Looking for things to do in Redlands?
Nicknamed “The Jewel of the Inland Empire,” Redlands is a charming destination that feels more like a step back in time than a modern California city.
Redlands is fairly centrally located in Southern California. It is 110 miles north of San Diego, 65 miles east of Los Angeles, and 44 miles west of Palm Springs. It is a quaint small town known for its historic downtown area, numerous breweries, and plenty of fun activities. Its location at the foot of the San Bernardino National Forest puts Redlands in easy range of some of Southern California’s best parks and hiking trails, too.
To help you get the most out of your visit, here are 10 top things to do in Redlands.
Redlands California Things to Do
1. Explore Downtown Redlands
Downtown Redlands is easily the main draw to those who visit the city.
Stretching down State Street and Citrus Avenue between Orange and 9th Street, Downtown Redlands is both historic and beautiful. Tall trees shade the area, and the streets are lined with unique shops, breweries, restaurants, and bakeries.
There are many historic buildings downtown, so be sure to take a leisurely stroll to enjoy the architecture and read some of the signs describing each building’s history. I recommend having lunch at one of the restaurants with outdoor seating so you can enjoy the warm weather.
2. San Bernardino County Museum
Did you know that San Bernardino County is the largest county in the United States? You can learn all about its fascinating history at the family-friendly San Bernardino County Museum, which is located in Redlands.
The San Bernardino County Museum offers a look at the area’s past, with exhibits highlighting its natural history, geology, paleontology, Native Americans indigenous to the area, and displays of mining equipment, lumber wagons, and a steam locomotive that helped build the Inland Empire.
There are both permanent exhibits and special rotating exhibits which come and go. One of our favorites is Exploration Station: A STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) Lab for Kids. This exhibit has tons of interactive activities your kids will love.
The museum also commemorates the area’s citrus heritage and celebrates its natural environment with desert gardens you can wander through outside.
It is a fairly large museum so you can easily spend a few hours exploring the space. Best of all, admission is only $10 for adults and $5 for kids, which makes it an exceptionally good deal.
- 2024 Orange Tree Lane, Redlands
- museum.sbcounty.gov
3. Visit the Lincoln Memorial Shrine
Southern California is the not the first place you’d expect to find a museum dedicated to Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War, but that is exactly what there is in Redlands.
The Lincoln Memorial Shrine is a memorial and research center dedicated to the memory of Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States of America. It has been open since February 12, 1932.
Though a very small museum, the space houses an impressive collection of artifacts from his presidency and life. The shrine’s exhibits are thoughtfully curated, offering a comprehensive look at Lincoln’s life, presidency, and his enduring legacy.
The Lincoln Memorial Shrine is the only museum dedicated to Abraham Lincoln west of the Mississippi River. Admission is free, but note it is only open from 1 to 5 pm Tuesday through Sunday.
- 125 West Vine Street, Redlands
- lincolnshrine.org
4. A.K. Smiley Library
Just next to the Lincoln Memorial Shrine is the A.K. Smiley Library.
While I admit a library is not typically on the list of must-see destinations when you’re visiting a new town, this one is special. It dates back to the 1890s and the architecture and beautiful grounds are worth checking out, even if only for a photo opp.
If you are interested in the library itself, the A.K. Smiley Library houses a wonderful collection of books for kids and adults, and some lovely artwork, too.
- 125 West Vine Street, Redlands
- akspl.org
5. Stroll Through Umbrella Alley
One place you will definitely want to see when exploring downtown is Umbrella Alley (also known as Orange Street Alley). It is one of the top attractions in Downtown Redlands.
Don’t be surprised if you find photoshoots happening or just lots of people posing for selfies. Umbrella Alley is home to 420 colorful umbrellas, forming a canopy overhead. It is truly a unique and beautiful spot. This is a great place to take some pictures to capture your visit to Redlands.
6. The Kimberly Crest House and Gardens
Another historical building in Redlands you will want to visit is the Kimberly Crest House and Gardens. This 6-acre estate in features a Victorian Chateau and Italian Renaissance styled gardens.
Built just before the turn of the 20th century, the house – now a museum – is absolutely marvelous. Inspired by French châteaus, the design of this Redlands landmark showcases intricate details, including hand-carved woodwork, stained glass windows, and elegant furnishings. The Kimberly Crest House and Gardens is designated a National Historic Landmark.
Kimberly Crest House & Gardens also offers many “historically immersive” special events throughout the year which take advantage of its Victorian setting. Some favorites include a Bridgerton Tea, Croquet on the Green, Downton Abbey Brunch, Holiday High Tea, Mystery at the Mansion, and an annual “Tree Lighting” Celebration.
The gardens are open to the public free of charge, but if you want to go inside there is an admission fee which includes a guided tour.
- 1325 Prospect Drive, Redlands
- kimberlycrest.org
7. Historical Glass Museum
Housed in a 1903 Victorian home, the Historical Glass Museum showcases the largest collection of American-made glass west of the Rocky Mountains.
The exhibits include over 7,000 pieces of glass artworks dating back as far as the 1800s. If glass is your thing, you’ll be in heaven.
- 1157 N. Orange Street, Redlands
- historicalglassmuseum.com
8. See a Performance at the Redlands Bowl
For a small town, Redlands is packed with many opportunities to enjoy culture! One of those places is the Redlands Bowl, an outdoor amphitheater which is home to the concerts, musicals, and the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival.
Admission to these events is always free! In fact, it holds the distinction of being America’s longest continuously running summer music festival where no admission is charged.
Every Tuesday and Friday evening during the summer, the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival draws thousands to its live music and theater shows. Since its inception in 1924, the Bowl has been a special place in Redlands for families, friends, and music-lovers of all ages and backgrounds to gather and enjoy its superb programs.
Bring a picnic dinner and make a fun evening out of the event. In fact, make sure you arrive early because attendance is on a first-come, first-served basis.
9. Take a Hike
Redlands is surrounded by mountains, sprawling citrus groves, and many local parks. From simple walks to steep elevation gains, Redlands offers many scenic trails for hiking and biking.
If you enjoy spending time outdoors, there are opportunities to explore a remarkable variety of terrains, from rugged canyons to beautiful vistas. Some favorite spots to check out include Caroline Park, San Timoteo Nature Sanctuary, and the Oak Ridge Trail.
Redlands experiences warm summers and mild winters, which means hiking can be enjoyed year-round. However, be sure to note that summer days can get very hot, so morning hikes are probably best this time of year.
10. Visit the Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning, a certified Farmers Market called Downtown’s Morning Market pops up in Downtown Redlands. This is a great time to stroll through the area and check out not only fresh fruits and veggies, but local artists, homemade bread, tea, honey, and more.
The market operates on Saturday mornings along with the City’s Certified Farmers Market in the parking lot adjacent to Redlands Blvd. between 5th and 6th Streets. The market is open from 9 am to 1 pm during the spring, summer, and fall seasons and include approximately 40 vendors.
Final Thoughts: Visiting Historic Redlands
Redlands, California, is more than just a charming town—it’s a destination that invites you to slow down, explore, and savor life’s simple pleasures.
Whether you’re taking in the historic architecture, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying a delicious meal at one of its local eateries, Redlands offers a unique blend of experiences. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick day trip filled with culture, history, and nature, consider making Redlands your destination—you won’t be disappointed!
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