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

Romantic Weekend: Explore Riverside, California

Riverside, California offers a charming and romantic getaway for couples. Take a romantic walk along the historic Mission Inn, which is iconic for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Indulge in the local wineries and craft beer scene or explore the nearby vibrant city of Los Angeles for a day trip filled with love and adventure.

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 Delights: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!

Riverside, located in southern California, offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with a plethora of attractions and activities. Visit the renowned March Field Air Museum, where kids can explore fascinating displays of historic aircraft. Take a scenic stroll through the stunning California Citrus State Historic Park, where families can learn about the region's rich citrus heritage and enjoy picnicking amidst fragrant orange groves. End the day by enjoying thrilling rides and entertainment at Castle Park, an amusement park featuring mini-golf, batting cages, and roller coasters for a fun-filled adventure the whole family will love.

Riverside Delights: A 3 Day Family Adventure

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.