Cooley Ranch - Colton, CA

The area that has become known as Cooley Ranch was originally settled in the early 1800s by Spanish settlers who used the land for ranches. In 1875, the Southern California railway made its way into the area and brought with it new residents and a host of new job opportunities.

Be sure to brush up on your regional history at the Colton Area Museum or the San Bernardino History and Railway Museum.

The city of Colton hosts multiple events and festivals annually that bring the community together and foster an interest in the preservation of the area’s culture. One of the biggest events is the City of Colton Birthday Festival, celebrated with a carnival, fireworks, vendors and live music.

Stroll along East Washington Street and take in the aromas of freshly prepared world and regional dishes. You can find cuisines from Asia, Mexico, and the Middle East, all in one area. Begin at Shoga Sushi & Teriyaki, then try Graziano's Pizza. Enjoy the casual-but-delicious George's Burger's, and be sure to add Gul-Naz Cuisine of Pakistan to your list of must-try restaurants. Be sure to taste the flavorful nihari dish, which includes center-cut beef cooked in a creamy sauce garnished with fresh ginger, green chilies, and cilantro. Try the special Pakistani-style, multi-layered, whole-wheat paratha bread baked to a golden crisp. Order up the chicken handi dish, which features premium chunks of chicken marinated in a tomato-based sauce with herbs and spices.

Head to Maria’s Cafe for a casual lunch made from fresh ingredients. Maria’s serves up a collection of hearty Mexican dishes that can satisfy any appetite. Dig in to the chile Colorado burrito smothered in refried beans, cheese, and hot sauce. Order a combo plate of two of your favorite dishes such as the beef chimichanga and chile relleno, and enjoy the novel homemade cabbage salsa served with its dishes.

Because of Cooley Ranch's residential nature, it only features a few sports and dive bars. If you’re looking for a good time, make your way to Liam’s Irish Pub. Be sure to drop by on the weekends for live music from up-and-coming artists on Liam’s stage. Grab a pint, and get ready to sing on karaoke nights. Chow down on some jalapeño poppers or thick-cut, seasoned fries.

With Cooley Ranch's convenient location 6 miles southwest of San Bernardino, off Interstate-215, it should take about 10 minutes to reach San Bernardino from Cooley Ranch. You'll find public parking available on the street in most areas.

A few dedicated bicycle lanes on main streets such as East Washington Street and East Cooley Drive make it possible for cyclists to get around town. Bike trails also follow along the banks of Warm Creek. Due to the cluster of restaurants and shops in one area, Cooley Ranch is easily accessible on foot.

The Omnitrans public transit authority provides a few public bus routes to Cooley Ranch that connect to surrounding areas. Call Ace Taxi Cab Company for a quick ride, or call up Uber.

Located on the shores of Lake Evans, Fairmount Park stand out as one of Cooley Ranch’s most well-kept secrets. Head to the lake and cast out your line, or take a dip. Grill up some food on the BBQ and relax in the picnic area before exploring the park’s extensive trail system. Let the kids play on the playground or feed the ducks down by the lake.

Put those sunny days to good use and head to Reid Park for some outdoor amusement. Get your game on when you play at one of Reid Parks’ basketball courts, baseball diamonds, football fields or tennis courts. Play some Frisbee in one of the open grassy areas, or just lie out a blanket and sprawl out with a good book.

Grab your dogs and head to nearby Loma Linda Dog Park for some exercise and frolicking in the sun. The park features both an area for small dogs and an area for big dogs, grassy areas for fetch, and doggy drinking fountains.

The average rental rate for a one-bedroom apartment in the Cooley Ranch area is about $802 a month, slightly lower than the average for San Bernardino.

Gas prices hover around 11 percent higher than the national average. A one-way ticket on an Omnitrans public bus costs $1.75, and a day pass is $5. A pint of beer at a local bar generally costs about $5. The overall cost of living in the San Gorgonio area ends up being slightly lower than the average for San Bernardino.

Grab whatever you need for around the house at Walmart. If you’re looking for high-end shops and boutiques, head to nearby Redlands for a collection of novel shops.

Update your wardrobe with some trendy pieces from Kith Boutique. Find those perfectly fitting pair of jeans or that boho-chic dress you've been looking for. Kith provides a selection of unique items at affordable prices.

Drop in to Devi's Boutique to browse a collection of interesting clothing items that you can’t find anywhere else. From vintage faux leather handbags to party dresses with wild prints, Devi's has a little something for everyone.

Local residents pick up groceries from stores such as Stater Bros. Market, Sombrero Market and Walmart Supercenter. If you’re in the mood for a more local selection, be sure to check out Downtown Farmers Market. Stock your pantry with organic honey, homemade hummus, baklava, and cage-free eggs. Pick up some fresh local produce such as cherry tomatoes, peaches, carrots, and blueberries. You can also find items such as handmade soaps and freshly cut flowers.