Pomona on a Budget: Arts, Nature, and History

Discover Pomona without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visiting Pomona, United States on a limited budget can be an affordable and enjoyable experience. With plenty of free or low-cost activities including hiking in the nearby Claremont hills, exploring the historical Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden and experiencing the city's thriving arts scene, it's easy to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. For budget-friendly accommodation options, consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb rental.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Explore Pomona's Art Scene

  • Check into comfortable yet budget-friendly Motel 6 Pomona
  • Visit the impressive collections at the Pomona College Museum of Art
  • Wander around the dA Center for the Arts, a community arts hub since 1984
  • Discover local and international artists at the Latino Art Museum
  • Unwind with a craft beer at Sanctum Brewing Co.
Day 2

Adventures in Nature

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at The Brick Market & Deli
  • Hike the gnarly Claremont Hills Wilderness Trail
  • Spend the day at the Pomona Fairplex, home to the LA County Fair and year-round events
  • Visit the scenic California Botanic Garden, formerly known as Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden
  • Indulge in Mexican street food at Tijuana's Tacos
Day 3

Historic Pomona

  • Begin the day with American-style diner breakfast at Jackie's Cafe
  • Take a self-guided walking tour of historic Downtown Pomona
  • Enter the vintage world of the Pomona Antique Row
  • Visit the Phillips Mansion, a stunning example of the Second Empire style
  • Experience the Pomona Fox Theater, a beautifully restored 1930s cinema and entertainment venue

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Pomona by plane is to fly into LA/Ontario International Airport and then take a taxi or shuttle to Pomona.

Car

Driving is also a convenient option, with Pomona accessible via the I-10 and I-60 freeways.

Train

While there is no direct train to Pomona, visitors can take Amtrak to LA Union Station and then transfer to Metrolink to Pomona Station.

Boat

As Pomona is inland, there are no direct boat routes available.

Bus

Taking the Greyhound bus is a cost-effective way to get to Pomona, with buses running regularly from Los Angeles and other surrounding cities.

More travel plans

Pomona Paradise: A 4-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Pomona, located in sunny California, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. With its numerous parks, museums, and attractions, there is always something fun for everyone. From exploring the scenic beauty of Bonelli Park to enjoying thrilling rides at the Fairplex amusement park, Pomona offers an unforgettable vacation experience for the whole family.

Pomona's Perfect 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

Pomona, despite being a small city in California, offers a wide variety of budget-friendly activities and attractions. Explore the scenic Pomona Valley on a hike or bike ride through Bonelli Regional Park, or take a self-guided tour of the city's vibrant street art scene. Enjoy a cheap yet delicious meal at one of the many local restaurants or food trucks, and end your day with a visit to the affordable and family-friendly Fairplex.

Pomona: A Perfect Weekend Getaway

Pomona offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks and entertainment options. Visitors can explore the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, a 86-acre botanical garden featuring California-native plants, or the iconic Pomona Fox Theater, which hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year. The downtown area is also home to numerous restaurants, shops and galleries, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Pomona on a Budget: A Fun Day Trip Guide

Visiting Pomona on a tight budget is definitely doable. There are plenty of budget-friendly activities to enjoy, such as visiting the scenic Fairplex Garden and exploring the various street murals throughout the city. For affordable accommodation, consider staying at the Motel 6 or the Lemon Tree Inn.