Riverside Rendezvous: A 4-Day Family Adventure

Embark on a memorable family adventure in picturesque Riverside, USA.

19 July 2023

A family friendly trip to Riverside, United States offers a wide range of activities for everyone to enjoy. Explore the beautiful outdoors at Mount Rubidoux Park or Fairmount Park, perfect for picnics and nature walks. Visit the fascinating Riverside Art Museum or the kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Riverside Metropolitan Museum.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Riverside Charm

  • Check into the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, a stunning historical landmark in the heart of Riverside, with elegant rooms and a luxurious spa.
  • Start your day with a visit to the Riverside Metropolitan Museum, where you'll discover fascinating local history and art exhibitions.
  • Stroll along the enchanting Main Street Pedestrian Mall, lined with charming shops, quirky boutiques, and delectable eateries.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious meal at Simple Simon's Bakery & Bistro, where you can relish their famous fresh-baked goods and heavenly sandwiches.
  • Embark on a relaxing riverboat tour along the picturesque Santa Ana River, soaking in the scenic beauty of Riverside's natural landscape.
  • End your day with some family fun at the Castle Park amusement park, featuring thrilling rides, mini-golf, and arcade games.
Day 2

Riverside's Outdoor Oasis

  • Pack your hiking boots and head to Mount Rubidoux Park, a scenic mountain offering panoramic views of the city and a peaceful ambiance.
  • Grab a picnic lunch from the Heritage Pantry & Cafe, known for their delicious sandwiches made with local, farm-fresh ingredients.
  • Visit The California Citrus State Historic Park, a citrus lover's paradise, with its sprawling groves, interactive exhibits, and tantalizing citrus samples.
  • Take a leisurely walk through Fairmount Park, dotted with serene lakes, charming bridges, and lush greenery, perfect for a family picnic or a game of frisbee.
  • Unwind with a soothing evening at the Van Buren Drive-In Theatre, catching a double feature under the stars with hot buttered popcorn in hand.
Day 3

Diving into Riverside's Cultural Scene

  • Immerse yourself in creativity at the Riverside Art Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of contemporary art and rotating exhibitions.
  • Discover the hidden treasures at Rust Vintage Collective, a whimsical vintage shop with a quirky mix of clothing, accessories, and home decor.
  • Indulge in a mouthwatering Mexican feast at Tio's Tacos, a local hotspot famous for its vibrant outdoor garden adorned with peculiar sculptures made from recycled materials.
  • Catch a captivating performance at the Fox Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored theater hosting a variety of concerts, plays, and dance shows.
  • Spend your evening at Back to the Grind, a trendy coffeehouse that transforms into a live music venue, offering a unique and atmospheric experience.
Day 4

Riverside's Nature Retreat

  • Start your day with a scenic drive to the nearby Mount San Jacinto State Park, where you can embark on exhilarating hikes, spot wildlife, or ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
  • Grab a delicious breakfast at Pancakes, an adorable local diner known for its fluffy pancakes and mouthwatering breakfast burritos.
  • Explore the stunning botanical wonders of the UCR Botanic Gardens, boasting a diverse collection of plants from around the world.
  • Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Santa Ana River Trail, a picturesque path that winds through riverside parks and offers beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
  • Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mario's Place, an upscale Italian restaurant serving exquisite dishes and offering a cozy, intimate ambiance.

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

4 Day Budget Adventure in Riverside, CA

Riverside, located in sunny Southern California, is a great destination for those on a budget. With affordable accommodations, such as budget hotels and Airbnb options, visitors can explore the city's historic sites, including the Mission Inn and Mount Rubidoux Park. Additionally, there are plenty of free outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking in the nearby Santa Ana Mountains.

Riverside Romance: A Day Trip Guide for Couples

Riverside, United States offers a perfect romantic getaway for couples. The city is home to several parks and gardens, where couples can spend time together in a serene environment. Additionally, the historic Riverside downtown area offers a wide range of dining options and charming shops to explore.

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.

Riverside Rendezvous: A 4-Day Family Adventure

A family friendly trip to Riverside, United States offers a wide range of activities for everyone to enjoy. Explore the beautiful outdoors at Mount Rubidoux Park or Fairmount Park, perfect for picnics and nature walks. Visit the fascinating Riverside Art Museum or the kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Riverside Metropolitan Museum.