Car rental Fontana, CA

Top tips for renting a car in Fontana

Your Fontana car rental becomes the gateway to Southern California's diverse inland offerings. While motorsports and local history provide compelling reasons to visit, the real magic happens when you venture beyond the obvious attractions. Mountain wilderness offers hiking trails with sweeping valley vistas, while authentic neighborhoods serve up cuisine that rivals anything in Los Angeles. Desert preserves, historic Route 66 sites, and family-owned businesses create unexpected discoveries around every corner.

Ready to go on an adventure through the Inland Empire? Follow these tips to get the most from your visit.

What are the road rules and driving conditions in Fontana?

Fontana's streets remain well-maintained throughout the year, and adverse weather is rare. Traffic flows consistently except during major NASCAR events. City speed limits typically range from 25–35 MPH, while freeways like I-10 and I-15 allow 65–70 MPH travel. Exercise extra caution near Auto Club Speedway entrances and popular hiking trailheads where foot traffic increases significantly.

Although Southern California's Inland Empire climate stays pleasant most of the year, summer heat can be intense. Any standard vehicle navigates the area easily since terrain varies from flat valley floors to gentle mountain slopes. Desert roads require attention during windy conditions when sand and debris may blow across pavement. A vehicle with good air conditioning is a must for comfort, health, and safety during summer drives.

Race weekends at Auto Club Speedway bring thousands of motorsports fans to Fontana, creating a festival atmosphere throughout the city. Local restaurants extend hours, hotels book solid months ahead, and racing merchandise appears in shop windows across downtown. The speedway's private parking fills rapidly, but nearby businesses often offer paid lots within walking distance. Hardcore visitors arrive early Friday for practice sessions to beat the weekend rush. They also choose restaurants and hotels along the I-15 corridor where shuttle services sometimes operate to the track.

What is parking like in Fontana?

Parking throughout Fontana remains accessible and budget-friendly during typical days. Downtown areas feature plenty of street parking and affordable municipal lots near restaurants and shops. For mountain hiking adventures, trailhead parking stays free at most San Gabriel foothill locations, though popular parking spots fill early on weekends.

Race events at Auto Club Speedway create a completely different parking situation. The speedway's official lots require advance purchase and have premium pricing for major NASCAR weekends. Nearby neighborhoods see residents converting lawns and driveways into temporary paid parking, with rates climbing closer to the track. Local businesses along Sierra Avenue and surrounding commercial strips often open their lots to racing fans for somewhat more reasonable fees. Plan your speedway visit and parking arrangements well before race weekend arrives.

Are there toll roads in Fontana?

Most Fontana driving comes without toll charges, including routes to the speedway, mountain trails, and local attractions. Some Southern California express lanes carry tolls, but the majority of your local driving will be toll-free.

Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Fontana?

Gas stations appear frequently throughout Fontana and along major routes to mountain areas. Fuel costs run slightly higher near the speedway during race weekends but stay reasonable, at least by California's standards. Fill your tank before venturing into remote hiking areas of the San Gabriel Mountains, where stations become scarce.

EV charging stations operate at the Victoria Gardens shopping center and Falcon Ridge Town Center, several hotels near the Auto Club Speedway, Ontario International Airport, and various retail locations throughout the city, including Target and Walmart.

Do I need to rent a car in Fontana?

While Fontana's city center and major shopping areas like Victoria Gardens allow for some on-foot exploration, the region's best attractions spread across considerable distances. Visits to mountain trails, historic Route 66 sites, and authentic dining experiences throughout the Inland Empire require personal transportation. A rental car gives you the flexibility to explore on your own schedule without relying on rideshares or limited public transit options.