Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carson, CA to Fontana, CA

Carson and Fontana might not be in the same neighborhood in Los Angeles County, but they are just a little over 50 miles apart. The journey usually takes an hour and 15 minutes, driving across the busy highways that lead to the San Bernardino Mountains. Many travelers, especially the ones who take the journey frequently, are likely to find the trip quite monotonous. However, with a couple of stops along the way, one can make this journey much more enjoyable while experiencing a diverse range of experiences. Here are five such unexpected places to stop on the way.

Halfway Point: West Covina, CA

West Covina is considered to be the halfway point between Carson and Fontana. It is a bustling suburban city that is home to the popular Westfield Eastland Shopping Center. This shopping destination is perfect for a quick rest stop or some retail therapy. With over 150 shops and multiple food options, it caters to everyone's interests. While grabbing a bite to eat in West Covina, one should try the street tacos from Taco Nazo. Their fish tacos are particularly famous and are served with quality ingredients and authentic Mexican flavors.

1. Peck Road Water Conservation Park

Located in Arcadia, Peck Road Water Conservation Park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The park is an outdoor education facility that offers a look at the water conservation technologies available to Californians. Here visitors can view a variety of plants and wildlife that are native to the region, including hawks and coots. The park features a walking and running trail that extends for approximately 3.3 miles around the facility. Visitors can also rest here by the fish ponds and admire the natural beauty of the park. A must-try here is the pastrami sandwich from Jim's Burgers, a local institution.

2. Museum of Neon Art

While driving through the streets of downtown Glendale, don't miss the Museum of Neon Art that features famous neon artworks throughout the years. The museum itself is a small structure, but it has been a landmark since its founding in 1981. The pieces showcased are rotated regularly, and visitors can expect to see unique neon art installations each time they visit. One must-try food item nearby is the burger from The Great White Hut. This burger shack has been a Glendale favorite since 1955, and their burgers are juicy and generously portioned.

3. Big Poppa's Burgers

In San Bernardino, at the eastern end of the Inland Empire, visitors can enjoy traditional American food at Big Poppa's Burgers. The iconic fast-food restaurant is worth the stop for burgers and shakes. Their burgers come with all the traditional toppings, while their milkshakes are made in flavors that are not easily found anywhere else. The Shake of the Month flavor also changes daily, so it’s best to check the calendar before stopping. One must-try food item here is their carne asada burrito stuffed with seasoned meat, guacamole, and their famous red-hot sauce.

4. Oak Glen Apple Orchards

Oak Glen Apple Orchards is situated in the foothills of San Bernardino Mountains, the last stop on the way to Fontana. The orchard is a vast facility that features a large apple harvest, nature trails, and a marketplace that sells fresh apple pies, ciders, and jams. Visitors can walk the trails around the orchard at leisure, soak in the spectacular scenery throughout the year, and pick their apples in the fall. This place is especially famous for its apple cider donuts, which are freshly made on site.

In conclusion, the drive between Carson and Fontana might not be the most exciting. However, these five unexpected places offer a glimpse at everything that Southern California has to offer. They offer a chance to stretch your legs, try some fantastic food, and experience unique cultures. Whether traveling fast or taking a more leisurely pace, don't miss out on a chance to stop at these sites and experience the beauty of the region.