Riverside Adventure: A 3-Day Budget Guide

Discover Riverside's hidden gems without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Riverside, located in Southern California, offers several affordable attractions that are perfect for limited-budget travelers. You can go hiking in Mount Rubidoux or explore exhibits at the Riverside Art Museum for free. For a nominal fee, you can take a stroll through the botanical gardens or visit the historic Mission Inn.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Riverside Roots

  • Check into The Mission Inn Hotel, a historic hotel known for its Spanish and Mediterranean architecture
  • Visit the Riverside Art Museum to explore the local art scene
  • Take a tour of the California Citrus State Historic Park to learn about the area's citrus industry roots
  • Grab a bite at Riverside Food Lab, a food hall with a variety of options from tacos to sushi
  • Catch a show at the Fox Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored theater that hosts concerts and plays
Day 2

Nature Escape

  • Hike the trails at Mount Rubidoux Park for stunning views of the city
  • Visit the California Museum of Photography to see stunning exhibits showcasing the history of photography
  • Drive to Lake Perris State Recreation Area for a picnic lunch and water activities like fishing and kayaking
  • Head back to Riverside for dinner at The Salted Pig, a gastropub serving up delicious American fare
  • Catch a movie at the Riverside Plaza Regal Cinemas, a retro-style theater with a classic marquee
Day 3

Riverside History

  • Step back in time at the Riverside Metropolitan Museum to learn about the city's past
  • Take a stroll through the historic neighborhood of Heritage House for a glimpse into Victorian-era Riverside
  • Grab lunch at The Tamale Factory, a local favorite serving up delicious tamales
  • Tour the University of California, Riverside campus and visit the Botanic Gardens
  • End the day with dinner at Tio's Tacos, a quirky restaurant with a whimsical outdoor art display made from recycled materials.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Riverside

Welcome to the land of citrus and sunshine, where the palm trees sway and the smog never quite clears. This is Riverside - a city that's as quirky as it is charming, and as delicious as it is...well, smoggy.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Experience Riverside's Culture in a Day

Visiting Riverside, United States as a tourist promises an exciting experience with plenty to see and do. Explore the city's rich historical heritage with visits to the Mission Inn Museum and Riverside Art Museum. Take a peaceful stroll through Fairmount Park or tantalize your taste buds with a visit to one of the city's many charming cafes and restaurants.

Riverside's Thrilling Family Getaway: 2 Days of Fun

Riverside, located in southern California, offers a perfect destination for a family friendly trip. Known for its abundance of parks, the city provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. With attractions like the Riverside Metropolitan Museum and Castle Park, families can explore the city's history and enjoy thrilling rides and games, making Riverside an ideal choice for a memorable and enjoyable family getaway.

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.

Experience Romance: 5 Days in Riverside, USA

Riverside in United States offers the perfect romantic getaway for couples who enjoy the slow-paced lifestyle. With its charming historic downtown, the city offers a plethora of opportunities to explore art and culture, indulge in delectable meals at local restaurants and retreat in cozy boutique hotels. A visit to the scenic parks and gardens, such as the California Citrus State Historic Park, will make your romantic trip unforgettable.