Banning, California is a bustling city in Riverside County bursting with history and sights. Blossoming bougainvilleas and beaming businesses adorn the streets of this picturesque place. Here, inhabitants can explore an array of attractions while learning about its past.
This vibrant town was once known as “Agua Caliente” and was settled in 1853 by Phillip Crosthwaite. It then changed to Banning after General Phineas T. Banning established stagecoach lines between San Pedro and Yuma, Arizona that went through Agua Caliente. In 1913, the Pacific Electric Railway arrived at the same time as new oil fields were developed here making it a hub for the industry during World War I and II.
Today, Banning offers much for visitors to enjoy including breathtaking views from Mount San Jacinto State Park where people can hike or take the aerial tramway up 8500 feet high above sea level. The city also has two museums – one dedicated to military history called Gilman Historic Ranch & Wagon Museum which explores how life used to be during the gold rush days, and another museum located on Ramona Bowl Road which exhibits artifacts related to local Native American tribes like Cahuilla Indians. Further exploring reveals a variety of restaurants, galleries, shops, and events ranging from art walks to rodeos throughout the year that make this destination unforgettable.