Attractions and Places To See around Riverside - Top 20

Riverside is rich in history. You can explore the iconic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, a National Historic Landmark known for its stunning architecture and annual Festival of Lights. Another significant site is the Fox Performing Arts Center, famous for hosting the first public screening of "Gone with the Wind." Don't miss the beautifully preserved Heritage House, a Victorian mansion offering a glimpse into Riverside's early days.

Yes, Riverside offers several natural attractions. You can visit the California Citrus State Historic Park to learn about the region's citrus industry, or wander through the lush 40-acre UC Riverside Botanic Gardens. For outdoor recreation, Mount Rubidoux provides hiking trails with panoramic city views, and Wegerzyn Gardens Metropark features meticulously landscaped gardens and a Tree Walk.

Riverside boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture showcases an extensive collection of Chicano art. You can also visit the Riverside Art Museum (RAM), housed in a historic building, or the March Field Air Museum for a look at aviation history. The Mission Inn Museum offers insights into the history of the iconic hotel.

Absolutely! Families can enjoy Castle Park, an amusement park with rides, miniature golf, and a water playground. The Taylorsville Dam area is also family-friendly, offering trails for walking. Additionally, Wegerzyn Gardens Metropark is a wonderful botanical garden suitable for all ages.

The Riverside area offers various trails for hiking and cycling. You can explore the Orange Trail for a relaxing hike through the forest, or utilize the Santa Ana River Trail for walking and biking. For more options, check out the cycling routes in the Cycling around Riverside guide, or discover easy hikes in the Easy hikes around Riverside guide.

For easy hikes, consider the Orange Trail, which provides a well-maintained and shaded environment. The Wooden Bridge on Yellow and Orange Trails is part of a network of small, accessible paths through the forest. You can find more easy options, such as the Buckeye and Mad River Recreational Trails loop, in the Easy hikes around Riverside guide.

While specific dog-friendly designations for all attractions are not listed, many outdoor areas like Fairmount Park and sections of the Santa Ana River Trail are generally welcoming to leashed dogs. Always check local regulations for specific trails or parks before visiting with your pet.

Many attractions and trailheads offer dedicated parking. For example, the Taylorsville Dam has an easily accessible parking lot. The Fifth Third Gateway Park and Ride Facility is a sizable parking area with restrooms and access to the Creekside Trail, making it a popular starting point for runs and rides.

Riverside is home to several architecturally significant buildings. Beyond the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, you can admire the Beaux-Arts classical style of the Riverside County Historic Courthouse, designed to mimic the Grand Palace of Fine Arts in Paris. The Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside, built in English Gothic style, also features unique Arizona sandstone construction and stained-glass windows.

Yes, Mount Rubidoux is a prominent landmark offering hiking trails that lead to its summit, providing panoramic views of the city. It's particularly scenic during sunrise or sunset. Additionally, Wegerzyn Gardens Metropark offers beautiful vistas within its meticulously designed gardens.

The Santa Ana River Trail provides excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and bird watching along its network of paths that run past various parks. Kayaking is also an option in certain sections of the river, especially within areas like Whitewater Preserve.

The Taylorsville Dam is a significant man-made monument, measuring 2,980 feet long and 67 feet high, located on the Great Miami River. It can store about 60.62 billion gallons of water. The area around the dam is popular for running various trails that lead beautifully through the forest, offering a chance to enjoy nature.