West Redlands - Redlands, CA

Redlands, named for its rouge-toned soil, was originally home to the Cahuilla Indians. Since Redlands was incorporated in 1881, the western area has served as a planting space for orange groves. Though much of the city has changed since its incorporation in 1888, West Redlands has held onto its heritage as it continues to grow citrus.

For a walk through history, take a trip to the Asistencia, which dates back to the days of the San Gabriel Mission, to check out the museum, original architecture and gardens. Experience the local culture by watching a play at Redlands Footlighters Theatre and attending annual Redlands events like the Christmas Parade downtown.

West Redlands has a collection of fast food restaurants and old-fashioned eateries serving up everything from cheeseburgers with fried mushrooms to eggplant Parmesan. Explore the retail area along Redlands Boulevard to find a variety of casual diners that draw in the locals with cheap lunch specials and hearty home-style meals.

Join the steady stream of regulars at the Original Mona Lisa Restaurant, a super-casual Italian restaurant that cooks up picnic-ready pastas at rock-bottom prices. If you want to try one of the subs, indulge in the eggplant marinara sandwich. Also try the lasagna with thick meat sauce and fresh ricotta for a lunch that really fills you up. Feel free to order your meal at the drive-thru.

Head to Mr. Kebab to enjoy gourmet Mediterranean cuisine in a charming bistro setting. For a top-notch dining experience, don't hesitate to order the lunch buffet. It may be pricier than a sandwich, but with a spread of authentic dishes like fresh beef kebabs, hummus and pita bread, this all-you-can-eat meal is worth every penny. Don't forget to pick up some flaky baklava for a satisfying dessert.

When you crave American comfort foods, pull up a chair at Nick's Burgers. Try the grilled cheese for a nostalgic treat, or go SoCal with the avocado burger. Be sure to get fried zucchini along with some Sriracha ranch sauce to ensure this burger joint's place on your list of all-time favorites.

A few nightlife establishments offer drinks and live music in Redlands, but more options await in nearby San Bernardino. If you're looking for a watering hole in West Redlands, a few hidden gems stand out for a casual night with the neighbors. Taylor's Cocktail Lounge keeps locals coming every night for its strong drinks at affordable prices. Shoot some pool or get up to sing karaoke, and keep an eye out for the grill's famous pork rib and steak specials.

West Redlands' rural setting makes it a car-dominated area; Interstate 10 is easily accessed for a commute to San Bernardino. Enjoy plenty of free street parking, and use Uber or Redlands Taxi if you ever need a quick ride to the San Bernardino airport.

Hop on the Omnitrans bus at one of the stops along Redlands Boulevard or Barton Road for a ride into downtown or nearby cities like San Bernardino. Also take advantage of the Metrolink station in San Bernardino for fast travel to downtown Los Angeles or Orange County. Bikers can cruise to the downtown area along Barton Road in the bike lane, but this industrial area mostly caters to cars. Many areas of West Redlands do not have sidewalks, and most amenities lie a considerable distance from the residential areas.

Take in the sweet scent of fresh oranges as you walk or bike the Orange Blossom Trail, or visit one of West Redlands' public parks to kick back on a warm summer day. Heritage Park provides a large green space for a quiet picnic or a run with your dog.

Join your neighbors at Jennie Davis Park to relax under the shade trees or play a game of Frisbee on the grass. Also take advantage of the park's picnic tables and children's playground.

The cost of living in West Redlands remains above average for the greater San Bernardino area. If you're looking to rent one of the apartments near the south end of the district, expect to pay around $1,030 for your monthly rent.

Taking the bus to San Bernardino costs you roughly $1.75 for a one-way trip, and drivers pay around 11 percent above the national average for gas. When it comes to entertainment, locals pay about $5 for a beer at Taylor's and other local establishments.

In West Redlands, you find a spread of furniture and home improvement stores with a few sports shops and florists sprinkled in the mix. Explore shopping plazas like The Pavilion at Redlands near the interstate to find a trove of thrift shops and national clothing retailers. For a shopping experience that goes beyond the basics, head to the nearby downtown area for trendy boutiques and cute country gift shops.

Head to Redlands Thrift Store to get a gently used dress for those hot summer days, or browse unexpected thrift items like office appliances and patio furniture. Be sure to check out the silent auction and vendor area for even more bargain treasures.

Head to big-name markets like Stater Bros. for all your grocery staples, or pick up some Chinese herbs and spices at the Redlands Oriental Market. Don't forget to check out the Market Night downtown every Thursday.