15 Best Things to Do in Yucaipa (CA)

Yucaipa is a city with a population of about 54,000 situated in San Bernardino County. The city is known for its year-round nice weather and its central location; it’s only 10 miles away from the major city of San Bernardino. Yucaipa is a suburb of that larger city.

In Yucaipa, there are many parks, restaurants, cafes, and shopping areas, including Yucaipa Crossings, Yucaipa Valley Center, Yucaipa Antique Mall, and Crown Village.

Several events and festivals take place in Yucaipa throughout the year, including the Yucaipa Music and Arts Festival and the California Apple Festival.

Below are 15 of the best things to do in and around Yucaipa, California.

1. Spend a Day Outdoors at Yucaipa Regional Park

Visitors of all ages can find plenty to do in Yucaipa Regional Park. This beautiful natural area is a popular escape from the city’s urban surroundings.

There are three lakes in this park and each one is suitable for fishing. The sandy beach area at one of the lakes features two water slides. Pedal boats are available for rent.

There’s also a playground, picnic areas with grills, horseshoe pits, and disc golf facilities. Hiking and biking are popular activities in this park, while nature photographers will be inspired by the pretty scenery.

If you wish to stay at the park overnight, there are campsites available.

2. Check Out Local Art at the Redlands Art Association

The main purpose of the Redlands Art Association is to promote local art and inspire the viewing public to get in touch with their creativity.

Since the mid-1960s, this gallery in downtown Redlands, only a short drive away from Yucaipa, has been showcasing works by local artists. You can purchase artworks at the on-site sales gallery.

Throughout the year, the association hosts a variety of events, including lectures, art classes, and workshops.

3. Sit Down to a Delicious Meal at the Hickory Ranch Steakhouse & Bar

Since 1998, The Hickory Ranch Steakhouse & Bar has been serving high-quality food in a casual, lively environment. This family-run eatery serves a wide variety of delicious dishes and everything is made fresh daily.

Appetizers, homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, seafood dishes, ribs, steak, and pasta dishes, are some of the items available on the menu.

A bar is also on-site where you can relax and enjoy a specialty cocktail, beer or wine while watching sporting events or enjoying live music. Appetizers are also served at the bar.

4. Visit the Historical Glass Museum

The Historical Glass Museum, located in an old Victorian house in Redlands, collects and preserves glass art. The museum showcases the biggest collection of American glass art in the region.

There are pieces by artists from all over including the local area. Tours of the property are offered.

5. Catch a Live Show at The Redlands Footlighters

The Redlands Footlighters has been hosting outstanding performances since the mid-1940s. It was established by a group of women who had a dream of providing the community with a theatre arts venue.

The theatre is relatively small so you get an intimate experience. Each season, the venue hosts a wide variety of shows, including comedy acts, dramas, musicals, and other community-related performances.

6. Learn About Local History at The Yucaipa Valley Historical Society

Yucaipa Valley Historical Society, Mousley Museum

The Yucaipa Valley Historical Society is committed to preserving the history of Yucaipa and its nearby communities. They have two historic properties that serve as museums.

The Mousley Museum features a variety of exhibits that showcase artefacts, including photos and documents, related to the early Native Americans and the period leading up to when the town was founded.

The Old Fire Station Museum has a variety of artefacts on display representing the history of the station and the town.

7. Sample Local Wine at the State Street Winery

Situated in downtown Redlands, the State Street Winery is a family-run operation that handcrafts a variety of wines.

The wines produced here are made from high-quality grapes from around the globe. A selection of red, white, and fruit wines can be sampled in the laid-back tasting room.

8. Enjoy Fun for the Whole Family at Splash Kingdom Waterpark

When the weather heats up, the best place to be in the Yucaipa area is at Splash Kingdom Waterpark in nearby Redlands.

This water park offers a range of water attractions and land-based amusements for all ages situated across three separate areas.

The trampoline park features a selection of trampolines, while the waterpark has swimming pools, waterslides, and thrilling rides. Safety is very important at this park and that’s why there are more than 200 certified lifeguards on site.

A sports lounge is also situated on-site and there are several areas around the park where you can relax in the shade.

9. Play a Round of Golf at the Yucaipa Valley Golf Club

Situated in a scenic area at the base of the San Gorgonio Mountain Range, the Yucaipa Valley Golf Club is an 18-hole, par-72 championship course suitable for all levels.

This challenging course features a driving range and two putting greens so you can practice before you play. Lessons are also available.

The on-site restaurant serves a wide variety of beverages and traditional American dishes, including grilled items.

10. Visit The Lincoln Memorial Shrine

Originally built in 1932, the Lincoln Memorial Shrine in Redlands has grown considerably over the years. Today, it’s a sizable complex honouring the life and times of Abraham Lincoln.

As you explore the exhibits, you’ll see a range of artefacts related to the former president’s life, including art, documents, and a lock of his hair. You’ll also learn about his role in the American Civil War. Guided tours are available.

11. Explore Living History at Asistencia

Once known as Estancia Ranch, this site in nearby Redlands is now called Asistencia and is a California Historical Landmark.

The Asistencia is a 1930s replica of the old Estancia ranch which was established in the early 19th century.

Inside the museum are exhibits showcasing artefacts related to the site, historic room recreations and a chapel. Outside, you’ll see pretty gardens and a beautifully-maintained courtyard.

12. Taste Local Craft Beer at the Brewcaipa Brewing Company

Brewcaipa Brewing Company is the place to be in Yucaipa if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, along with cold, tasty brews and entertainment.

In the tasting room, you’ll be able to sample an array of craft beers representing a range of flavours from malty to floral.

Haz-I.E. IPA, The Brewcal IPA, Brewcaipa Salted-Lime Blonde, and Brewcaipa Roundabout Red are some of the brews on-tap.

A patio is available and there’s live music on certain nights. Various events take place at the brewery from time to time, such as trivia nights, yoga and barbecues. Food vendors are also on-site.

13. Get a History Lesson at the San Bernardino County Museum

Since the early 1950’s, the San Bernardino County Museum has been displaying items of historical significance to the San Bernardino area, including old pottery and tools.

Some of the exhibits include the Hall of History, the Hall of Earth Sciences, the Hall of Biodiversity and Sculpted by Time: Our Mountains, Faults, Lakes and Caves.

Also on-site is a live animal discovery centre and several cacti gardens. The museum hosts various events throughout the year, including educational programs and workshops.

14. Admire Beautiful Architecture at the Kimberly Crest House and Gardens

The Kimberly Crest House and Gardens is a great place to visit if you are a lover of beautiful architecture and stunning gardens.

This property in nearby Redlands features an elegant Victorian mansion that was constructed in 1897 and was once the home of Mrs Cornelia A. Hill. Today, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The grounds surrounding this mansion feature several Italian-style gardens with statues and ponds. The property, including the interior of the home, is open for tours.

15. Wander Around Caroline Park

Caroline Park in nearby Redlands is a beautiful nature area spanning 17 acres of pristine green space.

In this park, you’ll find a botanical garden with many native plants and a walking trail with wildflowers and chances to spot local fauna. A large grassy area is perfect for having an afternoon picnic.

As you wander the park, you’ll also be able to enjoy stunning mountain views.