Upland, CA

If you want to get your bearings in Upland, start with Euclid Avenue. This wide, tree-lined boulevard runs straight up toward the San Gabriel Mountains, featuring a green, grassy median where you will regularly see neighbors out jogging and walking their dogs. Historic Downtown sits just east of Euclid, filled with local shops along Second Avenue, while Route 66 runs east to west along Foothill Boulevard further north. Getting around is easy, especially for commuters, thanks to the Metrolink station on A Street that connects directly to downtown Los Angeles. Plus, cyclists and walkers can hop right onto the Pacific Electric Trail, which cuts through downtown along an old railway route.

Everyday shopping and dining are spread across town, with plenty of grocery stores and casual eateries along Foothill Boulevard and Mountain Avenue. Over on the northwest side of town sits Cable Airport, a unique local staple that happens to be one of the largest family-owned airports in the country. It is a fun spot to grab breakfast and watch small planes take off. The city's scenic look goes back to the 1880s, when founders tapped water from the mountain canyons to irrigate thousands of acres of lemon groves, transforming the rocky foothills into a thriving agricultural community.

Originally known as North Ontario, the area picked up the name Upland in 1897 simply because it sat uphill from its neighbor to the south. You will still spot citrus tributes throughout town, from the official city seal to the historic packing house architecture. A drive up Euclid will take you past the Madonna of the Trail statue, a historic landmark honoring pioneer women. Downtown still holds onto that timeless character, anchored by the local library and the original 1913 Carnegie library building, which continues to host community events and gatherings.

Neighborhoods here have plenty of charm, showcasing gorgeous Craftsman bungalows, classic Victorians, and quiet, shady residential streets near the foothills. Community events bring people together throughout the year, especially the massive annual Lemon Festival each spring, which fills the streets with live music, food stands, and carnival rides. Downtown also hosts a lively weekly farmers market on Saturdays, along with regular street fairs featuring outdoor dining and local vendors along Second Avenue. With great parks, mountain views, and direct access to regional trails, it offers a relaxed suburban pace with a strong hometown feel.