Ontario Airport (ONT) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Ontario International Airport quick facts

Ontario International Airport (ONT) serves as a vital gateway to Southern California's Inland Empire, providing a stress-free alternative to the busier Los Angeles International Airport. Spanning 1,741 acres in the City of Ontario, California, Ontario International Airport is located approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles and serves as a major cargo hub for UPS Airlines while offering nonstop commercial service to over two dozen destinations across the U.S., Mexico, and Taiwan. With two well-organized terminals, Ontario International Airport processes over 7 million passengers annually while maintaining its reputation for quick curb-to-gate times and hassle-free navigation .

Ontario International Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Ontario International Airport features a simple, linear layout with two primary passenger terminals: Terminal 2 and Terminal 4. Travelers often wonder what happened to Terminals 1 and 3—these numbers were reserved for a larger expansion plan that was never completed during the airport's time under Los Angeles World Airports management. When Ontario International Airport gained independent management in 2016, the airport retained the existing Terminal 2 and Terminal 4 designations, skipping the missing numbers entirely.

The two terminals sit parallel to one another along the main terminal loop road. Terminal 2 houses the majority of full-service and international carriers, while Terminal 4 is almost exclusively operated by Southwest Airlines, which is the highest-volume carrier at Ontario International Airport.

Terminal 2 and Terminal 4 are connected by a covered pedestrian walkway located landside (before security). Walking between the terminals takes approximately 5-7 minutes for most travelers. Moving walkways are not present in the inter-terminal connector, but the path is flat and well-signed. Once travelers pass through security screening, the two terminals are completely separate with no post-security connection. Travelers with connecting flights on different airlines should verify their departure terminal before entering security, as re-clearing TSA would be required if you enter the wrong terminal.

Navigating Ontario International Airport Terminals

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 encompasses approximately 265,000 square feet and features 12 gates numbered 201 through 212. This terminal handles the majority of legacy and international carriers serving Ontario International Airport. Airlines checking in at Terminal 2 include American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, JetBlue, Frontier Airlines, and Volaris. Terminal 2 features an Admirals Club lounge for American Airlines passengers and a Delta Sky Club for eligible travelers. Dining options include California Pizza Kitchen, Wolfgang Puck's WPizza, and several quick-service concepts. Shopping includes Hudson News, InMotion Entertainment, and duty-free shopping for international departures. The terminal received updated seating and charging stations throughout gate areas.

Terminal 4

Terminal 4 mirrors Terminal 2 in size at approximately 265,000 square feet and contains 14 gates numbered 401 through 414. This terminal is the dedicated home of Southwest Airlines, the dominant carrier at Ontario International Airport by passenger volume and flight frequency. Terminal 4 features a more streamlined layout optimized for Southwest's high-volume, quick-turn operations. Dining highlights include Carl's Jr., Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and several grab-and-go market concepts. Shopping is more limited compared to Terminal 2 but includes essential travel retail. The terminal features abundant charging stations and family-friendly seating areas near gates.

International Arrivals Facility

Separate from the main terminals, the International Arrivals Facility houses two arrival-only gates and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Federal Inspection Service station. International departures operate from standard gates in Terminal 2, but arriving international passengers are directed to this dedicated facility for customs processing. After clearing customs, passengers exit directly to the arrivals curb outside Terminal 2.

Transportation to and from Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport offers multiple transportation options connecting travelers to the Inland Empire, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Located directly off Interstate 10 at Archibald Avenue, the airport provides straightforward access with significantly less traffic congestion than other Southern California airports.

Getting to and from Ontario International Airport by Car

Driving to Ontario International Airport is remarkably convenient compared to Los Angeles-area alternatives. Interstate 10 and Interstate 15 provide direct freeway access, with typical drive times of 45-60 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, 30 minutes from Anaheim, and 20 minutes from Riverside. Morning rush hour on I-10 westbound can add 15-20 minutes to travel time. Airport entrances are well-marked from Archibald Avenue and Haven Avenue.

Terminal parking is available in multiple lots with rates designed for different trip lengths. Lot 2 and Lot 4 offer both premium and general parking options directly adjacent to their respective terminals. Premium parking spaces are located on the first level of each structure and cost $27 per day. General parking on upper levels costs $21 per day. Short-term parking rates in these lots start at $3 for the first 30 minutes and $6 for up to one hour.

Lot 3 sits between Terminals 2 and 4, providing the closest self-parking to both terminals at a daily rate of $16. This lot does not offer hourly parking and is designed for overnight and extended stays.

Lot 5 offers the most economical on-airport parking at $13 per day. Located farther from the terminals, Lot 5 provides complimentary shuttle service running continuously to both terminals. Shuttle frequency is approximately every 10-15 minutes, and the ride to terminals takes under 5 minutes. Lot 6 provides additional economy parking options at similar rates.

Valet parking is available at both Terminal 2 and Terminal 4 for $28 per day. Electric vehicle charging stations are available south of Lots 2 and 4, provided free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.

Private off-airport parking facilities near Ontario International Airport offer competitive rates starting from approximately $9.95 per day. Many include amenities like covered parking, luggage assistance, and frequent shuttle service. Advance booking through parking comparison websites typically yields savings of 30% or more compared to drive-up rates.

The free Cell Phone Waiting Lot is located at 1940 E. Moore Way before Terminal 2. Drivers may wait for up to one hour at no charge while arriving passengers collect luggage and proceed to the curb. Vehicles must remain attended at all times, and curbside waiting is strictly prohibited.

Curbside drop-off allows brief unloading only—drivers cannot leave vehicles unattended. Active loading and unloading is limited to 3-5 minutes before airport staff request vehicles to circle around or use the Cell Phone Lot.

Getting to and from Ontario International Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Rideshare services including Uber and Lyft operate extensively throughout the Inland Empire and Southern California. Designated rideshare pickup zones are located on the arrivals level outside each terminal. Follow signage for "Ride Share Pickup" or "TNC Pickup" after collecting baggage. Rides cannot be requested until travelers are physically present in the designated pickup zone.

Estimated fares from Ontario International Airport to common destinations: Downtown Ontario ($15-20), Rancho Cucamonga ($20-25), Riverside ($25-30), Anaheim/Disneyland Resort ($45-55), Downtown Los Angeles ($60-75). Fares fluctuate based on demand, time of day, and vehicle type selected.

Traditional taxi service is available at the taxi stand located on the arrivals level outside both terminals. Taxi fares to Ontario city center average $20-25, with metered rates applying for all trips. Major credit cards are accepted in most taxis, though confirming with the driver before departure is recommended.

Getting to and from Ontario International Airport by Public Transportation

Omnitrans Route 61 provides direct bus service connecting Ontario International Airport to surrounding communities including Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, and Pomona. The bus stop is located on Airport Drive near Terminal 2. Route 61 connects to Metrolink commuter rail service at Rancho Cucamonga Station and Ontario-East Station.

The ONT Connector project represents a major transit improvement currently under development. This underground transit connection will link the Rancho Cucamonga Metrolink Station directly to Ontario International Airport terminals. The project will feature autonomous, zero-emission vehicles operating in a subway-like bidirectional system on an on-demand basis. This connection will also integrate with Brightline West high-speed rail service connecting Southern California to Las Vegas. The project completed environmental clearance in 2025 and is moving toward construction.

Key Amenities at Ontario International Airport

ATMs

ATMs are available in both terminals before and after security. Terminal 2 features ATMs near the food court and baggage claim area. Terminal 4 ATMs are located near the central lobby and adjacent to Gate 405. Multiple financial institutions are represented, including Bank of America and Chase.

Lost and Found

Lost and Found services at Ontario International Airport are managed by the Airport Operations Center. Items lost in terminals, parking lots, or security checkpoints can be reported online through the airport website or by calling +1 (909) 544-5300. The Lost and Found office is located in the Airport Administration Building and operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Items found at TSA checkpoints are held separately and can be claimed by contacting TSA directly at +1 (909) 937-2577.

Luggage Services

Baggage carts are available for rent throughout both terminals at a cost of $5 per cart. Cart rental stations accept credit cards only. Luggage storage is not available on-site at Ontario International Airport. Luggage wrapping services are not currently offered.

Pets

Pet relief areas are available both before and after security at Ontario International Airport. Terminal 2 features an outdoor pet relief area near the baggage claim level. Post-security relief areas are located near Gate 210 in Terminal 2 and Gate 408 in Terminal 4. All pet relief areas include waste bags and disposal receptacles. Service animals are welcome throughout the airport.

Showers

Public shower facilities are not available at Ontario International Airport outside of airline lounge access. The Delta Sky Club and Admirals Club in Terminal 2 do not currently offer shower facilities.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are not available at Ontario International Airport. Travelers requiring foreign currency should arrange exchange before arriving at the airport or at their destination.

Smoking Area

Ontario International Airport is a smoke-free facility. Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited inside all terminal buildings. Designated smoking areas are located outside on the arrivals and departures curbs, at least 20 feet from terminal entrances.

Terminal Building Features

Both terminals at Ontario International Airport offer clean, modern facilities with ample natural light from large windows overlooking the airfield. Seating areas feature integrated charging stations with both standard outlets and USB ports. Family restrooms are available throughout both terminals. The airport's compact size means walking distances from curb to gate rarely exceed 5-7 minutes.

WiFi

Complimentary high-speed WiFi is available throughout Ontario International Airport. To connect, select the "ONT Free WiFi" network from device settings and accept the terms of service. No password is required. The network supports streaming, video calls, and large file downloads.

Other Amenities

Information desks staffed by volunteer Airport Ambassadors are located in the central lobbies of both terminals. Ambassadors wear distinctive blue vests and can assist with directions, local recommendations, and general inquiries. A meditation room is available in Terminal 2 post-security for quiet reflection and prayer. Medical services are not available on-site; in emergencies, dial 911 or alert any airport employee.

Airport Lounges at Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport offers two airline-operated lounges, both located in Terminal 2. Terminal 4 currently does not have any lounge facilities. While the lounge selection is limited compared to larger airports, both available lounges provide comfortable spaces for eligible travelers to work, relax, and refresh before flights.

Airline Lounges at Ontario International Airport

Admirals Club (American Airlines)

Located in Terminal 2 near Gate 210, the Admirals Club offers approximately 3,500 square feet of lounge space with runway views. The lounge features complimentary beverages including beer, wine, and spirits, light snacks, high-speed WiFi, and dedicated workstations with printing capabilities. Access is available to Admirals Club members, first and business class passengers on American Airlines and Oneworld alliance flights, AAdvantage Executive cardholders, and military personnel traveling on American Airlines. Day passes can be purchased for $79 at the lounge entrance.

Delta Sky Club

Situated in Terminal 2 near Gate 207, the Delta Sky Club provides a quiet retreat with approximately 4,000 square feet of space. Amenities include a full bar with complimentary premium beverages, seasonal food offerings, high-speed WiFi, and individual work pods. Access is granted to Delta Sky Club members, Delta One and first class passengers, SkyTeam alliance premium cabin passengers, and select American Express cardholders including Platinum Card and Delta Reserve card members. Day passes are not available for purchase; access requires qualifying membership or ticket.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

Ontario International Airport does not currently have any credit card-branded lounges such as American Express Centurion Lounge, Capital One Lounge, or Chase Sapphire Lounge. Travelers holding premium credit cards with lounge benefits should check their issuer's app for participating restaurant or retail credits that may be available in the terminals.

Priority Pass Lounges at Ontario International Airport

Priority Pass does not have any participating lounges at Ontario International Airport. Priority Pass members do not have access to any lounge facilities at this airport. Members seeking value from their membership should plan to use lounge access at connecting airports or arrival airports where options are more plentiful.

Other Airports in the Region

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Distance to Ontario: 55 miles (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes drive). LAX serves as the primary international gateway for Southern California with flights to six continents. Best for international travelers requiring extensive global connections. The airport features nine terminals arranged in a horseshoe pattern and is currently undergoing significant modernization. Not recommended for Inland Empire residents due to heavy traffic and longer travel times.

John Wayne Airport (SNA)

Distance to Ontario: 35 miles (approximately 40 minutes drive). Located in Orange County, SNA offers convenient access to Anaheim, Disneyland Resort, and coastal Orange County communities. The airport features a single terminal with a distinctive arched architecture and famously strict noise regulations. Best for travelers visiting Orange County beach cities or Disneyland.

Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)

Distance to Ontario: 55 miles (approximately 1 hour drive). Serving the San Fernando Valley and northern Los Angeles, Burbank offers easy access to Hollywood, Universal Studios, and Pasadena. The airport features two terminals with a nostalgic open-air concourse design. Best for travelers visiting the San Fernando Valley, Glendale, or downtown Burbank.

Long Beach Airport (LGB)

Distance to Ontario: 50 miles (approximately 55 minutes drive). This small, historic airport features an open-air concourse and art deco terminal building. Limited commercial service primarily from Southwest Airlines. Best for travelers seeking the smallest, least crowded Southern California airport experience.

Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)

Distance to Ontario: 75 miles (approximately 1 hour 10 minutes drive). Seasonal service expands significantly during winter months with flights from major cold-weather cities. Open-air terminal design with mountain views. Best for travelers visiting Coachella Valley, Palm Springs, or Joshua Tree National Park.

San Diego International Airport (SAN)

Distance to Ontario: 110 miles (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes drive). Single runway airport with two terminals directly adjacent to downtown San Diego. Best for travelers whose final destination is San Diego County or northern Baja California.

Ontario International Airport Overview

Ontario International Airport traces its aviation roots back to 1923 when it began as a small airfield serving the growing agricultural community of Ontario. During World War II, the facility served as a training base for Army Air Corps pilots. Commercial passenger service expanded significantly in the 1980s and 1990s as the Inland Empire experienced explosive population growth. For decades, the airport operated under the management of Los Angeles World Airports alongside LAX and Van Nuys Airport. In 2016, control transferred to the newly-formed Ontario International Airport Authority, returning local governance to the facility and spurring renewed growth and investment.

The official name is Ontario International Airport, though it is occasionally referred to locally as "ONT" or "Ontario Airport." The airport sits approximately 2 miles east of downtown Ontario and 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in San Bernardino County. Ontario International Airport is a public airport operating as a civilian facility, though it maintains a close relationship with military aviation through occasional National Guard and training flights. Annual passenger traffic exceeds 7 million travelers. The airport features two parallel runways (8L/26R and 8R/26L) and two passenger terminals with a total of 26 gates.

Ontario International Airport Postal Code

• Postal Code: 91761
• City: Ontario
• State: California
• Country: United States
• Complete Mailing Address: Ontario International Airport, 1940 E Moore Way, Ontario, CA 91761

Duty Free and Shopping at Ontario International Airport

Duty-free shopping is available at Ontario International Airport for international departing passengers. The duty-free store operates in Terminal 2 and offers standard duty-free categories including liquor, tobacco, fragrances, cosmetics, and confectionery. Purchases require a valid international boarding pass and are delivered directly to the departure gate for collection. Prices on alcohol and tobacco products are generally competitive with airport retail.

Retail shopping throughout both terminals includes Hudson News for reading materials, snacks, and travel essentials, InMotion Entertainment for electronics and headphones, and various souvenir shops featuring California and Inland Empire-themed merchandise. Terminal 2 offers more extensive retail options than Terminal 4.

Dining choices range from national chains to regional favorites. Terminal 2 features California Pizza Kitchen, Wolfgang Puck's WPizza, and several quick-service outlets. Terminal 4 offers Carl's Jr., Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and grab-and-go market concepts. Local craft beer selections are available at bar locations in both terminals.

Shopping tip: California-themed souvenirs including wine, almonds, and local artisanal foods are available at airport shops, though prices are typically 15-25% higher than retail stores in the city. Travelers with time before flights may find better selection and value at the Ontario Mills shopping center located just 5 minutes from the airport.

Security Wait Times Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport consistently ranks among the most efficient airports in Southern California for security screening. On average, travelers clear TSA checkpoints in under 20 minutes during non-peak travel periods. During busy periods—which vary by terminal and flight schedule—wait times can extend to 30 minutes or more.

Peak travel times at Ontario International Airport follow distinct patterns. Terminal 2 experiences morning rushes from 4:00 AM to 7:00 AM and evening peaks from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Terminal 4 morning peaks occur from 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Holiday travel periods including Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, and spring break see elevated wait times across all hours.

TSA PreCheck lanes are available at both Terminal 2 and Terminal 4 checkpoints. PreCheck-eligible travelers enjoy expedited screening with shoes, belts, and light jackets kept on, and laptops and compliant liquids remaining in carry-on bags. CLEAR biometric screening is available at Terminal 2 and Terminal 4 for enrolled members, providing dedicated lanes that bypass the standard ID check queue.

Travelers are advised to arrive at least two hours before domestic flight departures and three hours before international flights. Early morning flights (before 8:00 AM) warrant additional buffer time as security checkpoints open at 4:00 AM and queues form quickly.

Ontario International Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

Departures drop-off occurs on the upper level of the terminal loop road. Terminal 2 and Terminal 4 each have dedicated drop-off zones directly outside their respective ticketing lobbies. Drivers may stop briefly for active unloading only—unattended vehicles are prohibited and subject to immediate ticketing and towing. The drop-off process typically moves quickly with minimal congestion compared to larger airports.

Arrivals pick-up is located on the lower level of both terminals. Meeting arriving passengers at the baggage claim area inside the terminal is permitted. Drivers waiting for arriving passengers should use the free Cell Phone Waiting Lot located at 1940 E. Moore Way rather than circling the terminal or waiting at the curb. Once passengers have collected luggage and are ready at the arrivals curb, drivers can proceed from the Cell Phone Lot to the terminal in approximately 2-3 minutes. Wait time in the Cell Phone Lot is limited to one hour, and vehicles must remain attended.

Commercial vehicle zones for taxis, rideshare services, and hotel shuttles are clearly marked on the arrivals level. Rideshare pickup areas are specifically designated and require passengers to request rides only after arriving at the marked TNC pickup zone.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport is served by eight major commercial airlines offering nonstop flights to destinations across the United States, Mexico, and Taiwan. Southwest Airlines dominates operations with the largest share of passenger traffic and flight frequency, operating exclusively from Terminal 4. Full-service carriers including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines operate from Terminal 2 alongside low-cost carriers JetBlue, Frontier Airlines, and Mexican carrier Volaris. China Airlines provides international service to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.

Popular domestic destinations from Ontario International Airport include Las Vegas (LAS), Phoenix (PHX), Denver (DEN), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Seattle (SEA), Portland (PDX), Oakland (OAK), San Francisco (SFO), San Jose (SJC), Sacramento (SMF), Salt Lake City (SLC), Chicago (MDW), Houston (HOU), and Atlanta (ATL).

International service includes flights to Guadalajara (GDL) and Mexico City (MEX) on Volaris, and Taipei (TPE) on China Airlines. Alaska Airlines continues expanding from Ontario International Airport with service to Santa Rosa/Sonoma County (STS) and Boise (BOI).

Seasonal adjustments affect flight frequencies, with winter months seeing increased service to warm-weather destinations in Mexico and Hawaii. Summer schedules typically add frequencies to leisure markets including Pacific Northwest cities and mountain destinations.

Getting to and from Ontario International Airport

Car Rental at Ontario International Airport

The Rental Car Center at Ontario International Airport consolidates all car rental operations in a single convenient location. Major car rental companies operating on-site include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Payless, and Thrifty. The Rental Car Center is located at 3450 E Airport Drive, directly adjacent to the terminal complex. Free shuttle buses connect the terminals to the Rental Car Center every 10-15 minutes, with pickup zones clearly marked on the arrivals level outside both terminals.

Popular vehicle types available for rent include economy cars for solo travelers and couples, midsize and full-size sedans for families, SUVs for groups with luggage or outdoor recreation, and premium/luxury vehicles for business travelers and special occasions. Minivans and passenger vans accommodate larger groups. Four-wheel drive vehicles are not typically necessary for Inland Empire travel unless planning trips to mountain destinations during winter months.

Advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly during peak travel periods including major holidays, spring break (March-April), and summer months. Rates typically start around $30-40 per day for economy vehicles and $50-70 per day for standard SUVs, though pricing varies significantly based on demand, season, and booking lead time. Prepaying for rental cars often yields savings of 10-20% compared to pay-at-counter rates.

Renting a car provides significant advantages for exploring the Inland Empire and greater Southern California. Unlike dense urban areas with robust public transit, the Inland Empire's attractions are spread across multiple cities with limited public transportation connections. A rental car enables visits to regional highlights including Ontario Mills shopping center, Victoria Gardens, San Bernardino National Forest, Mount Baldy, Big Bear Lake, Temecula wine country, and Joshua Tree National Park.

Ontario International Airport Taxi Services

Traditional taxi service is available at designated taxi stands on the arrivals level of both terminals. Local taxi companies serving Ontario International Airport include Yellow Cab of the Inland Empire and Bell Cab. Taxi fares to downtown Ontario average $20-25, to Rancho Cucamonga $25-30, and to Riverside $30-35. Most taxis accept major credit cards, though confirming payment method before beginning the trip is recommended.

Private Car Services at Ontario International Airport

Private car and black car services offer a premium alternative to taxis and rideshare. Companies including ExecuCar and local limousine services provide pre-arranged pickup with meet-and-greet service at baggage claim. Fixed rates are quoted at time of booking, eliminating surge pricing concerns. This option is particularly suitable for business travelers, families with young children requiring car seats, and travelers seeking guaranteed vehicle quality and professional chauffeurs.

Bus Services at Ontario International Airport

Omnitrans Route 61 provides public bus service connecting Ontario International Airport to the broader transit network. The bus stop is located on Airport Drive within walking distance of Terminal 2. Route 61 connects to Metrolink commuter rail stations at Rancho Cucamonga and Ontario-East, enabling rail connections to Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange County. Fare is $2.00 for a single ride, with day passes available for $5.00. Buses operate from approximately 5:15 AM to 9:45 PM with 30-60 minute frequency depending on time of day.

Hotel Shuttles

Numerous hotels near Ontario International Airport offer complimentary shuttle service for guests. Properties with airport shuttle service include Ontario Airport Hotel & Conference Center, Best Western Plus Ontario Airport, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, DoubleTree by Hilton Ontario Airport, Embassy Suites Ontario Airport, Hampton Inn & Suites Ontario, Holiday Inn Ontario Airport, and Sheraton Ontario Airport Hotel. Travelers should confirm shuttle availability and pickup procedures directly with their hotel. Shuttle pickup zones are located on the arrivals level outside both terminals.

Parking at Ontario International Airport

Short-term parking is available in Lots 2 and 4 with rates starting at $3 for the first 30 minutes and $6 for up to one hour. These lots are ideal for picking up or dropping off passengers when brief terminal access is needed. Maximum daily rates apply after 4 hours.

Long-term parking options include general parking in Lots 2 and 4 ($21 per day), Lot 3 ($16 per day), and Lot 5 economy parking ($13 per day). All parking facilities feature 24/7 security patrols, well-lit surfaces, and accessible parking spaces on a first-come basis with valid disabled parking permits.

Free parking is not available at Ontario International Airport. The Cell Phone Waiting Lot provides free waiting for up to one hour but vehicles must remain attended and cannot be left for terminal access.

All parking facilities are cashless, accepting major credit and debit cards exclusively. Payment is processed at exit gates using the ticket received upon entry. Pre-booking parking online offers discounts of 10-20% off standard rates and guarantees space availability during peak periods.

Electric vehicle charging stations are available at no cost south of Lots 2 and 4. Stations are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved in advance.

Places to explore near Ontario International Airport

Ontario Mills (5 minutes from airport): One of the largest outlet and value retail shopping destinations in California, featuring over 200 stores including premium outlets, restaurants, and an Improv comedy club. Perfect for killing time before flights or post-arrival shopping.

Victoria Gardens (15 minutes): An upscale open-air lifestyle center in Rancho Cucamonga featuring retail shops, restaurants, a public library, and cultural arts center in a pedestrian-friendly Main Street setting.

San Bernardino National Forest (45 minutes): Mountain wilderness offering hiking trails, camping, fishing, and scenic drives. Mount Baldy provides challenging hikes and winter snow play opportunities just an hour from the airport.

Big Bear Lake (1 hour 15 minutes): Year-round mountain resort destination offering skiing and snowboarding in winter, and boating, fishing, and hiking in summer months. A scenic mountain drive from the airport via Highway 330 and Highway 18.

Temecula Valley Wine Country (50 minutes): Southern California's premier wine region featuring over 40 wineries, tasting rooms, and vineyard-view restaurants. Accessible via I-15 South from Ontario International Airport.

Joshua Tree National Park (1 hour 30 minutes): Iconic desert landscape featuring unique Joshua trees, dramatic rock formations, and world-class stargazing. Accessible via I-10 East to Highway 62.

Disneyland Resort (35 minutes): The original Disney theme park and Disney California Adventure are easily accessible from Ontario International Airport via CA-91 West or CA-57 South, offering a less congested route than from Los Angeles-area airports.

Downtown Los Angeles (50-60 minutes): Major cultural attractions including Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad museum, Grand Central Market, and numerous dining and entertainment options accessible via I-10 West.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Ontario

Ontario experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, occasionally wet winters. The Inland Empire's inland location means temperatures run 10-15 degrees warmer than coastal Los Angeles during summer and slightly cooler during winter nights.

Spring (March-May): Daytime highs range from 70-80°F (21-27°C) with cool evenings in the 50s°F (10-15°C). This is arguably the most pleasant season for visiting, with wildflower blooms in nearby mountains and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. March and April may see occasional rain showers.

Summer (June-September): Hot and dry with daytime highs regularly reaching 90-100°F (32-38°C). July and August are the hottest months. Early mornings and evenings offer the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Air conditioning is essential, and hydration is critical for travelers not accustomed to desert-adjacent climates.

Fall (October-November): Warm days in the 75-85°F (24-29°C) range with crisp, pleasant evenings. October often brings Santa Ana winds—hot, dry offshore winds that can increase fire danger but also bring crystal-clear visibility to the mountains. Fall offers excellent conditions for exploring wine country and hiking.

Winter (December-February): Mild days averaging 65-70°F (18-21°C) with nights dropping to 40-45°F (4-7°C). Rain is possible December through February, though annual precipitation is modest at around 15 inches. Snow is extremely rare at airport elevation but common in nearby mountains, making Ontario International Airport a convenient gateway for winter sports travelers.

Best time to visit: March through May and September through November offer the most comfortable weather for exploring Southern California. Summer visitors should plan indoor or water-based activities during peak afternoon heat. Winter visitors can enjoy mild daytime temperatures while using Ontario as a base for both coastal excursions and mountain snow activities.

Essential Travel Tips

• Arrival time: Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. Early morning travelers (before 8:00 AM) should allow extra time as security queues build quickly when checkpoints open.
• Flight status: Check flight status on the Ontario International Airport website or airline app before departing for the airport. The airport's compact size means gate changes are rare but possible.
• Packing: Summer visitors should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection, and a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces. Winter visitors should bring layers for warm days and cool evenings. Rain gear is useful December through February.
• Currency: US Dollar is the local currency. Credit and debit cards are universally accepted throughout the region. ATMs are plentiful at the airport and throughout the Inland Empire.
• Language: English is the primary language. Spanish is widely spoken throughout the Inland Empire, and airport signage includes Spanish translations.
• Documentation: Domestic travelers require valid government-issued photo ID. International travelers require valid passport and any applicable visas or ESTA authorization for Visa Waiver Program participants.
• Driver license: Car rental requires valid driver's license and major credit card in the renter's name. International visitors should obtain an International Driving Permit if their license is not in English.
• Fuel stations: Multiple gas stations are located within 1 mile of Ontario International Airport on Airport Drive, Archibald Avenue, and Haven Avenue. Fuel prices near the airport are competitive with regional averages.
• Airport code: When booking flights or searching for information, ONT is the official IATA code for Ontario International Airport. Avoid confusion with Ontario, Canada (YYZ).

About the City

Ontario, California traces its origins to the 1880s when Canadian engineer George Chaffey and his brother William purchased land and established a model agricultural colony. The city's name honors their home province of Ontario, Canada. The Chaffey brothers created one of California's earliest irrigation systems and designed the distinctive Euclid Avenue, a broad tree-lined boulevard that remains a city landmark.

Today, Ontario is home to approximately 180,000 residents and serves as the economic hub of the Inland Empire alongside neighboring Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, and San Bernardino. The city's strategic location at the junction of I-10 and I-15 freeways has attracted significant logistics and warehousing operations, earning the region its nickname as America's distribution center.

Local cuisine reflects the Inland Empire's diverse population, with excellent Mexican, Vietnamese, and classic American dining options throughout the city. The historic downtown district along Euclid Avenue features several notable restaurants and the Ontario Museum of History & Art. Ontario Mills remains one of California's top shopping destinations, drawing visitors from across Southern California and beyond.

Cultural attractions include the Ontario Convention Center, which hosts events and exhibitions throughout the year, and the Lewis Family Playhouse at Victoria Gardens, presenting professional theater productions. The nearby California Speedway in Fontana hosts NASCAR and other motorsports events.

Ontario offers visitors an ideal base for exploring the Inland Empire and greater Southern California. Hotel rates are typically 30-50% lower than comparable accommodations in Los Angeles or Orange County coastal areas, and the central location provides reasonable driving access to mountains, deserts, beaches, and urban attractions alike. Ontario International Airport serves as the perfect gateway to this dynamic and growing region.

Start Your Journey at Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport delivers what few Southern California airports can promise: a genuinely stress-free travel experience. From the moment you exit the freeway to the time you reach your gate, the airport's thoughtful design, efficient operations, and manageable scale make every journey smoother. Whether you're visiting the Inland Empire for business, exploring Southern California's diverse attractions, or connecting through to destinations across the country, Ontario International Airport provides the hassle-free gateway that modern travelers deserve.

Securing reliable transportation from Ontario International Airport unlocks the full potential of your Inland Empire visit. A rental car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace, from the outlet malls of Ontario Mills to the vineyards of Temecula and the alpine beauty of Big Bear Lake. With rental car facilities directly adjacent to the terminals and rates often significantly lower than at coastal airports, Ontario International Airport offers exceptional value for travelers planning to explore Southern California by road.

Book your rental car in advance to secure the best rates and preferred vehicle type. Arrive prepared, travel relaxed, and discover why savvy Southern California travelers consistently choose Ontario International Airport as their preferred gateway to the Golden State.