Meadowbrook

San Bernardino's downtown area of Meadowbrook shelters an expansive and historic metropolitan community below the towering San Bernardino Mountains. The city's namesake is the medieval priest St. Bernardino of Siena and was the site of a 19th-century Spanish mission. Settlers' discovery of gold brought masses of pioneers and fortune-seekers to the area. Over time, railways and farm roads transformed the area into a commercial hub for nearby citrus groves and vineyards. The citriculture industry exploded in the region and helped it grow into what is now known as the Inland Empire.

Meadowbrook's residences are primarily single-family detached houses, townhomes, duplexes and condos. Residents live on city blocks along avenues lined with towering palm, pine and oak trees. A common thread among the region's housing developers is their emphasis on combatting the region's high temperatures, whether through building houses low or with insulating materials. Single-storied Craftsman and California ranch-style homes are examples of the low-built yet spacious style, though Craftsman-style homes tend to be built taller and with covered front porches. Building with materials like stucco help houses stay cool during the day while gently releasing that trapped heat at night, a design touch most prevalent in Spanish and Mission-style dwellings. Occasionally you'll spot the cylindrical turrets and wraparound porches distinctive of the Victorian-style home. Homes are often a short bike or car ride from excellent schools and the city's beautiful parks. Meadowbrook's home prices tend to hover around $390,000, ranging as high as $500,000 for homes surrounding its scenic parks and bustling thoroughfares.

Downtown residents are served by schools like Lincoln Elementary in grades K-5, sending students on to Arrowview Middle and other middle schools. San Bernardino High School sits in the area's northwest and provides special academies for careers such as engineering and performing arts along with its typical curriculum.

Parks offer residents a chance to unwind and connect with nature. After school, bring the kids to the playground at Meadowbrook Park. Come to Bryce E. Hanes Park for a pickup basketball game or skate with your friends at the Jon Cole Skate Park. A half-mile trail rings Seccombe Lake Recreation Area, where you can catch great views of the lake or relax in the shaded picnic areas. Drive up to Glen Helen Regional Park and enjoy live music performances in the largest outdoor amphitheater in the nation. Hike along panoramic mountain views and cascading waterfalls in San Bernardino National Forest.

Need groceries? Local stores like Midway Market offer pounds of fresh and frozen meats, convenience and household products. Warehouse and regional grocers like El Super will keep you well-stocked with fresh produce and other essentials.

Dining options abound in San Bernardino's downtown thoroughfares. Start your day off with a hot cup at Molly's Café. Grab a dozen donuts or choose from a variety of specialty deli sandwiches at Frankie's Donuts & Deli. Like spicy food? Sample dishes from the scorching menu at Richie's Hot Chicken. Connect with friends or watch the game at the Downtown Bar, a local watering hole with weekly happy hours and a friendly neighborhood vibe.

Plan a day visiting any one of the downtown area's world-class attractions. Learn the history of one of the most successful fast-food chains at the First Original McDonald's Museum. See a show at the California Theatre of the Performing Arts, a preserved early 20th-century vaudeville theater, now home to musical productions, seminars and naturalization ceremonies. Grab tickets for the Inland Empire 66ers at San Manuel Stadium, a minor league venue with ample seating and concessions.

Proximity to major freeways gives residents access to the best of the Inland Empire.

Written By

Ian Burke

Photography Contributed By

Samuel Evans

Video By

Kellan Beaver