You’ll uncover that Fontana, California isn’t just another suburban city in the Inland Empire – it’s a hidden gem for family escapades. From the roaring engines at Auto Club Speedway to the serene trails of Mary Vagle Nature Center, this city offers an impressive mix of high-energy thrills and peaceful outdoor experiences. Whether your kids are budding race car drivers, nature enthusiasts, or aspiring athletes, Fontana’s diverse attractions cater to every interest and energy level. Let’s investigate these eight engaging destinations that’ll change your family’s ordinary weekend into an extraordinary memory-making expedition.
Racing Fun at Auto Club Speedway
Credit@Auto Club Speedway
When you’re looking for high-octane family entertainment in Fontana, the Auto Club Speedway stands out as an exhilarating destination.
You’ll find yourself just 50 miles east of LA, where NASCAR excitement roars to life throughout the year.
Don’t miss the arrive-and-drive experiences that’ll get your heart racing, or head to CalSpeed Karting for some family-friendly competition that’s earned perfect ratings from visitors.
Mary Vagle Nature Center Exploration
Credit@Mary Vagle Nature Center
For a change of pace from the speedway’s roar, the Mary Vagle Nature Center offers your family a serene outdoor excursion.
You’ll love exploring the family-friendly trails while your kids uncover local wildlife in their natural habitats.
The center’s engaging educational programs make learning about nature exciting and hands-on.
It’s the perfect spot to unwind and create lasting memories while your little ones become budding naturalists.
McDermott Sports Complex Adventures
Credit@McDermott Sports Complex
Athletic excitement awaits at McDermott Sports Complex, where your family can plunge into a world of sports and recreation.
You’ll love watching your kids shoot hoops on pristine basketball courts or perfect their serve on tennis courts.
With its perfect 5.0 rating, this family fun destination delivers everything you need – from organized leagues to playgrounds for little ones and picnic spots for the whole crew.
Heritage Circle Park Activities
Credit@Heritage Circle Park
Every corner of Heritage Circle Park bursts with family-friendly fun, earning this local gem a perfect 5.0 rating from visitors.
You’ll find the perfect place for kids with multiple sports courts, age-appropriate playgrounds, and sprawling grass areas for picnicking.
Your family can join in on year-round community events, making this park a hub where lasting memories and friendships bloom naturally.
Tibbies Theater Entertainment
Credit@Tibbies Center Stage Theater
When your family’s ready to transition from outdoor escapades to indoor entertainment, Tibbies Center Stage Theater offers a magical experience that’ll enchant both kids and adults.
Located near Tudor Jurupa Hills Regional area, you’ll love their red carpet treatment and diverse family-friendly shows.
With a stellar 4.5-star rating, this cultural gem brings the community together through engaging performances that’ll create lasting memories for your little ones.
Parks and Picnics
Credit@Martin Tudor Jurupa Hills
Fontana’s picturesque parks provide the perfect backdrop for memorable family outings, with options ranging from Veterans Park to Martin Tudor Jurupa Hills Regional scene.
You’ll find plenty of shaded picnic spots where you can spread out your blanket and enjoy lunch with the kids.
Heritage Circle Park and McDermott Sports Complex offer spacious grounds for family games, while convenient amenities like restrooms make your visit hassle-free.
Local Cultural Sites
Credit@Al Capone House
Throughout the year, Fontana’s cultural sites offer enhancing experiences that bring history and arts to life for families.
You’ll love exploring the legendary Al Capone House, where ongoing renovations reveal fascinating stories of San Bernardino’s past.
Don’t miss the Pepper House Museum‘s engaging exhibits, St. Joseph Catholic Church’s stunning design, or Tibbies Center Stage Theater‘s family-friendly shows.
These local cultural sites perfectly blend education with entertainment.
Environmental Education Programs
Credit@Mary Vagle
The Mary Vagle Nature Center stands as a lively hub for young minds to examine and understand the natural world around them.
This hidden gem offers your kids incredible hands-on workshops where they’ll investigate local wildlife and learn about conservation.
You’ll love watching them uncover nature along the walking trails, while they participate in family-friendly activities that make environmental education absolutely fascinating and fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Fontana, CA Famous For?
You’ll find Fontana attractions center around its motorsports culture at Auto Club Speedway, historic landmarks like Al Capone House, and outdoor recreation at regional parks. It’s also known for diverse dining and community events.
Where to Take Kids in Orange County for Free?
You’ll uncover great free attractions at Orange County’s beaches like Huntington and Newport, the Great Park’s balloon rides, Discovery Cube’s free days, local parks with playgrounds, and the Santa Ana Zoo’s special free admission days.
Where to Take Kids This Summer in California?
You’ll find incredible summer excursions in California at Auto Club Speedway’s racing experiences, Fontana Park’s water slides, and Mary Vagle Nature Center’s wildlife programs. Don’t miss local parks and libraries for family-friendly entertainment.
Where Can I Take My Kids for Free in LA?
You’ll find fantastic free attractions in LA at LACMA for kids under 18, Griffith Park’s trails and observatory, California Science Center with Space Shuttle Endeavour, Natural History Museum’s free Tuesdays, and El Matador Beach.
Conclusion
You’ll find that Fontana’s got something special for every family member. Whether you’re racing hearts at the speedway, uncovering nature’s wonders, or catching a show at Tibbies, these activities will create memories that stick with your kids forever. Don’t wait to investigate all these incredible spots – they’re right in your backyard! Trust me, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them sooner. Time to pack up the family and start your Fontana journey!