The Inland Empire on Route 66
The legendary Route 66, a ribbon of asphalt that once pulsed with the heart of American travel, weaves its way through a diverse landscape. As travelers journey westward, they encounter the sprawling metropolis that marks the edge of the Inland Empire, signaling their approach to the vast urban expanse of Los Angeles. While the iconic Mother Road’s vintage charm may seem to fade under the weight of modern development, a closer look reveals a surprising number of historic treasures waiting to be discovered. Venturing into the Inland Empire on Route 66 requires a slower pace, an attentive eye, and a willingness to explore beyond the familiar.
Like major cities such as Chicago and St. Louis, the Inland Empire has experienced significant transformations, with contemporary development often overshadowing the businesses that thrived during Route 66’s heyday. However, the region’s explosive growth as the gateway to America’s second-largest city has also preserved a unique blend of old and new. A patient exploration of the 60-mile stretch leading to Los Angeles will reward travelers with glimpses of picturesque motels, classic diners, eye-catching signage, and intriguing museums. These remnants of a bygone era stand as testaments to the road’s enduring legacy.
In its original design, Route 66 served as a vital link between the small towns dotting the American landscape between Chicago and the Pacific Coast. During this time, the communities that now comprise the Inland Empire were quaint settlements, brimming with family-owned diners, cozy motels, roadside fruit stands, and quirky curio shops. These businesses catered to the needs of travelers seeking respite and refreshment on their cross-country journeys.
Fueled by the allure of California, a destination Route 66 helped popularize, the region experienced a boom as families sought refuge from the Dust Bowl storms that ravaged the Midwest. Attracted by the promise of a favorable climate and abundant opportunities, these newcomers transformed the Inland Empire from a collection of small towns into a thriving suburban landscape.
For those committed to retracing the path of the original Mother Road, a continuous route exists along various thoroughfares leading to Santa Monica. This path meanders through suburbs that blend seamlessly into one another. From San Bernardino to Pasadena, the route follows Foothill Boulevard, now designated as California State Highway 66. As travelers pass through Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Azusa, Monrovia, and other communities, they’ll discover vintage icons nestled among the strip malls and fast-food chains. Navigating this stretch requires keen attention to city limit signs, as they mark the subtle transitions between one suburb and the next.
The journey from Pasadena to Santa Monica covers 80 miles of city streets within Los Angeles. This segment of Route 66 bears various names, including Foothill Boulevard, Colorado Boulevard, Huntington Drive, Sunset Boulevard, and Santa Monica Boulevard. Reaching the western terminus of the Mother Road at the Pacific Ocean requires patience and a willingness to navigate heavy traffic and numerous traffic signals. Travelers should anticipate a full day of driving before reaching their final destination.
Alternatively, those seeking a more direct route to the end of America’s Main Street USA can opt for Interstate 10 from San Bernardino to Santa Monica. A hybrid approach, combining surface streets along the outskirts with strategic highway transfers, can offer a balance between historical immersion and efficient travel.
Rialto, California – Progress From Lemon Groves
Once a landscape dominated by citrus groves, Rialto has evolved into a thriving suburb with a population nearing 100,000. Its origins trace back to 1887, when the town emerged as one of several small communities built along the expanding railroad line. As the Santa Fe Railroad extended its route between San Bernardino and Pasadena, 25 town sites were strategically placed every 2,600 yards, with Rialto among them.
In the same year, a group of Methodists arrived with plans to establish a new college. While the school never materialized, these pioneers laid the foundation for the new town. By 1893, the fledgling settlement boasted six businesses, a school, and 35 homes.
The early 20th century saw Rialto flourish as a citrus-producing center. At its peak, the town supported seven packing plants that tirelessly shipped fruit across the country. However, as the population expanded, homes and businesses gradually replaced the citrus groves, transforming the landscape.
Despite its modern development, Rialto retains several Route 66-era businesses, most notably the Wigwam Motel. Serving Route 66 travelers since 1947, this unique motel features teepee-style cottages. The Wigwam Motel has undergone extensive renovations, enhancing both the interior and exterior of the buildings, as well as the surrounding landscape. This iconic landmark is located at 2728 W. Foothill Boulevard, near the city’s eastern boundary.
Fontana, California – City of Innovation
Located approximately sixty miles east of Los Angeles, Fontana stands as a testament to innovation and progress. Originally part of a vast Spanish Land Grant, the city was officially founded in 1913 by A.B. Miller. Miller transformed the area into a diversified agricultural hub, with citrus, grain, grapes, poultry, and swine as its primary products. Fontana remained agriculturally focused until 1942, when it was selected as the site for a steel mill. A decade later, with a population approaching 14,000, Fontana became Southern California’s leading producer of steel and related products.
Fontana experienced rapid growth over the years. It remains a prominent center for steel production and is home to numerous other industrial facilities, thanks to its robust transportation network. While the city now has a population exceeding 150,000, it still preserves a collection of Route 66 icons, including several vintage motor courts along both sides of the road. Though past their prime, the El Rey, Rex, Dragon, Sand & Sage, Rose, and Sunset Motels evoke memories of Route 66’s golden era. Fontana is actively collaborating with the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program to enhance and promote its segment of Route 66 and encourage the continued use of these historic motels.
At the southwest corner of Foothill Boulevard and Sultana Avenue stands Bono’s, a classic Italian restaurant that once catered to countless Route 66 travelers. Unfortunately, Bono’s is currently closed, and the building is available for rent. However, adjacent to the restaurant stands the last surviving orange juice stand that once dotted California’s Route 66.
Rancho Cucamonga – Premier City of the Inland Empire
Rancho Cucamonga derives its name from its origins as part of a 13,000-acre Mexican Land Grant awarded to Tubercio Tapia, a Mexican soldier and politician, in 1839. Tapia built an adobe home on Red Hill, raised cattle, and established a successful winery, which still exists today as part of the Thomas Winery Plaza. The name "Cucamonga" is believed to originate from a Shoshone word meaning "sandy place."
In 1858, Tapia’s daughter sold the rancho to John Rains and his wife, Maria Merced Williams. Two years later, the couple commissioned brick masons from Ohio to build a new home, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a museum.
In 1861, the family moved into the strategically located home, situated at the intersection of the Mojave Trail, the Old Spanish Trail, the El Camino Real, and the Butterfield Stage Route. Rains was a wealthy and influential figure who opened his home to travelers. However, he also had enemies, and in November 1862, he was ambushed near San Dimas. His body was found 11 days later. His murder was never solved.
After Rains’ death, the rancho declined, and water rights disputes arose. By 1870, the Rancho fell into foreclosure and was sold to a banker named Isaias Hellman and other San Francisco businessmen.
Hellman formed the Cucamonga Homestead Association to develop the new community, but his plans were hampered by a lack of water. In 1881, Adoph Petch and four investors opened another development just outside the Rancho lands. Hellman brought in water for his community via waterways dug by Chinese laborers. Irrigation tunnels were improved, and the area was cultivated with citrus, olive, peach, and grape crops. In 1887, the two communities combined to form the city of Loamosa. In 1913, when the Pacific Electric Railway came through, the town was renamed Alta Loma. Meanwhile, another community called Etiwanda emerged to the east.
As a historical crossroads, it was no surprise when Route 66 was added to the list. The city soon featured motels, diners, and tourist shops to cater to the numerous travelers along the Mother Road.
Rancho Cucamonga is now one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the metropolitan area. In 1977, Alta Loma, Cucamonga, and Etiwanda merged to form the city, which now boasts a population nearing 150,000. Although new development has replaced many older buildings, the suburb still offers glimpses of its rich history.
Although most of its agricultural base is gone, the soil remains fertile, and produce stands are still seen along the roadside.
At the northwest corner of Foothill Boulevard and Haven Avenue is the site of Virginia Dare, one of California’s oldest wineries. The historic building has been transformed into offices but retains its original 1830s architecture.
Nearby, at 10150 Foothill Boulevard, is Route 66 Memories, an antique and gift shop housed in a historic three-story farmhouse. The shop features metal sculptures, rustic mission furniture, hard-to-find items, collectibles, and Route 66 memorabilia.
A bit further down Route 66, at the northwest corner of Foothill Boulevard and Archibald, sits the Richfield Oil Station or Cucamonga Service Station. The station opened before the Mother Road in 1915 and served Route 66 travelers until the 1970s. The Route 66 Inland Empire, California Association reopened the building in October 2015 as a museum.
Continuing along to Hellman Avenue, the New Kansan Motel at 9300 Foothill Boulevard evokes memories of mid-westerners escaping during the Dust Bowl.
On the corner of Vineyard and Foothill sits the old Thomas Winery, the oldest winery in the state. Established in 1839, the winery, now a California historical landmark, still stands in the building, today called the "Wine Tailor," along with a coffeehouse and restaurant.
The original 1860s Rains Home that was once the center of the Rancho Cucamonga has been restored and can be toured at 8810 Hemlock.
Rancho Cucamonga also features the historic Sycamore Inn that once served as a San Bernardino Stage stop. Located at 8318 Foothill Boulevard, this old establishment has offered food and service for almost 150 years.
Nearby, at 8189 Foothill Boulevard is the Magic Lamp Inn, complete with its genie bottle neon sign. Serving Route 66 travelers since 1957, continental cuisine can be found inside.
While in Rancho Cucamonga, also be sure to visit the Route 66 Visitors Center and Museum at 8916 Foothill Boulevard.
Upland, California – At the Base of the Foothills
Upland was first called North Ontario when George and W.B. Chaffey arrived in 1882. Immigrating from Canada, the pair sought to build a new colony on the lush and fertile ground against the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. After purchasing the land, they began planning their new settlement. In May 1906, the city was officially incorporated with the name of Upland. The area was transformed into a thriving agricultural center, with most of its population involved in producing, shipping, or processing citrus fruit and grapes.
Today, Upland has developed into a residential and retail community that retains its charm from the past.
While in Upland, a great neon sign can be seen at the Taco King at 1317 E. Foothill Boulevard, and a classic 1950’s style McDonald’s stands on the southeast corner of Benson Avenue at 1590 Foothill Boulevard.
The vintage Buffalo Inn is a must-stop in Upland, where buffalo burgers have been served since 1929. The Buffalo Inn is located at 1814 W. Foothill Boulevard.
Claremont – City of Higher Education
Claremont is best known for its seven colleges, tree-lined streets, and historic buildings. The town began as one of the town sites laid out between San Bernardino and Los Angeles by the Santa Fe Railroad in 1887.
The first of the city’s colleges, Pomona College, was established the same year. The "New England style" school became the center of the community, reflecting much of the founders’ New England heritage.
Citrus ranches spread out around the college, and the town sported four citrus packing houses. In addition to its orchards, the town also began building more colleges, until today, the Claremont Colleges Consortium includes five undergraduate colleges, two graduate institutions, and a central organization.
The orchards thrived until after World War II, when demand for residential development caused many growers to sell their land. Today, the town displays its heritage in its many historic buildings.
While in Claremont, the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is on the right side of Route 66, just before the intersection with Indian Hill Boulevard.
Just beyond sits the Claremont Griswold Center at the northwest corner of Indian Hill and Foothill Boulevards.
While not on Route 66, Claremont’s Padua Hills Theatre is a California Landmark catering to visitors since 1930. Built as a centerpiece for local artists, the Spanish-Colonial building entertained its patrons until the early 1970s when the City of Claremont purchased the property. Today, it serves as a banquet and meeting facility.
Pomona – Goddess of Fruit
As you continue on, Foothill Boulevard curves slightly to the right when entering Pomona. The city began as a Mexican land grant to Don Ingacio Palomares and Don Ricardo Vejar in April 1837. That same year, Palomares and his wife, Dona Concepcion Lopez de Palomares, completed their first home, which continues to stand today as a museum called La Casa Primera de Rancho San Jose. After living there for 17 years, the couple built a grander home a mile north of the first house. The 13-room adobe home was a way station along the San Bernardino Stage and 20-Mule Team freight routes. Called the Palomares Adobe, it too continues to stand today.
In 1863, Don Vegar sold his portion of land to two men from Los Angeles, who sold it again to Louis Phillips in 1866. Phillips sold 5,600 acres to a group of speculators in 1875, who began to develop the townsite, naming it "Pomona" after the Roman goddess of fruit. That same year, Louis Phillips built the first brick house in the Pomona area, which remains today as a museum.
Like the many other towns of the area, vineyards, olive groves, and citrus orchards flourished in Pomona until demand for new homes created more and more developments. Today, the city prides itself on its rich history, diversity, and commitment to continuous improvements.
Pomona offers numerous glimpses of its vintage past in public and commercial buildings in various architectural styles. One great view of the past can be found at the Pomona Fox Theater at the corner of Third Street and Garey Avenue. Opened in April 1931, the theatre served as the venue for several Hollywood movie premiers in its early days. Suburbanization took its toll on the Fox, and it was closed. The City of Pomona stepped in and bought the building in 2000. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, plans are underway to restore this premier example of Art Deco architecture.
On 2nd Street, just east of Garey Avenue, is a shopping district called Antique Row. Across the street is the Art Colony, which houses artists’ studios, galleries, and shops featuring one-of-a-kind items.
The two original homes of the Palomares land grant can be visited on Sundays. The 1837 La Casa Primera is at 1659 N. Park Avenue, and the Palomares Adobe is at 491 Arrow Highway. The historic Phillips Mansion is located at 2640 Pomona Boulevard.
La Verne – Holding on to Small Town Charm
La Verne began in 1887 as the City of Lordsburg as one more town along the Santa Fe Railroad. Isaac W. Lord, a Los Angeles businessman, persuaded the railroad to extend its line through the area where he owned a significant amount of property.
On May 25, 1887, over 2,500 people arrived for Lord’s land sale. Lord pocketed $200,000 from the sale of lots, and building new homes and businesses began almost immediately.
The town promoters installed water mains, a post office, a newspaper, and construction on the 60-room Lordsburg Hotel began within the first four months. Lord spent $300,000 on the hotel that featured cupolas, balconies, domed rooftops, and an electric bell in every room.
Though situated adjacent to the railroad, the land boom had gone bust by the time the hotel was completed. The hotel never hosted a single paying guest. Four German Baptist men bought the vacant hotel with plans to open it as an academy. In the fall of 1891, Lordsburg College was established with 135 students, and the town soon drew more and more Brethren people.
The residents voted to change the city name to "La Verne" in 1917, after the northern orange-growing district. The Lordsburg College also changed its name, today known as the University of La Verne.
As the college grew, it moved into Founder’s Hall, and the original Lordsburg Hotel was torn down in 1927.
In addition to the college, most of the economy of the fledgling city was supported by the citrus industry. However, by the 1940s, the quality and size of the fruit had dramatically declined, and groves began to be sold for housing developments.
Today, La Verne supports about 30,000 residents, retaining much of its small-town charm on its tree-lined streets. As you enter La Verne, look for Route 66 signage at the Hi-Brow 66 Lounge and Coates Schwinn in the 500 block of east Foothill Boulevard, and just a couple more blocks down the road, a vintage sign advertising the Village Car Wash. Other Route 66 stops include the Route 66 Territory Gift Shop at 2418-D Foothill Boulevard, where you will surely pick up a memento of your trip. If you’re hungry for Mexican food, the La Paloma Restaurant at 2975 Foothill Boulevard has served Mother Road travelers since 1966.