Explore Riverside: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Southern California, don’t overlook the City of Riverside. This vibrant and diverse city has something to offer for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs to foodies and art lovers. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, budget-friendly tips, and more.
Top Attractions
One of the most popular attractions in Riverside is the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa. This historic hotel, which dates back to the late 1800s, is a stunning example of Mission Revival architecture and features a collection of eclectic art and artifacts from around the world.
If you’re interested in history, check out the Riverside Metropolitan Museum. This museum has exhibits on local history, natural history, and anthropology, as well as rotating exhibits on various topics.
For a fun family-friendly activity, head to Castle Park. This amusement park features rides, mini-golf, an arcade, and more.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, check out the Riverside Art Museum. This museum showcases contemporary art from local and regional artists and hosts events and workshops throughout the year.
Another hidden gem is the California Citrus State Historic Park. This park, located just outside of Riverside, is a celebration of the region’s citrus heritage and features groves of orange, lemon, and grapefruit trees, as well as a museum and interpretive exhibits.
Food Scene
When it comes to food, Riverside has a lot to offer. For a taste of Southern California’s famous Mexican food, head to Tio’s Tacos. This quirky restaurant features a sculpture garden made from recycled materials and serves up delicious tacos, burritos, and more.
For a more upscale dining experience, check out duane’s Prime Steaks and Seafood. This elegant restaurant is located in the historic Mission Inn Hotel and Spa and offers a menu of classic American dishes with a modern twist.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Riverside. Many of the city’s museums and parks offer free admission, including the Riverside Art Museum and the California Citrus State Historic Park.
You can also save money by taking advantage of the city’s bike-share program. Riverside has a network of bike lanes and trails that make it easy to get around on two wheels.
Outdoor Adventures
Riverside is surrounded by natural beauty, including nearby mountains and beaches. If you’re looking for a scenic hike, head to Mount Rubidoux. This popular hiking spot offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
For a day at the beach, head to nearby Huntington Beach. This popular beach destination is known for its surfing and lively boardwalk.
Historical Landmarks
Riverside has a rich history, and there are plenty of landmarks and sites to explore. The Riverside Historic District is a great place to start. This neighborhood is home to many well-preserved Victorian and Craftsman-style homes.
The Sherman Indian Museum is another must-visit for history buffs. This museum tells the story of the Sherman Indian School, which was established in the late 1800s to assimilate Native American children into mainstream American culture.
Family-Friendly Activities
In addition to Castle Park, there are plenty of other family-friendly activities in Riverside. The Riverside Children’s Theatre is a great place to catch a family-friendly show, and the Riverside Discovery Center is a hands-on science museum that kids will love.
The Riverside Aquarium is another fun attraction. This aquarium features a variety of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, consider taking a walking tour of Riverside’s historic cemeteries. These cemeteries are home to many notable figures from Riverside’s past, including citrus barons and early pioneers.
You can also explore Riverside’s street art scene. The city has a vibrant and growing collection of murals and public art installations, many of which are tucked away in unexpected places.
Natural Wonders
In addition to Mount Rubidoux, there are plenty of other natural wonders to explore in Riverside. The Box Springs Mountain Reserve is a popular spot for hiking and bird-watching, and the Santa Ana River Trail is a great place to bike or jog.
The Riverside Botanic Gardens are another must-visit for nature lovers. This 40-acre garden features a wide variety of native and exotic plants, as well as several hiking trails.
Vibrant Nightlife
Riverside has a growing nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to choose from. The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa is a great place to start. This historic hotel has several bars and restaurants, as well as live music and entertainment on the weekends.
The Riverside Downtown Pedestrian Mall is another popular spot for nightlife. This outdoor shopping and dining district is home to several bars and nightclubs, as well as street performers and live music.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for a taste of local flavor, head to the Riverside Farmers Market. This market takes place every Saturday morning and features fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts.
The Riverside Night Market is another great option. This monthly market features food vendors, live music, and a variety of handmade and vintage goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Riverside is just a short drive from both the mountains and the beach. Big Bear Lake is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities, while Huntington Beach is a lively beach destination with plenty of dining and entertainment options.
Cultural Immersion
Riverside has a diverse population and a rich cultural heritage. The Riverside Art Museum and the Riverside Metropolitan Museum both offer exhibits and programs that celebrate the city’s cultural diversity.
The annual Riverside Lunar Festival is another great way to experience the city’s culture. This festival celebrates the Lunar New Year with food, music, and traditional performances.
Art and Music Scene
Riverside has a thriving arts community, with several galleries and performance spaces throughout the city. The Fox Performing Arts Center is a historic theater that hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year.
The Riverside Community Arts Association is another great resource for art lovers. This nonprofit organization offers classes, workshops, and exhibitions for artists of all ages and skill levels.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Riverside is on foot. The city offers several walking tours, including a historic downtown tour, an art and architecture tour, and a ghost tour.
For a self-guided tour, check out the Riverside Heritage Trail. This trail takes you through some of the city’s most historic and interesting neighborhoods, including the historic downtown district and the Wood Streets neighborhood.
Architectural Marvels
Riverside is home to some stunning examples of architecture, from historic homes to modern buildings. The Gless Ranch neighborhood is a great place to start. This neighborhood is home to several well-preserved Victorian homes.
The Riverside City Hall is another architectural marvel. This modernist building was designed by famed architect Richard Neutra and features a distinctive glass façade.
Historical Sites
Finally, no visit to Riverside would be complete without a trip to the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa. This historic hotel is a landmark in the city and has hosted several U.S. Presidents and other notable figures throughout its history.
The California Citrus State Historic Park is another must-visit for history buffs. This park celebrates the region’s citrus heritage and features interpretive exhibits on the history of citrus farming in California.
As you can see, Riverside has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, food, or culture, you’ll find plenty to explore in this vibrant and diverse city.