shaded playground structure and lots of grassy fields to run around in, Ford Park could call it a day. However, there’s more fun to be had at Ford Park. Higher up in the park are two duck ponds that are fun to walk around and explore.
Ford Park also has tennis courts and pickleball courts. The Redlands Dog Park is also nearby.
13) University of Redlands
Officially incorporated in 1907, the University of Redlands (UofR) plays a big part in the history of the city. Its park-like setting also boasts some of Redlands’ great architecture, which makes it another great spot for iconic photos.
One main focal point is the Memorial Chapel, where various choral and orchestral performances are held, including the popular Feast of Lights at Christmas time.
In the mountains north of the university, you might see a large “R.” The “Redlands R” was conceived and implemented in the 1910s by students at the UofR. It is still an annual tradition to keep it maintained.
14) Redlands Symphony
Not every city has its own world-class symphony orchestra. But, Redlands does. The mission of the Redlands Symphony Association is “to inspire, entertain, and educate by providing outstanding musical performances that enhance our unique cultural environment.”
Enjoy concerts at the University of Redlands Memorial Chapel, as well as the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival!
15) San Bernardino County Museum
Redlands is located in vast San Bernardino County (more than 20,000 square miles, and the largest county in the contiguous U.S. by area). Among that huge piece of land, the county chose to house its museum in Redlands.
The San Bernardino County Museum shows a Hall of History, Hall of Earth Sciences, and Hall of Biodiversity. There are also exhibits on geology and minerals, as well as rotating special exhibits inside the unique geodesic dome.
Best Restaurants in Redlands, CA
While there are a number of chain restaurants in Redlands, there are also many unique eateries with delicious food that you can’t find anywhere else!
Gourmet Pizza Shoppe
Right on State Street in downtown Redlands, Gourmet Pizza Shoppe has some of the most unique pizzas you’ve ever heard of! How about yellow curry, mashed potatoes, angel hair pasta, or mac & cheese as a topping?
Taking the classic pepperoni pizza up a notch is their “Peter Pepperoni,” with pizza sauce, double pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and topped with shredded pepperoni and seasonings.
Cheesewalla
Looking for a fantastic grilled cheese sandwich? Head to Cheesewalla for gourmet grilled cheese creations. Choose from traditional, donut, samosa, BBQ mac, and more. You’ll want to try them all!
Cuca’s
Cuca’s Mexican Food has multiple locations, but their original walk-up location in downtown Redlands is a favorite. Beginning in 1989, Cuca’s has been making authentic Mexican food for all. Open all day long, the downtown Redlands location offers hearty breakfast burritos, kids meals, and everything in between. Check out their daily specials, and be sure to try a shredded beef taco!
Wok In Cafe
Another State Street staple is Wok In Cafe. This Chinese restaurant is the closest I’ve gotten to my favorite Chinese restaurant from childhood. With classic dishes like mu shu, fried rice, lo mein, chow mein, and lemon chicken, Wok In Cafe satisfies the craving for great Chinese food.
Their lunch specials are a great deal, and they have a large selection of vegetarian items. Order a basket of crispy noodles with sweet & sour sauce to get your meal started!
Olive Avenue Market
Beginning as a neighborhood grocery store in the 1920s, Olive Avenue Market (OAM) has grown to be a local favorite.
Offering prepared sandwiches (named for many of the streets in Redlands), salads, sides, and baked goods, Olive Avenue Market is great for breakfast or lunch. They also serve brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. Their refrigerated cases boast a huge selection of unique, hard-to-find sodas, too.
A favorite way to enjoy OAM sandwiches is to pick some up as part of a pre-show picnic at the Redlands Bowl. Just make sure to get to OAM early in the day for the largest selection of sandwiches.
Dhat Island
You will find Caribbean Creole cuisine at Dhat Island. Full of flavor and the taste of the islands, plantains, okra, bourbon, and special spices will get your taste buds in gear. Be sure to save room for peach cobbler or beignets!
Hangar 24 Craft Brewery
While not a restaurant per se, Hangar 24 is a Redlands original (and there are often food trucks on site). If you’re not looking for adult drinks, they have an amazing root beer on tap!
Fine Dining in Redlands
Rok ‘n’ Fondue
The “rok” refers to the lava rock on which your meat choices will be served, still cooking! The “fondue” is self-explanatory! Often enjoyed as a special occasion restaurant, Rok ‘n’ Fondue can be found downtown on State Street. You must try the Rok ‘n’ Cheddar!
Caprice Cafe
Also located on State Street in downtown Redlands, Caprice Cafe offers both inside and outdoor patio seating. Enjoy your lunch or dinner on the patio, people watching at one of the most prominent corners on State Street.
Using fresh produce, meat, and fish, Caprice Cafe has developed a menu that will make everyone happy!
Best Breakfast Restaurants in Redlands
Carolyn’s Cafe
Two words: coffee cake. People from all around flock to Carolyn’s Cafe for their coffee cake and more! But, the coffee cake, people! Besides the cake itself, the mountain and waterfall of whipped and melting butter puts it over the top!
Sure, there are other things on the menu, and they’re super tasty. But, ya know, that coffee cake is where it’s at, y’all! Open for breakfast, brunch, and early lunch, Carolyn’s Cafe serves their breakfast menu for the duration.
Martha Green’s The Eating Room
A Redlands mainstay, The Eating Room is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Try the Sinful French Toast, a baked concoction made with croissants!
While you’re there, pick up some bakery items at the attached Dough’Lectibles Bakery.
The Eating Room also offers a “rustic tea,” where you can enjoy an afternoon tea with family and friends.
Breakfast Shack
Breakfast Shack is another great breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot in Redlands. With breakfast served all day, our recommendation is “The Whole Farm,” which consists of 2 eggs, 2 pancakes, 2 sausage links, 2 bacon strips, and either hash browns or country potatoes. This one meal can feed 2-4 people easily!
Best Coffee Houses in Redlands
The Meek House
Stay humble. Be kind. Drink coffee. Welcome to The Meek House. This family-owned and operated coffee shop is exactly what was needed in the Mountain Grove shopping center.
The Meek House offers delicious pastries, including cornulețe, a nod to the owners’ Romanian heritage. But, we believe that the true test of any coffee shop is their americano. With their in-house roasted coffee, The Meek House’s americano is amazing!
Stell Coffee & Tea Company
Stell Coffee & Tea Company, aka Stell’s, is a small batch coffee roasterie and cafe. Their extensive menu of breakfast sandwiches and lunch/dinner sandwiches, soups, and salads, accompanies their coffee and tea selections. They even have kombucha on tap! Stell’s has lots of seating both inside and on their back patio.
Grab Your FREE Redlands, CA, Checklist!
What to do & where to eat…all on a handy one-page checklist to take with you on your trip!
Desserts in Redlands, CA
Looking for sweet treats in Redlands? Here are some local favorites!
Cookie Corner
Cookie Corner is making an impact in Redlands these days. Located on West Stuart Avenue, this locally owned and operated cookie shop is raising the bar when it comes to cookies and giving back to the community.
They’re using real ingredients, like real eggs, real cane sugar, and real butter. They’re developing new cookie flavors all the time. In store, you will find unique items from local vendors. They support and donate to various local organizations.
Besides selling locally roasted coffee in their refrigerator case, Cookie Corner offers “twisted sodas.” With unique Redlands-y names, these fizzy drinks are a mix of your choice of soda and various syrups and add-ins. Try one on Thirsty Thursday for a discount!
Follow Cookie Corner on Instagram to find out their weekly 4-cookie lineup. Chocolate chip will always be there. The other three rotate each week. With flavors like orange blossom (Redlands’ special cookie), Drumstick, s’mores, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and brookie (half brownie, half cookie), they’ll have you coming back for more every week!
Nicho’s La Michoacana
Nicho’s Ice Cream offers “Mexican authentics tied with American classics.” Nicho’s makes over 40 flavors of homemade ice cream and over 50 flavors of homemade popsicles (or paletas).
There are more adventurous items on the menu as well, such as mangonadas and Tostilocos. But, you gotta try the churro ice cream sandwich. Two Eggo waffle-sized churros sandwiched with your choice of ice cream. Just try it!
à la minute Ice Cream
On the forefront of making ice cream with liquid nitrogen, à la minute set the bar high for all others who followed. With unique flavors like orange honey, chocolate lavender, and strawberry balsamic, there’s something for every palate.
Parliament Chocolate
Created by the chef/owner of à la minute, Parliament Chocolate is small batch chocolate at its best. You haven’t tasted chocolate, until you’ve tasted Parliament Chocolate. It’s amazing chocolate, with just enough sweetness to bring out the real chocolate flavor. Stock up on handmade chocolate bars, cacao nibs, spicy Mayan drinking chocolate, and even chocolate body scrub!
Theron’s Frozen Custard
It’s not ice cream, and it’s not frozen yogurt. It’s frozen custard! Theron’s Frozen Custard has offered their dense, creamy, cold, delicious treat in Redlands for many years. Check out their flavor of the month, too! Peppermint is a strong favorite!
Best Local Grocery Stores in Redlands
Gerrards Market
Gerrards can be found right in the middle of a residential neighborhood in south Redlands. Their slogan is: “Big enough to serve you…small enough to really care!” Gerrards has been at its current location since the 1960s!
Gerrards is a full-service grocery store that also has the small-town feel of Redlands. A favorite of brunchers everywhere are the Gerrards pre-made quiches. Just heat and serve!
Redlands Ranch Market
Redlands Ranch Market offers grocery items from all over the world in north Redlands. They are baking all day in their bakery, and their in-house tortilleria is turning out fresh tortillas throughout the day.
Many people swear by their fresh tortillas, tortilla chips, and salsa. Pick up some carne asada, and make a meal of it!
Jacinto Farms
This farm stand in Mentone is well-known for their out-of-this-world strawberries. During strawberry season, make sure to get there close to opening, so you won’t be disappointed. Fresh fruit and vegetables are the reasons people come here year-round for their produce purchases.
Shopping in Downtown Redlands
The heart of downtown Redlands is State Street. Lined with mature trees on both sides, State Street hosts many unique locally-owned shops (in addition to the restaurants already mentioned).
The Frugal Frigate
The Frugal Frigate is an independent children’s bookstore in downtown Redlands. A part of Redlands for several decades, The Frugal Frigate always has new titles and classic literature for kids to young adults. They also carry items that make reading time even more enjoyable, such as journals, plush toys, and other fun things!
Board Game Paradise
Board Game Paradise has all the board games and puzzles you want! With a knowledgeable staff, they will help you find exactly what you’re looking for, whether you’re keeping it or gifting it!
Jacks Toy Shop
Jacks Toy Shop has all the popular toys you’re looking for, as well as unique and hard-to-find items. Jacks is “a shop for kids and kids at heart!”
Best Barre Studio in Redlands
Redlands Barre
Strengthen, lengthen, and tone, by adding a little exercise to your life at Redlands Barre. With experienced instructors and a variety of classes, it’s a great time to reach your fitness potential. There’s an intro rate for locals, as well as drop-in rates for visitors.
Grab Your FREE Redlands, CA, Checklist!
What to do & where to eat…all on a handy one-page checklist to take with you on your trip!
Hotels in Redlands, CA
Ayres Hotel Redlands
The Ayres Hotel in Redlands provides a comfortable stay for you and your whole family. King or 2 Queen guestrooms offer either exterior or interior views. Interior rooms look out at the pool area, which includes a heated outdoor pool and spa, as well as a fitness center. Full American breakfast, parking, and WiFi are included.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
The Country Inn & Suites is a newly renovated hotel in Redlands. Regular rooms and larger suites are available at this location. A fitness center, free WiFi, and complimentary hot breakfast are on offer. There is an outdoor pool, but it is not heated.
Where is Redlands, California?
Halfway between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, in the Inland Empire area of southern California, you’ll find Redlands, CA. Interstate-10 splits the city north and south.
From Redlands, the rest of California is a few hours to a day’s drive away, including:
- Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Ventura
- Mammoth Mountain
- Bass Lake
- Orange County
- San Diego
Many people also come to and through the area to go to:
- Oak Glen for apple picking
- Big Bear Lake
- Lake Arrowhead
- San Bernardino National Forest
How far is Redlands from Los Angeles?
Redlands is approximately 63 miles away from the middle of Los Angeles proper. From Los Angeles, Redlands is almost due east on I-10.
How far is Redlands from Palm Springs?
Redlands is approximately 44 miles away from the middle of Palm Springs proper. From Palm Springs, CA-111 to I-10 West will get you to Redlands.
What is Redlands famous for?
Redlands was put on the map in the late 1800s, when the town became one of the largest producers of naval oranges in the world. Although many of the orange groves have been taken over by new development, there are still pockets of land that bear the citrus fruit trees that made Redlands famous.
Due to the time period when Redlands grew up, there are a number of ornate Victorian structures still standing. Many houses (or mansions, or castles, depending on how you look at it) in south Redlands were built in the 1800s & 1900s.
Redlands boasts a quaint downtown area, the focal point being State Street. Unique restaurants and shops can be found throughout the city.
Redlands champions the importance of the arts, through the many music, theater, dance, and art endeavors in town.
Is Redlands a small town?
As mentioned at the very top, Redlands is known as “a big town with a small town feel.” Compared to other cities around it, such as San Bernardino, Riverside, and Ontario, it does have a small town feel, in a city of about 80,000. Redlands, however, is also big enough to have all the services you need nearby, without even having to get on the freeway!
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