Inland Cities Travel Guide

Planning to visit Inland Cities in Orange County? Our comprehensive travel guide covers everything you need to know, from cultural attractions and natural wonders to the best food and drink spots, accommodation options, and more.


Introduction to Inland Cities

Inland Cities is a hidden gem nestled within Orange County in Southern California. Home to numerous attractions, including museums, natural wonders, and hiking trails, Inland Cities offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor experiences that cater to a wide range of interests.

This travel guide aims to provide you with all the essential information you need to plan a memorable trip to Inland Cities. From the best things to do and see, to the most delicious local cuisine and unique souvenirs to take home, this guide covers it all.

So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime!

List of Places to Visit in Inland Cities

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Inland Cities is home to several culturally significant attractions that provide visitors with insight into the history and culture of the region. Some of the must-visit museums and historical places include:

  • S.P. Warne Museum of Communications - showcasing the history of communication technology
  • Riverside Art Museum - featuring contemporary and modern art pieces
  • Riverside Metropolitan Museum - covering the city’s history and culture

Natural Attractions of Inland Cities: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re a nature lover, Inland Cities won’t disappoint you. The area boasts several natural attractions that offer breathtaking views and exciting outdoor activities such as:

  • Mount Rubidoux - a popular hiking spot that offers panoramic views of the city
  • Box Springs Mountain Reserve - featuring numerous hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Lake Perris - a picturesque lake offering water sports such as boating, fishing, and swimming

Hiking/Biking Routes of Inland Cities

Inland Cities is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise with several scenic and thrilling trails to explore. Here’s a list of some of the best routes to check out:

  • Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park - offering a variety of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians
  • Santa Ana River Trail - a popular biking and hiking trail spanning over 20 miles
  • Motte Rimrock Reserve - featuring a 2.5-mile trail that leads to a stunning panoramic view of the city

Best Things to Do in Inland Cities: Activities and Tours

Besides the museums, hiking trails, and natural attractions, there are several other fun activities to indulge in Inland Cities, including:

  • Castle Park - a family-friendly amusement park featuring rides and attractions for all ages
  • Riverside Live Steamers - offering mini-train rides through a scenic park
  • Fox Performing Arts Center - showcasing high-quality theatrical productions, concerts, and events throughout the year

Week-Long Itinerary for Inland Cities

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Inland Cities, here’s an itinerary that covers the best of the region:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Riverside Metropolitan Museum and stroll around the downtown area
Day 2 Explore the scenic trails of Mount Rubidoux and enjoy a picnic lunch
Day 3 Spend a day at Lake Perris, enjoying water sports and lakeside picnics
Day 4 Discover the S.P. Warne Museum and explore the unique exhibits
Day 5 Take a mini-train ride at Riverside Live Steamers and grab lunch at one of the local eateries
Day 6 Hike the trails of Box Springs Mountain Reserve and explore the natural beauty
Day 7 Visit the Riverside Art Museum and catch a theatrical performance at the Fox Performing Arts Center

Food and Drink Scene of Inland Cities

Inland Cities is a food lover’s paradise, with numerous dining options ranging from upscale restaurants to local eateries. Here are some must-try dishes to indulge in:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crepes de Paris - French-style crepes
  • Mission Inn Restaurant - upscale dining, featuring farm-to-table cuisine
  • Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar - American restaurant serving Southwestern-style dishes

Local Beverages

  • Stone Church Brewing - local brewery featuring a variety of craft beers
  • Dragon Marsh Tea Room - serving a variety of tea and coffee beverages

Where to Stay in Inland Cities: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Inland Cities offers several accommodation options that cater to various budgets and preferences. Here are some of the most popular choices:

  • Mission Inn Hotel & Spa - a historic hotel with upscale rooms and amenities
  • Marriott Riverside at the Convention Center - a modern hotel with convenient downtown location
  • Thunderbird Lodge - a budget-friendly motel in a central location

What to Buy in Inland Cities: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Inland Cities offers several unique local products and souvenirs that make for great keepsakes. Here are some options to consider:

  • Citrus Fruit - Riverside was once a leading producer of citrus fruits, and the area’s fruit is still famous for its distinctive flavor.
  • Mission Inn Olive Oil - made with age-old techniques, this local olive oil is a culinary delight.
  • Riverside Arts Walk - held the first Thursday of every month, this art walk features local artists selling their work.

Local Culture and Customs of Inland Cities

Inland Cities is a diverse and culturally rich area, steeped in history and tradition. It’s customary to greet people with a smile and be respectful of their beliefs and traditions. Also, tipping is expected in restaurants and bars.

Best Time to Visit Inland Cities

The best time to visit Inland Cities is between September to November and March to May when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are few. Winter is also an ideal time to visit if you’re looking for off-season rates and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Inland Cities

Do:

  • Be respectful of the local culture and customs
  • Explore the outdoors and natural beauty of the area
  • Try out the local cuisine and beverages

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural habitats of the area
  • Disrespect other visitors or locals
  • Ignore safety protocols, especially when engaging in outdoor activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Inland Cities

Inland Cities is a safe area to visit, with low crime rates. However, it’s always advisable to practice caution while exploring the area, especially when outdoors.

Health in Inland Cities

Inland Cities has several hospitals and medical clinics, should you require medical attention. It’s also essential to stay hydrated, especially when engaging in outdoor activities during the summer months.

Getting to Inland Cities: Transportation Options and Logistics

Inland Cities is easily accessible by several modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near Inland Cities

  • Ontario International Airport - the nearest major airport, located about 20 miles from Inland Cities
  • John Wayne Airport - located about 45 miles from Inland Cities

Bus Stations Near Inland Cities

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - located in downtown Riverside
  • Riverside Transit Agency - providing local bus services

Other Options

  • Car Rental - several car rental services are available at the airports and in the local area
  • Taxi - several taxi services operate in the local area

How to Get Around in Inland Cities

Inland Cities is a walkable area, but to explore the surrounding areas, it’s advisable to rent a car. You can also use local bus services, taxis, and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Inland Cities: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Inland Cities is located in a strategic location, providing easy access to several nearby destinations that are worth exploring, including:

  • Palm Springs - located about 50 miles east of Inland Cities, featuring a desert ambiance and upscale resorts
  • Big Bear Lake - located about 50 miles north of Inland Cities, offering year-round outdoor activities and scenic views
  • Los Angeles - located about 60 miles west of Inland Cities, offering world-class attractions and entertainment options

Conclusion

Inland Cities is a hidden gem worth exploring, offering a unique blend of urban and outdoor experiences that can cater to various interests. With its numerous natural wonders, cultural attractions, and exciting food and drink scenes, Inland Cities ticks all the boxes for a perfect vacation destination. This travel guide covers everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Inland Cities, So get ready to pack your bags and discover the hidden treasures of Orange County!