The Most Charming College Town In Southern California Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More
By Natasha Kayes|Published September 14, 2023
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Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
We have quite a few college towns, cities, and communities here in Southern California, some large and some small, each offering a unique atmosphere and attraction. With seven college campuses, a walkable downtown full of local businesses, cool architecture, an arts scene, and more, the charming college town of Claremont, CA, is in a league of its own.
Though technically -- geographically -- a suburb of Los Angeles, Claremont is truly a quintessential college town - almost like something out of a Hallmark movie. It is a hidden gem worth visiting by more than just college applicants.
From its walkable downtown to its quaint residential neighborhoods, you will find tree-lined streets and historic architecture that just ooze character. The city offers free parking as well as Metrolink transportation, so you can wander at will.
Claremont Village is full of locally-owned boutiques and vintage shops, public art, galleries, coffee houses, and cool finds for foodies. I love repurposed old buildings like the historic Claremont Packing House -- an old citrus packing facility now full of restaurants and shops to explore.
Want to enjoy some fine dining? The chef at Tutti Mangia Italian ChophouseTutti consistently earns recognition as the “best chef in the Inland Empire.”
Claremont has is a lively destination for arts and culture. Visitors head to Claremont for a variety of arts, music, and outdoor events throughout the year, from art walks and live music to theater productions to flower shows. There always seems to be something happening in town.
Claremont has a blossoming wine and beer scene, with some fun nightlife spots. Whether you want to enjoy cocktails under the stars by one of the fire pits at the Lounge and Bar at Hotel Casa 425 (also a fantastic choice if you are planning a weekend stay!), sip wine on a cozy sofa at Packing House Wines, or enjoy a Vegas-worthy performance at PianoPiano, the dueling piano lounge bar, there is literally something for everyone when the sun goes down.
This charming town is also popular with nature lovers. Nearby Mount Baldy offers some of the best hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in Southern California. Locals and visitors alike enjoy exploring the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park, horseback riding in nearby canyons, fantastic golf courses, walking tours, and the spectacular California Botanic Garden.
There is so much to see and do in this picturesque college town. If you are looking for a spot for your next weekend getaway, we think Claremont is a great choice. Have you visited Claremont, CA? We would love to hear what you think of this sweet college town.
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