Heritage House Museum

The Victorian-era Heritage House Museum provides a glimpse into Riverside’s early elegance as a wealthy citrus colony. Built in 1884 by prominent grower Rufus T. Smith, the striking Queen Anne-style now houses period furnishings and local history exhibits. Inside, visitors admire intricately turned woodwork, beveled glass windows and ornate décor under vaulted ceilings. Changing displays highlight aspects of life during Riverside’s 19th century heyday, enhanced by costumed docents and special events. Wander the lush grounds and enclosed porch during a tour for free.

Riverside Artswalk

Every first Thursday, downtown Riverside celebrates local creativity with the popular Artswalk along Main and neighboring streets. From 5-9 p.m. art galleries, shops, museums, studios and eateries stay open late welcoming all to explore the urban core’s creative community for free. Pop-up street performances and outdoor vendors further bring artistic energy outside as visitors leisurely walk between venues displaying works across mediums by regional talents. Guides help guests craft unique paths during these lively, approachable nights to meet artists and discover hidden gems in the city’s burgeoning creative scene.

Fairmount Park

In the heart of Riverside, idyllic Fairmount Park transports nature lovers out of the urban zone with sprawling lawns and lush landscapes perfect for rejuvenating strolls. The site originated from 19th century citrus groves before evolving into a vital public green space framed by native sycamore and oak trees. Visitors find open grass areas for games, picnic tables, and stone bridges crossing the spring-fed creek. Those seeking exercise will appreciate the paved walking paths weaving through gardens planted with herbs, cactus and more drought-tolerant flora. Quiet benches tucked amid flower beds further enhance Fairmount Park’s designation as Riverside’s urban oasis.

UCR Botanic Gardens

The University of California Riverside Botanic Gardens invites guests to explore an oasis of plants from around the world across 40 acres of specialized theme gardens open daily. Walkways wind through diverse landscape exhibits like the Butterfly Collection with water features and nectar plants, an Arid Zone demonstrating drought-tolerant choices and the unique Citrus Variety Grove preserving exotic citrus varieties. Interpretive signs identify an immense collection spanning geography and ecosystems. Eye-catching art installations add an element of whimsy and wonder to a stroll through the impressive grounds that provide a relaxing escape into nature.

Riverside Food Lab

The open-air Riverside Food Lab satisfies foodies cravings for global street fare through its casual food hall concept. Visitors browse stalls inside converted metal industrial buildings to taste affordable tacos, banh mi, elote bowls and other multicultural snacks. Many vendors offer smaller plates perfect for mixing and matching across cuisines. Those seeking sit-down dining can choose from poke bowls to pho in the central eatery. Picnic-style seating fills both indoor and pet-friendly outdoor areas. Regular live music and entertainment add to lively atmosphere where wallet-friendly dishes encourage trying new flavors.

Riverside Art Museum

Focused on emerging and established California artists, the Riverside Art Museum gathers compelling works across mediums under one roof available for free perusal. Expansive galleries showcase painting, sculpture, photography and installations reflecting regional creativity and innovation. Museum guides provide helpful context bolstering visitor comprehension and appreciation of modern artworks. Public events open to all include artist talks, hands-on art workshops for kids and avant-garde film screenings aiming to breakdown barriers to contemporary art access and understanding.

Mt. Rubidoux

For panoramic outlooks of downtown Riverside, locals take to the trails of beloved Mt. Rubidoux park7516@@. Hikers and runners make their way up the landmark hill along criss-crossing gravel paths under native chaparral to the smooth rock outcropping at the highest vista point. Benches scattered at scenic spots are ideal for picnics or quiet contemplation overlooking the sprawling city below. Interpretive signs along the way detail landmarks while annual civic events like Easter sunrise service and Fourth of July fireworks embrace Mt. Rubidoux status as Riverside’s scenic wonder.

Festival of Lights

From Thanksgving through New Year’s, Riverside’s unforgettable Festival of Lights illuminates dazzling holiday displays along Mission Inn Avenue. The Mission Inn Hotel glows at the epicenter with animated lights dancing across its Spanish Colonial towers, arches and bell towers. Shops, restaurants and side streets join the festive atmosphere with themed décor while free horse-drawn carriage rides clop past the lively crowds. Free to observe, these glimmering seasonal attractions bring cozy holiday spirit to downtown’s charming historic core.

Riverside Live Steamers Railroad Museum

All aboard for free unlimited train rides every Sunday behind scale model locomotives at the Riverside Live Steamers Railroad Museum. This one-third size railway built and operated by enthusiasts thrills kids with rides that circle through mini tunnels, trestles, depots and block buildings mimicking real-life railways. Inside the clubhouse brimming with memorabilia, young conductors can sound horns and ring bells on retired model engines. For smiles across generations, this hidden gem tucked into Hunters Park charms through an impressive display of rail history and passion.

Riverside Marketplace Certified Farmers’ Market

Local growers converge to offer farm-fresh produce and artisan foods each Saturday morning at the open-air Riverside Marketplace Farmers Market. Shop colorful bounty like citrus fruits and vegetables alongside specialty vendors of goods ranging from fresh-cut flowers to breads, tamales and sweets. Activity booths engage kids with create activities while live music from local bands amps up festive community ambiance. The pet-friendly locale at the Riverside County Administrative complex makes this weekend hot spot convenient to incorporate while running downtown errands.

UCR/California Museum of Photography

The UCR ARTSblock in downtown Riverside gathers multiple university galleries showcasing provocative contemporary art free to all audiences. At the interdisciplinary California Museum of Photography, lenses capture profound perspectives on culture, justice and underrepresented voices in rotating exhibits. Thoughtful images displayed in a sleek modern building ask viewers to reflect on the world while public programs expand dialogue. Guests discover both rising talents and legendary greats through a medium that continues to chronicle life’s urgent stories. Multiple galleries at UCR ARTS walkably connect art and social consciousness for free.

From scenic hikes to museum masterpieces, food truck noshing to unique train rides, visitors uncover memorable experiences without draining wallets. Riverside invites guests to connect with nature, arts, culture, history and each other through excellent year-round offerings accessible even on tightest budgets. Free programming uncovers blossoming food and arts scenes while scenic sites let adventure unfold. Open and livable for all, Riverside delivers remarkable experiences gratis for visitors seeking the sweet life.