Upland, CA
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Upland is a historic city at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, known as "The City of Gracious Living" for its tree-lined boulevards and residential charm.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Upland, California .
- Administrative Role: Upland is a general law city incorporated on May 15, 1906. It is not a county seat .
- Country and Region: The city is located in San Bernardino County, California, United States . It is part of the Inland Empire, a vast metropolitan area and logistics hub directly east of the Greater Los Angeles area .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Historical Names: Before its incorporation, the area was known as North Ontario or Magnolia, named after a local hotel .
- Nicknames: Upland is officially nicknamed "The City of Gracious Living" . This reflects its history as a planned community with wide, tree-lined avenues and a focus on residential quality of life.
Date of Foundation and Age
- Founding Date: Upland's origins trace back to 1882, when George Chaffey founded the Ontario Model Colony. The area that is now Upland was the northern part of this colony. The name "Upland" began being used for the area around 1902, and the city was officially incorporated on May 15, 1906 . The city celebrated its quasquicentennial (125 years since founding) in 2007.
- Age: Founded in 1882, Upland is over 140 years old.
Geographic Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 34°6′N 117°39′W / 34.100°N 117.650°W .
- Location: Upland is situated at the foot of the highest part of the San Gabriel Mountains, on the border with Los Angeles County .
- Elevation: The city center sits at an elevation of approximately 1,237 feet (377 m) above sea level .
- Settlement Type: Upland is a suburban city and a foothill community, serving as a gateway to the nearby mountains and national forests .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Upland is primarily a residential suburb within the Inland Empire . While it has local businesses, shops, and restaurants, its economy is largely tied to the broader region. Many residents commute to jobs in logistics, healthcare, and various industries throughout San Bernardino, Los Angeles, and Orange counties. The city also serves as a gateway for outdoor recreation in the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, Upland had a population of 79,040 .
- Size Class: Upland is a medium-sized city, fitting into the category of a large town or small city.
- Demographic Features: Upland is a diverse community characteristic of Southern California's Inland Empire. It has transitioned from a historic citrus-growing region to a primarily residential city with a mix of single-family homes and suburban development .
City's "Calling Card" (In Brief)
Upland is a historic foothill city known for its "gracious living," exemplified by the tree-lined grandeur of Euclid Avenue. It offers a quiet, residential charm with a historic downtown and acts as a peaceful gateway to the recreational opportunities of the San Gabriel Mountains .
Geography
Mountains and Mountain Ranges
- San Gabriel Mountains: The city is located directly at the foot of this mountain range, which dominates the northern horizon .
- Mount Baldy (Mount San Antonio): While not within the city limits, Mount Baldy is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains and a prominent landmark visible from Upland. It is a popular destination for hiking and skiing, accessible by taking Euclid or Mountain avenues north from the city .
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
- San Antonio Creek: This creek flows through the city and has been a vital water source since the area's founding, supporting its ecosystem and historic citrus groves . It was the source of water for George Chaffey's original irrigation plan for the Ontario colony .
- Cucamonga Creek: The Cucamonga Creek Trail follows the Cucamonga Wash, a usually dry riverbed that can flow with water in particularly wet years .
Deserts, Canyons, and Unique Landscapes
- Cucamonga Canyon and Wilderness: Located in the mountains directly north of Upland, this area offers rugged hiking trails and is part of the Angeles National Forest .
National and Natural Parks
- Angeles National Forest: Upland is a direct gateway to this vast national forest, which manages the San Gabriel Mountains and offers numerous recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, and fishing .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Upland features a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification Csa), characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters . It is known for having a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year .
Average Temperatures by Month
- Hottest Months: July and August are the warmest, with average daily maximum temperatures reaching 34°C (93°F) .
- Coldest Months: December, January, and February are the coolest, with average daily maximum temperatures around 18-19°C (64-66°F) and minimums dropping to about 6°C (43°F) .
- Overall Averages: The city enjoys a mild year-round average temperature of 18°C (64°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Annual Precipitation: Upland receives an average of 345-437 mm (13.6-17.2 inches) of rainfall per year .
- Wettest Month: December is the wettest month, with an average of 59 mm (2.3 inches) of precipitation .
- Driest Month: June is the driest month, with practically no rainfall (averaging only 5 mm) .
- Wet/Dry Season: The vast majority of precipitation falls during the winter months (November through March). Summers are very dry .
- Snowfall: Snow in the city itself is extremely rare, accounting for only about 1% of total annual precipitation. However, snowfall is common in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains during winter .
Sunny Days and UV Index
- Sunshine: Upland enjoys a high number of sunny days, with the sky being "almost completely cloudless" from May through October .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Upland for pleasant weather is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November).
- Spring (March-May): Warm and increasingly sunny, with very little rainfall by May. Temperatures are comfortable for exploring downtown and hiking .
- Summer (June-August): Very hot and dry, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 32°C (90°F). This time is better for enjoying the pool or escaping to the cooler mountain areas .
- Fall (September-November): Similar to spring, with warm days and cooling nights. It is an excellent time for outdoor activities before the winter rains begin .
- Winter (December-February): Mild and the wettest time of year. While many days are still sunny, it is the coolest period, ideal for activities that require cooler weather .
Landmarks
[Madonna of the Trail Statue]
- Full Name: Madonna of the Trail Statue .
- Sculptor and Year: This specific statue was dedicated in 1929. It is one of 12 identical statues placed along the National Old Trails Road (which later became part of Route 66) in each of the 12 states the road crossed. The statues were sculpted by August Leimbach and commissioned by the Daughters of the American Revolution .
- Dedication: The monument honors the spirit and sacrifices of America's pioneer women .
- Location: The statue is prominently located at the busy intersection of Euclid Avenue and Foothill Boulevard (Historic Route 66) .
- Artistic Features and Facts: The 10-foot tall, 17-ton statue is made of algonite stone (a mixture of granite and marble). The Upland statue bears an inscription that also commemorates explorer Jedediah Smith's 1826 crossing of the area .
[Euclid Avenue]
- Full Name: Euclid Avenue .
- Architect and Year: Laid out by Canadian-born founders George and William Chaffey starting in 1882, as the centerpiece of their Ontario Model Colony. The avenue was designed to be a grand boulevard, a primary design goal to create a beautiful and lasting enhancement to the community .
- Historical and Architectural Significance: Euclid Avenue is the historic and aesthetic heart of both Upland and its neighbor, Ontario. It was designed as a 200-foot-wide double drive with a central parkway. The Chaffeys' plan included an electric streetcar line running down the median, connecting the communities . The street was found eligible for the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 for its significance in community planning, landscape architecture, and transportation . Its rows of trees have brought the community national recognition as a landscape architectural achievement .
- Unique Elements: The wide, tree-lined median today features a dirt walking path popular with locals and visitors, offering a shady stroll with views of historic homes .
[Historic Downtown Upland]
- Full Name: Historic Downtown Upland .
- Location: Centered around the Metrolink station at 1st Avenue and 'A' Street, just off Euclid Avenue .
- Historical Significance: This area is the historic commercial core of the city. The arrival of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway in 1887 spurred its development, with the train depot at the foot of 2nd Avenue becoming the center of activity .
- Modern Use: Today, the area is a revived and charming district with specialty shops, local restaurants, and community events like the annual Lemon Festival in April and a summer evening market . The historic Upland Metrolink station still serves commuters today .
Transport
Main Airports in the City and Region
- LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT IATA): Located in the neighboring city of Ontario, just south of Upland, this is the primary commercial airport serving the region .
- Cable Airport (CCB IATA): Located within Upland's city limits, Cable Airport is a privately-owned, public-use airport. It is noted as being one of the largest privately-owned public-use airports in the United States .
Main Railway Stations
- Upland Station: This Metrolink commuter rail station is located in downtown Upland at 300 East A Street . It is a stop on the San Bernardino Line, one of the busiest lines, providing service to Los Angeles Union Station and San Bernardino .
System of Public Transport (Metro/Tram/Bus)
- Metrolink: As mentioned above, the Metrolink train provides a direct rail link to Los Angeles and other parts of the region .
- Omnitrans Buses: The city is served by Omnitrans, the local bus agency for the San Bernardino Valley. Key routes serving Upland include the 66 and 83, which connect to other parts of the Inland Empire and the Montclair Transit Center .
- Pacific Electric Bike Trail: This paved pedestrian and bike path follows the route of the historic Pacific Electric Railway ("Red Cars"), connecting Upland with Montclair and Rancho Cucamonga .
Main Highways and Freeways
- Interstate 10 (I-10): The San Bernardino Freeway, a major east-west artery, runs through the southern part of the city, connecting Los Angeles to San Bernardino and points east .
- State Route 210 (SR 210): The Foothill Freeway, another major east-west freeway, runs through the northern part of Upland .
- Historic Route 66: Known locally as Foothill Boulevard, this historic highway runs through the center of the city, offering an alternate, scenic route lined with businesses .
- State Route 83 (SR 83): Euclid Avenue itself is designated as State Route 83, the main north-south route through the city, leading up towards Mount Baldy .
Museums
Upland is home to a couple of notable museums that preserve and celebrate the region's rich cultural and historical heritage. These institutions offer a glimpse into the area's transformation from a pioneer settlement to the city it is today.
Cooper Regional History Museum
One of the most significant cultural institutions in Upland is the Cooper Regional History Museum . Housed in a beautifully restored Queen Anne-style Victorian home built in 1908, the museum itself is a piece of history . It is named after Paul and Dorothy Cooper, passionate local historians whose dedication to preserving the past led to the museum's establishment . The museum's mission is to unearth and share the rich history of Upland and the surrounding Inland Empire .
The museum's extensive collection offers a panoramic view of the area's past . Key exhibits and collections include:
- Agricultural Roots: A major focus is on the citrus industry that once defined the region. Visitors can explore tools, packing crate labels, and photographs that tell the story of the transformation of arid land into fertile citrus groves .
- Pioneer Life: The museum personalizes history through artifacts from early settlers, including furniture, kitchenware, and personal effects that offer a glimpse into their daily lives .
- The Making of a City: Exhibits trace Upland's growth from an agricultural community into a city, showcasing the development of local businesses, transportation, and civic institutions .
- Special Collections: The museum is a treasure trove for researchers, boasting a vast photographic archive, original documents, historical maps, and oral histories from long-time residents .
Beyond its exhibits, the Cooper Regional History Museum serves as a vibrant community hub . It hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as "Tacos and Rock ‘n’ Roll" nights with live music and community bike races like the Tour de Foothills . It also engages in fundraising events like "Hot Rods for Cancer," which supports the American Cancer Society .
- Location: 217 East "A" Street, Upland, CA 91786 .
Inland Empire Museum of Art
For those interested in visual arts, Upland is home to the Inland Empire Museum of Art. This museum is dedicated to showcasing a diverse array of artistic styles and mediums, with a mission to inspire creativity and enrich the community . It features regularly rotating exhibits that range from contemporary art to historical pieces, often blending works from local artists with those of renowned national and international names .
The museum is also deeply committed to arts education, offering workshops and educational programs for all ages. It frequently collaborates with local schools to provide students with engaging art experiences through guided tours and hands-on activities . Community engagement is a cornerstone of the museum's identity, as it hosts events like art fairs, family days, and artist talks to foster a strong connection between artists and the public .
Sport and Sports Legends
While Upland may not be home to major professional sports franchises, it has a strong presence in youth athletics and is closely linked to the broader sports culture of Southern California.
Youth and Community Sports
The city fosters a vibrant environment for youth sports. A prime example is the 66ers Baseball Club, a youth baseball organization based in Upland . Teams like their 12U division, featuring players from local high schools such as Upland and Bonita, compete at a high level, with some athletes already committed to play at universities like the University of Southern California (Southern Cal) . This highlights the city's role in developing young athletic talent.
Local Sports Facilities
Residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational facilities. The Upland Hills Country Club offers opportunities for golf in a scenic setting . For those who enjoy hiking and outdoor activities, the Upland Hills Nature Preserve provides trails and views, offering a different kind of athletic pursuit .
Sporting Events
The city also embraces sports through community events. The Tour de Foothills, an annual bike race, invites both novice and seasoned riders to cycle through the area, starting and ending in downtown Upland . The Cooper Regional History Museum often plays a part in such events, creating a festive atmosphere with a beer garden for participants .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Upland provides access to higher education primarily through its community college, serving as a foundational institution for local students and the region.
Citrus College
The most prominent higher education institution in Upland is Citrus College . As a community college, it serves as a key educational resource for the region, offering a wide range of associate degree programs and transfer pathways to four-year universities. Its main campus is located in Upland, making it a central part of the city's academic landscape . The college plays a vital role in the community by providing accessible higher education and workforce training to a diverse student body.
Primary and Secondary Education
Public education for Upland's younger residents is managed by the Upland Unified School District, which operates the city's public schools . In addition to public schools, families have options for private education, including Upland Christian School and Upland Hills School .
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
The search results do not provide specific information about major hospitals or specialized medical centers located directly within Upland's city limits. However, they do indicate that healthcare is a major industry for the city, suggesting that medical services form a significant part of the local economy .
Residents of Upland likely have access to a range of local clinics and medical offices. For more comprehensive or specialized hospital care, they would typically look to the larger medical centers and hospital systems in the surrounding region, such as those in nearby cities like Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, or Pomona. Given that Upland is part of the Greater Los Angeles area, a vast network of world-class medical facilities is accessible within a reasonable distance.