Riverside Delights: A 3 Day Family Adventure

Discover endless family fun in Riverside, where memories are made.

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Riverside, United States offers a range of fun-filled activities suitable for all ages. Visit the famous Castle Park, where excitement awaits with thrilling rides, arcade games, and miniature golf. Explore the Riverside Metropolitan Museum, which showcases fascinating exhibits on local history, archaeology, and natural sciences. Finally, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Fairmount Park, known for its picturesque landscapes, picnic areas, and serene lake for paddle boating.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Riverside's Charm

  • Start the day with a hearty brunch at The Salted Pig, where bacon is treated like royalty and pancakes are fluffier than a kitten's dreams.
  • Get your cultural fix at the Riverside Art Museum, housed in a beautifully restored Mission Revival-style building. Marvel at the thought-provoking exhibits and challenge your creativity.
  • Take a stroll down the historic Main Street and pretend you're in a 1950s movie. Explore quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and fuel up on caffeine at Augie’s Coffee, the holy grail of brew.
  • Savor a mouthwatering dinner at Tio's Tacos, a vibrant outdoor eatery adorned with towering sculptures made from recycled materials. It's like dining in a fantastical junkyard, but in the best way possible.
  • End the day on a sweet note with a visit to Casey's Cupcakes, a cupcake paradise where flavors dance on your tongue like ballerinas. Indulge in exotic creations like caramel macchiato or red velvet with cream cheese frosting.
Day 2

Nature's Bounty and Magical Gardens

  • Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at The Mission Inn Restaurant, surrounded by the grandeur of a Spanish-style architecture that would make any fairy tale come true.
  • Journey to the California Citrus State Historic Park and learn about the golden history of Riverside's citrus industry. Sample juicy fruit straight from the orchard and reminisce about simpler times.
  • Unleash your inner child at Castle Park, a whimsical amusement park with rides, mini-golf, and a medieval castle to awaken the knight or princess within you.
  • Immerse yourself in floral enchantment at the UCR Botanic Gardens. Get lost in the hidden pathways, lush landscapes, and tranquil ponds filled with koi fish that seem to whisper tales of magic.
  • Savor a delightful dinner at ProAbition, an upscale speakeasy-style restaurant that captures the essence of the roaring 1920s. Sip on perfectly crafted cocktails and indulge in culinary delights amidst an ambiance of intrigue.
Day 3

Time Traveling and River Cruising

  • Explore the past at the Riverside Metropolitan Museum, where artifacts and exhibits unveil the captivating stories of the region's history. Stand in awe of a life-size mastodon and feel like a true adventurer.
  • Embark on a relaxing cruise along the Santa Ana River in the Riverside Harbor. Let the gentle breeze caress your face as you drift along the water, spotting wildlife and immersing in the soothing rhythms of nature.
  • Head to downtown Riverside for a charming lunch at The Grinder Haven, a local favorite dishing out sub sandwiches that could rival any New York deli. Sink your teeth into layers of succulent meats and fresh veggies, and let your taste buds do a happy dance.
  • Visit the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, a majestic architectural marvel. Lose yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of this historic hotel, where famous guests like Albert Einstein and Richard Nixon once slept.
  • Conclude your Riverside adventure with a picnic at Fairmount Park, a sprawling oasis of greenery. Enjoy a gourmet spread while swans glide gracefully across the lake, bidding you farewell until your next visit.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Riverside, United States by plane is to fly into Ontario International Airport and then take a shuttle or rental car to Riverside.

Car

Driving to Riverside is one option. You can take the I-10 or the SR-60 to get there. It's about a one-hour drive from Los Angeles, depending on traffic. There are parking spots throughout the city, including two parking garages and many surface lots.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Riverside so it is not possible to get there by train.

Boat

As Riverside is a landlocked city, there is no way to get there by boat.

Bus

Taking a bus from Los Angeles to Riverside is one way to get there. Greyhound has a bus station in Riverside that has services from Los Angeles.

More travel plans

Riverside in 2 Days: Budget-Friendly Fun!

A trip to Riverside, United States for people on a limited budget is an affordable way to explore California without breaking the bank. You can enjoy natural beauty and cultural attractions without overspending. Tour the historic downtown area, visit popular parks like Mount Rubidoux and explore local museums on a budget-friendly trip to Riverside.

Riverside: A Budget-Friendly Day of Fun

Riverside, located in southern California, proves to be a budget-friendly destination for travelers aiming to explore without breaking the bank. With cost-effective lodging options, such as Airbnb rentals or hostels, coupled with free attractions like the California Citrus State Historic Park, one can keep expenses low while soaking up the city's natural beauty and history. To further save money, visitors can also opt for walking or biking tours, which allow them to appreciate the city's landmarks and culture at a leisurely pace.

Riverside on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun

Visiting Riverside, United States on a limited budget can still offer a great travel experience. Opt for affordable accommodations like budget hotels or vacation rentals. Explore attractions in the Riverside area like the California Citrus State Historic Park and Mount Rubidoux Park for free or low cost entertainment.

Riverside Revelry: A Fun-Filled Family Day Trip

Riverside, located in Southern California, is a perfect family-friendly destination offering a variety of exciting activities. Take your little ones to The Riverside Zoo, where they can enjoy close encounters with animals from all around the world. Explore the lush beauty of the University of California Riverside Botanic Gardens, and end the day with a relaxing picnic along the scenic shores of Lake Evans.