San Bernardino, or San Berdoo as it’s known to its residents, is part of the California “Inland Empire” area and is situated on the floor of the San Bernardino Valley. It is located approximately 60 miles east of Los Angeles, close enough to enjoy all that the big city has to offer, but also a bustling, thriving city in its own right. Those who live in San Bernardino can enjoy beautiful views of the San Bernardino Mountains and the San Bernardino National Forest in the North, as well as the natural beauty of the many creeks running from the foothills in the mountains to feed the Santa Ana River. It’s also a very diverse city, full of friendly people and much to see and do. Even better, it is a city with a smaller, but vibrant LGBTQ community, where all can feel welcome and at home.
A Look at the History of San Bernardino
Like many cities in California, San Bernardino was occupied first by indigenous tribes, and later, by the Spanish, who established several missions in the area. Subsequently, as pioneers began to move west, it became a prime settlement area for many Mormons, who officially incorporated the city in 1854. Shortly thereafter, the Gold Rush and other events drew many more settlers to the area, and it continued to grow, eventually becoming the diverse city full of opportunity that it is today. For so many reasons, San Bernardino would make a wonderful place to call home!
A Few Fun Facts About San Bernardino
Read more fun facts about San Bernardino here.
San Bernardino’s LGBTQ Community
San Bernardino is a city that loves and supports its LGBTQ community with a variety of resources, including:
PFLAG Riverside is the San Bernardino area’s local chapter of the national PFLAG organization, which is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country. PFLAG is well-known for its mission of supporting LGBTQ people, friends, family, and allies across the country in a wide variety of ways. With 500 chapters and more than 200,000 members in the United States, PFLAG plays a critical role in providing advocacy, support, and resources to the LGBTQ community.
What's the Weather Like in San Bernardino?
You can’t beat the weather in San Bernardino. The area receives plenty of sunshine, mild breezes, and fairly pleasant temperatures year-round. Riverside usually receives 13 inches of rain on average per year and no snow. Summers can be quite hot with the temperatures reaching an average of 95° in July, and somewhat cold in the winter, with lows in January dropping to around 42°. Generally, however, all times of year are pleasant enough to enjoy all of the outdoor beauty that the San Bernardino area has to offer.
Can’t-Miss Events in San Bernardino
Riverside Pride located only a short drive away from Fontana is one of the most popular annual LGBTQ pride celebrations in the area, and one you won’t want to miss. Join with old friends and meet new ones as you celebrate all that the LGBTQ community adds to the Inland Empire area with parades, parties, family-friendly activities, and more.
The Route 66 Rendezvous is a unique, multi-day event that draws thousands of visitors to San Bernardino each year. A celebration of the famed Route 66, this classic car show is full of not only amazing classic cars, but plenty of food, music, and fun as well. Don’t miss it!
The Best Neighborhoods in San Bernardino
Unlike some larger cities, San Bernardino doesn’t have one specific “gayborhood,” or area where most of the LGBTQ population lives. Because much of the city is very LGBT-friendly, there’s no gay neighborhood per se. Instead, many gays and lesbians live throughout the area. Finding the home and neighborhood that is right for you will largely be a matter of budget and personal preference, and as a result, it can be very helpful and important to find a San Bernardino LGBTQ realtor who knows and loves the city, and who can point you toward homes that might be a good fit. The median list price of homes currently for sale in San Bernardino is around $430,000.
Arts and Entertainment
The California Theatre of the Performing Arts
The California Theatre of the Performing Arts often referred to simply as the California Theatre, is located in the historic downtown area of San Bernardino, where it has been providing amazing performances to entertain visitors for nearly a century. The theatre was originally part of the famed Fox Theatre chain and still has its original Wurlitzer-style pipe organ.
The Glen Helen Amphitheater is one of the largest outdoor music venues in the United States. This 65,000 capacity amphitheater is the perfect spot to enjoy an excellent outdoor performance and a beautiful San Bernardino day at the same time. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy a show – or several – for yourself!
Parks and Recreation
San Bernardino National Forest
The San Bernardino National Forest is over 800,000 acres of nationally protected forest in the San Bernardino area. It’s the perfect spot for hiking, biking, watching wildlife, exploring, or simply relaxing on a beautiful San Bernardino day.
The Santa Ana River Trail is a multi-use trail that runs along the Santa Ana River and stretches nearly 30 miles. It's the perfect place to hike, bike, run, or simply stroll and enjoy some exercise on a nice day.
San Bernardino Nightlife
340 is known as one of the largest LGBTQ entertainment complexes in the Inland Empire, and the newer 340 East in San Bernardino is quite a popular place. With strong drinks, a lively dance floor, and friendly crowds, it’s a great place to stop on a night out.
The Menagerie prides itself on being known as one of the hottest gay bars in the Inland Empire, and if you want a night out of dancing, fun, and a festive atmosphere, you won’t be disappointed. The Menagerie is well-known for its excellent DJs, fantastic drag shows, theme nights, karaoke, and more.
Contact a San Bernardino Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to San Bernardino, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in San Bernardino, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a San Bernardino gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
