A big thanks to AAA Westways magazine (Westways May/June 2020) for the incentive to drive west to this beautiful university town in the Pomona Valley. The village is located on the I-10 next to Montclair. It is home to several universities, has a train depot for the Metro line to Los Angeles. I started my daytrip with a quick lunch at Walter’s Restaurant and Lounge. I was intrigued by the Afghan fries (cooked in a secret batter)….. and then a secret pesto sauce for dipping – yummy!
The village is very walk-able and the climate is delightful – especially now that the desert’s temperatures are climbing above 100 this was a welcomed respite. Across the street from Walter’s is Rhino Records with an incredible collection of vinyl records. I was amazed as I browsed through the genres of music I recognized so many albums of my youth. I regretfully remember that I gave up my albums when CDs became prominent. I still have my collection of 45s and will never give them up. [update: June 2021 I purchased a turntable with Bluetooth options to connect to an outside speaker. I am now enjoying those 45s and purchasing additional LP albums.]
“Keep close to Nature’s heart… and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.” John Muir
There’s an 86 acre plot nearby reserved as a botanical garden. California Botanic Garden is one of the largest gardens featuring only native California plants. There’s a nominal fee to help with the upkeep and well worth the cost. Walking the paved paths and intertwining trails there are native plants from all over the State of California. I’ve lived in northern CA and traveled extensively throughout the state and this garden made me feel like I was actually in the region where these plants are from.
The artwork throughout the garden was amazing, very modern and blended well with the garden.
I spent several hours following the trails through the woods and desert features. With rush hour looming I decided to wait it out at a nearby wine bar. We Olive specializes in olive oil and also has a great wine selection. They have seating inside, a balcony in back and sidewalk seating. I ordered a glass of dry rosé wine and matched it with some olives. The timing was perfect and I was able to get back home with minimal traffic issues on the 10.
#iedaytripper
