March Air Reserve Base(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For military personnel and visitors near March Air Reserve Base, the top choice is Holiday Inn Express Riverside, offering a complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a 15-minute drive to the base. For a more upscale option, consider Best Western Plus Rancho Cucamonga, located just minutes from shopping and dining, with reliable shuttle access. Both properties provide excellent value and convenience. The area also serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures like hiking in the San Bernardino Mountains and boating at Lake Cucamonga.

Though March Air Reserve Base is restricted, nearby San Bernardino offers rich cultural experiences. Attend the annual March Air Show, featuring vintage aircraft and aerial demonstrations—perfect for aviation enthusiasts. Visit the San Bernardino County Museum, which showcases Native American heritage and regional pioneer history. Nature lovers can explore Lake Cucamonga, ideal for fishing, boating, and scenic walks, reflecting the area’s unique blend of military legacy and Southern California lifestyle.

The Best Western Plus Rancho Cucamonga stands out for families, offering a kid-friendly pool, complimentary breakfast, and spacious rooms. It's close to Oak Valley Mall and Cucamonga Creek Park, perfect for family outings. A 20-minute drive reaches public trails and viewing areas near March Air Reserve Base, combining educational military history with outdoor fun. With free parking and 24/7 front desk service, it’s a convenient, family-oriented choice.

Begin in San Bernardino: visit the San Bernardino County Museum in the morning to explore local history. Enjoy lunch by Lake Cucamonga, either at a lakeside café or a picnic. In the afternoon, hike or bike through Cucamonga Lake State Park, enjoying scenic mountain and lake views. Return to Riverside in the evening to shop at Oak Valley Mall and savor Southern California cuisine. This balanced itinerary blends culture, nature, and relaxation—ideal for military visitors or locals seeking a peaceful escape.

While the base is restricted, the Highland Trail near Cucamonga Lake offers one of the best public vantage points to view aircraft operations. Located at the foot of the San Bernardino Mountains, it provides an unobstructed view of planes taxiing and taking off. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer stunning lighting for photography. The Cucamonga Lake State Park overlook also provides safe, legal access to capture military aircraft in flight—perfect for aviation enthusiasts seeking both natural beauty and military spectacle.

Yes, Cucamonga Lake and the Highland Trail offer prime photo opportunities. Capture aircraft takeoffs and landings from the base against the backdrop of the San Bernardino Mountains and shimmering lake reflections—ideal for dramatic compositions. Golden hour shots at sunrise or sunset create striking silhouettes of flying aircraft. Additionally, the San Bernardino County Museum features vintage aircraft models and historic buildings, perfect for candid and nostalgic photography.

Cucamonga Lake State Park offers several well-maintained trails. The Lakeside Trail (3 km) is flat and family-friendly, perfect for spotting waterfowl and pine trees. For a challenge, try the Ridge Trail (6 km), which climbs to panoramic views of the San Bernardino Basin and parts of March Air Reserve Base. All trails are clearly marked, with restrooms and drinking fountains available—ideal for hikers seeking both nature and a glimpse of military infrastructure.