Ontario

Ontario is a commercial hub in San Bernardino County, California, spreading across land at 1004 feet (306 meters) elevation roughly 35 miles east of Los Angeles. Wide streets and commercial districts shape the cityscape, which is crossed by logistics centers and shopping areas.

Canadian engineer George Chaffey and his brothers founded a planned settlement in 1882, naming it after their home province of Ontario. Irrigation canals transformed dry land into fertile fields that produced citrus fruits and olives.

The city name recalls Canada, where the founders came from, and orange groves alongside old olive orchards still shape the rural legacy of the area. Residents visit wide streets and shopping centers, while weekly markets showcase regional produce.

The international airport eases arrival and connects the city to national destinations, while major freight centers operate between ports and inland areas. Wide streets make navigation straightforward, though weekends near shopping centers can be busier.

The Graber Olive House from 1894 still operates as the oldest olive packing company in the country and offers visitors a look at traditional processing methods. The grounds hold century-old olive trees that have been bearing fruit since the founding.

Location: San Bernardino County

Elevation above the sea: 306 m

Shares border with: Upland

Website: https://ontarioca.gov

GPS coordinates: 34.05278,-117.62778

Latest update: December 13, 2025 08:04