From an agricultural region known for its citrus orchards, the area changed once again when the Southern Pacific Railroad arrived in 1875 en route to Los Angeles. At this time, the grid-like streets were laid in the areas that today make up Colton's downtown and south of Colton near Interstate 10. The railroad fueled the town's rapid growth as more tracks were laid in both east-west and north-south directions, coming together at Colton's Crossing, once one of the busiest railroad crossings in the United States.
Visit the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum to learn all about the city's glory days on the rails. The facility is housed in an authentic 1918 railroad depot and contains relics from antique firefighter regalia to maps, photographs, and other railroad memorabilia.
Other industries soon developed, laying the foundations of the diverse industrial and agricultural economy Colton still enjoys today. Yet more transportation came to Colton with the construction of Interstates 10 and 215. With all these transportation options and industrial activity, it's easy to see why the town came to be nicknamed "Hub City." The town's landmarks date back to these railroad boom days, including the Colton Area Museum. It was established in 1891 as a Carnegie Library.
Slover Mountain lies within the city. Called "Tahualtapa" ("raven hill") by local Native Americans, and "Cerrito Solo" ("little solitary hill") by Spanish colonials, Slover Mountain was once the highest point in the valley. It was mined for limestone during the early 20th century and is now more of a hill, but it still adds beautiful variety to Colton's landscape.
Whether you come to Colton on business, you're seeking a convenient and affordable stopover outside San Bernardino or Los Angeles, or you're planning to spend some time outdoors in the San Bernardino National Forest, Colton will welcome you with open arms and ample entertainment.
What time of year is best to visit Colton, CA?
Colton enjoys a warm-summer Mediterranean climate; its summers are warm and dry, but not hot. In fact, even winter temperatures rarely dip below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The cooler months tend to be rainier, but you'll still enjoy ample sunshine during all seasons, which offer plenty of chances to get outside and enjoy the fair weather throughout the year.
You'll always find something going on in Colton, and if you're in town, you are welcome to participate. Colton takes every opportunity to throw a party, especially around the holidays. Each year, the city hosts an Easter Egg Hunt and Earth Day Celebration, an event combining two spring-oriented holidays. Kids enjoy time with the Easter bunny, an egg hunt, games, and crafts while learning more about conservation and recycling.
The free Summer Concert Series takes place from July through August at Fleming Park, and the city also offers free movies outdoors under the stars.
Come harvest season, the Halloween Festival comes to town with ghoulish games and children's activities. The communal spirit continues with a family-style Thanksgiving dinner, open to all who would like some company and a free meal for the holiday. In December, the town turns on the holiday cheer at the holiday tree lighting in front of City Hall, followed by caroling down La Cadena Drive to Fleming Park where Santa awaits with refreshments.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Colton, CA:
Colton by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in Colton, CA. You can use these illustrations to determine the cheapest time to stay in Colton throughout the year.
What are the Colton, CA luxury hotels?
Travelers seeking luxurious accommodations near Colton can do no better than a stay at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in nearby Riverside. This historic Spanish mission–style hotel traces its origins back to 1876, and it has since expanded into a palatial, AAA Four Diamond hotel. Flying buttresses, soaring turrets, domes, towers, arcades, and garden terraces await you. It's quite simply the most romantic destination within a 60-mile radius of Los Angeles. Indulge in the Conde Nast award–winning Kelly's spa, dip into the Jacuzzi and pool, or enjoy delicious, haute cuisine at one of the hotel's four restaurants.
What options are in Colton, CA for the most affordable hotels?
3 Star Average Prices: $122.34
When thinking about budget hotels in Colton, the Comfort Inn & Suites in Colton welcomes guests to budget accommodations that are packed with excellent amenities. Guests will enjoy easy access to the San Bernardino Golf Club and Inland Center Mall, minutes from the National Orange Show Event Center.
Check into an air-conditioned guest room and take a rest on your pillowtop bed while you enjoy free cable programming on the flat-screen television. You can pull out the sofa bed for the kids, and everyone can log onto the free and fast wireless internet service. Before settling down for the night, check out the outdoor pool and spa tub. Wake up to use the fitness center, clean up in the combination shower and tub, and then fill up on the Comfort Inn's free hot and cold breakfast buffet.
2 Star Average Prices: $86.34
What are the best hotels in Colton, CA that offer discounts?
Several hotels in the Colton, California, area offer special AAA member discounts. The Marriott Riverside at the Convention Center is only steps from the Riverside Convention Center. This large property offers 292 guest rooms prepared to welcome large groups and special events with 14,000 square feet of space and meeting rooms.
The best part about this property is that you'll never have to leave. Dine on California-style cuisine at C3 Restaurant and Bar, enjoy room service during select hours, and enjoy a breakfast buffet in the morning. An outdoor pool, rooftop terrace dining, pillowtop beds, and smart televisions are only a few of the amenities that await at the Marriott Riverside, one of the best hotels in Colton for discounts.
Where are the best budget hotels around Colton, CA?
The Hilton Garden Inn San Bernardino offers excellent values for a reasonable rate. This hotel is decorated in a warm style that will have you feeling comfortable the moment you walk into the cheerful lobby space. Walk up to your guest room, and you'll be delighted to find all the conveniences you'd expect and more besides, including an in-room refrigerator, microwave, 37-inch LCD television with cable programming, and free wired and wireless internet. Pop downstairs again for an evening cocktail and a tasty meal at the Great American Grill.
Outside your room, the perks continue, from an outdoor pool and spa tub to a fitness center. Grab a complimentary paper, settle down in front of the lobby fireplace, and enjoy your morning coffee. Breakfast is also available for a surcharge.
Business travelers love the Hilton Garden Inn, which caters to their needs with a business center, event space, and dry cleaning and laundry services.
What are the things to do in Colton, CA?
Colton offers many activities to educate and entertain, from historic highlights to indoor and outdoor recreation.
If you are seeking a wholesome and memorable family game day experience, head over to Fiesta Village Family Fun Park in Colton. This center offers a ton of fun in a single complex, from go-karts to carnival rides and arcade games. Pop into Dairy Queen for a decadent ice cream sundae after an exciting game of laser tag, then check out the miniature golf course, batting cages, and water slides. Almost any fun activity you can imagine, you can do at Fiesta Village. Don't miss Nickelodeon Pizza, known for its fun California-style pizzas packed with avocado and chorizo.
Fleming Park also offers relaxing family fun, free of charge. The vintage amphitheater and benches play host to free concerts throughout the year. Head to Elizabeth Davis Park for the basketball courts, softball field, play area, and picnic shelters. Golfers should check out Colton Golf Club, known to be inexpensive, which offers a club house, driving range, and putting green. If you crave a quiet hike in the wild, head to the San Bernardino National Forest where endless trails, waterfalls, wildflowers, forests, rivers, and a lake await to refresh and rejuvenate your senses.
Not far from Colton in San Bernardino, you can catch a Minor League Baseball game at San Manuel Stadium and check out the original McDonald's Site and Museum, right off Route 66.
If you are looking for a grown-up night on the town, you'll find that experience in Colton. Stop into Liam's Irish Comedy Pub for a hearty good laugh and a draft brew. You can also check out 3 Iron Brewing Co. to sample the local craft brews.
This small Southern California town offers easy access to the city and the countryside. Come to Colton for the affordable hotel rates, fascinating history, comfortable lodgings, or fun activities. Whatever brings you to town, you're sure to enjoy your stay.
FAQs about hotels in Colton
What did travelers think of the city of Colton?
Below are reviews of the city of Colton, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Stores and restaurants around"
Score
4.0 / 5
Desiree H., from 10-Aug-2026
"Family reunion "
Score
4.0 / 5
I was only in town for a family reunion in Riverside, so I did not go around Colton.
Valerie M., from 23-Jun-2026
"Easy access to where we had to go"
Score
4.0 / 5
Cindy F., from 25-Dec-2025
"Family"
Score
5.0 / 5
My family lives here.
Jenique C., from 17-Oct-2025
"Great location"
Score
4.0 / 5
I love Colton California!
Carlos P., from 12-Feb-2025
"Very Clean"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very clean.
Victor B., from 10-Feb-2025
"Very Clean Hotel"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very clean hotel.
Victor B., from 10-Feb-2025
"Clean"
Score
5.0 / 5
Clean
Victor B., from 10-Feb-2025
"Good Location!"
Score
5.0 / 5
This hotel is located in Colton off the 215 freeway. It is a good location.
Vickie T., from 18-Jan-2025
"Nice Hotel"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice hotel!
Glenn W., from 17-Jul-2024
"So Quiet!"
Score
5.0 / 5
One of the most quiet places to get a room in San Bernardino area.
Toby B., from 19-Dec-2023
"Very Comfortable"
Score
4.0 / 5
We had to be in Colton for a funeral. We were very comfortable with you! Colton is a nice average older town. Thank you!
Eileen D., from 06-Jul-2022
The average traveler rating of the city of Colton, CA shown above is
4.4 out of 5 based on 12 reviews