Grand Terrace, CA

The development of Grand Terrace began in 1896, when the area was known as East Riverside. The construction of the Gage Canal brought with it more accessible water for irrigation, turning the region into an agricultural community specializing in citrus groves. The Grand Terrace Chamber of Commerce organized in 1962, and the city was incorporated in 1978.

Grand Terrace lies just minutes from the Riverside International Auto Museum and a trove of other museums standing just north and south of town. Immerse yourself in the local community during annual events like the Grand Terrace Country Fair, which invites neighbors to socialize with a chili cook-off and baking contest. Don't forget to buy plants and arts and crafts from local vendors.

Grand Terrace locals enjoy a laid-back dining scene that draws on the town's heritage as a farming community, with country cafes and Mexican restaurants that add some Southern California flavor. You'll also find authentic cuisine from Mongolia, Thailand and other corners of the globe for a cultural dining experience. If you're looking for affordable lunch specials and high-quality local eats, take a stroll down Barton Road and take your pick.

Stop by Grand Terrace Grinders to savor fresh-made sandwiches stuffed with your favorite meats and veggies. If you've never been here before, try the SoCal sandwich or barbecue chicken for a meal that's sure to get you hooked. If you have a big appetite, go for the Beast, but make sure you can handle the 6-inch sub before trying the foot-long. When hunger really hits, take a stab at the beast challenge to eat the full 3-pound sandwich and make it into the restaurant's hall of fame.

Head to Rosie's to enjoy big portions of Mexican favorites at low prices. Rosie's serves up some of best burritos in greater San Bernardino. Try the veggie burrito for a fresh meal that satisfies, or come in the morning to sample the breakfast burrito.

For Asian cuisine, be sure to check out Mongolian BBQ. This little place has an a-la-carte menu, but go for the lunch buffet to get the most bang for your buck. Try the steaming pocket bread and fried wontons, and don't forget to sample the beef tossed with noodles and pineapple. Don't be fooled by the name — this place serves up plenty of vegetarian dishes made with fresh vegetables and tofu.

This family friendly suburb doesn't have many nightlife options, so most locals head to San Bernardino or Riverside to get their entertainment fix. For a local drink, join the regulars at JB's Lighthouse. Sip on a cheap beer while listening to live music or singing karaoke.

Whether traveling by car or bus, Barton Road to Interstate 215 makes for a fast commute to central San Bernardino or Riverside. While navigating Grand Terrace, enjoy low levels of traffic and free street parking all over town. If you need a quick ride, give Uber or Empire Taxi a call.

If you're commuting to Corona or the Los Angeles area, hop on a train at the Riverside Amtrak Station that sits a little over 5 miles south of town, on I-215. You can also catch a ride on an Omnitrans bus at one of the city's many bus stops. If you prefer to travel Grand Terrace by bike, cruise down the larger bike-friendly roads and quiet neighborhoods streets without worry. Automobiles stand as the primary mode of transportation for Grand Terrace residents, but many locals bike or walk to the supermarket on sunny days.

Grand Terrace caters to families with its rich selection of public parks, several of which have 24-hour video surveillance for extra peace of mind. Nature lovers have a blast hiking Blue Mountain for a challenging climb and dramatic views of the cities below. Parents take the little ones to Richard Rollins Community Park to climb on the assortment of playground structures. Come in the morning to jog on the paved track, or have a quiet lunch in the shaded picnic pavilions.

Head to Pico Park by the high school to shoot some hoops on the basketball courts or let your kids play on the tot lot. Locals also come here to walk their dogs on the lush grass.

Despite its convenient location and beautiful suburban setting, Grand Terrace maintains a cost of living that stands just a speck above the average for the San Bernardino metro area. Although most residents live in single-family homes, one-bedroom apartments generally rent for $816 per month.

Taking the bus to central San Bernardino costs $1.75 for a one-way trip, and you can get a day-pass for $5. Grand Terrace residents pay around 10 percent above the national average for gas, and grabbing a beer at JB's Lighthouse costs about $5.

Living in Grand Terrace places you just minutes from the malls, plazas, boutiques and high-end fashion retailers that charm shoppers in downtown San Bernardino and Riverside. For a shopping experience closer to home, check out the eclectic collection of local stores lining Barton Road. Do some bargain-hunting at the thrift stores and discount shops, grab your weekly groceries or pick up materials for your next quilting project.

Don't miss New to You, a local thrift shop with a touch of class that houses many hidden treasures. The aroma of scented candles and soft background music greet you as you walk in the door. Rummage through the racks and shelves to find antique figurines, barely used clothing, costume jewelry and vintage furniture for your home. The shop also carries a wide selection of jackets and dresses from the 1940s and '50s. Feel free to try on a few outfits in the dressing rooms.

Quilting enthusiasts always feel welcome at Bluebird Quilts, and find a rich collection of designer fabrics, seasonal patterns and quilting supplies inside. The knowledgeable staff have answers for every question, so don't be afraid to ask for ideas for your next pattern. If you're new to quilting, ask the staff about taking a beginner's class.

Stock up on bread and cereal at Stater Bros., or head to Smart Time Food Store for some snacks and craft beers. Also check out the local farmers market during Grand Terrace Market Night, held every Tuesday, for handmade crafts and fresh produce.