Ontario International Airport (ONT) is a major travel hub in Southern California, known for its efficiency and accessibility. When planning a trip through ONT, one of the most important logistical details is deciding where to park your vehicle. Whether you are looking for the closest possible spot to the terminal or the most budget-friendly long-term option, there are several choices available to suit your needs.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of parking near ONT, including official airport lots, private off-site facilities, and hotel parking packages. By understanding your options ahead of time, you can save money and ensure a stress-free start to your journey.
Official On-Site Parking at ONT
Ontario International Airport offers several official parking lots located directly on the airport grounds. These lots are managed by the airport and provide the most direct access to Terminals 2 and 4. On-site parking is generally divided into premium, general, and economy categories.
Lots 2 and 4: Premium and General Parking
Lots 2 and 4 are located directly across from their respective terminals. These lots are ideal for travelers who prioritize convenience and want to be within walking distance of the check-in counters. Within these lots, you will find both Premium and General parking spaces.
- Premium Parking: These spots are located closest to the terminal entrances. They are the most expensive option but offer the shortest walk.
- General Parking: These spaces make up the majority of Lots 2 and 4. While slightly further than premium spots, they still offer a very short walk to the terminal.
Lot 3: Economy Parking
Lot 3 is situated between Terminals 2 and 4. It serves as a middle-ground option for those who want to stay on-site but are looking for a lower daily rate than the terminal-front lots. It is still within walking distance for many travelers, though the walk is longer than from Lots 2 or 4.
Lot 5: Long-Term Value Parking
Lot 5 is the primary economy and long-term parking solution for ONT. It is located further away from the terminals, making it the most affordable on-site choice. To accommodate the distance, the airport provides a free shuttle service that runs 24 hours a day between Lot 5 and the passenger terminals.
Off-Site Private Parking Facilities
Many travelers prefer off-site parking facilities located just outside the airport perimeter. These private lots often provide more competitive pricing than official airport lots and include additional services to enhance the customer experience.
Private lots near ONT typically offer 24-hour security, fenced environments, and complimentary shuttle services. Because these lots compete for your business, you can often find lower daily rates, especially for stays lasting a week or longer.
Benefits of Off-Site Parking
- Cost Savings: Daily rates are often significantly lower than on-site general or premium parking.
- Reservations: Most private lots allow you to book a space online in advance, guaranteeing you a spot during busy holiday seasons.
- Valet Services: Some facilities offer valet parking, where you simply drop your car at the entrance and hop on the shuttle.
- Additional Perks: Certain lots offer car washing or detailing services while you are away.
Hotel “Park and Fly” Packages
If you have an early morning flight or a long drive to the airport, a hotel “Park and Fly” package might be the most practical solution. Several hotels located near Ontario International Airport offer packages that include a one-night stay and parking for the duration of your trip.
With these packages, you typically drive to the hotel the night before your flight, stay over, and leave your car in the hotel’s secure lot while you travel. The hotel provides a shuttle to take you to the terminal and pick you up upon your return. This can be a very cost-effective way to combine lodging and parking costs into one flat fee.
Comparing Parking Costs at ONT
Parking rates at and near ONT can vary based on the season, the duration of your stay, and how far in advance you book. Generally, you can expect the following price ranges:
- Premium On-Site: $25 – $30 per day.
- General On-Site: $18 – $22 per day.
- Economy On-Site (Lot 5): $10 – $15 per day.
- Off-Site Private Lots: $8 – $14 per day.
- Hotel Parking: Often included in the room rate or available for a small daily add-on.
Note: Rates are subject to change. Always check the official airport website or the private lot’s booking page for the most current pricing.
Accessible Parking and EV Charging
Ontario International Airport is committed to accessibility. All official airport lots include designated parking spaces for travelers with disabilities. These spots are located near terminal entrances or shuttle pick-up points. Vehicles must display a valid disabled person parking placard or license plate.
For those driving electric vehicles (EVs), ONT has introduced charging stations in several locations. You can find EV charging ports in Lot 2 and Lot 4. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and standard parking rates still apply while your vehicle is charging.
Tips for a Smooth Parking Experience
To ensure your trip starts without a hitch, consider these practical tips for parking near ONT:
- Book in Advance: Use the official ONT website or a reputable third-party parking aggregator to reserve your spot. This often secures a lower rate than paying at the gate.
- Arrive Early: Allow at least 30 minutes for the parking and shuttle process, especially if you are using Lot 5 or an off-site facility.
- Keep Your Receipt: If you do not prepay, keep your parking ticket in a safe place inside your car. Many lots now use license plate recognition, but having the physical ticket is a helpful backup.
- Take a Photo: In large lots like Lot 5, it is easy to forget where you parked. Take a photo of the nearest section sign or shuttle stop number with your phone.
- Check for Discounts: Look for AAA discounts, military discounts, or online coupon codes before finalizing your booking.
The Cell Phone Lot
If you are not traveling yourself but are picking up a passenger, do not park in the terminal lots. ONT provides a Cell Phone Lot located at 3350 Shelby St. This lot is free to use and allows you to wait in your vehicle until your passenger has landed, collected their luggage, and moved to the curb. This keeps traffic moving and saves you from paying for short-term parking.
Conclusion
Choosing the right parking near ONT depends on your budget and how much you value proximity to the terminal. On-site lots offer unmatched convenience for short trips, while off-site facilities and Lot 5 provide excellent value for long-term travelers. By planning ahead and reserving your space online, you can focus on your flight instead of worrying about your vehicle.
For more helpful advice on navigating your next journey, explore our other articles on travel tips and transportation guides. Safe travels!