For those of you who have never been to Redlands, California, here is some background information. Redlands is a city in southern California almost exactly halfway between Los Angeles and Palm Springs that is home to some 70,000 people. Established in 1888, Redlands formerly was one of the main exporters of oranges for the United States. Today it is home to a university, multiple high schools, one of the longest running summer concert series and so much more. To people who know and love Redlands as I do, I am sure that you will agree that these are some of Redlands’ best attributes.

1. Redlands has a rich history

When your city is over 125 years old, there is plenty of history to appreciate. The A.K. Smiley Library is one of the oldest buildings in Redlands, and still serves the Redlands community. Redlands High School has been around almost as long as the town itself, established in 1891, and is the oldest school on its original ground west of the Mississippi River. Not to mention historic Kimberly Crest or the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival, which has been running for 93 years.

2. Downtown Redlands

Downtown Redlands is the perfect place to spend a beautiful day shopping, eating and relaxing. If you want to shop you can always count on Nectar or The Blues to have what you are looking for. And don’t even get me started on the food. The best coffee in town can be found at Augie’s Coffee, or if you have a sweet tooth, a la minute ice cream is just down the street. Or, if you are just looking to enjoy the sun and the trees, take a break in the park where you will likely hear a local musician sharing their skill.

3. The close-knit community

Growing up in Redlands is unique because the same group of people go with you through elementary school, middle school and all of the way through high school. While some people may find this restraining, I find it comforting. You know the people around you, as well as their families, establishing connections that you can rely on for years. Additionally, people who live in Redlands are generally friendly! And it is even more fun when you all come home from college to visit Redlands.

4. Location, location, location

Sometimes Redlands feels a little small, prompting you to want to spend the day out of town. Lucky for you, Redlands’s location makes it easy to find other places to visit. Downtown Los Angeles is only an hour and a half away. If you want to go to the beach, you can get to Huntington in one hour! Not to mention Lake Arrowhead or Big Bear if you want to hit the slopes!

A common saying among high school students in Redlands is “I can’t wait to leave Redlands,” yet, as I myself have discovered, when you are actually away from Redlands for a long time, you cannot wait to come back. Because in our hearts we know that Redlands will always be home and we will always have so much to look forward to when we return.