Claremont

This historic tree-lined village, flanked by blooming pink tabebuia trees, charming cafes and more than 150 boutiques, is one of my favorite places to spend the day.

Tidy manicured lawns, immaculate sidewalks and historic Craftsman mansions surround this New England-style village, which was created in 1887 when the Santa Fe railroad came to town. Today, you can easily take the Metrolink here from most major cities, then walk from Claremont Depot to the village for a weekend of shopping and dining.

This is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Southern California — thanks to the large population of college students who attend the nearby Claremont Colleges. This prestigious group of five universities (and two graduate schools) includes Claremont McKenna College and the Claremont School of Theology. (History buffs should check out the Claremont Library on Harvard Avenue, which has an impressive database of historic journals and documents.)

Claremont weather is beautiful year-round, making it a great place to spend the weekend. One of the best Claremont hotels is Casa 425 (909-624-2272) — a boutique 50-room property located across from the circa-1922 Packing House. The hotel has a lovely outdoor patio and fire pit, along with a chic urban bar. After checking in, sit in the intimate lounge, or outdoor fire pit, where you can sip on mojitos, margaritas and martinis, while enjoying a variety of small plates.

Inside the Packing House — located across the street — you can check out modern art at OBJCT Gallery (909-621-0125), do a bit of wine tasting at the Wine Merchants Shop, Bar & Lounge (909-445-9463), or take in a show at the Hip Kitty Jazz & Fondue Lounge (909-447-6700). On Yale Avenue, you can enjoy Spanish flamenco music and tapas at Viva Madrid (909-624-5500), then catch the latest art film screenings at the Laemmle's 5 Theatre (909-621-5500).

Be sure to set aside a full day to explore Claremont Village. For the ultimate indulgence, start with a pampering aromatherapy facial at Aromatique Skin and Body Care (909-626-7422), then take on the day with style. Unique businesses abound, from Stamp Your Heart Out (for paper art), to Colors 91711 (for yarn and fabrics). Claremont Village Treasures has a wonderful assortment of home decor and gifts. If you're into music, don't miss Rhino Records for new/used vinyl and CDs, or the Folk Music Center (owned by famous musician Ben Harper's parents).

Foodies can have their pick from a treasure trove of cafes, bistros and gourmet shops. Start with an eggs benedict slider at Some Crust Bakery (909-621-9772), or the hearty Claremont Omelette at Walter's (909-624-4914). The Press (909-625-4808) offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan cuisine, along with a nice assortment of bistro specials. For authentic Mexican chips and salsa, try Espiau's Cantina (909-621-1818), or enjoy homestyle Italian at Aruffo's (909-624-9624). Craving Mediterranean? Try Saca's (909-624-3340) for a plateful of falafels, pitas, hummus and dolmas.

You can sample artisan cheeses at Cheese Cave, dig in to the homemade award-winning ice cream creations and old-fashioned sweets at Bert & Rocky's (909-625-1852), or shop for imported teas at the Bamboo Tea House.

If you decide to bring the kids along — there are plenty of fun activities throughout town. Sign them up for an aerial circus and trapeze session at Pilates Studio M (909-625-3333) or a day-long culinary class at the Young Chef's Academy (909-625-7505). Tots will enjoy exploring the Boon Companion Toy Store (909-625-1993) while older kids enjoy the organic Claremont 21 Choices Yogurt, Last Drop Cafe (for cookies) and Nectar — a shop devoted to cute teen clothes.

Several Claremont events are held throughout the year. In May, don't miss the toe-tappin Blues and Brews walk, or the Vintage Village Wine Walk in September. Your admission includes a map of tasting sites, souvenir wine or beer glass, food plate, wristband and tasting tickets. Appetizers are served at all 50 locations during the four-hour event, and music is provided by more than 15 live bands.

Additional highlights include the First Friday Art Walks, First Saturday Village Walking Tours (909-621-0848) and the summer concerts in the park.

For more information about Claremont Village, call (909) 624-1681 or visit TheVillageClaremont.com