Welcome to Ontario

A city built on planning, ambition, and the constant motion of Southern California.

The Story of Ontario

Ontario was created with intention. In 1882, George and William Chaffey dreamed up the "Ontario Model Colony" — a planned community built around water channels, fertile land, and a vision for what inland California could become.

That planning spirit still shapes the city today. Ontario grew from agriculture to industry to logistics and aviation, eventually becoming one of the most important economic engines of the Inland Empire — all anchored by Ontario International Airport.

But beneath the airport and warehouses is a quieter Ontario: older neighborhoods, long-running shops, and generations of families who've watched the city stretch and evolve around them.

How Ontario Feels Today

Depending on where you stand, Ontario feels like:

• a commuter city

• an airport hub

• a shopping destination

• a suburb

• a historic grid of old homes

• a place where neighbors look out for each other

There's motion everywhere — planes overhead, trucks on freeways, shoppers at Ontario Mills — yet life at the neighborhood level feels grounded and simple.

Everyday Ontario Moments

• Early flights leaving ONT as the sky is still dark.

• Families walking to neighborhood schools.

• Sunlight hitting the palm-lined stretch of Euclid Avenue.

• Long lines at local panaderías on weekend mornings.

• Teenagers spending Friday nights at Ontario Mills.

Ontario is both everyday and extraordinary — depending on which part of it you're in.

Neighborhoods

Downtown Ontario

Historic shops, civic buildings, Euclid's green median, and a sense of old California.

Ontario Ranch

One of the region's fastest-growing communities — new homes, new streets, new families.

Creekside & South Ontario

Quiet, suburban, family-centered neighborhoods.

Euclid Avenue District

A long, leafy boulevard that feels almost timeless.

Landmarks & Traditions

Ontario Mills

A weekend magnet for residents across the region.

Toyota Arena

Concerts, sports, and big events.

Euclid Avenue

Historic homes, giant trees, a peaceful walking route.

Planes of Fame (nearby)

A nod to the region's aviation roots.

Share Your Ontario Memory

Your memory might be: a flight you'll never forget, a first job at the mall, a long walk on Euclid, a night at Toyota Arena, a quiet childhood on a cul-de-sac. Whatever it is — it's part of the story.

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