Charming Redlands

Redlands boasts a small-town charm while offering many of the amenities of a much larger city. Apparently at the turn of the 20th century, Redlands was considered the "Palm Springs" of the next century, with roses and palm trees being planted along many city thoroughfares. The University of Redlands presents music, art, dance, theatre and other cultural events throughout the year. Across from the A.K. Smiley Public Library sits the Redlands Bowl, where free outdoor concerts are performed during the summer. In the residential areas, many of the homes were built in the Victorian style (a mini San Francisco!); one restored 1903 Victorian home is now a Museum, featuring Depression-era glassware, china and even items belonging to Liberace! We had brunch at McDuff's in the downtown area; the food was scrumptious and the people friendly. On my next trip to Redlands, I'd really like to see the fairytale-like French Chateau called Kimberly Crest (it was featured on PBS's American Castles series).