Nestled in the heart of Southern California, Riverside offers a surprising array of things to see and do. From scenic nature spots that showcase the region’s natural beauty to enriching museums celebrating history and culture, Riverside entices visitors with remarkable attractions. Iconic landmarks, engaging activities, and an ever-growing food and craft beer scene add to the city’s appeal. Riverside provides easy access to big city sights and amenities with a relaxed small-town vibe.

Historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

The crown jewel of Downtown Riverside, the Mission Inn transports guests to early 20th century Spanish Colonial architecture with its bell towers, flying buttresses and interior courtyards. This National Historic Landmark has welcomed multiple presidents and celebrities as one of California’s iconic hotels. Visitors can admire artifacts, international artworks and the stunning Romanesque Revival architecture on docent-led tours. Special events like the Festival of Lights holiday display illuminate the inn’s elaborate façades. With a world-class spa, fine dining and on-site museum, the Mission Inn immerses guests into Riverside’s rich history.

California Citrus State Historic Park

California’s citrus industry beginnings come to life at this captivating outdoor museum. Situated in the heart of former citrus groves, the park preserves artifacts from an 1878 packing house and 1920s cottage-style home. Fruit labels, tools and machinery tell the story of the innovative growers and companies that built an agricultural empire. Visitors learn how citrus farming evolved and its lasting impact on California’s landscape. Shaded grounds filled with mature trees surrounding the striking buildings make this a peaceful urban oasis. As a designated state historic park, this site pays homage to Riverside’s renowned citrus legacy.

UCR Botanic Gardens

Spanning 40 acres along the University of California Riverside campus, the UCR Botanic Gardens showcase an array of specialized theme gardens. Highlights include the Butterfly Collection with water features and nectar plants, a Waterwise Garden demonstrating dry climate landscaping, and a unique Citrus Variety Grove preserving exotic varieties. Interpretive signs identify an immense collection of plants from around the world across various walkable trails. Eye-catching art installations add splashes of color and whimsy to the grounds. These exceptional gardens offer a convenient place to connect with art and nature in Riverside.

March Field Air Museum

Aviation history comes alive at the March Field Air Museum adjoining March Air Reserve Base. Over 70 aircrafts on display narrate the evolution of aviation technology from World War I bi-planes to modern bombers and fighter jets. Air Force One exhibit highlights include a retired presidential plane and Marine One helicopter. Interactive exhibits let kids try out a cockpit simulator and engage in STEM education activities. Rotating event programming ranges from veteran roundtable talks to antique car shows connecting the community with aviation heritage. The expansive museum complex appeals to military buffs and families through dynamic exhibits.

Riverside Municipal Museum

This expansive museum traces facets of Riverside’s growth through interactive exhibits spanning three turn-of-the-century landmark buildings. The Neoclassical-style National Historic Landmark building known as the Museum or Heritage House spotlights decorative arts. School programs engage kids through a replicated 1870s schoolhouse. Next door at the Archaeological Research Center, visitors dig into findings unearthed locally. Combined with a museum store and pathway along the historic Mt. Rubidoux, this museum campus provides context on Riverside’s rich background.

Fox Performing Arts Center

As Riverside’s premier performing arts venue, the Fox Theater transports audiences back to 1930 with its ornate Spanish Colonial Revival architectural details. Renovations modernized the acoustics and amenities of this beloved local gem while retaining historic character. Broadway musicals, musical acts, comedy shows and more come through on national tours, while resident companies like the Riverside Ballet and Riverside County Philharmonic keep programs lively year-round. With a trendy café and bar enhancing the sophisticated ambiance, The Fox stands today as both a top performance venue and elegant event space.

Riverside Food Lab

The Riverside Food Lab serves up major food hall vibes with its industrial-chic setting focused on farm-to-table fare. Formerly a metal works building, stalls now host concepts ranging from tacos to ramen bowls to poke. Local brews, kombucha and specialty sodas slake thirsts while guests nosh on globally influenced dishes in indoor and pet-friendly outdoor spaces. Live entertainment from DJs and musicians amp up weekend vibes. Stay tuned for rotating pop-up vendors and special events. This hip hangout spot provides a quality, convenient dining option just off the 91 freeway underscoring Riverside’s rising culinary creds.

Castle Park

Nestled at the base of Mount Rubidoux, Castle Park ranks among Southern California’s most celebrated amusement parks promising big thrills. Classic wooden rollercoasters, a double-decker merry-go-round and log ride attract adrenaline junkies while updated rides like Cycle Force keep things exciting. Arcades, miniature golf and concessions like funnel cake make Castle Park ideal for families or date nights. Special holiday events like Ghost Town and WinterFest get locals in the festive spirit. Offering smiles across generations since 1976, this cherished park remains beloved for affordable fun close to home.

Riverside Artswalk

On the first Thursday of every month, Downtown Riverside celebrates local artistry with the popular Artswalk. All are welcome to leisurely explore galleries, studios, shops, cafes and museums showcasing regional creative talent. Art exhibits, live music and street food energize the urban core as the arts community opens its doors. The self-guided Art Alliance-organized walk makes art browsing laid-back to welcome both seasoned collectors and casual fans. Visitors discover emerging voices and appreciate downtown’s continuing evolution as Riverside’s arts and culture hub.

Mt. Rubidoux Park

This city park atop a landmark hill delivers panoramic views, hiking trails and rich history as a community gathering place. Oldest landmarks include the 1920s Peace Tower and hilltop cross honoring Father Junípero Serra. Crisscrossing trails through native chaparral provide paths to the top suited for walking, running or biking. Public exercise stairs offer cardio-building for fitness enthusiasts. Annual events like the Easter sunrise service and Fourth of July fireworks embrace the scenery for reflection and celebration. Sweeping outlooks of downtown Riverside reinforce Mt. Rubidoux status as the city’s scenic gem.

Canyon Crest Towne Centre

For retail therapy and refreshing park strolls, Canyon Crest Towne Centre hits the spot. The posh outdoor mall situated at the foot of Box Springs Mountain contains high-end department stores, specialty boutiques and popular chain stores. Trendy dining options range from pickup counters like Shake Shack to sit-down eateries like Seasons 52. But it’s the lush 12-acre Riverwalk with fountains, streams and waterfalls that encourage lingering amidst the shopping. Special events include a farmers market, outdoor movie nights and holiday activities like snow play. Blending shopping convenience with recreation, Canyon Crest invites both local and visiting shoppers.

From historic sites to cultural attractions to outdoor recreation, Riverside entices visitors to connect with its diverse natural and manmade landmarks. Architecture buffs, nature lovers, arts enthusiasts and families alike discover memorable sights tailored to their interests. Riverside continues to grow its tourism appeal by preserving heritage while cultivating arts and culture. Residents love showing off their hometown highlights that today attract visitors from around the world seeking unique Californian experiences. Those in search of culture, entertainment and enrichment need only make Riverside the next vacation destination.