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14 Things to do in Riverside, CA

Riverside is the 12th largest city in California, and it sits about 50 miles away from Los Angeles in the Inland Empire. The city is the birthplace of the California citrus industry. It has a storied history over the last century with the famous Mission Inn and multiple prominent colleges that call the city home. If you are looking to explore Riverside, here are some of my favorite spots in the city. Let me know what I left off in the comments.

Mt Rubidoux

Mt Rubidoux is one of the best accessible hiking areas in the Inland Empire, and it is located right in the heart of Riverside. The mountain can be seen from all over the city as it rises over 500 feet above it. The mountain is well known for the Easter Sunrise service, the longest continuously running outdoor service in the United States, but year-round, it is a great hike that takes you up to a fantastic view over the city. There are multiple paths up and down if you are looking for a more leisurely or challenging hike.

Mission Inn

The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa in the middle of Downtown Riverside has been a popular location for celebrities, presidents, and tourists for over 100 years. Over that time, the hotel has changed dramatically, and it is a fantastic example of the Mission Revival style of architecture. This hotel is a great spot to stay in the city, and just strolling the grounds or eating at one of the restaurants is a fun way to spend a half-day in Riverside. They put on the Festival of Lights display during Christmas, which has been voted one of the best Christmas light displays in the United States. It is busy during Christmas, but it is pretty hard to beat, leading right into our next recommendation.

Festival of Lights

The Festival of Lights has been a city tradition for a few decades now. The center of the display is the Mission Inn, which hosts the event, but the rest of the city gets in the Christmas spirit as well. You can stroll down Main Street, eat at one of the restaurants, visit the shops and vendors and enjoy the warm California holiday cheer. It is the most popular attraction in Riverside each year, and it is a fun holiday event for sure.

Fairmont Park

Fairmount Park is located next to Mt Rubidoux, and it is a large city park with two ponds, ducks, a walking path, and a children’s playground. There is also a goal course here, and it is an excellent spot for a walk in the city. The Santa Ana river trail goes right by the park, and you will often see people using it for workouts and an outdoor escape in downtown riverside.

Citrus State Park

Next up, I recommend checking out the Citrus State Park , part of the California state park system. This part highlights the citrus industry and its role in making California what it is today. The park is like an outdoor museum with countless different types of citrus trees on display throughout the park’s many short trails. There is a museum you can see in the middle with exhibits on the history of citrus in Riverside and Southern California as a whole. The park never seems too busy, but it is a great place to walk around.

Santa Ana River Trail

The Santa Ana River Trail is a network of bike trails that will eventually go all the way to the beach. Riverside has a good portion of that trail that rides past multiple parks along the Santa Ana River, which is usually just a trickle here. The trail is pretty and stays away from the main road for most of the ride. You can access it from multiple areas in the city, but one of the most popular is Ryan Bonaminio park near Mt Rubidoux.

UCR Botanical Gardens

The University of California Riverside is a large school that brings people from all over the globe to Riverside. The school has an excellent botanical garden in the back of its property that is fun to walk through or bring the kids to explore. The garden is free to visit, but you do have to pay to park. It has over 3,500 different plant species to see.

March Field Air Museum

March Air Field Museum is an aviation museum next to the March Air Reserve Base. The museum sits along the freeway, and it has been open for decades. There are over 80 planes on display at the museum, and it is fun to walk around and see them all. There are also indoor exhibits to see as well, and it is a good half day adventure for the whole family.

Drive-In Theater

Riverside has two drive-in movie theaters, and if you haven’t been to one in a while, they are great for a night out at the movies. While most drive-in theaters are closing, these two are still holding strong. There are three screens at the Van Buren Drive-In, which is the main one, and each screen shows two movies each night. You can bring your own food in or grab food from the snack shop and enjoy the films.

Tios Tacos is a pretty eclectic spot in Riverside that is a lot of fun. The restaurant has all sorts of unique and random art with crazy sculptures on display all over. The restaurant is a blast to visit, and it is constantly changing, so you always see something new. Plus, they have some good Mexican food to eat while you soak in all the fun art.

Riverside Food Lab

The Riverside Food Lab is another fun spot in the city for a meal. This food hall has a dozen different restaurants, all operating stalls in the large building. Everything from ramen and Mexican food to coffee and hot chicken is available here. It can be a little pricy, but it is a fun place for a meal.

Lastly, you know I love donuts, and Riverside has one of the San Diego-based Donut Bar locations. This shop makes some crazy donuts with options like creme brûlée and donuts with pop tarts inside of them. It’s fun to see what they have to offer each time I go in, and it is worth the stop in Riverside.

Here is a video I made with all of these recommendations as well.

Let me know what I left off that you like doing in Riverside in the comments.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Best Things To Do In Riverside (CA)

15 Best Things To Do In Riverside (CA)

Riverside is a beautiful city in Southern California and one of the top destinations for visitors to enjoy. You can spend your time enjoying an assortment of activities, fine dining or exploring the many intriguing museums.

The climate in Riverside is almost perfect and this led to California’s second Gold Rush, as you travel through the city you will learn all about this and many other things from its rich history. Let us take a look at the best things to do in Riverside .

1. Indulge Yourself At The Mission Inn Hotel And Spa

If you are looking to spoil yourself and spend some time forgetting about everything you have on your to-do list, then a trip to Mission Inn Hotel and Spa will do just that. In 1876 this building started off as a modest 12 room boarding house and throughout the decades it has expanded and adapted to become one of the finest hotels in the country. There are now 238 bedrooms, full of breath-taking architecture and stunning designs. At one point Riverside was the richest city per capita in the country and so the need for a grand resort hotel was high. Book a night here and you will see what drew 10 previous presidents through the doors and into this work of art.

2. Go On The Rides At Castle Park

Castle Park provides a full day out for the entire family and the kids especially are sure to love it. Castle park opened its doors to the public in 1976 and has never stopped expanding its size to keep up with the demands of the public. There are now 27 rides that are suitable for people of all ages. If you want to practice your miniature golf there are four courses ready to test your skills on. Other areas of interest include carnival games, a water playground and an arcade.

3. Enjoy the Riverside Metropolitan Museum

If you are looking for something fun and free to do then you may want to think about a trip to the Riverside Metropolitan Museum. The museum has over 100,000 artifacts that cover an array of subjects, including anthropology, natural history and history. There are permanent exhibitions in place as well as temporary exhibitions that are held for a short while. The Riverside Metropolitan Museum is split over three sites so it is worth checking out their website in advance to ensure you get to see what you want to see.

4. Learn About California’s “Second Gold Rush”

California is most famous for the gold rush that started in 1849, however there was a “second gold rush” that came to California in the form of Citrus trees. The California Citrus State Historic Park is a living, open air museum that shows of the importance of the Californian citrus industry. The park covers an area of 248 acres and was opened in 1984, it has been designed to look like a 1900’s city park and has an activity centre, amphitheatre and picnic areas. Some of the sweet, high-quality fruits that made this area so famous are still grown within the parks grounds today.

5. Catch A Bit Of History At Fox Performing Arts Center

Sitting in the heart of downtown Riverside is the Fox Performing Arts Center, a beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival style building. The theatre was first opened in 1929 and had a complete overhaul in 2009. The center is most famous for being the first theatre to screen the famous 1939 film Gone With the Wind. There is an ever changing line up of shows to enjoy at the theatre, including both local and national artists.

6. Pay Your Respects At Riverside National Cemetery

Situated on the former site of Camp Hahn in World War I and then a facility for anti-aircraft training in World War II is the Riverside National Cemetery.  The cemetery covers 740 acres of land and has approximately 228,000 graves. The cemetery opened in 1978 on Veterans Day. Staff Sergeant Ysmael R. Villegas was buried here on that day, he himself was a Medal Of Honor Recipient. The grounds of the cemetery are a peaceful place and one where you can come to pay your respects to the service men and women that fought for the United States.

7. Take A Hike Up Mount Rubidoux

Mount Rubidoux in Riverside spans an area of 161 acres and is also the home of the first Easter Sunrise Service in the United States. Jacob Riis visited Riverside in 1909 to give an address to the cities people, whilst he was there he thought up the idea of holding an Easter Sunrise Service at the top of the mountain. As the years went by the services became nationally recognized and many cities across America started to hold their own. The area is very popular with walkers and cyclists who take advantage of there being no road vehicles allowed in the park. Each year the Fourth of July fireworks show launches from the peak of the mount.

8. Enjoy The Exhibits At The Riverside Art Museum

The Riverside Art Museum is located in downtown Riverside in the Mission Inn district. The museum building itself is a work of art that was designed by award winning architect Julia Morgan. Before the building was used as a museum it was the local YWCA facility. There is a mixture of contemporary and traditional artwork on display and the museum holds regular art classes for all ages. If you are planning a visit keep an eye out for book readings, signings and lectures, which are all common place at the RAM.

9. Plenty Of Planes To See At March Field Air Museum

If you like aircraft then you will love a trip to March Field Air Museum. Founded in 1979 the museum was initially called the March Air Force Base Museum and was operated by the Air Force. Nowadays the museum is operated as a non-profit organization and has more than 70 aircraft on display. At the museum you can step through a World War I trench and see the SR-71 Blackbird which was the fastest manned aircraft of its time. You can also see a Vietnam era Fire Base surrounded by helicopters.

10. Enjoy The Universalist Unitarian Church Of Riverside

The story of the Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside began in 1881, Reverend James Harvey Tuttle was preaching a sermon in Public Hall. The sermon was received very well by the local people and so Rev. Tuttle started a mission to find a minister that could establish a church in Riverside. The current church was dedicated in 1892 and has been built in the style of Norma and English Gothic architecture. The brick walls have a facing of Permian age Supai red sandstone, which really is quite unique. The church is a designated Riverside Cultural Landmark.

11. Get Up Close With Some Insects

If you find insects interesting then you may want to consider visiting the Entomology Research Museum in Riverside. There are approximately 4 million insect specimens within the museum, of which 2.9 million have been pinned. There are regular specialist seminars held at the museum as well as a small library and laboratory.

12. Relax At Fairmount Park

If you are looking for a relaxing day out with a few activities to stop anyone from getting bored then you should pay a visit to Fairmount Park. You can walk through the lush grass areas and take in the fresh air before engaging in some of the onsite activities that are available. There are two tennis courts, a playground for the children and a nine-hole golf course. Also there are picnic facilities, barbeques, three lakes and some great sports to go fishing.

13. Try Some Craft Beer At Heroes Restaurant And Brewery

If you want great American food and even greater hand crafted beers then you plan your next night out at Heroes Restaurant and Brewery. Large portions are the order of the day and the helpful friendly staff are there to make sure you enjoy your evening. The craft beer is produced at the restaurant’s brewery by head brewer John Novotny and his passion for his work shines through in the great beers this establishment creates. You can enjoy a beer flight, a pint with your meal and even take some home in a Heroes Growler.

14. See The Lights Switch On At The Festival Of Lights

The Riverside Festival of Lights is now into its 23rd year and if you are in the city at the end of November then this spectacle is not to be missed. More than three and a half million lights are set up in downtown Riverside and with the switch of a button the area comes alive with light. Each year there is also a spectacular firework display to mark this annual event. USA Today has previously voted the Riverside Festival of Lights as America’s Best Public Lights Display.

15 Best Things To Do In Riverside (CA):

• Indulge Yourself At The Mission Inn Hotel And Spa
• Go On The Rides At Castle Park
• Enjoy the Riverside Metropolitan Museum
• Learn About California's "Second Gold Rush"
• Catch A Bit Of History At Fox Performing Arts Center
• Pay Your Respects At Riverside National Cemetery
• Take A Hike Up Mount Rubidoux
• Enjoy The Exhibits At The Riverside Art Museum
• Plenty Of Planes To See At March Field Air Museum
• Enjoy The Universalist Unitarian Church Of Riverside
• Get Up Close With Some Insects
• Relax At Fairmount Park
• Try Some Craft Beer At Heroes Restaurant And Brewery
• See The Lights Switch On At The Festival Of Lights

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Riverside, CA

Written by Brad Lane Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Riverside is one of the largest cities in the Inland Empire east of Los Angeles. Palm trees line the sidewalks of this city of 300,000 people, and stunning Southern California architecture defines the sprawling downtown streets. The historic Mission Inn , at the heart of the downtown district, sets the tone for the rest of the city, with impressive Spanish-Revival architecture that encompasses an entire city block.

This lively downtown historic district is just the tip of things to do in Riverside, and the beautiful weather throughout the year lends to plenty of warm-weather activities. From drive-in theaters in the dead of winter to botanic gardens always in bloom, Riverside encapsulates the many reasons why people move to Southern California.

Other Riverside attractions include historic parks, art centers, and metropolitan museums. And whatever the activity, enjoy views of the Box Spring Mountains jutting on the horizon. These scrambly peaks are enjoyed upon closer inspection at places like UC Riverside Botanic Gardens and Box Spring Mountain Preserve.

Plan your trip with our list of the top things to do in Riverside, CA.

1. Mission Inn

2. mount rubidoux park, 3. california citrus state historic park, 4. uc riverside botanic gardens, 5. van buren drive-in theater, 6. march field air museum, 7. main street mall, 8. riverside art museum, 9. santa ana river trail, 10. riverside metropolitan museum, 11. fairmount park, 12. sycamore canyon wilderness park, 13. fox performing arts center, 14. box springs mountain preserve, 15. castle park, 16. riverside national cemetery, where to stay in riverside, california for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in riverside, ca, riverside, ca - climate chart.

The historic Mission Inn is an aesthetic piece of Spanish Mission architecture that sets the tone for the rest of the downtown district. It occupies an entire block with a castle-like presence. And while this historic hotel has a long legacy in the city, it offers modern comfort and luxury at the heart of downtown.

From a boarding house to bankruptcy and more than one renovation, the hotel's history spans over a century and is felt within the walls and stylish decor. And as one of the best hotels in Riverside, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa allows guests to continue the legacy of overnight visits.

Guests at the hotel stay in uniquely decorated rooms that have been preserved to keep their historic character. Overnight visits also include admission to other parts of the Mission Inn not seen on public tours. For the public, the Mission Inn Museum offers 75-minute, docent-led tours of the mansion throughout the week, and anyone is welcome to experience the elegant lobby on their own.

The Mission Inn is also home to numerous award-winning restaurants including Duane's Prime Steaks and Seafood . Reservations are recommended at this popular surf and turf restaurant.

For holiday cheer, the Mission Inn hosts a Festival of Lights for six weeks at the end of every year. Commencing with an eye-catching "Switch-On" ceremony, over five million holiday lights illuminate the hotel in an instant, followed by a high-flying fireworks show. Alongside the lights, tourists encounter animatronic displays, horse-drawn carriages, and even some freshly falling snow.

Address: 3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, California

Official site: https://missioninnmuseum.org/

Mount Rubidoux is a landmark of the city and home to one of the most popular hikes for residents and tourists. Various paved routes take visitors to the top of the mountain, taking anywhere between one and three miles from any starting trailhead to reach the summit. Cacti and wildflowers line the route, as well as many historical markers that represent the city's past.

A symbolic peace tower spans the trail at the top of Rubidoux, and a large American flag waves proudly in the air. A massive cross also overlooks the city and stone-carved steps are available for sitting. This cross is the site of the oldest outdoor Easter sunset service in the country, a treasured tradition in Riverside since 1909.

The entire Inland Empire is also on display atop Rubidoux with a 360-degree perspective, providing a great place to pack a lunch and enjoy the view. Depending on the route, the trip up and down generally takes between two and three hours, also depending on how much time is spent admiring the panoramic landscape.

Expect to meet other people along the wide trail to the top, especially on the weekends. Visitors will also want to bring their own water along for the hike. It's a dog-friendly trail with leashes required throughout.

Address: 4706 Mount Rubidoux Drive, Riverside, California

This 250-acre state park is southwest of the downtown district and is dedicated to the citrus legacy of the state, also known as the second Gold Rush of California. Colorful citrus groves encompass half of this historic park, demonstrating the significant landscape in California history. And the visitor center tells the story of the citrus industry with interpretive displays and exhibits.

An old-fashioned fruit stand shaped like a giant orange greets visitors at the entrance of the State Citrus Historic Park, as well as tall palm trees. A fully accessible paved trail connects the visitor and Sunkist Center, meandering through the sagebrush and citrus grove environment.

The park offers guided tours of the grove on the weekends, as well as fresh citrus sampling on the back porch of the Sunkist Center. A beautiful gazebo outside the Sunkist Center makes for a great place to enjoy a picnic or fresh piece of fruit.

Address: 9400 Dufferin Ave, Riverside, California

Official site: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=649

These botanic gardens welcome visitors into a lush environment on the University of California, Riverside campus, in the foothills of Box Springs Mountain. Four miles of trails explore the garden's 40 acres, with well-placed benches and interpretive information along the way.

The core of the botanic gardens features a paved accessible path. This wide trail passes by several gardens and areas, spanning from a North American Desert section to a South African Garden and Lilac Lane. Also on the route is an expansive rose garden and butterfly garden.

For more information on the types of plants at the UCR Botanic Gardens, as well as their history of use within the region, docent-led tours are available for school groups and members of the public.

Address: 1 Botanic Gardens Drive, Riverside, California

Official site: https://gardens.ucr.edu/

The Van Buren Drive-In Theater is a favorite for families and cinephiles alike. It's in the historic Arlington district of Riverside, near the California State Citrus Historic Park, and it's one of few thriving drive-in theaters remaining in the nation.

The Van Buren Drive-In Theater retains its novelty while showcasing the latest in blockbuster entertainment. Movies play seven nights a week, with admission prices that easily undercut big movie theater chains. Concessions include a multitude of candy, hot dogs, and other classic movie-going fare.

The Van Buren Drive-In Theater is also home to a popular Swap Meet with over 300 vendors. This shopping market takes place every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from the early morning to late afternoon.

Address: 3035 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, California

Official site: https://vanburendriveintheatre.com/

The March Field Air Museum features over 70 aircraft and thousands of artifacts on display, spanning an aviation timeline of over 100 years. These generations of aircraft are displayed both inside and outside the museum, with several of the bigger planes parked near the hangar.

Spy planes, bombers, helicopters, and unmanned aircraft span the grounds where visitors can inspect these aircraft up close. More aircraft are seen within the interior of the museum, alongside numerous interpretive exhibits and historical artifacts. Forty-five-minute tram tours are also available throughout the day, led by a knowledgeable guide.

Address: 22550 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, California

Official site: https://www.marchfield.org/

Main Street Mall is the main downtown pedestrian corridor, connecting small shops, historic sites, and the local flavors of the vibrant community. It's landscaped with gardens, fountains, and an abundance of shade-producing trees, offering many opportunities to take a seat and enjoy the day.

Historical and cultural attractions also line Main Street Mall, including the Mission Inn , as well as the California Museum of Photography . Patio seating is available at many of the local eateries in this part of town, ranging from casual bites to upscale Italian fare.

Address: Main Street, Riverside, California

The Riverside Art Museum displays rotating exhibits supplemented with a permanent collection of over 1,500 artworks. It's less than two blocks from the historic Mission Inn and always with something new on display. Several mediums are also on display, ranging from lithographs to posters and watercolor paintings.

Every first Thursday of the month, the Riverside Art Museum participates in the city-wide Arts Walk, with free admission and cultural entertainment. The museum is closed on Mondays. And Members of the military and their families always receive free admission to this Blue Star Museum.

Address: 3425 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, California

Official site: http://www.riversideartmuseum.org/

When completed, the Santa Ana River Trail will run 110 miles between San Bernardino National Forest and the ocean at Huntington Beach. The trail is approximately 60 percent complete currently and follows its namesake river the entire way. The portion that weaves along the northwest side of Riverside is fully intact, and it connects several of the city's most sterling outdoor spaces.

Notable stops along the Santa Ana River Trail in Riverside include Fairmount Park and Mount Rubidoux . Farther south, the trail also passes through Martha McLean-Anza Narrows Park , a popular disc golf destination in Riverside. And farther south still, the trail navigates through the Santa Ana River Wildlife Area, which offers a true escape from the city streets.

The trail is paved with compact gravel on either side. It's popular with bicyclists, walkers, runners, and sometimes horseback riders. Water facilities are available at the different parks along the trail, but users should pack in some of their own, especially during the summer.

This downtown museum dates back to the 1920s, when it first opened as the Riverside Municipal Museum. Since then, the museum's collection has grown to encompass a wide variety of artifacts from across the region. And the name change in 1991 to the Riverside Metropolitan Museum reflects that broader focus.

Today, the three prongs of the museum's collection are history, natural sciences, and anthropology. Visitors learn about subjects like native rocks and minerals and the vast citrus industry behind the city's early growth. The entire collection is displayed with eye-catching displays, including 3D dioramas and several photographs.

The Riverside Metropolitan Museum also oversees the Heritage House south of downtown. This restored Victorian estate features authentic turn-of-the-century furnishings and decor, giving a glimpse into an affluent lifestyle of the 1800s. Guided tours are available between approximately September and June.

Note: Due to renovation work, check the museum's website before visiting to make sure it is open.

Official site: https://www.riversideca.gov/museum/

Fairmount Park provides an abundance of open space to explore next to Mount Rubidoux Park. A scenic bike trail circles Lake Evans, the park's defining water feature, and connects other park amenities like a bandshell, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a historic boathouse where pedal boats are available to rent.

A decorative wrought-iron fence encloses one of the most eye-catching features at Fairmount Park–a large rose garden on the south side of Lake Evans. Roses are typically in full bloom by May. This is a pleasant place to stroll, photograph, or host a special occasion.

Address: 2601 Fairmount Blvd, Riverside, California

Encompassing 1,500 acres near downtown, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park is home to wildlife, open space, and a sprawling network of trails. Hiking, running, and mountain biking are popular ways to explore the park. These activities are best done in the early morning or late evening during the summer.

An abundance of wildlife is sighted within Sycamore Canyon, including rattlesnakes, and this wilderness area is also filled with rare and native plants like scarlet monkeyflower and Fremont cottonwood. The Ameal Moore Nature Center at the main entrance to the park provides habitat information and hands-on educational opportunities for kids.

Address: 400 Central Ave, Riverside, California

The Fox Performing Arts Center is a celebrated entertainment venue in Riverside and the main stage for live music, comedy, and festivals in the city. It was built in a Spanish Colonial Revival style in 1929 and first opened as a vaudeville and cinema theater house. A 2007 renovation transformed this historic theater into the modern centerpiece of entertainment it is today.

The neighboring Riverside Municipal Auditorium , operated by the same production company, features a similar lineup of live music and performances.

Address: 3801 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, California

Official site: http://www.riversidelive.com/

Adjacent to the University of California, Riverside campus, Box Springs Mountain Preserve allows visitors to walk right into nature the moment they step out of the car. It's a welcome escape, easily accessible from downtown, and the steady stream of traffic nearby dissipates the farther you head up one of the trails to the top of this 3,000-foot mountain.

A recommended but rugged route to the top, the "M" Trail tests the legs and delivers on a 360-degree view encompassing Riverside and Moreno Valley.

Address: Hidden Springs Drive, Moreno Valley, California

Official site: https://www.rivcoparks.org/box-springs-mountain-reserve/

Castle Park is a popular amusement park on the south side of the city, less than three miles from California Citrus State Historic Park. It features several attractions that appeal to children and adults alike, including mini-golf, a water park, and carnival rides. Other notable amusements include an arcade, live performances, and seasonal festivals.

The Ride Park is perhaps the most popular place at Castle Park. This jam-packed area has over 20 rides, ranging from spinning flying saucers to the Riverside Express train ride. This area of the park has a varying schedule throughout the year. Check the official website for current operating hours.

The mini-golf at Castle Park is also particularly fun and available year-round. It features four highly themed 18-hole courses with several constructed features like windmills and pagodas. Visitors can opt for a single 18 or buy a pass to play all four courses.

Official site: https://www.castlepark.com/

The Riverside National Cemetery is on the other side of I-215 from the March Field Air Museum. It features solemn grounds and available space for veterans to rest in peace. This is the third-largest cemetery operated by the National Cemetery Administration, and any member of the armed forces who have met a minimum active-duty requirement is eligible for burial on the grounds. Recreational activities like walking, jogging, bicycling, and photographing are not allowed at the cemetery.

Luxury Hotels :

• For one of Riverside's most authentic and luxurious stays, check out The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa . This historic place to stay features a distinct Mission-Revival architecture, alongside an elegant tone with several authentic furnishings and decor. The hotel offers 238 guest rooms, including 27 suites, all uniquely decorated for a new experience with each stay. Celebrities, world leaders, and thousands of tourists have enjoyed the escapism offered by the hotel over the years. Other resort amenities include fine dining, a beautiful outdoor pool, and professional services at Kelly's Spa.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• With an excellent location downtown, the Marriott Riverside at the Convention Center is one of the city's most popular hotels. It attracts all types of visitors, but it is particularly well used by visiting professionals. The hotel makes it easy to stay connected with free, fast Wi-Fi; a dedicated business center; and proximity to many professional establishments, including the Convention Center. And for after work, the upscale accommodations and amenities, like an outdoor pool and on-site dining, make it easy to relax.
• The newly built Hyatt Place Riverside Downtown features 125 guest rooms spread between five floors. The hotel has a modern appeal, with stylish common areas and comfortable decor. This sense of style extends into the overnight accommodations, which include spacious guest rooms and one-bedroom suites. Alongside signature Hyatt Grand Beds, each room features dedicated work areas, coffee makers, and free internet access. Select rooms at the hotel are pet-friendly.
• On the southwest side of town, Hampton Inn & Suites Riverside/Corona East provides a quiet place to rest between exploring the city. This reputable hotel has over 130 guest rooms, all non-smoking, with modern and comfortable decor. Spacious suites are also available, featuring an extra sitting room. Every overnight accommodation comes with a coffee maker, high definition TV, and complimentary internet access. Other convenient amenities include complimentary breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a business center.
• For a more centrally located hotel, the Hampton Inn Riverside Downtown is a prime spot for exploring the city. Just a few blocks from top attractions like the Fox Performing Arts Center and the Mission Inn Museum, the hotel is popular for a car-free vacation. Several other downtown amenities, including an abundance of restaurants, are also nearby. And the hotel's 140 well-appointed rooms make relaxing and getting a good night's sleep easy to do at the end of the day.

Budget Hotels :

• For budget-conscious travelers, Americas Best Value Inn Riverside provides one of the best deals in town. The hotel has an excellent reputation for clean and tidy facilities, as well as outstanding customer service at the 24/7 front desk. It's a popular hotel for family travel, in part because of the low overnight rates. The hotel's also in a prime location, steps away from downtown Riverside. The hotel is also a quick 40-mile drive to Disneyland Park in Anaheim.
• On the other side of Highway 91 from downtown, Thunderbird Lodge offers another dependable stay with budget-friendly prices. The hotel provides a blast from the past in a historic property with modern renovations. Overnight accommodations include standard rooms and suites equipped with extra sitting space. Every room features personal air-conditioners, complimentary Wi-Fi, and blackout shades. Some rooms are pet-friendly. Complimentary parking is also available.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

California Touring : For those visiting the Golden State and looking for places to add to the itinerary, our page on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in California can point you towards the best there is to see. Even more attractions can be found with our article on the best places to visit in California , and for an extra-special vacation, the top romantic getaways in California really set the mood.

More to Explore in the Inland Empire: Riverside's neighboring city, San Bernardino also has a long list of fun things to do and places to visit, including the adjacent San Bernardino National Forest. Farther west, towards the desert attractions of Joshua Tree National Park , the city of Palm Springs presents great weather throughout the year and plenty of tourist attractions, and the best resorts in Palms Springs provide upscale places to stay.

Visiting Los Angeles : The sprawling city of Los Angeles is worth a visit. Alongside the best beaches of Los Angeles , the city provides endless avenues of entertainment, culture, and things to do.

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SoCal’s most overlooked weekend escape is a place you’ve probably driven past

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Standing at the corner of Mission Inn Avenue and Market Street in downtown Riverside on a sunny afternoon, the realization was so abrupt that I couldn’t help asking the question out loud: “Wait ... is my hometown low-key charming?”

Growing up, I’d always resented Riverside — often for qualities that might appeal to prospective residents. The community is tight-knit. My maternal grandparents and many of their siblings moved there from Mississippi in the 1950s and ’60s, which means that to this day I can hardly go anywhere without running into a relative or someone I went to high school with. (Once, I forgot my wallet in the Galleria at Tyler mall and by the time I got home, it was found by one of my grandmother’s friends who recognized my school picture tucked inside it.) Riverside is also quiet — I’ve commiserated more than once with UCR alumni about the city’s perceived lack of after-dark options. One of my main gripes there was, as I’d often bemoan to my mother, there’s nothing to do.

Still, it’s hard not to look back at those memories through rose-colored glasses and appreciate how, even when I wasn’t paying attention, Riverside always had my back. In grade school, I’d run through my neighbors’ yards with as much abandon as my own, tumbling through sprinklers and swaying on the tire swings they’d hung years ago for their children, who’d since grown. I think back to dusky evenings when we’d walk our dog through orange groves. Somehow, the picture doesn’t feel so distant from the way East Coast friends describe their own idyllic woodsy childhoods.

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Founded by New York abolitionist John W. North in the early 1870s, Riverside was progressive from the start. In 1873, it birthed the California citrus industry when it became home to the first navel orange tree planted in the United States. Designated a California Historic Landmark in 1932, the tree still stands today .

By the turn of the 20th century, Riverside had emerged as a luxury winter destination, thanks in large part to the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, the largest Mission Revival-style building in the country. Son of the hotel’s original owner and chief developer Frank Miller spent decades traveling the world collecting treasures to display around the property, including more than 800 bells, a symbol that has come to represent the city.

In its heyday, the hotel was a popular stop for politicians and celebrities, including President Ronald Reagan, who honeymooned there, and actor Bette Davis, who married her third husband, William Grant Sherry, at the inn. Now in its 31st year, the hotel’s annual festival of lights attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each holiday season.

Today, to my surprise, Riverside — the largest city in the Inland Empire, with over 320,000 residents — proves more alluring than ever. The revived downtown area hums with new nightlife and dining destinations, and monthly art walks demonstrate a thriving scene. Restaurant options are as plentiful and exciting as in Los Angeles or San Diego — often with a reduced price tag. I try to visit at least one weekend each month and every time, I know that at least one dinner will be dedicated to Tony’s , a fast-casual Mexican spot housed in a Chicago Avenue strip mall, and that I’ll be stopping by Baker’s Drive-Thru on my way in or out of the city for a bean and cheese burrito and “frynormous” bag of fries. During the winter, the downtown farmers market is a gold mine for stocking up on rare citrus varieties.

Time and time again, the city has proved its worthiness as an intentional pit stop, flaunting landmarks such as a Chicano-centered art collection from comedian Cheech Marin, a long-standing LGBTQ+ bar and a state park brimming with citrus trees. This hometown of mine is charming — and it’s heartening to see more people discovering its delights.

Looking to explore Riverside? Here’s everything you need to eat, drink, see and do during an extended stay.

Rise early for coffee and fresh pastries from Arcade Coffee Roasters

Grab a fresh loaf of sourdough at Simple Simon's Bakery & Cafe

Join a chess tournament at Back to the Grind

Start your day with a New Orleans-influenced breakfast at the Beignet Spot

Watch butterflies break out of their cocoons at UCR Botanic Gardens

Honor Riverside history at the Harada House

Marvel at the recycled art oasis that is Tio's Tacos

Take in Chicano art and culture at the Cheech Marin Center

Join the 'So Emotional' Book Club or many other groups at Cellar Door Books

Pull into George's Drive In for burgers and a milkshake

Explore the groves at California Citrus Historic State Park

Order West Coast takes on classic Indian dishes at Cali Tardka

Stock up on vinyl at Penrose Record Room

Learn from the past at the Center for Social Justice & Civil Liberties

Hunt for vintage treasures at the Mission Galleria Antique Shoppe

Fill up on smoked meats and Southern sides at Gram's BBQ

Kick it old-school at the Van Buren Drive-In Theatre and Swap Meet

See a Broadway musical at Fox Performing Arts Center

Hit all 14 food and drink stalls at Riverside Food Lab

Take a mental snapshot at the California Museum of Photography

Go all out with a dramatic hibachi dinner at Ooka

Leave it all on the dance floor at the Menagerie

Admire the festival of lights at Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

Order a steak and a beer at the Sire Bar & Grill

Behold the views at the top of Mt. Rubidoux Trail

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THE 5 BEST Riverside Tours & Excursions

Riverside tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Private Tours
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Scenic Railroads
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Riverside Sites and Bites

2. Riverside Live Steamers

3. Benedict Castle

4. Modern Shuttle Transportation MST

5. Limo Services Riverside

6. Let's Roam

7. sky dive lounge, what travelers are saying.

13 Amazing Things To Do in Riverside, California

Riverside sits as the crown jewel of California’s Inland Empire, proving that not all the best places to visit in California are located on the Pacific Coast. Trade in the picturesque, rugged coastline for this riverside haven set at the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains.

To some, Riverside is a busy college town with the youthful energy sparked by the student bodies of the University of California Riverside campus and Stanbridge University. To others, it’s a cultural hub to immerse in living museums, Spanish-style architectural wonders around every corner, and venues inviting top-tier talent to the city.

Riverside reveals itself in new ways to those who wander its palm-tree-lined streets to experience this cultural, educational, and entertainment hub at the heart of SoCal ‘s Riverside County.

Ready to learn more? Here are 13 things to do in Riverside that you and your crew will love.

MOUNT RUBIDOUX

Rising more than 1,300-ft above Riverside, Mount Rubidoux is a natural landmark where you’ll encounter religious history en route to its summit with panoramic views. Set off on a journey up the 3.5 miles of paved trails, accompanied by other hikers and cyclists, to explore this unique peak of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Mount Rubidoux Park has a significant connection to religion. During your trip to the summit, you’ll encounter the Peace Tower and the Friendship Bridge, built in honor of Frank Miller, who owned the Mission Inn. If the bridge looks familiar, it’s because it’s a replica of a bridge in Alcàntara, Spain. Every Spring, it hosts an Easter service at the outdoor church near the summit, a major event in Riverside since 1909, and now set at the foot of a large cross erected on the mountain.

CASTLE PARK

Ready for family fun during your visit to Riverside? Southern California has lots of amusement parks to choose from, but Castle Park was knighted as one of the tops for families. With roller coasters, water attractions, and more, you can spend a few hours experiencing the park’s medieval fun.

Feel the wrath of Merlin’s Revenge on the park’s signature roller coaster, and shrieks ringing from the Screamin’ Demon ride call you to its thrilling fun. Kids will have their own medieval adventures in Kiddieland or team together to play a round of miniature golf on one of Castle Park’s award-winning courses.

On a hot day, Castle Park’s water attractions will be flooded with fun-seekers enjoying the wet fun. Speed down the water slides and splash around in the water fountains. You’ll make plenty of friends while blasting others with a burst of refreshing water with the spray cannons.

RIVERSIDE ART MUSEUM

Some of the world’s greatest artists are a part of the substantial 100,000-piece collection in the Riverside Art Museum (RAM) . However, this highly accredited museum wasn’t always a place for showcasing world-class art.

Renowned architect Julia Morgan designed the awe-inspiring building now housing the museum in 1929 for the Young Women’s Christian Association of Riverside County (YWCA). Fast-forward to 1967, when it was converted into the Riverside Art Museum, which draws more than 50,000 visitors every year.

Walk the pristine galleries of the RAM, and you can come across stunning works by Takashi Murakami, Shepard Fairey, Kath Kollwitz, and other artists. Its mixed-media galleries of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, and more, showcase the best international and local artists by curating 20 unique exhibitions every year.

MARCH FIELD AIR MUSEUM

The scale of the aircraft exhibited at the March Field Air Museum will truly astonish you. You’ll have even more appreciation for them while reading the detailed information plaques to discover their war missions, and incredible flying feats, worthy of the honor and medals they’ve received.

An unused section of the March Air Reserve Base was repurposed for the March Field Air Museum in 1981 to provide visitors a glimpse into notable aircraft. Tour the outdoor airfield or indoor aircraft hangar to see more than 70 vintage aircraft. Get an up-close look at the SR-17, famous for breaking flight speed records, the Boeing B-29 still dawning WWII battle scars, and prototype aircraft like the YA-9A.

March Field Air Museum sponsors events throughout the year and even opens its doors for free to Veterans on Veterans Day!

CALIFORNIA CITRUS STATE HISTORIC PARK

It’s hard to believe that the southern California Citrus industry started with only two orange trees during the late 1800s. But this farming experiment-gone-right has led to a long-term heritage preserved in the California Citrus State Historical Park , covering 300 acres. Visitors are welcome year-round to squeeze every bit of knowledge from the expert volunteers about the state’s citrus heritage with free guided tours around this living museum.

Bring a hat, because you’ll spend lots of time wandering the open-air museum. Paths take you through neatly planted rows of more than 75 citrus plants, including oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, and lemons.

After your tour, head inside the Visitor Center for museum exhibitions covering the timeline history of citrus plants and their impact on California’s agriculture industry. Then pucker up, because this park saves the best for last with a citrus tasting.

UC RIVERSIDE BOTANIC GARDENS

A walk through the UC Riverside Botanic Gardens feels like an outside classroom that, fortunately, doesn’t require you to take on any more student loans to experience the floral wonders inside of it. This living museum provides an abundance of lush greenery spanning for 40 acres and four miles of trails winding around them.

Southern California’s climate mimics that of Mediterranean regions and arid deserts. As a result, it’s the perfect location to feature many native California plants and other flora that thrives in these climate zones.

Self-guided tours showcase more than 3,500 species of plants, including California buckwheat, California sagebrush, deerweed, mesquite trees, cacti, and even herbs used by Native American tribes who inhabited this region of the state.

MUSEUM OF RIVERSIDE

Riverside is the seat of Riverside County and is the county hub for culture, thanks to venues such as the Museum of Riverside , formerly known as the Riverside Metropolitan Museum. Centuries of regional history unfold before you while exploring the local exhibitions housed inside this museum.

Ever since being established in 1924, the Museum of Riverside has progressed in its mission of educating locals and tourists about the county’s rich history. Its exhibitions showcase everything from regional culture, anthropology, and natural history.

The story-telling exhibitions of the museum continue to evolve. Thanks to generous donations from Cornelius Rumsey of Nabisco, it holds an impressive collection of Indigenous tribes and cultures through preserved artifacts. Learn about the regional wildlife from the past and present through specimens on display.

Also, be sure to stop by venues managed by the museum, including the Victorian-style Heritage House and Harada House.

FAIRMOUNT PARK

The architectural design talents of Frederick Law Olmsted, famous for designing Central Park in New York City, were passed down to his sons, who got their chance to create their legacy with the Fairmount Park in Riverside. With its lake centerpiece, groomed lawns, and acres of recreational pleasure, it’s one of the most beautiful city parks you’ll see. So, be sure to include a bit of relaxation time in your travel plans to see all it has to offer.

Well-kept trails loop around Fairmont Lake for scenic walks around the waterfront. You’ll see the Lakeside Room, popular for events, and pass by trees providing the perfect shade on a sunny day.

Fairmount Park’s 190 acres is a destination for recreation as you putt on the 9-hole golf course or play a round of doubles on the tennis courts.

ENTOMOLOGY MUSEUM

You’ll bug out when visiting the Entomology Museum during your trip to Riverside. The University of California Riverside has a top-ranking program for insect science. It is home to two fascinating museums for getting a better look at insects when they’re not busy bugging us.

No need for jumping on furniture or swatting aimlessly at the air because the Entomology Museum provides a pleasant insect viewing experience for its viewers. Insects are some of the most interesting creatures walking (and flying) the Earth, especially when viewed closely.

The UC Entomology Museum has a catalog of more than four million insects available for you to help identify any insect that comes to mind. Its team of expert researchers will gladly pull out specimens to see the oddly fuzzy bodies of tarantulas, marvel at the colorful hues decorating butterfly wings, and even get a whiff of why the stink bug deserves its name.

FOX PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Every time the red curtains of the Fox Performing Arts Center open, you can expect there to be a world-class live performance waiting to showcase their well-rehearsed talent for your entertainment. As one of the premier venues for indulging in the Riverside Art and Culture experience, this landmark theater continues to attract award-winning shows and more to the Inland Empire.

The traditional Spanish Colonial architecture of the Fox Performing Arts Center, also known as the Riverside Fox Theater, built in 1929, contrasts the 2009 renovations of the Art Deco interior. Its halls produce a golden glow as they lead to the main auditorium.

Every seat of the 1,646 auditorium, whether on the floor, mezzanine, or balcony, has an excellent view of the stage to watch one of the live concerts, theater plays, comedy shows, and other special events happening year-round.

MISSION INN HOTEL

Riverside is home to the country’s biggest Mission Revival-style building. However, the Mission Inn Hotel has come a long way from its boarding house origins. It now delivers a luxury accommodation experience for travelers looking to indulge in Riverside’s finest. 

Spanning a city block, this upscale hotel features 238 uniquely designed rooms that showcase lavish marble detailing, tiled floors each hand-painted by artisans, and stylish furnishings, combined with updated tech for a modern stay. Splurge on the top-floor Mission rooms, where you’ll get incredible views from your spacious suite.

From the moment you walk beneath the arched entrance, you’ll receive the VIP treatment while enjoying a host of amenities. Lounge in the tranquil Alhambra Courtyard or explore the Mission Inn Museum covering the hotel’s history from its start as the Glenwood Cottage.

If you’re around for a weekend visit, spend a few moments inside one of the hotel’s chapels on Sunday before enjoying its award-winning Sunday Brunch. Or plan a winter vacation to the Mission Inn Hotel to join in the celebrations as it illuminates the holiday season with four million colorful lights during the Festival of Lights.

A stay here is one of the best things to do in Riverside!

VAN BUREN DRIVE-IN THEATER

With the convenience of online movie streaming services and Netflix binges every night, it’s hard to get excited about going to the movies. But nothing compares to the nostalgic feeling of packing into your car, driving down to Riverside’s Van Buren Drive-in Theater , and enjoying the nightly double features!

The Van Buren Drive-In Theater has been around since the 1960s, and is one of 400 drive-in theaters remaining in the United States. It continues to bring a unique viewing experience for traveling couples looking for a romantic date night, families looking for a nightlife experience everyone can enjoy, or solo travelers looking for a reason to get out of the hotel for the evening.

Choose a spot in the 1,500-capacity car lot and set your radio station to the designated channel, and enjoy one of three large screens. If you forgot to bring snacks, there’s an onsite concession stand to satisfy your cravings. This drive-in is one of the best “movie theaters” around!

SANTA ANA RIVER TRAIL

Riverside, CA has beautiful weather all year long, so you’ll always find people out enjoying the Santa Ana River Trail . Grab a pair of rollerblades and hit the 30-mile trail, whose paved pathway makes it an excellent place for an afternoon cruise.

The Pacific Ocean coast in Orange County is the starting point for this recreational trail. Watch as the landscape drastically changes from these oceanfront views, to grassy hills, to winding along the banks of the Santa Ana River. Don’t worry about cars, because this path is only reserved for leisure, although you’ll be sharing it with walkers, joggers, and an occasional rider galloping by on horseback.

With expansion plans already in process, the Santa Ana River Trail will soon be one of the largest in the country, extending more than 100 miles long to reach San Bernardino County.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO CALIFORNIA

• LONG BEACH: 14 Things To Do In Long Beach, CA For Coastal Fun
• ANAHEIM: 22 Amazing Things To Do In Anaheim, California
• THE OC: 45 Best Things To Do In Orange County, California
• SANTA MONICA: 12 Best Things To Do In Santa Monica, California
• TEMECULA: 12 Amazing Things To Do In Temecula, California

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PLAN YOUR CALIFORNIA VACATION

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Where to stay in riverside.

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The closest national park to Riverside—and see how long the drive is to every single park

Posted: May 24, 2024 | Last updated: May 24, 2024

Closest national parks to Riverside

Approximately 237 million people visited American national parks in 2020, representing a 28% year-over-year decrease attributed to the coronavirus pandemic. Many parks were forced to close to combat the spread of the virus, but that's not the whole story—when the parks were open, many of them saw record crowds as throngs of people desperate to safely enjoy nature descended onto parks when they reopened.

President Woodrow Wilson in 1916 signed the act creating the National Park Service to leave natural and historic phenomenons "unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations." Since then, our national parks have welcomed visitors from around the world to experience some of the best the country has to offer and showcase the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Today, the country's 63 national parks contain at least 247 species of endangered or threatened plants and animals , more than 75,000 archaeological sites, and 18,000 miles of trails.

Stacker compiled a list of the closest national parks to Riverside. National parks are ranked by closest straight line distance, measured from representative points in Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA Metro Area and each national park. Estimated driving times are from Here and are only available within the lower 48 states. All featured distances and driving times are estimated using representative locations from the center of each metro and national park—for some places within the metro area, the actual distance may be slightly shorter or longer to reach the closest entryway to a park.

Be sure to check with individual parks before you visit to find out about ongoing, pandemic-related safety precautions at www.nps.gov/coronavirus .

#1. Joshua Tree National Park (California)

- Distance: 53 miles - Driving time: 5.6 hours - Date founded: October 31, 1994 - 2020 visitors: 2,399,542 (#10 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 795,155.85 acres

#2. Death Valley National Park (California, Nevada)

- Distance: 124 miles - Driving time: 9.0 hours - Date founded: October 31, 1994 - 2020 visitors: 820,023 (#22 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 3,408,406.73 acres

#3. Channel Islands National Park (California)

- Distance: 191 miles - Date founded: March 5, 1980 - 2020 visitors: 167,290 (#47 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 249,561.00 acres

#4. Sequoia National Park (California)

- Distance: 194 miles - Driving time: 12.5 hours - Date founded: September 25, 1890 - 2020 visitors: 796,086 (#23 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 404,062.63 acres

#5. Kings Canyon National Park (California)

- Distance: 207 miles - Driving time: 13.4 hours - Date founded: March 4, 1940 - 2020 visitors: 415,077 (#35 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 461,901.20 acres

#6. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

- Distance: 249 miles - Driving time: 9.8 hours - Date founded: February 26, 1919 - 2020 visitors: 2,897,098 (#6 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 1,201,647.03 acres

#7. Zion National Park (Utah)

- Distance: 257 miles - Driving time: 10.7 hours - Date founded: November 19, 1919 - 2020 visitors: 3,591,254 (#3 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 147,242.66 acres

#8. Yosemite National Park (California)

- Distance: 295 miles - Driving time: 12.5 hours - Date founded: October 1, 1890 - 2020 visitors: 2,268,313 (#12 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 761,747.50 acres

#9. Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)

- Distance: 304 miles - Driving time: 12.8 hours - Date founded: February 25, 1928 - 2020 visitors: 1,464,655 (#15 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 35,835.08 acres

#10. Pinnacles National Park (California)

- Distance: 313 miles - Driving time: 11.1 hours - Date founded: January 10, 2013 - 2020 visitors: 165,740 (#48 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 26,685.73 acres

#11. Great Basin National Park (Nevada)

- Distance: 323 miles - Driving time: 14.1 hours - Date founded: October 27, 1986 - 2020 visitors: 120,248 (#50 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 77,180.00 acres

#12. Saguaro National Park (Arizona)

- Distance: 362 miles - Driving time: 11.5 hours - Date founded: October 14, 1994 - 2020 visitors: 762,226 (#24 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 92,867.42 acres

#13. Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)

- Distance: 363 miles - Driving time: 10.7 hours - Date founded: December 9, 1962 - 2020 visitors: 384,483 (#38 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 221,390.21 acres

#14. Capitol Reef National Park (Utah)

- Distance: 375 miles - Driving time: 14.0 hours - Date founded: December 18, 1971 - 2020 visitors: 981,038 (#20 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 241,904.50 acres

#15. Canyonlands National Park (Utah)

- Distance: 428 miles - Driving time: 19.4 hours - Date founded: September 12, 1964 - 2020 visitors: 493,914 (#30 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 337,597.83 acres

#16. Arches National Park (Utah)

- Distance: 463 miles - Driving time: 14.4 hours - Date founded: November 12, 1971 - 2020 visitors: 1,238,083 (#17 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 76,678.98 acres

#17. Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)

- Distance: 466 miles - Driving time: 14.3 hours - Date founded: June 29, 1906 - 2020 visitors: 287,477 (#42 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 52,485.17 acres

#18. Lassen Volcanic National Park (California)

- Distance: 505 miles - Driving time: 15.1 hours - Date founded: August 9, 1916 - 2020 visitors: 542,274 (#29 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 106,589.02 acres

#19. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)

- Distance: 544 miles - Driving time: 16.3 hours - Date founded: October 21, 1999 - 2020 visitors: 341,620 (#39 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 30,779.83 acres

#20. White Sands National Park (New Mexico)

- Distance: 587 miles - Driving time: 14.8 hours - Date founded: December 20, 2019[111] - 2020 visitors: 415,383 (#34 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 146,344.31 acres

#21. Great Sand Dunes National Park (Colorado)

- Distance: 633 miles - Driving time: 17.7 hours - Date founded: September 24, 2004 - 2020 visitors: 461,532 (#32 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 107,341.87 acres

#22. Redwood National Park (California)

- Distance: 634 miles - Driving time: 20.1 hours - Date founded: October 2, 1968 - 2020 visitors: 265,177 (#43 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 138,999.37 acres

#23. Crater Lake National Park (Oregon)

- Distance: 663 miles - Driving time: 18.1 hours - Date founded: May 22, 1902 - 2020 visitors: 670,500 (#26 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 183,224.05 acres

#24. Guadalupe Mountains National Park (Texas)

- Distance: 676 miles - Driving time: 16.7 hours - Date founded: October 15, 1966 - 2020 visitors: 151,256 (#49 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 86,367.10 acres

#25. Carlsbad Caverns National Park (New Mexico)

- Distance: 695 miles - Driving time: 16.9 hours - Date founded: May 14, 1930 - 2020 visitors: 183,835 (#45 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 46,766.45 acres

#26. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

- Distance: 695 miles - Driving time: 18.9 hours - Date founded: February 26, 1929 - 2020 visitors: 3,289,638 (#5 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 310,044.36 acres

#27. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

- Distance: 706 miles - Driving time: 20.1 hours - Date founded: January 26, 1915 - 2020 visitors: 3,305,199 (#4 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 265,807.25 acres

#28. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)

- Distance: 756 miles - Driving time: 19.2 hours - Date founded: March 1, 1872 - 2020 visitors: 3,806,306 (#2 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 2,219,790.71 acres

#29. Big Bend National Park (Texas)

- Distance: 840 miles - Driving time: 20.9 hours - Date founded: June 12, 1944 - 2020 visitors: 393,907 (#37 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 801,163.21 acres

#30. Mount Rainier National Park (Washington)

- Distance: 899 miles - Driving time: 24.9 hours - Date founded: March 2, 1899 - 2020 visitors: 1,160,754 (#18 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 236,381.64 acres

#31. Wind Cave National Park (South Dakota)

- Distance: 921 miles - Driving time: 22.4 hours - Date founded: January 9, 1903 - 2020 visitors: 448,405 (#33 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 33,970.84 acres

#32. Badlands National Park (South Dakota)

- Distance: 967 miles - Driving time: 23.7 hours - Date founded: November 10, 1978 - 2020 visitors: 916,932 (#21 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 242,755.94 acres

#33. Glacier National Park (Montana)

- Distance: 990 miles - Date founded: May 11, 1910 - 2020 visitors: 1,698,864 (#13 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 1,013,125.99 acres

#34. Olympic National Park (Washington)

- Distance: 1,002 miles - Driving time: 26.5 hours - Date founded: June 29, 1938 - 2020 visitors: 2,499,177 (#9 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 922,649.41 acres

#35. North Cascades National Park (Washington)

- Distance: 1,011 miles - Driving time: 26.8 hours - Date founded: October 2, 1968 - 2020 visitors: 30,885 (#56 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 504,780.94 acres

#36. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota)

- Distance: 1,083 miles - Driving time: 25.8 hours - Date founded: November 10, 1978 - 2020 visitors: 551,303 (#28 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 70,446.89 acres

#37. Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

- Distance: 1,314 miles - Driving time: 26.4 hours - Date founded: March 4, 1921 - 2020 visitors: 1,348,215 (#16 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 5,554.15 acres

#38. Gateway Arch National Park (Missouri)

- Distance: 1,465 miles - Driving time: 28.3 hours - Date founded: February 22, 2018[47] - 2020 visitors: 486,021 (#31 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 192.83 acres

#39. Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota)

- Distance: 1,533 miles - Driving time: 34.9 hours - Date founded: April 8, 1975 - 2020 visitors: 263,091 (#44 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 218,222.35 acres

#40. Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)

- Distance: 1,650 miles - Driving time: 33.1 hours - Date founded: February 15, 2019 - 2020 visitors: 2,293,106 (#11 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 15,349.08 acres

#41. Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)

- Distance: 1,688 miles - Driving time: 32.2 hours - Date founded: July 1, 1941 - 2020 visitors: 290,392 (#41 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 54,011.91 acres

#42. Isle Royale National Park (Michigan)

- Distance: 1,699 miles - Driving time: 38.3 hours - Date founded: April 3, 1940 - 2020 visitors: 6,493 (#59 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 571,790.30 acres

#43. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina, Tennessee)

- Distance: 1,840 miles - Driving time: 34.4 hours - Date founded: June 15, 1934 - 2020 visitors: 12,095,720 (#1 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 522,426.88 acres

#44. Glacier Bay National Park (Alaska)

- Distance: 1,913 miles - Date founded: December 2, 1980 - 2020 visitors: 5,748 (#60 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 3,223,383.43 acres

#45. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)

- Distance: 1,932 miles - Driving time: 36.4 hours - Date founded: October 11, 2000 - 2020 visitors: 2,755,628 (#7 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 32,571.88 acres

#46. New River Gorge National Park (West Virginia)

- Distance: 1,960 miles - Driving time: 36.9 hours - Date founded: December 27, 2020 - 2020 visitors: 1,054,374 (#19 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 7,021 acres

#47. Congaree National Park (South Carolina)

- Distance: 2,016 miles - Driving time: 37.2 hours - Date founded: November 10, 2003 - 2020 visitors: 119,306 (#51 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 26,476.47 acres

#48. Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida)

- Distance: 2,104 miles - Driving time: 45.9 hours - Date founded: October 26, 1992 - 2020 visitors: 48,543 (#55 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 64,701.22 acres

#49. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)

- Distance: 2,106 miles - Driving time: 39.8 hours - Date founded: December 26, 1935 - 2020 visitors: 1,666,265 (#14 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 199,223.77 acres

#50. Wrangell–St. Elias National Park (Alaska)

- Distance: 2,158 miles - Date founded: December 2, 1980 - 2020 visitors: 16,655 (#57 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 8,323,146.48 acres

#51. Everglades National Park (Florida)

- Distance: 2,193 miles - Driving time: 44.1 hours - Date founded: May 30, 1934 - 2020 visitors: 702,319 (#25 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 1,508,938.57 acres

#52. Biscayne National Park (Florida)

- Distance: 2,232 miles - Driving time: 43.1 hours - Date founded: June 28, 1980 - 2020 visitors: 402,770 (#36 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 172,971.11 acres

#53. Kenai Fjords National Park (Alaska)

- Distance: 2,310 miles - Date founded: December 2, 1980 - 2020 visitors: 115,882 (#52 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 669,650.05 acres

#54. Katmai National Park (Alaska)

- Distance: 2,426 miles - Date founded: December 2, 1980 - 2020 visitors: 51,511 (#54 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 3,674,529.33 acres

#55. Lake Clark National Park (Alaska)

- Distance: 2,458 miles - Date founded: December 2, 1980 - 2020 visitors: 4,948 (#61 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 2,619,816.49 acres

#56. Denali National Park (Alaska)

- Distance: 2,471 miles - Date founded: February 26, 1917 - 2020 visitors: 54,850 (#53 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 4,740,911.16 acres

#57. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (Hawaii)

- Distance: 2,606 miles - Date founded: August 1, 1916 - 2020 visitors: 589,775 (#27 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 325,605.28 acres

#58. Acadia National Park (Maine)

- Distance: 2,612 miles - Driving time: 51.0 hours - Date founded: February 26, 1919 - 2020 visitors: 2,669,034 (#8 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 49,076.63 acres

#59. Haleakalā National Park (Hawaii)

- Distance: 2,613 miles - Date founded: July 1, 1961 - 2020 visitors: 319,147 (#40 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 33,264.62 acres

#60. Gates of the Arctic National Park (Alaska)

- Distance: 2,723 miles - Date founded: December 2, 1980 - 2020 visitors: 2,872 (#63 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 7,523,897.45 acres

#61. Kobuk Valley National Park (Alaska)

- Distance: 2,844 miles - Date founded: December 2, 1980 - 2020 visitors: 11,185 (#58 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 1,750,716.16 acres

#62. Virgin Islands National Park (U.S. Virgin Islands)

- Distance: 3,337 miles - Date founded: August 2, 1956 - 2020 visitors: 167,540 (#46 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 15,052.53 acres

#63. National Park of American Samoa (American Samoa)

- Distance: 4,907 miles - Date founded: October 31, 1988 - 2020 visitors: 4,819 (#62 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 8,256.67 acres

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Sakyamuni Buddhist Meditation Center

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15950 Winters Ln

Riverside, CA 92504

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This place was very BEAUTIFUL.. I had the opportunity to talk to the Head Monk and he was very gentle and the energy was absolutely amazing!!! He and Monk Nam were very compassionate and helped me A lot with the energy and knowledge they shared. Beautiful Place. Iam So very grateful to have had the opportunity because of my Great Friend Kim who invited me. I will Definitely be going back. And you should definitely check it out yourself.

This is a Theravada monastery that primarily serves the Vietnamese community in Riverside County. I sat two ten-day silent meditation retreats there. [The last time I was there was four months ago - reposting an earlier google maps review is a tad overdue.] The emphasis is on insight practice (AKA mindfulness, or vipassana "clear seeing"). At this particular retreat the head teacher, the Ven. Khippapanno, offered instruction in anapanasati breathing (as a concentration practice) then moved on to the body sweeping technique taught by Sayadagyi U Ba Khin, and popularized by SN Goenka. We ended the retreat with some Metta practice. If you're used to western meditation centers, sitting a retreat here will be an interesting change of pace. While retreatants will spend 90% of their time in the meditation hall (there are three of them here), their (shared) dorm rooms or the dining hall; the grounds feature a large shrines, a stupha, quite a few interesting statues, and what looks like a large library/guest lounge. Some of buildings are quite impressive, and the shrine is beautiful. When you practice walking meditation, it feels as though you're walking through a small Buddhist city. Please note: Most of the instruction is given in Vietnamese. While the monks and nuns in residence do their best to provide translations of the instructions and talks in a timely manner; it's helpful to have some prior retreat experience, before going on retreat here. I imagine the experience is akin to that of the Europeans and Americans who travel to study at convents, monasteries and meditation centers abroad in the fifties, sixties and seventies, when those places didn't necessarily go out of their way to cater to the needs or whims of Western students. You were expected to make the effort to keep up with them, not the other way around. That said, the people are very, very nice (as one would expect in a monastic environment), the practice traditional and quite rigorous, the food is good and simple and the accommodations spartan but comfortable enough. If I had to compare, going on retreat here isn't as fancy or comfortable as sitting retreats at the Spirit Rock or Big Bear Retreat Centers (which are very nice, but pricey). In some ways, it's akin to the retreats sponsored by Against the Stream, which are held at summer camps that had been re-purposed in the off-season. I'm very glad to have sat retreat here.

See all photos from Won K. for Sakyamuni Buddhist Meditation Center

This was my 2nd time attending the vipassana meditation retreat. I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to learn from the best meditation master. He's 95 years old this year and still very sharp. The compassion that he has for all beings really shows during the retreat. He worked really hard day in and day out answering all of our questions. Helping us with the meditation. All of the monks and nuns here are also very helpful. They're very kind with so much wisdom. I recommend this temple for anyone who want to learn meditation and Theravada Buddhism. Beautiful temple, very clean and peaceful here. I cannot wait to attend the next meditation class if they ever have another one this year.

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