From its deep-rooted citrus heritage to its thriving arts scene and stunning natural landscapes, Riverside offers something for everyone.
Whether exploring the iconic Mission Inn, hiking up Mt. Rubidoux, or indulging in local flavors at the Riverside Food Lab, this city has countless experiences waiting to be discovered.
Discover all the exciting things this city has to offer and see why Riverside isn’t just a great place to visit, but is a great place to call home.
Riverside is full of unique history, cultural gems, and unexpected discoveries. Here are five fun facts that make this Inland Empire city stand out:
Home of the First Navel Orange Tree – The original Washington navel orange trees were planted in Riverside in the 1870s, sparking California’s citrus boom. One of the original trees, now protected as a historic landmark, still stands today!
The Birthplace of the California Polytechnic University System – The idea for California’s polytechnic universities, including Cal Poly Pomona and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, started in Riverside with the Citrus Experiment Station, which is now part of UC Riverside.
A Guinness World Record for Lights – The annual Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is one of the largest holiday light displays in the U.S. and once held a Guinness World Record for the most lights on a single structure.
A Haven for Aviation History – The March Field Air Museum in Riverside houses one of the country’s largest collections of military aircraft, spanning over 100 years of aviation history.
Hollywood’s Favorite Historic Hotel – The Mission Inn has hosted U.S. presidents, celebrities, and even major film crews. It’s also appeared in numerous movies and TV shows—you could end up as an extra on your visit!
Fun Things to Do in Riverside, CA
Family-Friendly Attractions
Riverside offers plenty of exciting attractions for families, from interactive museums to outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for hands-on entertainment or a peaceful nature escape, these family-friendly spots provide fun for all ages.
GLO Mini Golf
GLO Mini Golf takes miniature golfing to the next level with its immersive blacklight experience. Featuring neon-lit obstacles and themed rooms, this indoor attraction offers a fun and climate-controlled activity perfect for families, rain or shine.
Riverside Game Lab
Riverside Game Lab is a gamer’s paradise, blending classic arcade nostalgia with cutting-edge virtual reality experiences. Families can enjoy retro arcade cabinets, pinball machines, and modern console gaming stations.
The venue also hosts themed events and tournaments, making it a great spot for a bit of friendly competition.
UC Riverside Botanic Gardens
For a more relaxed outing, the UC Riverside Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful escape into nature with over 40 acres of diverse plant collections. Explore scenic walking trails, spot local wildlife, and learn about California’s native plants.
The gardens also host seasonal events and educational programs, mixing fun with learning.
Imaginarium At Ontario Mills
Located just a short drive from Riverside, the Imaginarium at Ontario Mills blends technology and art to create a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
It’s an interactive wonderland filled with dazzling lights, immersive art displays, and hands-on exhibits. Make sure to check out its digital projection spaces, one of the biggest hits!
Outdoor Adventures
Riverside’s natural beauty and year-round sunshine make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic hiking trails on the city’s outskirts to peaceful parks in the heart of town, there are plenty of ways to enjoy fresh air in Riverside.
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Mt. Rubidoux
One of Riverside’s most iconic landmarks, Mt. Rubidoux offers hiking with picturesque panoramic views of the city.
The paved trail, leading to a historic cross and monument at the summit, is family-friendly and popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists. It's especially breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.
Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park is a peaceful urban escape featuring green spaces, lakes, and picnic areas. Enjoy fishing, paddle boating, and playgrounds, while the park’s rose garden and historic boathouse add to its charm. With plenty of shade and open space, it’s a great spot for a relaxing day outdoors.
Bridge to Nowhere & Santa Ana River Trails
The Bridge to Nowhere hike is an adventure just outside of Riverside, which leads to an abandoned bridge deep in the San Gabriel Mountains.
For those looking for a more leisurely outdoor experience, the Santa Ana River Trail offers miles of biking and walking paths along the river, connecting Riverside to nearby communities.
Box Springs Mountain Reserve Park
While technically just outside Riverside’s city limits, Box Springs Mountain Reserve Park is a must-visit for everyone.
This sprawling nature reserve features rugged trails, sweeping views, and local wildlife, such as bighorn sheep.
Whether hiking, mountain biking, or just enjoying the fresh air, it’s a great place to experience Southern California’s natural beauty.
Culture & History
Riverside offers a mix of heritage sites, museums, and artistic landmarks. Thanks to its citrus industry roots to its vibrant arts scene, the city provides plenty of opportunities to explore its past and present through a cultural lens.
California Citrus State Historic Park
This open-air museum celebrates Riverside’s role as the birthplace of California’s citrus industry. Stroll through fragrant orange groves, learn about the industry’s impact on the state, and even enjoy fresh citrus tastings. The park’s scenic setting and historic exhibits make it a unique and educational experience for all ages.
The March Field Air Museum
A must-visit for aviation enthusiasts, the March Field Air Museum showcases over 80 historic aircrafts, from World War I planes to modern fighter jets. Interactive exhibits and veteran docents bring military aviation history to life, making it an engaging destination for everyone. Make sure to snap a photo next to the museum’s outdoor aircraft displays!
The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa
A historic gem in downtown Riverside, The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa is the largest Mission Revival-style building in the U.S.
Admire its stunning architecture, explore its rich history on a guided tour, or simply enjoy its luxurious dining and spa offerings.
The inn is also famous for its annual Festival of Lights, which we cover in more detail below.
The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of the Riverside Art Museum
Dedicated to celebrating Chicano art and culture, "The Cheech" is home to one of the most extensive collections of Chicano art in the world! The museum highlights the diversity and depth of Chicano creativity with rotating exhibits, murals, and contemporary works. It’s a must-see destination for art lovers and anyone interested in cultural expression.
Entertainment & Events
Riverside offers a dynamic mix of entertainment, from lively nightlife spots to cultural performances and seasonal festivals. Whether you’re looking for a night out, a great meal, or a mix of both, there’s always something happening in this Inland Empire city.
Fox Performing Arts Center
Hosting concerts, Broadway-style shows, and comedy performances, this historic theater is the heart of Riverside’s performing arts scene. The beautifully restored venue, originally built in the 1920s, offers an intimate setting with stunning architecture. Whether you’re catching a musical, a stand-up act, or a live band, the Fox is a top spot for entertainment in Riverside.
Riverside Food Lab
Riverside’s first food hall, the Riverside Food Lab, is a must-visit for foodies looking for diverse and delicious options. With a mix of global cuisines, craft beer, and artisanal desserts, it’s a great place to grab a bite and people-watch. The open-concept space also hosts live music and events, adding to your overall experience.
Riverside Airshow
This annual event brings aviation enthusiasts together for an exciting day of aerial performance and historic aircraft displays. Featuring stunt planes, military jets, and parachute demonstrations, the Riverside Airshow offers a thrilling experience. There’s also plenty to eat and do, making it a fun outing for the whole group.
Riverside Festival of Lights
One of Riverside’s most beloved traditions, the Festival of Lights transforms the Mission Inn and downtown into a dazzling holiday wonderland. Millions of twinkling lights, live entertainment, ice skating, and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere. Drawing thousands of visitors from all over Southern California, this event is a must-see during the holiday season.
Plan Your Visit to Riverside, CA
Riverside is a city that truly has it all. Whether you’re exploring the iconic citrus groves, taking in a show at the Fox Performing Arts Center, or enjoying the scenic trails of Mt. Rubidoux, there’s always something new to discover and something timeless to revisit. It’s no wonder you want to visit or even move to this Southern California city.
At Century Communities, we know that finding the right place to call home is about more than just a house—it’s about being part of a vibrant, thriving community. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our new home communities in and around Riverside, offering thoughtfully designed homes in prime locations. Explore our new homes for sale in Riverside, CA today!
Riverside California FAQ
What is Riverside known for?
Riverside is famously known as the birthplace of California’s citrus industry, especially the navel orange. The city also features historic landmarks like the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a strong educational presence with the University of California, Riverside (UCR).
What is the climate like in Riverside?
Riverside has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Summer temperatures often reach the 90s and above, while winter daytime highs typically stay in the 60s.
Does Riverside have a nightlife?
Although Riverside isn’t known for a bustling club scene, it offers a vibrant nightlife with craft breweries, cocktail bars, and live music venues. Downtown Riverside is the go-to area for evening entertainment, with spots like ProAbition and Lake Alice Trading Co. offering drinks, dancing, and live performances. For a more laid-back vibe, local breweries and wine bars provide great options for a fun night out.
