Complete Guide to Redlands

Redlands' identity is deeply rooted in the late 19th-century citrus boom, which attracted wealthy settlers from the East Coast. This era left behind a legacy of architectural landmarks, most notably Kimberly Crest House and Gardens, a French chateau-style Victorian mansion. The Smiley brothers, Albert and Alfred, were pivotal in the city's development, establishing the A.K. Smiley Public Library, an ornate Moorish-style structure that remains a centerpiece of the downtown area. Preservation is a local priority, evidenced by the numerous designated historic districts and the Lincoln Memorial Shrine, which houses an extensive collection of Abraham Lincoln and Civil War memorabilia. This dedication to history creates an atmosphere where the past is integrated into modern daily life, with many businesses operating out of restored brick buildings and century-old residences serving as offices or boutique shops.

The city is geographically and culturally divided into several distinct areas. South Redlands is the most prestigious residential sector, characterized by tree-lined streets, historic estates, and the hills leading toward Prospect Park. This area contains many of the city's most famous Victorian and Craftsman homes. Downtown Redlands, centered on State Street, acts as the commercial and social heart of the city, featuring brick-paved sidewalks and locally owned restaurants. North Redlands offers a mix of residential housing and newer commercial developments, including the Citrus Plaza and Mountain Grove shopping centers. Further east, the Crafton area provides a more rural feel with closer proximity to the San Bernardino National Forest. Each district is connected by a common aesthetic of mature landscaping and a commitment to maintaining the city's 'Emerald City' reputation through extensive urban forestry.

The Redlands housing market is diverse but generally carries a premium compared to surrounding Inland Empire cities. Real estate ranges from modest mid-century bungalows in North Redlands to multi-million dollar historic estates in the southern hills. The lifestyle is family-oriented and academically influenced by the University of Redlands, which provides employment and cultural events. Residents often participate in community-wide traditions, such as the Redlands Bicycle Classic and the Christmas Tree Lighting in Ed Hales Park. The city maintains a 'small-town' feel despite its growth, largely due to zoning that prevents high-rise development and encourages pedestrian-friendly spaces downtown. Outdoor living is a significant component of the local lifestyle, with many homes featuring large lots that once housed orange groves, and a community emphasis on maintaining public parks and trails.

Redlands is home to several unique cultural institutions that serve the entire Inland Empire. The Redlands Bowl, an outdoor amphitheater built in 1930, hosts the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival, which has offered free admission to performances since 1924. This makes it the oldest continuously running summer music festival in the country with no admission charge. For outdoor enthusiasts, Prospect Park offers 44 acres of botanical beauty and views of the San Bernardino Valley, while Sylvan Park, located near the University, is a popular spot for community picnics and youth sports. The San Bernardino County Museum, located within city limits, provides exhibits on regional history and natural sciences. These sites are not merely tourist attractions but are central to the social fabric of the city, hosting weekly events that draw residents together across generations.

The culinary scene in Redlands is concentrated in the downtown area, where State Street offers a variety of independent eateries ranging from fine dining at The Tartan of Redlands to casual fare at local favorites like Olive Avenue Market. The city has also become a hub for the regional craft beer movement, anchored by Hangar 24 Craft Brewing, which started near the Redlands Municipal Airport. Retail in the historic core focuses on boutiques, antique shops, and bookstores, while the northern edge of the city hosts large-scale retail hubs like Citrus Plaza, providing access to major national brands. The local economy is supported by a mix of education, healthcare (with Esri and Loma Linda University Health nearby), and a growing logistics sector on the city's outskirts. This economic diversity provides a stable foundation for the community's high standard of living.

Strategically located along the Interstate 10 corridor, Redlands serves as a gateway between the Greater Los Angeles area and the mountain resorts. Recent infrastructure improvements have significantly enhanced regional connectivity, most notably the introduction of the Arrow rail service. This nine-mile commuter rail line connects the University of Redlands and downtown Redlands to the San Bernardino Transit Center, allowing for Metrolink transfers to Los Angeles and Orange County. Within the city, the Omnitrans bus system provides local transit, though the downtown and university areas are highly walkable and bike-friendly. For air travel, the Redlands Municipal Airport serves general aviation, while Ontario International Airport is approximately 25 miles to the west. These transportation links make Redlands an attractive location for professionals who work in neighboring cities but prefer the residential character of a historic community.