San Bernardino has a rich and fascinating history and is home a minor league baseball team, national forest, and several museums and historical sites. The appeal and beauty of San Bernardino is reflected in diversity of its attractions. There is something for everyone from history buffs to nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
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History of San Bernardino
The history of San Bernardino dates back to the early nineteenth century when Spanish missionaries first settled in the area. In 1810, mission “San Bernardino” was set, and the missionaries with American Indians indigenous to the region changed the course of water to the San Bernardino valley form Mill Creek for irrigation use, which resulted in the growth of the area. Later, the mission San Bernardino was closed and gave birth to the “Great Spanish Rancheros”. In 1842, the Lugo Brothers were granted the San Bernardino Rancho by Mexico and gradually it turned into a significant post on the trading route called as the “Spanish Trail”.
California became the part of the US in 1848. By this time, several rancheros left the area. The Lugo Brothers sold San Bernardino Rancho to Mormon settlers. In 1851, Mormon colony was established. In 1854, San Bernardino was officially incorporated as a city with a population of about 1,200. Later, many rail companies were established in San Bernardino and it became an enterprising city. San Bernardino became the hub of Southern California operations of Union Pacific, Southern Pacific Railroad and Santa Fe. In 1886, Santa Fe Railway formed a transcontinental link which resulted in increase in settlers and growth of the South California. Today, San Bernardino is a modern urban society with great infrastructure and facilities.
Important Locations in San Bernardino
San Bernardino is brimming with interesting and fun things to do. There are plenty of locations to visit. Commune with the nature, explore the history at the museums and historic sites, or indulge in outdoor fun activities. Here are some of the important locations that you must check out when in San Bernardino:
San Bernardino National Forest: Indulge in outdoor recreational activities, like hiking, camping, backpacking, fishing, horseback riding and more at
San Bernardino National Forest.
Glen Helen Regional Park:
Glen Helen Regional Park features two lakes, play area, Water Park, race track, walking and hiking trails, beautiful gardens and concert venues. Have outdoor fun, enjoy lakeside scenery and play with kids!
Historic McDonald’s Hamburgers Museum: Know about the world’s very first McDonald’s restaurant at the
Historic McDonald’s Hamburgers Museum. The museum features the history of the fast food giant through displays and various items.
WBC Legends of Boxing Museum:
WBC Legends of Boxing Museum features the memorabilia and various artifacts and items of some of the most popular boxers of all times, mainly World Boxing Council Champions.
Inland Empire Military Museum: The Inland Empire Military Museum features World War II, Vietnam and Korea military memorabilia and various items.
To know more about the important locations in San Bernardino, click here.
People and Culture of San Bernardino
San Bernardino is a modern community rich in cultural diversity and history. Influences of Spanish missionaries, Mexican settlers, Mormon emigrants and Native Americans can be seen throughout San Bernardino. The city offers high quality of life and cost-effective services.
The city is nicknamed as “The Friendly City”. It exudes family-friendly atmosphere and the people are warm and inviting. The historic appeal blends with its modern charm and friendly environment.
Time Zone and Phone Code of San Bernardino
Time Zone
San Bernardino follows the Pacific Time Zone.
UTC-GMT Offset: San Bernardino is GMT/UTC-8 hours during Standard Time and GMT/UTC-7hours during Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time Usage: San Bernardino uses Daylight Saving Time
Time Zone Abbrv.: PST stands for Pacific Standard Time and PDT stands for Pacific Daylight Time
Phone Code
San Bernardino Area Code: 909
Best Time to Visit San Bernardino
The best time to visit San Bernardino is fall with fewer crowds and comfortable temperature. Another good time to visit San Bernardino is spring. The weather is warm and pleasant, and you can enjoy the indoor as well as outdoor attractions. San Bernardino hosts myriad of festivals and events-
Important Locations in San Bernardino Map Guide