Riverside Revealed: 10 Must-Visit Spots for Every Type of Traveller

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore Riverside’s 10 must-visit spots, ensuring seamless communication while discovering diverse attractions tailored for every type of traveller, from serene escapes to thrilling adventures.

Nestled in the heart of Southern California’s Inland Empire, Riverside is a city brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. From stunning architectural landmarks to serene gardens and engaging museums, Riverside offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to every type of traveller. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, this vibrant city has something special in store for you. Join us as we explore the top 10 places to visit in Riverside, each promising a unique and memorable experience.

 

1. Mission Inn Hotel & Spa: A Historic Gem

Highlights:

• Stunning Mission Revival–style architecture

• Guided historic tours are available

• 360-degree city views from the rooftop

 

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a true icon of Riverside. This world-famous Mission Revival–style building is the largest of its kind in the United States, featuring flying buttresses, archways, courtyards, stained-glass windows, and a majestic bell tower. Take the 75-minute guided tour to learn about the inn’s fascinating history and its famous guests, including several U.S. presidents. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy panoramic views of the city from the rooftop.

 

2. Riverside Art Museum: A Haven for Art Lovers

Highlights:

• Housed in a historic building designed by Julia Morgan

• Rotating exhibitions featuring local and national artists

• Works by renowned artists like Marc Chagall and Takashi Murakami

 

For art enthusiasts, the Riverside Art Museum is a must-visit. Housed in a historic building designed by renowned architect Julia Morgan, the museum showcases an impressive collection of contemporary art. Explore rotating exhibitions that feature both local and national artists, including works by notable names like Marc Chagall, Shepard Fairey, and Takashi Murakami. The museum also offers art classes and workshops for all ages, making it one of the top attractiide for creative m in Riversideinds.

 

3. Mount Rubidoux Park: Outdoor Adventure Awaits

Highlights:

• Popular hiking spot with panoramic city views

• Paved one-mile trail to the summit

• Site of historic Easter sunrise services since 1909

 

Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find their paradise at Mount Rubidoux Park. This popular hiking destination offers stunning views of Riverside and the surrounding areas. Follow the paved one-mile trail to the summit, where you’ll find a historic cross and breathtaking panoramas. The site has hosted Easter sunrise services since 1909 and is rich in local history. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and plan to spend about 1-2 hours exploring this scenic park.

 

4. California Citrus State Historic Park: A Taste of History

Highlights:

• Learn about California’s citrus industry

• Explore citrus groves and taste various fruits

• Interactive exhibits at the visitor center

 

Step back in time and learn about the citrus industry that shaped Southern California at the California Citrus State Historic Park. This unique park celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage through interactive exhibits and beautiful orchards. Explore the various citrus trees, learn about their cultivation, and even taste different citrus fruits grown on the property. The visitor centre offers engaging exhibits that detail the history of citrus farming in California. Plan to spend about 1-2 hours here and consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights.

 

5. University of California Riverside Botanic Gardens: A Botanical Wonderland

Highlights:

• 39 acres of diverse plant life

• Themed gardens, including a butterfly garden and cacti garden

• Scenic walking trails and a tranquil ambience

 

Immerse yourself in a world of botanical wonders at the University of California Riverside Botanic Gardens. Spanning 39 acres, these gardens showcase an incredible diversity of plant life from around the globe. Explore themed areas like the herb garden, cacti garden, butterfly garden, and woodlands. Stroll along the numerous winding trails, enjoy the serene ambience, and appreciate the beauty of nature. Admission is free, and you can easily spend 1-2 hours wandering through this verdant oasis.

Attraction	Highlights	Estimated Visit Time
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa	Historic architecture, guided tours, rooftop views	1-2 hours
Riverside Art Museum	Contemporary art exhibitions, works by renowned artists	1 hour
Mount Rubidoux Park	Hiking trails, panoramic views, historic site	1-2 hours
California Citrus State Historic Park	Citrus groves, interactive exhibits, guided tours	1-2 hours
UCR Botanic Gardens	Diverse plant collections, themed gardens, walking trails	1-2 hours

 

 

6. Riverside Metropolitan Museum: Discover Local History and Culture

Highlights:

• Exhibits showcasing Riverside’s history and culture

• Engaging educational programs for all ages

• Unique artefacts and interactive displays

 

To gain a deeper understanding of Riverside’s rich history and culture, visit the Riverside Metropolitan Museum. This museum offers a fascinating journey through time, with exhibits that highlight the city’s development, its diverse communities, and its role in shaping the region. Explore unique artefacts, interactive displays, and engaging educational programs that bring Riverside’s story to life. The museum is a great place to spend an afternoon learning about the city’s past and present.

 

7. Fox Performing Arts Center: Entertainment at Its Finest

Highlights:

• Beautifully restored historic theatre

• A diverse lineup of performances, including concerts and plays

• Stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture

 

For a memorable evening of entertainment, head to the Fox Performing Arts Center, one of the top fun places in Riverside. This beautifully restored historic theatre hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, musicals, and dance shows. Marvel at the theatre’s ornate interior design, reminiscent of its early 20th-century origins. Check their schedule for upcoming events ranging from Broadway shows to local productions. Book your tickets in advance, as popular shows can sell out quickly, and plan to spend around 3 hours enjoying a stellar performance in this iconic venue.

 

8. The Salted Pig: A Culinary Delight

Highlights:

• Eclectic starters and craft beer selection

• Creative cocktails and late-night ramen specials

• Lively atmosphere perfect for a night out

 

Foodies and Riverside nightlife enthusiasts will love The Salted Pig, a gastropub known for its inventive cuisine and lively ambience. Indulge in eclectic starters, savour their craft beer selection, and try their creative cocktails. The restaurant also offers a popular late-night ramen special, making it a go-to spot for riverside nightclubs and evening gatherings. The Salted Pig’s vibrant atmosphere and delicious food make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Riverside’s culinary scene.

 

9. Explore the Surrounding Areas: Day Trips from Riverside

Highlights:

• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for scenic views

• Joshua Tree National Park for unique landscapes and hiking

• Coachella Valley for wine country and hot springs spas

 

While Riverside itself offers plenty to see and do, its location also makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. Consider taking a day trip from Riverside, CA, to Palm Springs, where you can ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and enjoy stunning views from the top. Nature lovers won’t want to miss Joshua Tree National Park, approximately 100 km from downtown Riverside, known for its unique desert landscape and hiking trails. Another great option is the Coachella Valley, famous for its wine country, hot springs spas, and artistic San Jacinto Mountains.

 

10. Outdoor Recreation: Things to Do Near Riverside

Highlights:

• San Jacinto Mountains for hiking and hot air balloon rides

• Riverside County Parks and Recreation for outdoor activities

• March Air Force Base for historical and military tours

 

For those seeking things to do near Riverside, CA, the great outdoors beckons. The San Jacinto Mountains, part of Riverside County, offer opportunities for hiking, hot air balloon rides, and exploring the scenic beauty of the area. The Riverside County Parks and Recreation system boasts thousands of acres of open space areas, nature centres, trails, and sports parks, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. History buffs and aviation enthusiasts can take a tour of the March Air Force Base, adding a unique historical and military dimension to their trip.

Destination	Distance from Downtown Riverside	Highlights
Palm Springs	73.4 km	Aerial Tramway, scenic views, desert landscapes
Joshua Tree National Park	100 km	Unique rock formations, hiking trails, stargazing
Coachella Valley	90 km	Wine country, hot springs spas, San Jacinto Mountains
San Jacinto Mountains	Part of Riverside County	Hiking, hot air balloon rides, scenic beauty
March Air Force Base	Within Riverside	Historical and military tours, aviation history

 

Riverside may not be as widely recognized as some neighbouring cities in Southern California, but it offers an array of attractions that showcase its unique character and charm. From exploring lush parks like Mount Rubidoux to enjoying cultural experiences at local theatres and museums, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant community. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning an extended stay, make sure to immerse yourself in all that Riverside has to offer.

 

Stay Connected with Airtel on Your Riverside Adventure

 

As you plan your trip, consider opting for an international roaming plan from Airtel to stay connected wherever your adventures take you. With Airtel’s Postpaid international roaming plans, you can enjoy seamless connectivity across 184 countries, ensuring you have access to maps, restaurant recommendations, and travel apps on the go. Stay connected, explore with confidence, and make the most of your time in Riverside and beyond.