Including One Idea You Wouldn’t Think Of, But it’s Awesome!
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Spring break is just around the corner; warm weather is so exciting! If you’re looking for a destination that offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and entertainment, then Claremont, California should be on your list. This charming city is nestled near the borders of Los Angeles County and San Bernardino County and boasts an array of exciting activities sure to cater to everyone’s interests. From exploring scenic trails to indulging in mouth-watering cuisine and shopping at local boutiques, plenty can keep you occupied during your stay. So pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable week as we take you through some of the best things to do in Claremont over spring break!
These 8 spring break bucket list ideas are a great start to planning an unforgettable spring season.
Get a head start on your preparations now!
Spring Break Bucket List — Eight Amazing & Unique Ideas
Cycling in Claremont
Looking for one of the most healthy and environmentally responsible ways to spend your spring break? Why not hop on your bike and explore Claremont? This charming California town is perfect for cycling, with plenty of scenic routes. Plus, the weather is usually pretty ideal for biking over spring break.
Why is biking with the family unique, you ask? Well, if you live near a California Metrolink station, you can make your vacation entirely car-free! Tell the family to pack a backpack, grab your bikes and jump aboard the Metrolink. You won’t need a car in Claremont since it’s one of the most walkable towns in California—it’s super easy to get around. Plus, going car-free is eco-friendly and will help reduce your environmental impact. Here are some tips for cycling in Claremont:
– Plan your route in advance. There are lots of great resources online that can help you map out the perfect ride.
– Make sure you have all the proper equipment. A good bike, helmet and lights are essential for safe cycling.
– Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Stay alert and watch out for obstacles on the road. Don’t forget to bring a couple of bike locks!
– Follow all traffic laws. This will help keep you safe and ensure that other drivers on the road respect your rights as a cyclist.
You can enjoy cycling in Claremont this spring break with thoughtful planning and preparation!
Bucket List Dining in Claremont
If you’re a foodie or love trying new restaurants, then Claremont is the place for you. With its abundance of eateries and diverse culinary scene, this little slice of heaven has something for everyone’s taste buds. Claremont is home to various dining options, from casual to fine dining.
Plenty of coffee shops in Claremont keep you fueled throughout the day! A few of our favorites include Rev’d Up, Euro Café, Iron & Kin, The Last Drop Cafe and Some Crust Bakery. The latter has been a beloved institution in Claremont for over 100 years, crafting everything from hand-crafted baked goods to unique and creative treats. Of course, all of them will make you a cup of joe just as you love it.
Whether looking for a quick bite or something heartier, Claremont’s breakfast spots will please any appetite. Some offer all-day, grab-n-go breakfast and brunch items, while others specialize in the ultimate brunch menu. The Village Grille, The Claremont Village Eatery and Walter’s Lounge are all notable favorites. The Back Abbey just introduced a Breakfast Burrito to their brunch line-up, and we’ve just got to say, Yum!
Dine at one of Claremont’s many sandwich shops or delis for a quick lunch or dinner. There are also several pizzerias and fast food restaurants if you’re in a hurry. Of course, many restaurants offer take-out too.
If you’re looking for something more substantial, several family-friendly restaurants and upscale dining options exist, it just depends on what you’re craving. The cuisine is diverse, and many offer vegetarian options. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it in Claremont.
A must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, Claremont has some of the most unique dessert shops, many locally owned. You might be tempted to stop at two or three—or more—to try their confectionary delicacies. We suggest Crème Bakery, Chocolate Bash, Crepes de Paris and A Kline Chocolatier to start your week off bon-bon!
Bucket List Shopping in Claremont
Claremont is a great place to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs. This charming little village is home to a number of independent shops and boutiques, as well as several art galleries. You’re sure to find something special, whether a piece of jewelry or a one-of-a-kind painting. And if you need help finding something specific, ask one of the friendly shopkeepers–-they’re always happy to assist.
Eco-friendly travelers will appreciate that Claremont, California, is Southern California’s first Fair Trade Town. The designation means Claremont encourages its merchants to support small producers locally and worldwide that adhere to environmental standards to protect the planet, safe working conditions, fair prices and no forced child labor. The Claremont coalition works to increase understanding, availability, and use of Fair Trade products. Your support helps to reduce poverty, improve lives, and protect the planet. So shop til you drop!
Remember, if you need a break from shopping, stop and treat yourself to another sweet. (wink, wink) We’re not kidding when we say the dessert and sweets scene in Claremont is next level. You can even pair them together. Check out these mini pies from I Like Pie Bake Shop with some à la mode from Bert and Rocky’s Cream Co. Definitely add to your spring break bucket list!
Entertainment in Claremont
There are so many things to do in Claremont, California, over Spring Break and truly any time of year. Add these great ideas to your bucket list!
Claremont’s nightspots range from quiet wine bars and outdoor lounges with designer fire pits and whispering sycamores to authentic college hangouts hosting top-notch bands. Kids are welcome at most places or opt for a sitter. For those over 21, a Las Vegas-styled piano bar features live music. Local and well-known performers are part of the line-up at many restaurants and various sports bars. And for those who want to catch a show, Ophelia’s Jump offers a variety of performances throughout the year. Fun Fact: Did you know Claremont has its very own Speakeasy? Stop by The Whisper House late-night for one of their crafted cocktails before returning to your hotel.
Arts and Culture in Claremont
Claremont is home to several museums, including the Benton Museum of Art at Pomona College, the Petterson Museum of Intercultural Art, The Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology and the Claremont Lewis Museum of Art.
Visitors to Claremont will find multiple galleries, such as Studio C
laremont and Ruth Chandler Williamson Gallery, plus dozens of dazzling, world-class public art pieces. Find other galleries on the campuses of Harvey Mudd and Pitzer Colleges.
Art exhibitions are showcased throughout the Claremont Village during the First Saturday Art Walk, held on the first Saturday of the month from 6 to 9 p.m. The event is open and free to the public.
Local artwork and an eclectic array of books can be found at The Claremont Forum Bookshop & Gallery in the historic Packing House. Add the Claremont Farmer’s & Artisan’s Market to your itinerary too. It’s one of the coolest things to do on a Sunday morning, and there you’ll find seasonal produce, flowers, local artisan crafts and more.
A visit to Claremont is incomplete without stopping by the famous Folk Music Center Museum and Store, owned by the family of Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Ben Harper. In addition to the opportunity to play one of the magnificent musical instruments displayed on the wall, the Folk Music Center offers classes and workshops for budding musicians, a lineup of musical performances from local and international folk performers, and an Open Mic on the last Sunday of every month. A Bucket List item for sure!
Admission is free to many of these Claremont cultural favorites, making it an easy and affordable activity for the whole family.
Beer, Cider, Wine and Spirits Tasting in Claremont
Claremont is home to some incredible family-friendly, all-ages establishments. This means everyone is welcome to visit, so bring the kids, bring grandma, and you can even bring the family dog. Of course, only those 21 and older can partake in anything alcoholic, but the kiddos can drink craft sodas, sparkling or regular water.
Located in an industrial warehouse-type setting, we recommend two breweries to stop by and spend the day. Claremont Craft Ales is a chic and cozy pub-like tasting room where you can sample craft beer flights, play Bingo, do yoga, rock out to a local DJ, order from a food truck outside, or just chill with a delicious craft beer. Just across the road is Ironbark Ciderworks, a light, airy, fun, inclusive space with a tropical mod feel. Plan a tasting of their health-conscious, gluten-free, preservative-free, vegan hard cider with no added sugar or sulfites. Check out their calendars to see which food trucks stop by and when. It’s a great way to spend the afternoon.
Wine aficionados should plan a stop at Packing House Wines, a winner of multiple Wine Spectator ‘Best of’ Awards and a regionally recognized source for boutique wines. Their menu pairs perfectly with their wines, but of course. A wine-tasting and charcuterie plate will get your evening off to a good start. Discover amazing wines at Magnolia Bistro & Wine Bar, an unpretentious, buzzing little restaurant with limited and specialized wine from local and worldwide vineyards.
The ultra-European vomFASS is a retailer and tasting room. They feature Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Balsamic Vinegars, Spices, Gourmet Foods, Craft Spirits & more. With a unique “try before you buy” concept, you can experience their high-quality artisanal products. They also offer fun events such as Whiskey 101 and Cocktail Class. In addition to gourmet burgers and craft beers, Eureka! Claremont offers a wide variety of small-batch whiskeys.
Experience the Great Outdoors in Claremont
If you love spending time outdoors, you’ll want to go hiking in the hills in and around Claremont. The spring break weather is the perfect time to enjoy the sunshine, and you can explore miles of trails that wind through stunning scenery. You might even spot some wildlife along the way if you’re lucky.
Here are a few things to remember when hiking:
- First, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
- Second, it’s always a good idea to let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.
- Finally, be aware of your surroundings and take caution if you see any signs of danger.
There are plenty of great hiking trails in and around Claremont, California. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Marshall Canyon Trail: This scenic trail is a 7.8-mile trail offering fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a moderate hike with an elevation gain of about 600 feet.
- Mt. Baldy Loop Trail: This 11-mile trail takes you to the highest point of Mt. Baldy, a little over 10,000 feet. It’s a challenging hike, with an elevation gain of over 4,000 feet, but the views from the summit are well worth it.
- Thompson Creek trail: You can get a feel for the nature of this 4.4-mile trail near Claremont, California, by taking this out-and-back trail. It usually takes about an hour and a half to complete. This area is trendy for birding, hiking, and mountain biking, so you may run into other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
- Claremont Hills Wilderness Park: This 5-mile winding trail loop for hiking and mountain biking provides moderate elevation & dramatic views. You’ll find miles of hiking trails here and great views of Los Angeles and the surrounding area from many higher trails.
Another way to enjoy the outdoors is by visiting the impressive 86 acres of the California Botanic Garden, housing 2,000 taxa of the state’s flora. It’s the most extensive botanic garden dedicated to California’s native plants. They also offer horticulture and community education programs with the aim of getting Californians to incorporate native plants into their gardens. Plan to spend your morning here for a more leisurely hike and a little time in nature. They also offer family-friendly bird walks, yoga in the garden, a poetry festival and drawing classes. Cultural programs provide new ways to experience the garden and nature with your family.
Getting some exercise and taking in the most beautiful views is easy when you’re in Claremont and definitely a bucket list idea the whole family will enjoy.
Edutourism in Claremont
If you’re traveling with family over Spring Break, being a tourist and learning something about the local activities, arts, treasures, culture, cuisine and flavors that surround you allows you to blend with the locals. Edutourism is the concept of sampling a place and trying a variety of what it offers while learning about its history, biodiversity, ecosystem and multicultural values. In short, this bucket list idea is to learn while experiencing the best spring break vacation ever.
Make your trip to Claremont more meaningful using an acronym we’ve created – DECCU: Discovering, Exploring, Connecting, Communicating and Understanding. You’ll strengthen your family bond while teaching children to learn about the world, shaping their “future selves.” Claremont is a magical place to begin with, and this will be an exciting way to learn while traveling… en famille.
Plan Your Spring Break Bucket List
With so much to do in Claremont, California, over Spring Break, you will surely have an unforgettable time! From outdoor adventures like hiking and biking trails to visiting art galleries and museums. No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone here. So make sure to plan ahead and take advantage of all the incredible bucket list things to do in Claremont over Spring Break – you and your family will remember this vacation for years!
