Riverside County Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Riverside County with our tour guide. Explore the cultural, natural, and gastronomic attractions of the region and get tips on how to maximize your visit.


Introduction to Riverside County

Nestled in Southern California, Riverside County has a lot to offer for both nature and culture lovers. With its diverse landscape, ranging from stunning mountains to vast deserts, and rich history, this county has plenty of attractions that will keep you busy for days.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through the top places to visit, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, what to buy, local culture, customs, and more details to help you maximize your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Riverside County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re a history buff, Riverside County has much to offer in terms of historic landmarks and museums. These attractions are perfect for enriching your knowledge of the region’s past and present culture.

Riverside Metropolitan Museum

Located in the heart of downtown Riverside, the Riverside Metropolitan Museum houses exhibits that explore the region’s natural history, cultural diversity, and local art scene. The facility has a range of displays that feature artifacts and murals showcasing the county’s rich heritage.

March Field Air Museum

March Field Air Museum tells the story of the US Air Force and its role in the region’s history. This museum displays aircraft, artifacts, and memorabilia from the early days of aviation and highlights why March Field was a significant hub for aviation during World Wars I and II.

The Mission Inn Museum

The Mission Inn Museum provides visitors with an insight into the history of the famous Spanish-Moorish-style Inn, which dates back to the early 1900s. The property’s architecture, art, and furnishings are impressive, and the guided tours offer a fascinating insight into the Inn’s past.

Natural Attractions of Riverside County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who crave adventure and the great outdoors, Riverside County offers an abundance of options to explore. From hiking through state parks to wandering along scenic drives, there’s something for every type of outdoor lover.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park covers more than 794,000 acres of California desert terrain in the county’s eastern section. It’s known for its otherworldly, stacked rock formations and Joshua Trees that are unique to this region. It’s an excellent place for hiking, camping, rock climbing, and stargazing, with spectacular views at every turn.

Lake Perris State Recreation Area

Located in the Moreno Valley area, Lake Perris State Recreation Area is a water lover’s paradise. The park is home to a beautiful lake surrounded by rolling hills that offer numerous water activities like swimming, fishing, and boating. There are also hiking trails, picnic areas and campgrounds available.

Mount San Jacinto State Park

Mount San Jacinto State Park is a must-visit attraction for hikers visiting Riverside County. The park features over 50 miles of trails that take visitors through the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature lover, there is a trail for everyone, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views from the top.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Riverside County

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, Riverside County has a variety of hiking trails that allow you to explore the area’s most beautiful locations at your own pace. If you prefer cycling, there are several road and mountain biking options available to you.

Joshua Tree National Park

Hikers can explore the park’s trails, including Ryan Mountain Trail, the Lost Palms Oasis Trail, and the Barker Dam Trail. Cyclists can take the paved road through the park, which provides amazing views and stops for photos.

Mount San Jacinto State Park

Options from easy and flat trails such as the Round Valley Loop Trail, to more challenging routes like the Cactus Springs Trail, and the rugged hike to the top of San Jacinto Peak. Bicyclists could take on the mountain for a thrilling experience with numerous steep inclines, transitions, and slopes.

Best Things to Do in Riverside County: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for things to do in Riverside County, there’s never a shortage of events, activities, and tours.

Splurge on a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Enjoy the best panoramic views of Riverside County from a hot air balloon. You will be swept off your feet by the scenic beauty of snowcapped mountains, pristine lakes, and vineyards stretching to infinity.

Tour the Vineyards and Wineries

Riverside County is home to dozens of wineries that produce wines of many varieties, including Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo. Take a tour of the vineyards and wineries and experience the wine tasting for an authentic Riverside County experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Riverside County

Here’s a potential week-long itinerary for your visit to Riverside County:

  • Day 1: Spend a day visiting the Mission Inn Museum and Riverside Metropolitan Museum.
  • Day 2: Hike at Joshua Tree National Park and discover the unique flora and fauna of the region.
  • Day 3: Relax at Lake Perris State Recreation Area and enjoy swimming, fishing, or boating.
  • Day 4: Explore the foodie scene of the county, which boasts excellent Mexican, Italian, and Asian cuisine.
  • Day 5: Enjoy a day of shopping in some of Riverside County’s best shopping centers, such as the Dos Lagos Mall, Promenade Temecula, or Desert Hills Premium Outlets.
  • Day 6: Take a hot air balloon ride, wander along the scenic drives of Highway 74 or Palms to Pines Scenic Byway.
  • Day 7: Take a guided tour of the vineyards and wineries of Temecula Valley and enjoy the tastings.

Food and Drink of Riverside County

Riverside County’s diverse cultural background and proximity to the Southern California agricultural hub makes it a fascinating destination for foodies. Here are a few recommendations to stimulate your appetite for the area.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Carne Asada Fries
  • Mexican-style street tacos
  • Inland Northwest Pastrami Burger
  • Spicy seafood dishes in Murrieta

Local Beverages

  • Inland Empire Brewing Company’s local craft beers
  • Temecula Valley’s delectable range of wines
  • Mexican-style beverages such as horchata, Jamaica, and refreshing aguas frescas.

Where to Stay in Riverside County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Riverside County has numerous options for accommodations depending on your budget and preferred location. You can choose between luxury hotels or opt for budget-friendly options.

Luxury Hotels and Resorts

  • The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
  • The JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa

Budget-Friendly Hotels

  • Hampton Inn & Suites
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites
  • Quality Inn and Suites

Airbnb/ Guesthouses

  • Glenwood Springs Guest House
  • Charming One-Bedroom Guest House

What to Buy in Riverside County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some great options for souvenirs from Riverside County include:

  • Native American crafts from the Cabazon Cultural Museum
  • Souvenirs from Palm Springs’ chic mid-century modern stores
  • Handcrafted jewelry and pottery from local artisans and vendors.

Local Culture and Customs of Riverside County

Riverside County is famous for its unique customs and traditions related to Native American culture. Local museums and exhibitions provide an insight into these customs and the region’s history. It’s essential to show respect and sensitivity to the tribal traditions and cultural beliefs when visiting any historic sites.

Best Time to Visit Riverside County

Riverside County enjoys a sunny climate year-round. The best time to visit is during spring and fall when you can enjoy the best of the desert landscapes without the summertime heat.

Do’s and Don’ts of Riverside County

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Wear comfortable shoes when exploring nature parks and hiking trails.
  • Be sure to make dinner reservations at local restaurants ahead of time.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the “leave no trace” principles when visiting the county’s scenic locations.
  • Plan visits to the parks or outdoor sites in the middle of summer without adequate preparation for the intense heat.

Safety and Health

Safety in Riverside County

Riverside County’s is relatively safe but is always smart to take precautions as a traveler, such as secure your valuable belongings. It is also advised to avoid isolated areas or hiking trails by yourself.

Health in Riverside County

While there is no specific health risk associated with visiting Riverside County, global pandemics like COVID-19 can pose additional health challenges. Keep in mind the necessity for social distancing and other public health guidelines.

Getting to Riverside County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Riverside County

  • Palm Springs International Airport
  • Ontario International Airport
  • Los Angeles International Airport

Bus Stations Near Riverside County

  • Greyhound Bus Station Riverside
  • RTA Bus Stop Corona Park and Ride

Other Options

  • Amtrak train services from Los Angeles to Riverside
  • Car rental companies located in the airport and downtown areas

How to Get Around in Riverside County

To make the most of your trip to Riverside County, it’s essential to have a car or rent one. Public transportation, such as buses or trains, may not be as readily available. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also an option for getting around.

Where to Go Next from Riverside County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Several nearby regions and destinations in Southern California are worth visiting after exploring Riverside County. A few notable areas include:

  • Los Angeles and Hollywood
  • San Diego and its beaches
  • Palm Springs and its golf courses and resorts

Conclusion

Riverside County is a hidden gem worth exploring in Southern California. Its natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and diverse gastronomy make it a worthwhile destination for travel enthusiasts. With this comprehensive travel guide, you are well equipped to plan your visit and experience the best of what Riverside County has to offer.



    Banning
    Beaumont
    Blythe
    Coachella
    Corona
    Desert Hot Springs
    Hemet
    Jurupa Valley
    La Quinta
    Palm Springs
    Riverside
    Temecula