San Bernardino’s greatest scenic asset is not really in the city at all. Look north and the mountains rise abruptly from the valley, giving you access to San Bernardino National Forest and a completely different Southern California landscape.
Within a relatively short drive you can trade freeways and palms for mountain roads, pine forest, hiking trails and cooler air. That contrast is one of the reasons I would keep a car for a San Bernardino visit.
Do not underestimate the mountains
The mountains are close, but they are real mountains. Elevation changes quickly, roads twist, temperatures can be dramatically different from the valley and winter can bring snow and ice.
Check road and forest conditions before leaving. Wildfire closures, storms and seasonal restrictions can alter plans with little notice. Carry water even on short outings.
Choose the trip to suit the season
In warmer weather, hiking and scenic drives are obvious choices. In winter, mountain communities can provide a snowy escape while San Bernardino itself remains comparatively mild.
Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear are the famous names, but you do not necessarily need a major destination. Sometimes the pleasure is simply driving upward, stopping at viewpoints and spending a few hours among the trees.
If your image of Southern California is only beaches and desert, the mountains above San Bernardino are a useful correction.