City centre Riverside captivates visitors with its Spanish Revival grandeur and historic charm. The legendary Mission Inn Hotel & Spa creates an enchanting maze of arches and fountains along the pedestrian-friendly streets. Preserved 1920s shopfronts house cultural gems like the Riverside Metropolitan Museum and Fox Performing Arts Centre. Explore the eclectic dining scene ranging from upscale restaurants to casual cafes along Main Street. Boutique shops, antique stores, and local artisan galleries offer unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods. The area comes alive during seasonal festivals with the warm California sunshine illuminating the ornate architecture.
The University area in Riverside wraps around the thriving UC Riverside campus. Students bring youthful energy to tree-lined streets where academic life meets residential calm. Explore the stunning 40-acre UCR Botanic Gardens with its diverse plant collections and desert landscapes. Box Springs Mountain Reserve Park offers hiking trails with sweeping valley views. The campus itself features striking modern architecture and outdoor sculptures beneath the iconic Bell Tower. Most attractions are within walking distance through well-maintained paths and green spaces.
Arlington area offers a peaceful retreat in Riverside with family-friendly residential areas and historic palm-lined streets. Victoria Avenue creates a dramatic canopy over manicured gardens and vintage homes. California Citrus State Historic Park showcases the region's agricultural heritage with fragrant orange groves. Galleria at Tyler provides convenient shopping while Arlington Heights Sports Park offers recreational facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. The suburban layout creates a genuine glimpse into local California living. Most attractions are accessible by car, making this area perfect for travellers seeking authentic area experiences.
Magnolia Centre offers a slice of authentic Southern California suburban life with tree-lined streets and mountain views in the distance. This family-friendly Riverside area centers around Riverside Plaza, where chain retailers and local businesses serve everyday needs. Practical rather than touristy, the area gives visitors a genuine look at local daily life. The area connects easily to city centre Riverside via major thoroughfares like Magnolia Avenue and the 91 Motorway. Family-friendly dining options span Mexican, Asian, and American cuisines at moderate prices. Nearby attractions include Fox Performing Arts Centre and Citrus State Historic Park, making this a convenient base for exploring the Inland Empire.
Canyon Crest blends suburban calm with natural beauty on the edge of Riverside. The family-friendly streets wind through well-maintained homes and green spaces. Just minutes from the University of California, Riverside campus and its botanical gardens. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the nearby Box Springs Mountain Reserve with its scenic hiking trails. The neighborhood's quiet atmosphere offers a genuine slice of California suburban life. Easy access to city centre Riverside makes this a perfect home base.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Riverside
Photo by Stephen Seeley
Open Photo by Stephen Seeley
Lake Perris
8.0/10 (178 reviews)
Southern California's outdoor playground offers boating, fishing, and hiking against a scenic mountain backdrop. Explore Native American heritage at the Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum after a morning on the water.
Riverside Convention Center
8.0/10 (311 reviews)
This modern event hub in city centre Riverside offers flexible space for conventions and celebrations. Visitors appreciate the contemporary design with glass sculptures, ballrooms, and award-winning culinary services.
Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa
8.4/10 (179 reviews)
Soak in 19 healing pools at this historic hot spring retreat dating back to 1860. Don't miss "Club Mud" where you can slather yourself in detoxifying red clay for silky smooth skin.
Morongo Casino
8.6/10 (142 reviews)
Why not roll the dice with a visit to Morongo Casino during your visit to Cabazon? Discover the restaurants and its entertainment venues while you're in the area.
Desert Hills Premium Outlets
8.6/10 (1,377 reviews)
During your visit to Cabazon, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Desert Hills Premium Outlets. While you're in the area, find time to visit its casinos.
California Baptist University
8.0/10 (262 reviews)
This private Christian university offers a beautiful 162-acre campus with mission revival architecture. Explore the well-maintained grounds during spring or fall when pleasant weather enhances your experience.
Cabazon Outlets
8.6/10 (1,739 reviews)
Shop premium brands at discounted prices amid stunning desert mountain views at Cabazon Outlets. The copper-domed, open-air centre offers a tranquil shopping experience with 18 designer stores.
Fox Performing Arts Center
8.0/10 (225 reviews)
This historic 1929 theatre, which screened the original "Gone with the Wind" premiere, now hosts Broadway shows in Spanish Colonial splendour. Enjoy premium spirits while experiencing performances in this elegantly restored venue.
"Friendly staff. Quick check-in & check-out. The refrigerator didn't cool enough & there wasn't a switch to turn down the temperature. I had things that I bought that had to be thrown away because it didn't keep them cold enough. There were (what looked like boogers) on the bathroom & living room walls & toothpaste on the bathroom ceiling. A good housekeeper would have noticed them because they were very noticeable. The TV was great! The a/c was great, but automatically turning off in the middle...
"Everything else was great except I wanted to cancel 1 extra night ahead of time and the staff said at the front that they would help but they declined to refund when expedia reached out multiple times. But they claimed it was up to the third party. Not trustworthy whatsoever."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Offering great value package deals on Expedia, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how much a holiday to Riverside costs! Expedia's packages mean less travel planning for you and greater savings.
What are the cheapest months to go to Riverside?
If you're looking to score a cheap Riverside holiday package, consider visiting in January, February and November. You'll generally find better prices on accommodation and flights during these quieter months — perfect for budget-conscious travellers.
How many days is enough for Riverside?
Allow around 2 days for your Riverside holiday if you want to discover all that makes this destination unique. Wander around key neighbourhoods, including Downtown Riverside and Rubidoux. Then head to the top attractions like Mount Rubidoux Park and University of California Riverside Botanic Gardens. With a good itinerary, you can keep busy with room for some rest time too. Want to go beyond Riverside? Consider fitting in a day trip or two.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Riverside?
From top attractions such as Mount Rubidoux Park and University of California Riverside Botanic Gardens to its terrific festivals, a Riverside holiday offers a vibrant mix of experiences. With so much to see and do, it's time to find out for yourself why Riverside is such a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Riverside package deals?
Start your search for a Riverside package deal by entering your preferred travel dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then apply some filters, like "Popular locations" and "Property type," to tailor the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and discover offers that come with big savings. If you don't find the perfect Riverside package deal right away, just play around with your dates and search again. Keep in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Riverside escape underway.
Is it cheaper to book a Riverside holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to give you more bang for your buck. Bundle your car rental, flight and hotel into one great-value price and you could save hundreds of dollars. You'll usually get a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still get the freedom to create a customised Riverside holiday by choosing your preferred airline, accommodation type and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Riverside?
If you have your Riverside travel dates confirmed, book as soon as you can to score some terrific deals. With Expedia, you can typically reserve some flights up to one year ahead of time. Prefer spur-of-the-moment getaways? Our last-minute deals are perfect for jetting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Riverside?
Choose when to get away: Check your calendar and get your bags packed. Your preferred time of year and the available activities will also help you decide when to holiday in Riverside.
Set a budget: Factor in costs such as flights, meals and transportation when calculating how much to set aside for your trip to Riverside. Then, select a hotel that works with your budget, whether that's a wallet-friendly stay or a high-end retreat.
Decide how long to go for: Now that you know more about Riverside, you can work out the ideal length of your break. Pull together a draft plan and give yourself enough time for all the things you want to do.
Bundle your accommodation and airfare: After you've settled on your trip dates and duration, book the ideal Riverside holiday package for you.
Riverside, California, is an excellent destination for family, city-themed, and business-themed holidays. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from educational experiences to shopping at vibrant centres, and relaxing at local resorts. For those planning a special occasion, Riverside offers attractive wedding packages, ensuring a memorable celebration amidst the city's charm.
Shopping
For a delightful shopping experience in Riverside, visit Cabazon Outlets and Desert Hills Premium Outlets, both offering a variety of brand-name shops amidst a vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss Galleria at Tyler for a more traditional mall experience, perfect for finding unique gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
Indulge in the soothing waters of Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa, where rejuvenating treatments await. For outdoor relaxation, explore Cabazon Park's serene landscapes, perfect for leisurely strolls. Just 11.3km away, the Gonzales Community Center offers wellness activities and a welcoming atmosphere for community engagement.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of Skull Canyon Zipline, where you can soar through the treetops in an exhilarating zipline adventure. For family fun, visit Round1 Bowling & Amusement, offering various arcade games and activities. Alternatively, enjoy the scenic beauty of the Santa Ana River Trail, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Nightlife
Riverside boasts a lively nightlife with venues like the stylish Mission Inn Hotel for cocktails and the vibrant The Back to the Grind for live music. For a relaxed vibe, visit The Salted Pig, known for its craft beers and hearty bites, making for a delightful evening out.
Find the best attractions in and around Riverside
Riverside offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for various vacations. Explore local attractions such as event venues, modern universities, and amusement parks. Don't miss the enchanting Riverside Mozart and Debussy performances, as well as the picturesque river views that enhance your stay in this vibrant city.
California Baptist University: This historic institution in Riverside boasts a rich cultural vibe, offering stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. It’s a wonderful place to explore the campus and soak in the academic atmosphere.
Lake Norconian: A picturesque lake surrounded by scenic views, Lake Norconian is perfect for outdoor activities, romantic strolls, or simply relaxing on the beach. Enjoy the tranquil environment while taking in the natural beauty.
Toyota Arena: Located 20.9km away, this vibrant entertainment venue hosts a variety of events suitable for families. From concerts to sports, the arena offers a lively atmosphere perfect for an enjoyable outing.
Best time to go to Riverside
The best time to visit Riverside can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Riverside falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Riverside falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Riverside
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Riverside.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to February and November) for more affordable package holidays to Riverside.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.