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Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Pomona, California, USA [Updated-2026]

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November 5, 2025

Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Pomona, California, USA [Updated-2026]

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The Fairgrounds City’s Hidden Treasures: Your Ultimate Guide to Pomona, California

Nestled at the crossroads of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties, Pomona, California, is a city that often gets defined by a single, massive event: the L.A. County Fair. And while the Fair is a spectacle worthy of its reputation, to see only that is to miss the rich, textured, and surprisingly vibrant city that exists year-round. Pomona is a place of historic Art Deco gems, a fiercely independent arts scene, a legacy of hot rod culture, and a culinary landscape that reflects its diverse community.

This is a city of contrasts, where the roar of dragsters echoes near quiet university campuses, and where world-class art hides in repurposed warehouses. Forget the stereotypes; this is your guide to the very best things to do in Pomona, California.

The Pillars of Pomona: Iconic Events & Museums

Pomona’s identity is deeply tied to its large-scale venues that draw visitors from across Southern California.

1. The Fairplex & The L.A. County Fair

For over 100 years, the Fairplex has been the beating heart of Pomona’s cultural identity. The L.A. County Fair, held from late August through September, is one of the largest county fairs in the world.

The Experience: It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible. Imagine carnival rides, championship livestock, incredible fair food (from deep-fried everything to giant turkey legs), live music concerts, shopping pavilions, and spectacular fireworks. It’s a quintessential Southern California tradition.
Beyond the Fair: The Fairplex is a year-round destination. It hosts the NHRA Winternationals and Auto Club NHRA Finals at the iconic Auto Club Raceway, making Pomona the hallowed ground for drag racing fans. The complex also features the Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show, a massive monthly gathering for auto enthusiasts.

2. The Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum

Located within the Fairplex, this museum is a pilgrimage site for gearheads. It’s dedicated to preserving the history of drag racing and hot rodding, honoring the sport’s pioneers.

The Collection: You’ll find a stunning array of historic race cars, dragsters, hot rods, and motorcycles. The exhibits tell the story of how Southern California’s car culture evolved into a professional sport.
Don’t Miss: The “California Screamin'” exhibit, which showcases the origins of the hot rod movement.

Arts, Culture & A Creative Renaissance

Pomona has long been a haven for artists, drawn by its affordable space and independent spirit. This has given rise to a dynamic and accessible arts scene.

1. The Pomona Arts Colony

Designated as a historic district, the downtown Arts Colony is one of the largest of its kind in Southern California. Centered on 2nd and 3rd Streets between Garey Ave. and Thomas St., it’s a walkable neighborhood filled with creativity.

The Experience: You’ll find a dense concentration of art galleries, studios, and performance spaces. The vibe is gritty, authentic, and unpretentious.
Art Walk: On the 2nd Saturday of every month, the colony comes alive for the Pomona Art Walk. Galleries open their doors for new exhibitions, streets are filled with musicians and performers, and the community gathers for a celebration of local creativity.
The dA Center for the Arts: A cornerstone of the colony, this non-profit center offers exhibitions, classes, and community programs, championing artists from Pomona and beyond.

2. The Fox Theater Pomona

This stunning 1931 Art Deco movie palace is a historic landmark and a premier live music venue. After a meticulous restoration, it has reclaimed its glory, hosting an incredible lineup of national touring acts in rock, indie, hip-hop, and Latin music.

The Experience: Seeing a show here is a must. The interior, with its intricate detailing and majestic presence, provides a breathtaking backdrop for any performance.

3. The American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA)

This is a world-class museum dedicated solely to the ceramic arts, and it’s one of Pomona’s greatest cultural assets. Its exhibitions showcase the depth, history, and innovation of clay as a medium, from ancient pottery to cutting-edge contemporary sculpture.

Why It’s Unique: AMOCA is one of the few museums in the nation devoted exclusively to ceramics. It’s both educational and inspiring, appealing to art lovers and curious visitors alike.

Outdoor Escapes & Historic Charm

Amidst the urban landscape, Pomona offers beautiful green spaces and a legacy of historic architecture.

1. Ganesha Park & The Ygnacio Palomares Adobe

This 43-acre park is a recreational hub and a historical treasure.

The Park: Featuring a golf course, tennis courts, playgrounds, and a serene lake with paddle boats, it’s a perfect spot for a family picnic or a relaxing afternoon.
The Adobe: Tucked within the park is the Ygnacio Palomares Adobe, built in 1854. It’s one of the oldest standing structures in Los Angeles County and offers a tangible link to the region’s Rancho period. Guided tours provide a fascinating glimpse into California’s past.

2. Phillips Mansion

Another architectural gem, this Second Empire-style mansion was built in 1875. While currently undergoing preservation and only open for special tours, its striking, almost haunted appearance from the street is a powerful reminder of Pomona’s prosperous past as a citrus boomtown.

3. Kellogg Park at Cal Poly Pomona

While the university campus is in the neighboring city, its sprawling, beautifully landscaped grounds are a public resource. The park areas are great for walking, and the university is home to the Biodynamic Garden and the Horse Center, which sometimes hosts public events.

A Taste of Pomona: The Local Food & Drink Scene

Pomona’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering everything from legendary dive bars to authentic global cuisine.

1. The Classic Pomona Eateries

Tacos Jalisco: A local institution for decades, serving some of the most beloved and authentic tacos, burritos, and tortas in the Inland Valley. Be prepared for a line, but it moves fast and is absolutely worth it.
The Glass House Concert Hall & Restaurant: Not just a famed music venue, but also a great spot for a burger and a beer before a show.
Donahoo’s Golden Chicken: A no-frills, family-owned spot that has been serving perfectly roasted chicken and classic American sides since 1972. It’s the definition of a local gem.

2. A Global Culinary Tour

The influence of Pomona’s Latino community is profound and delicious. Beyond tacos, explore the area for incredible Oaxacan food, Salvadoran pupuserias, and Mexican seafood.

Asian Cuisine: You’ll also find fantastic Vietnamese pho and Chinese restaurants that cater to the local community.

3. The Craft Beer & Coffee Scene

Brick & Mortar Brews: A cool, industrial-chic brewery and tasting room located right in the Arts Colony, making it the perfect post-Art Walk stop.
Kroft: A modern food hall concept with a location in Pomona, offering gourmet comfort food like poutine and amazing sandwiches in a trendy, communal setting.
Klosy Coffee: A trendy, modern coffee shop that has become a community hub for students and creatives to work and connect.

Family Fun & Unique Attractions

1. Raging Waters Los Angeles

Located in the nearby Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park in San Dimas, this is Southern California’s largest water park. With dozens of water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, it’s the ultimate summer destination for families and thrill-seekers. It’s so closely associated with the area that many consider it a Pomona staple.

2. Pomona Valley Mining Co.

A unique restaurant perched on a hilltop with stunning panoramic views of the entire Pomona Valley. The food is classic American, but the real draw is the breathtaking vista, especially at sunset. It’s a perfect spot for a special occasion.

Seasonal & Special Events

L.A. County Fair (Late August – September): The city’s signature event.
Pomona Art Walk (Every 2nd Saturday): The monthly heartbeat of the Arts Colony.
NHRA Drag Races (February & November): Transform the city with the sound and smell of nitro-burning race cars.
Pomona Swap Meet (Monthly): A paradise for collectors and car lovers.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Getting There & Around: Pomona is a major transportation hub, easily accessed via the 10, 57, 60, and 71 freeways. The Pomona Metrolink Station provides train service to LA Union Station and San Bernardino. While having a car is helpful, the downtown core is very walkable.
Parking: Ample and affordable parking is available in downtown structures and lots, especially during non-event times.
Where to Stay: You’ll find a range of national hotel chains, particularly near the freeways and the Fairplex.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall offer the best weather. A visit during the Fair or an NHRA event is a unique experience, but be prepared for higher prices and crowds.

Your Pomona Adventure Awaits

Pomona, California, is a city that rewards the curious. It’s a place that doesn’t apologize for its grit but celebrates its authenticity. It’s where you can smell the nitro methane at the racetrack, feel the creative energy of a bustling art walk, and taste a perfect taco from a decades-old institution—all in one day.

So, come for the fair, stay for the art, and discover the unpretentious, creative, and deeply authentic soul of the Inland Valley.

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Explore More USA City

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Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Pomona, California, USA [Updated-2026]

The Fairgrounds City’s Hidden Treasures: Your Ultimate Guide to Pomona, California

The Pillars of Pomona: Iconic Events & Museums

1. The Fairplex & The L.A. County Fair

2. The Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum

Arts, Culture & A Creative Renaissance

1. The Pomona Arts Colony

2. The Fox Theater Pomona

3. The American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA)

Outdoor Escapes & Historic Charm

1. Ganesha Park & The Ygnacio Palomares Adobe

2. Phillips Mansion

3. Kellogg Park at Cal Poly Pomona

A Taste of Pomona: The Local Food & Drink Scene

1. The Classic Pomona Eateries

2. A Global Culinary Tour

3. The Craft Beer & Coffee Scene

Family Fun & Unique Attractions

1. Raging Waters Los Angeles

2. Pomona Valley Mining Co.

Seasonal & Special Events

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Your Pomona Adventure Awaits

Explore More USA City

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