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 unique architecture. Other significant sites include the Riverside County Historic Courthouse, the beautifully preserved Heritage House, and the historic St. Catherine of Siena Church, the last church designed by Gustave E. Steinback. Don't miss the Ring's End Bridge, which has spanned its location since at least 1825.

Yes, Riverside offers several beautiful natural areas. Mount Rubidoux Park is popular for hiking and panoramic views. You can also visit the California Citrus State Historic Park to learn about the region's citrus industry amidst fragrant groves. The UC Riverside Botanic Gardens features 40 acres of diverse plant species, and Fairmount Park offers walking paths and a rose garden. For more extensive trails, consider Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park or Mianus River Natural Park, which is perfect for walking, hiking, and dog walking.

Families can enjoy a day at Castle Park, an amusement park with rides and mini-golf. For outdoor fun, Greenwich Point Beach is a great option with sun, sand, and swimming. The East Coast Greenway offers an intermediate, family-friendly cycle route, and Mianus River Natural Park provides trails suitable for all ages.

Riverside boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture is a prominent museum dedicated to Chicano art. You can also visit the Riverside Art Museum (RAM), the Museum of Riverside for local history and anthropology, and the Sherman Indian Museum to learn about Native American history. The Mission Inn Museum offers insights into the iconic hotel's past, and UCR ARTS combines a photography museum with a contemporary art center.

There are several hiking opportunities around Riverside. Mount Rubidoux Park offers trails with scenic views. For more extensive options, explore Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park or Mianus River Natural Park. You can find detailed routes, including easy loops like the Green Loop and Riverwalk Trail, by visiting the Hiking around Riverside guide.

Yes, Riverside offers various cycling routes. The East Coast Greenway provides an intermediate, family-friendly option. For road cycling, you can find routes ranging from easy to moderate, such as the Binney Park – East Coast Greenway loop or the View of Rockwood Lake loops. Discover more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Riverside guide.

Runners can enjoy a variety of trails in and around Riverside. Options include the Greenwich Point Beach loop, which can be moderate or easy depending on the starting point, and the Binney Park – East Coast Greenway loop. For more detailed running routes and distances, check out the Running Trails around Riverside guide.

Yes, the Ring's End Bridge is noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy its historical significance and views.

Beyond the main attractions, Riverside has some unique spots. The Fox Performing Arts Center, an Art Deco gem, hosts various shows. You can also find the intriguing World's Largest Paper Cup, or catch a movie at the nostalgic Van Buren Drive-In Theatre. For dining, Tio's Tacos is known for its distinctive Mexican cuisine and folk art.

Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Highlights like St. Catherine of Siena Church are valued for their architectural heritage, while Greenwich Point Beach is loved as a great place for families to spend a day with sun, sand, and swimming. The trails in parks like Mianus River Natural Park are popular for walking, hiking, and enjoying the scenery.

Yes, Mianus River Natural Park is a dog-friendly location, offering trails perfect for walking your dog amidst natural beauty.

Absolutely. Mount Rubidoux Park is renowned for its panoramic views of Riverside and the surrounding area. Additionally, Greenwich Point Beach offers beautiful coastal vistas.