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4 Day Budget Adventure in Riverside, CA

Discover Riverside: Budget-friendly fun in the heart of California.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

• Check into the Mission Inn Hotel, a historic landmark with unique architecture and a charming courtyard.
• Head to Mt. Rubidoux Park to hike up to the top for stunning views of Riverside.
• Visit the Riverside Art Museum to see the latest contemporary art exhibitions.
• Enjoy a craft beer at Wicks Brewing Company, which offers a relaxed atmosphere and tasty pub fare.
• End the day with a movie at the historic Fox Performing Arts Center.

• Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Simple Simon’s Bakery & Bistro. Try the quiche!
• Take a guided tour of the historic Harada House, a preserved 1915 home in a Japanese farming community.
• Visit the UC Riverside Botanic Gardens to see a vast array of plant species from around the world.
• Experience the vibrant culture of the city at the annual Riverside Dia de los Muertos festival.
• End the day with dinner at The Salted Pig, with its urban-rustic décor and unique “pig-centric” menu featuring house-made sausages.

• Start the day with a coffee at Augie's Coffeehouse, an artisanal coffee shop with a local vibe.
• Go on a scenic drive to Lake Perris State Recreation Area, where visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, and fishing.
• Take a picnic lunch to Fairmount Park, with its vast expanses of green and sparkling lake.
• Visit the Riverside Municipal Museum to learn more about the history of the city.
• End the day with dinner at Tio’s Tacos, a quirky Mexican restaurant known for its unique atmosphere featuring colorful sculptures made from recycled materials.

• Start the day with brunch at The Food Lab, with its locally sourced menu and industrial-chic décor.
• Spend the day exploring the boutiques and shops of the Riverside Plaza, a charming outdoor shopping center with a wide range of stores.
• Visit the California Citrus State Historic Park, where visitors can learn about the history of the state’s citrus industry.
• Catch a show at the Riverside Community Players Theater, which hosts a variety of productions throughout the year.
• End the day with dinner at Punjab Palace, a family-owned restaurant serving authentic Indian cuisine.