A visitor's guide to the best things to do near Pomona College, from exploring the vibrant arts scene and hiking scenic trails to discovering the charming shops & restaurants of Claremont Village.

So you’re in or around Claremont, California, maybe visiting a friend at Pomona College, maybe you're a student yourself, or perhaps you're just exploring this little gem of a city. Whatever your reason, you're in for a treat. Claremont, and the area surrounding Pomona College, is one of those places that has a little something for everyone. It's got that perfect blend of small-town charm & big-city access, with a vibrant arts scene, stunning natural beauty, & a downtown area that's just begging to be explored. Honestly, it's a pretty cool place to be.

I've spent a good amount of time wandering around this part of Southern California, & I've got to say, I'm a huge fan. It's not just about the college, though that's a big part of it. It's about the whole vibe of the place. The tree-lined streets, the historic architecture, the sense of community – it all comes together to create a really unique atmosphere.

But here's the thing: it can be a little overwhelming to figure out what to do, especially if you're not a local. That's why I've put together this guide. Think of me as your in-the-know friend who's going to give you the inside scoop on all the best things to do near Pomona College. We're talking everything from world-class art museums & challenging hiking trails to quirky shops & delicious eats.

So grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, & let's dive into all the awesome things you can get up to in and around Claremont. Trust me, you're going to love it here.

One of the first things you'll notice about Claremont is that it's a town that really values the arts. With seven renowned colleges in the area, it's no surprise that there's a thriving cultural scene. Whether you're an art aficionado, a history buff, or just someone who appreciates a good performance, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained.

You don't even have to leave the Pomona College campus to experience some incredible art. The Benton Museum of Art at Pomona College is a must-visit. It's a beautiful museum with a collection of over 18,000 objects, including Italian Renaissance paintings, works on paper by Francisco Goya, & a fantastic selection of 20th-century Southern California art. What's really cool is that the museum is free & open to the public, so you can pop in whenever you need a dose of culture. They have regular gallery talks & events, so it's always worth checking their schedule to see what's going on. And a heads-up for those planning a visit in the late summer of 2025: they'll be opening new exhibitions then.

While you're on campus, be sure to check out some of the public art installations. The Prometheus mural inside Frary Dining Hall is a sight to behold, but you'll need to request a visit in advance. And for a truly unique experience, don't miss James Turrell's Skyspace, "Dividing the Light." It's an architectural installation with a lighting program that happens at sunrise & sunset, & it's absolutely magical.

Beyond Pomona's campus, Claremont has a surprisingly diverse range of museums. The Claremont Lewis Museum of Art, housed in the historic Claremont Depot, is a great place to see work by local artists. For something a little different, head to the Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology, the only nationally accredited museum located on a high school campus. It's a fascinating place, especially if you're interested in fossils & natural history.

If you're into ceramics, you're in for a real treat. The American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA) in Pomona is a fantastic museum dedicated to the art of ceramics. They have a stunning collection & host a variety of exhibitions & workshops.

Claremont is also home to a number of art galleries, many of which are located in the Claremont Village. The Ruth Chandler Williamson Gallery at Scripps College is another great one to check out, as are the galleries at Harvey Mudd & Pitzer Colleges. And for a truly local experience, don't miss the First Saturday Art Walk in the Claremont Village. On the first Saturday of every month, galleries & shops open their doors for an evening of art, music, & community.

If you're a theater lover, you'll want to catch a performance at the Midsummer Theater Festival, presented by Ophelia's Jump Productions at the Sontag Greek Theatre at Pomona College. It's an outdoor theater, so you can pack a picnic (and some wine!) and enjoy a show under the stars.

And for a truly unique cultural experience, check out the Claremont Forum Bookshop & Gallery. Not only is it a great place to find a new book & see some local art, but it also runs the Prison Library Project, a non-profit that sends books to inmates across the country. It's a cool place with a great mission.

One of the best things about Claremont is its proximity to nature. Nestled at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, it's a paradise for hikers, bikers, & anyone who loves to be outside. Whether you're looking for a challenging mountain adventure or a leisurely stroll through a beautiful park, you'll find it here.

If hiking is your thing, you're in luck. The Claremont Hills Wilderness Park is a local favorite, with a variety of trails for all fitness levels. The five-mile Claremont Hills Loop is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the city & the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can even see all the way to downtown LA & Catalina Island. The park is also dog-friendly (on a leash), so you can bring your furry friend along for the adventure.

For a more challenging hike, head to Potato Mountain. It's a nine-mile out-and-back trail that's popular with hikers & mountain bikers. The views from the top are definitely worth the effort. If you're looking for something a little more mellow, the Thompson Creek Trail is a great option. It's a gentle, paved trail that's perfect for a casual stroll or a bike ride.

If you're willing to drive a little further, the San Gabriel Mountains offer a wealth of hiking opportunities. The Icehouse Canyon trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you through a beautiful wooded canyon. And for a family-friendly option, the trail to San Antonio Falls is a short & easy hike with a big payoff.

Claremont is also home to a number of beautiful parks. Memorial Park is a great place to spend an afternoon, with playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, & even a swimming pool. Wheeler Park is another lovely spot, perfect for a relaxing walk or a game of tennis. And Blaisdell Park is a great place to unwind, with wide-open green spaces & a playground.

If you're into skateboarding, you'll want to check out the Guthrie Skate Park at Joāt Park. And for those who prefer to explore on two wheels, Claremont is a silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community, with plenty of bike lanes & quiet, tree-lined streets to explore.

But the outdoor adventures don't stop there. If you're a golfer, there are a number of public & private golf courses in the area. And for a truly unique experience, you can go horseback riding at the Fred Palmer Equestrian Center or the Sycamore Canyon Equestrian Center. There are even opportunities for rock climbing at Stoddard Peak & in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains.

And for a more relaxing outdoor experience, consider trying some outdoor yoga. There are a number of classes held in local parks, & even some at the California Botanic Garden, the largest botanical garden dedicated to California native plants. It's a great way to connect with nature & find your inner peace.

No trip to Claremont is complete without a visit to the Claremont Village. This historic downtown area is the heart & soul of the city, a charming, European-style village with over 150 shops, restaurants, & galleries. It's the kind of place you can spend a whole day wandering around, discovering hidden gems & soaking up the local atmosphere.

If you love to shop, you'll be in heaven in the Claremont Village. There's a great mix of independent boutiques & well-known brands, so you're sure to find something you love. For clothing, check out The Grove Clothing, Chico's, or the vintage finds at DeeLux & Replay Vintage. If you're looking for unique gifts & specialty items, you'll find plenty of options, from the handcrafted goods at The Local Collective Market to the quirky toys at Boon Companion Toys. And for the music lover, a stop at Rhino Records is a must.

All that shopping is bound to work up an appetite, & luckily, the Claremont Village is packed with delicious places to eat. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, you'll find it here. For a quick & tasty meal, grab a slice at Blaze Pizza or a poke bowl at Poke Dot. For a more leisurely meal, try the Belgian-inspired cuisine at The Back Abbey or the Creole flavors at The Quarter.

If you have a sweet tooth, you're in for a real treat. I Like Pie Bake Shop is a local institution, famous for its individual-sized pies in a variety of creative flavors. Some Crust Bakery & Cafe is another must-visit, with a delicious selection of pastries, cakes, & breads. And for a scoop of homemade ice cream, head to Bert & Rocky's Cream Co.

Now, I know what you're thinking: a charming, popular downtown area probably means a nightmare for parking. And you're not wrong, it can get a little crowded, especially on weekends. There is a free parking structure in the Village, which is great, but it can fill up fast. Here's where a little insider knowledge comes in handy. If you're struggling to find a spot, check out an app like Prked. It's a pretty cool service that connects you with homeowners who are renting out their driveways & garages for parking. It can be a lifesaver when you're in a pinch, & it's often more affordable & convenient than a traditional parking garage.

While there's plenty to keep you busy in Claremont, one of the great things about its location is that it's a perfect home base for exploring the rest of Southern California. Whether you're craving a day at the beach, a trip to the mountains, or the excitement of a big city, it's all within reach.

If you're in the mood for some sun & sand, the beaches of Los Angeles & Orange County are just a drive away. Santa Monica & Venice Beach are iconic spots, perfect for people-watching, surfing, & soaking up the California sun. If you're looking for something a little more adventurous, you could even plan a longer trip to go camping in Yosemite National Park or skiing in Lake Tahoe.

For a taste of city life, downtown Los Angeles is just a Metrolink train ride away. You can explore world-class museums like The Getty or the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), catch a concert at the Hollywood Bowl, or explore the trendy shops & restaurants in the Arts District.

And you don't have to go far to find other cool towns to explore. The city of Pomona has its own unique charm, with a growing arts scene & some great places to eat. La Verne, San Dimas, & Upland are other nearby towns with their own downtown areas worth checking out.

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to all the amazing things to do near Pomona College. I hope this was helpful & that it inspires you to get out & explore this incredible corner of Southern California. Whether you're a student, a visitor, or a local, there's always something new to discover. Let me know what you think, & if you have any other favorite spots, I'd love to hear about them