Pomona, CA
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Pomona is a city in eastern Los Angeles County, known for its historic role as the "Queen of the Citrus Belt" and as the home of Cal Poly Pomona and the LA County Fair.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Pomona, California
- Administrative Role: Pomona is a general law city incorporated on January 6, 1888. It is not a county seat but is the 7th largest city by population in Los Angeles County .
- Location: The city is located in the eastern part of Los Angeles County, California, USA. It lies in the Pomona Valley, a region historically known as a major center for citrus cultivation .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Queen of the Citrus Belt: In the 1920s, Pomona was famously known as the "Queen of the Citrus Belt" due to its prolific citrus industry, which brought the city one of the highest per-capita income levels in the United States at the time .
- Spadra: Before Pomona's incorporation, the area west of the current city center was a separate town called Spadra, founded in 1866. It was a significant stagecoach stop and railroad terminus until it was eventually annexed by Pomona in 1964 .
Founding Date and Age
- Settlement: The area was first settled by Ricardo Véjar and Ygnacio Palomares in the 1830s when California was part of Mexico .
- Naming: The name "Pomona" was chosen in 1875 by horticulturist Solomon Gates, who won a contest to name the town after the Roman goddess of fruitful abundance, even before any fruit trees were planted .
- Incorporation: Pomona was officially incorporated as a city on January 6, 1888 . As of 2026, the city is 138 years old.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Coordinates: 34°3′39″N 117°45′21″W (34.06083, -117.75583)
- Location Context: Pomona is situated approximately 30 miles (48 km) east of downtown Los Angeles in the Pomona Valley. It is bordered by the San Jose Hills to the west and the San Gabriel Mountains to the north . The city sits on an alluvial plain formed by the Santa Ana River .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 850 feet (259 meters) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Educational Hub: Pomona is a significant educational center, hosting the main campus of California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) and the Western University of Health Sciences .
- Event and Exhibition Center: The city is home to the Fairplex, which hosts the annual Los Angeles County Fair, one of the largest county fairs in the United States, as well as numerous other exhibitions and the NHRA Auto Club Raceway .
- Arts and Culture: The downtown area has been revitalized with the Pomona Art Colony, featuring numerous art galleries, studios, and restaurants, contributing to a growing arts and culture scene .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the city's population was 151,713 .
- Demographic Profile: Pomona is a diverse city with a large Latino population. In 2005, Norma Torres became the first woman of Guatemalan heritage elected as a mayor outside of Guatemala .
City's "Business Card" (Brief)
Pomona is a vibrant city with deep agricultural roots, famously known as the "Queen of the Citrus Belt." Today, it thrives as a dynamic educational and cultural hub, home to Cal Poly Pomona, the legendary LA County Fair, and a burgeoning Art Colony in its historic downtown.
Geography
Mountains and Mountain Ranges
- San Gabriel Mountains: This mountain range forms the northern boundary of the Pomona Valley. It is a prominent natural feature, visible from much of the city, and offers recreational opportunities like hiking and skiing .
- Mount San Antonio (Mount Baldy): Locally known as Mount Baldy, this peak is the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains. Its watershed is the source of San Antonio Creek, which flows through the Pomona Valley .
Water Bodies (Rivers, Creeks)
- San Antonio Creek: This creek flows directly through the center of the Pomona Valley, acting as a natural dividing line between parts of Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. It originates in the San Gabriel Mountains and is a tributary of the Santa Ana River .
- Santa Ana River: The primary river of the region, it receives water from San Antonio Creek and other tributaries, shaping the alluvial valley floor where Pomona is located .
Unique Landscapes
- Pomona Valley: The city is situated within this geographic region, an alluvial valley separated from the San Gabriel Valley by the San Jose Hills and from the San Bernardino Valley by the Jurupa Hills and Cajon Pass .
- San Jose Hills: This range of hills forms the western boundary of the city and the valley, creating a physical divide between Pomona and the rest of the San Gabriel Valley .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
- Climate Type: Pomona has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen classification Csa) .
- General Description: The city is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, damp winters with abundant sunshine year-round. Due to its inland valley location, it experiences hotter summers than coastal areas of Los Angeles .
Average Monthly Temperatures
- Hottest Month: August is typically the hottest month, with an average daily maximum of 92.4°F (33.6°C) .
- Coldest Month: December is the coldest month, with an average daily minimum of 43.1°F (6.2°C) and an average daily maximum of 66.9°F (19.4°C) .
- Extreme Recordings: The all-time record high temperature in Pomona is 117°F (47°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: The majority of Pomona's annual precipitation occurs during the winter months. The average annual precipitation on the valley floor ranges from 12 to 16 inches, with hilly areas receiving slightly more .
- Dry Season: Summers (June through September) are characterized by very little rainfall .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Pleasant and warm with blooming landscapes. This is an excellent time to visit before the intense summer heat arrives.
- Summer (June-August): Characterized by hot and dry weather. Daytime highs frequently exceed 90°F (32°C), with occasional triple-digit heat waves. This season is ideal for enjoying the pools and indoor, air-conditioned attractions .
- Fall (September-November): Temperatures begin to cool down. This season can bring the Santa Ana winds, which are warm and dry offshore winds .
- Winter (December-February): The coolest and wettest time of year. Days are generally mild, but nights can be cold. Light snowfall is possible in the hills above 1,500 feet, but it is extremely rare on the valley floor .
Specific Weather Phenomena
- Santa Ana Winds: In the fall, Pomona can experience strong Santa Ana winds, which are hot, dry offshore winds that originate from the Cajon Pass and can significantly increase fire danger in the region .
Landmarks
Ygnacio Palomares Adobe
- Overview: Also known as the Adobe de Palomares, this is a historic 19th-century adobe house built in the 1850s by Ygnacio Palomares, one of the original settlers of the Pomona Valley. It is a testament to the area's Mexican and early American periods .
- Location: It is located in Pomona and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places .
- Features: The adobe is one of the oldest remaining structures in the Pomona Valley and serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the rancho-era life.
La Casa Primera de Rancho San Jose
- Overview: Believed to be the first home built on the Rancho San Jose land grant, this adobe structure was the residence of Ygnacio Palomares. It is another key historic site representing the region's early settlers .
- Location: Situated in Pomona, this adobe is also a Registered Historic Place in Los Angeles County .
- Significance: It represents the initial European settlement and development of the area that would later become Pomona.
Phillips Mansion
- Overview: Built in 1875 by Louis Phillips, a Prussian immigrant who became one of the richest men in Los Angeles County at the time. Phillips purchased a vast tract of land from the Palomares family .
- Location: The mansion was built in the now-vanished town of Spadra, west of Pomona's current downtown, and is one of the only remnants of that settlement .
- Architecture: It is a grand, two-story brick mansion, a symbol of the wealth generated in the area during the late 19th century.
American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA)
- Overview: AMOCA is an art museum dedicated to the ceramic arts. It is one of the few museums in the United States with a comprehensive focus on ceramic history and contemporary ceramic art .
- Location: It is located in downtown Pomona, contributing to the city's cultural and arts district .
- Collections: The museum houses a significant permanent collection and hosts rotating exhibitions, showcasing both historical and modern ceramic works.
Pomona Art Colony
- Overview: The Art Colony is a vibrant downtown district that has revitalized the historic core of the city. It is a concentrated area of art galleries, studios, creative spaces, restaurants, and lofts .
- Features: The area is known for its monthly art walks, which draw large crowds and feature local artists, live music, and food vendors. The SOHO gallery is a notable part of this community .
Fairplex (Pomona Fairplex)
- Overview: The Fairplex is a massive event complex best known as the permanent home of the Los Angeles County Fair, which has been held annually since 1922 (with some interruptions) .
- Other Events: Beyond the county fair, it hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, including car races at the Auto Club Raceway (a major NHRA drag racing venue), swap meets, concerts, and trade shows .
Transport
Major Airports in the Region
- Ontario International Airport (ONT): This is the closest major commercial airport to Pomona, located just east in the city of Ontario. It is a convenient option for travelers, offering numerous domestic and some international flights .
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): As a major international gateway, LAX is located approximately 40 miles to the west and serves as a primary option for long-haul and international flights, though it requires a longer drive .
Major Highways and Freeways
Pomona is a significant transportation hub, strategically located at the convergence of several major freeways :
- Interstate 10 (San Bernardino Freeway): Runs east-west, connecting Pomona to Los Angeles and San Bernardino.
- State Route 60 (Pomona Freeway): Another major east-west route connecting to Riverside and Los Angeles, running through the southern part of the city.
- State Route 57 (Orange Freeway): A north-south freeway that connects Pomona to Orange County and is the western boundary of the city.
- State Route 71 (Chino Valley Freeway): Connects Pomona to Corona and points south.
Rail Service
- Metrolink: Pomona is served by two lines of Southern California's commuter rail system :
- San Bernardino Line: Provides service to Los Angeles Union Station and San Bernardino.
- Riverside Line: Provides service to Los Angeles Union Station and Riverside.
- Amtrak: The long-distance Amtrak train, the Sunset Limited (Los Angeles to New Orleans) and the Texas Eagle (Los Angeles to Chicago), makes stops at the Pomona (North) Metrolink station .
Public Transit Systems
- Foothill Transit: Provides extensive bus service throughout Pomona and the San Gabriel Valley, connecting to other nearby cities and the Metro system .
- Metro (LACMTA): The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority operates bus routes in Pomona, linking it to the greater Los Angeles area .
- Omnitrans: This transit agency provides bus service from Pomona into communities in San Bernardino County, such as Montclair and Chino .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Pomona Arts Colony Eateries
Pomona doesn't have a single, globally famous dish, but its culinary identity is shaped by its diverse community and the vibrant Pomona Arts Colony. The downtown area, particularly along Second Street, is a hub for innovative and eclectic dining. Here, you'll find a mix of trendy gastropubs, authentic Mexican taquerias, and eclectic cafes that reflect the city's creative spirit . This area is a destination for food lovers looking to experience the local, modern dining scene.
The Iconic Magic Lamp Inn
A true Pomona institution, the Magic Lamp Inn is a local landmark famous for its old-school charm and classic American fare . This restaurant, with its distinctive architecture and rustic interior, has been a favorite for decades. It is best known for its prime rib, which draws customers from across the region. Dining here is not just a meal but a step back in time, offering a taste of mid-century Southern California restaurant culture.
Local Favorite: The Brick Market and Deli
For a taste of everyday Pomona life, The Brick Market and Deli is a must-visit. Described as a local institution, this market and deli is famous for its wide range of homemade baked goods and hearty sandwiches . It's the perfect spot to grab a bite for lunch, showcasing the city's love for quality, community-focused eateries that have stood the test of time.
The Rookery Alehouse and Grill
Representing Pomona's modern culinary evolution, The Rookery Alehouse and Grill is a popular gastropub in the Arts Colony . Known for its upscale yet comfortable atmosphere, it features an extensive beer list and an eclectic, globally-inspired menu. This spot highlights the city's growing trend of creative, chef-driven dining experiences that cater to a diverse palate.
Flying Burrito
A unique fusion concept, The Flying Burrito is a local spot where Mexican and American flavors come together in a creative way, making it a popular choice for brunch . Its menu exemplifies the cross-cultural culinary landscape of Pomona, offering familiar dishes with a unique twist that appeals to the city's broad and diverse population.
Museums
Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum
Located on the grounds of the famous Fairplex, the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum is a premier destination for automobile enthusiasts . The museum is dedicated to the history of hot rods, drag racing, and the sport of motorsports. Its collection features a stunning array of historic race cars, from the earliest hot rods to modern Top Fuel dragsters. It showcases the evolution of speed and engineering, honoring the pioneers and legends of the NHRA. The museum is a key part of the Pomona Raceway complex, which itself is a historic drag racing venue .
dA Center for the Arts
In the heart of the Pomona Arts Colony, the dA Center for the Arts stands as a community-owned gallery and arts organization . It serves as a vital hub for local artists, providing exhibition space and a venue for cultural events. The center focuses on showcasing the work of emerging and established artists from the Inland Empire and Greater Los Angeles area, reflecting the diverse and dynamic creative spirit of the community. It's a cornerstone of Pomona's identity as an art-friendly city.
Museum of History and Art
The Pomona Museum of History and Art is a key cultural institution dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich history of the Pomona Valley . Housed in a historic building, the museum's collection includes artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the area from its earliest inhabitants, the Tongva people, through the Spanish and Mexican periods, to its development as a citrus empire and modern industrial city . It offers a deep dive into the local heritage, making it an essential stop for history buffs.
Phillips Mansion
A historical landmark, the Phillips Mansion is a remnant of Pomona's early days . Built in 1875 by Louis Phillips, once known as the richest man in Los Angeles County, this opulent Victorian-era home offers a glimpse into the life of a 19th-century pioneer and entrepreneur. Located in what was once the town of Spadra, the mansion stands as a testament to the region's development before Pomona's official incorporation and is a fascinating site for those interested in local history and architecture .
Sport and Sports Legends
In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip (Fairplex)
Located at the Fairplex, the In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip is one of the most legendary and historic drag racing facilities in the world . It is the site of the prestigious NHRA Winternationals, the traditional season-opening event for the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, held annually in February. The track has hosted countless legends of the sport and is considered the "drag racing capital of the world" by many enthusiasts. Its long, storied history and continued status as a major event venue make it a cornerstone of motorsports in Southern California.
NHRA Finals
Alongside the Winternationals, the NHRA Finals at the Pomona Dragstrip is the other major annual event that bookends the NHRA season. Traditionally held in November, this is the final, championship-deciding race of the year. The combination of the Winternationals and the Finals makes Pomona a mecca for drag racing fans, drawing competitors and spectators from across the globe to the Fairplex .
Cal Poly Pomona Broncos
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) , a major part of the city, fields its own athletic teams, known as the Broncos . They compete in the NCAA Division II, primarily within the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). The university's sports programs, including basketball, soccer, and baseball, are a source of local pride and community spirit. The Bronco Student Center is a hub of activity, and the teams' games provide a classic American college sports experience .
Famous Athletes Connection
While Pomona itself may not be the birthplace of many globally famous athletes, its university, Cal Poly Pomona, has produced several notable competitors. The university's strong programs, particularly in track and field and volleyball, have seen athletes advance to professional careers and even the Olympics. The university's athletic facilities contribute to the city's role in developing regional sports talent.
Universities and Academic Institutions
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona)
The most prominent educational institution in the city is California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) . Founded in 1938 and officially becoming part of the Cal State system in the 1950s, it is a public polytechnic university with over 23,000 students . Cal Poly Pomona is nationally recognized for its "learn by doing" philosophy, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experience in fields like engineering, architecture, business, and agriculture. Its College of Engineering is consistently ranked among the top in the United States, and its Collins College of Hospitality Management is also world-renowned . The university's main campus lies partially within Pomona's city limits, contributing significantly to the city's economy, culture, and demographic makeup .
Western University of Health Sciences
Another major educational pillar is the Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU) . Founded in 1977, this private graduate university specializes in health sciences and has become a significant part of downtown Pomona. Its campus has grown to include the eastern end of the historic Pomona Mall, integrating modern educational facilities with the city's architectural heritage . WesternU offers degrees in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry, podiatry, veterinary medicine, and nursing, making it a crucial institution for training healthcare professionals and a key partner with local medical centers .
Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center
The primary medical facility in the city is the Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center (PVHMC) . This full-service, non-profit hospital is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the region. It serves as a major healthcare provider for the Pomona Valley and surrounding communities. The medical center is known for its wide range of services, including a level II trauma center, a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular institute, and a highly regarded maternity and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). It is a cornerstone of the city's infrastructure and a major employer in the region .
WesternU Health
As an extension of the Western University of Health Sciences, WesternU Health provides patient care through its network of clinics . These clinics offer a range of services, including dental care, optometry, physical therapy, and podiatry, often with a focus on integrative and team-based care. Located on or near the university's campus, these facilities provide essential healthcare services to the community while serving as clinical training grounds for WesternU students, continuing the city's tradition of blending education and community service .
Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare
Located just south of Pomona in the neighboring city of Pomona, but serving as a major regional resource, is Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare. While not within the city limits, its proximity makes it a key part of the healthcare landscape for Pomona residents. It is a nationally recognized provider of specialized medical and rehabilitation services, including spinal cord injury, brain injury, and stroke recovery programs.