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

Riverside Romance: A Perfect Couples Getaway

A romantic trip to Riverside, United States guarantees stunning views of the city and an abundance of activities for couples. Explore the historical Mission Inn Hotel and Spa, take a stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens, and end the day with a romantic dinner at the top-rated Las Campanas restaurant. With its perfect blend of history, culture, and romance, Riverside offers an unforgettable experience for any couple in love.

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.

Escape to Riverside: A 3-Day Adventure

A romantic trip to Riverside, United States promises stunning vistas, vibrant culture and plenty of outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the charming streets of Downtown Riverside, exploring the hidden gems of Mount Rubidoux Park and savoring some fine dining experiences in the city. Stunning riverfront views, live entertainment and luxurious accommodations add to the charm of a romantic getaway in Riverside.

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.