North Redlands Redlands, CA

Redlands was established in 1888 following the arrival of wealthy residents from the Midwestern and Eastern states. The city became known as a wealthy area with its rows of Victorian mansions, and its economy centered around its citrus groves. North Redlands has long been a residential area, with homes dating back to the late 1800s, and the opening of the University of Redlands in 1907 established its place as an intellectual community.

Explore North Redlands' cultural treasures like the Historical Glass Museum housed in a 1903 Victorian home with more than 6,000 glass art pieces. Don't miss a chance to meet the community during annual events like the Feast of Lights at the University of Redlands.

This district rests just a short bike ride from downtown Redlands' collection of trendy international eateries, but North Redlands has a few local gems of its own. Students and locals make a point of visiting the down-home grills and cafes for a casual lunch, a hearty breakfast, or a craft beer with cheap appetizers before watching the game. You may not find any fine dining on this side of town, but you can be sure the welcoming restaurant workers will greet you with a smile as you pull up a chair to enjoy some cheap eats.

Arthur's Restaurant stands out as the locals' go-to breakfast destination, so expect a packed room with neighbors who like to live life on the sunny side. Fill up with Arthur's omelet, or savor a plate of biscuits and gravy. Try the vanilla creamer with your coffee to make your morning just a little bit brighter.

At Johnny's Tacos & Sports, you can sip on beer from Hangar 24 while munching on free chips and salsa before ordering a platter of fresh pastor tacos. Try the meatball sub for a heartier meal, and be sure to stop by on Taco Tuesdays for cheap tacos. This family-friendly sports grill also has a row of arcade games to keep the kids entertained while you watch the game.

North Redlands has a pretty quiet nightlife scene with most of the city's bars, lounges and movie theaters in downtown, but you still find a few nightlife hot spots where locals go to unwind. Check out Hangar 24, a trendy brewery that draws a regular crowd with its craft beer selection. If you can't decide on a flavor, order a rack of 2-ounce samples. Be sure to try the polycot and orange wheat, and check back for live music.

Whether you're heading to San Bernardino by car or biking to downtown Redlands, enjoy an easy commute from North Redlands. Plenty of free street parking awaits throughout the neighborhoods, and you can hop on Interstate 10 from University or Orange. If you just need a quick ride to the San Bernardino airport, give Uber or Riverside Taxi a call.

The Omnitrans buses stop along major avenues like Lugonia for a trip to downtown Redlands or nearby cities like Riverside. Switch from bus to train at the Metrolink Station in San Bernardino for a fast commute to downtown Los Angeles, Orange County or the beach. Plans to extend the Metrolink into downtown Redlands are also in place. If you prefer biking to driving, enjoy several bike-friendly roads as well as bike trails on the university campus. The city hosts the Redlands Bicycle Classic each year, so bicycle enthusiasts have become a common sight along the city streets. If you're traveling on foot, enjoy plenty of amenities available throughout North Redlands.

Discover North Redlands' scattering of family-friendly public parks where neighbors come together to enjoy a quiet picnic on the grass. Sylvan Park by the university stands out as a community favorite with a gazebo, a spacious parking lot and a playground for the kids. Also stop by for a game of basketball or baseball, or walk your dog through the grassy woods. This park has a historic feel with its groves of old trees and a small stone bridge over a creek, creating a nostalgic environment that keeps families coming back day after day.

Although North Redlands maintains a lower cost of living than the upscale South Redlands, it still sits above average for the greater San Bernardino area. If you're looking for an apartment, expect to pay around $930 for a one-bedroom dwelling.

Taking the bus to downtown Redlands or nearby cities like San Bernardino costs around $1.75 for a one-way trip. Entertainment prices remain reasonable at $6 to $7 for pint of beer at Hangar 24, and gas prices generally hover 11 percent above the national average.

North Redlands locals head to the downtown area for a rich assortment of local shops from fashion boutiques and antique stores to skate shops and guitar retailers. North of the freeway, you find plenty of amenities and a few hidden gems, especially along Colton. Treasure hunters also find a nice selection of thrift shops and discount stores. For your most basics shopping needs, small plazas like University Plaza Shopping Center and North Redlands Shopping Center provide a convenient cluster of grocery stores, pharmacies and fast-food pit stops.

Channel your inner-cowboy spirit at West of Texas, one of Redlands' best-kept secrets with a spread of Western home decor, fashions and riding apparel. Browse rustic turquoise jewelry, pick up a painted cattle skull, or try on some chic riding boots. You can't come out of this shop without treating yourself to a new pair of ornamented flip flops or a gently used cowgirl belt.

Knitting enthusiasts come from all over the city to explore Hands On Knitting Center, and the staff love to help locals choose the perfect yarn for their next project. Enjoy some coffee and tea while browsing a rainbow of yarns, and ask about getting a free knitting lesson if you're new to the craft. Be sure to attend the Wednesday night social knit to meet the community.

For you weekly groceries, head to Redlands Ranch Market or Stater Bros. to pick up all your staples. Be sure to stop by for Market Night every Thursday in downtown Redlands to find fresh produce.