Getting Around Fontana
Fontana is a sprawling Southern California city, and that sprawl shapes how visitors get around. Much of the city is spread out over several miles, so walking is rarely the best way to get from one part of town to another. That said, downtown Fontana is compact enough to explore on foot, and it's a good place to soak up some local flavor while you're out and about.
Rail Connections
Fontana is served by Metrolink, the regional commuter rail system, on the line running between downtown Los Angeles and San Bernardino. If you're arriving from Los Angeles or heading into the city for the day, the train is a straightforward option, with a stop at the Fontana railway station on Orange Way.
Buses
Local bus service in Fontana is provided by the Omnitrans system. The network is oriented toward connecting residents with nearby destinations, including shopping malls such as Ontario Mills and Victoria Gardens, and colleges in the area, among them Chaffey, Valley, and CSUSB. For a visitor without a car, the bus is the main way to reach these outlying spots.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
As in most Southern California cities, these options are generally available, but visitors should confirm locally.
Driving
Given how spread out Fontana is, a car is a practical way to get around. A stretch of the historic Route 66 runs through the city, which makes for an enjoyable drive in its own right.
Bicycling and Walking
Cyclists have a strong option in the Pacific Electric Trail, a paved path that follows the route of an old train line and is intended to eventually connect San Bernardino with Claremont. The trail is, for the most part, fairly well lit and is used by bicyclists, skaters, and pedestrians alike. Walking, by contrast, works best for exploring downtown rather than for covering the distances between the city's spread-out destinations.
Getting In from the Airport
Visitors should plan to check current options for reaching Fontana from the nearest major airport before traveling.