Riverside is one of the most popular cities in California. Just 50 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles, it is a bustling tourist destination known for its spectacular year-round weather and attractions. There’s plenty to do for all kinds of travelers. If you’re planning an upcoming trip to Riverside, in this guide we’ll go over four exciting things to do once you’ve arrived in town.

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1. Mission Inn Museum

Mission Inn Museum is one of the oldest structures in Riverside. This attraction boasts retro-American architecture and artwork. Visitors can enjoy a host of amenities, such as:

  • Guided tours that reveal historical anecdotes and hidden areas
  • On-site dining and delicious culinary delights
  • A seasonal Festival of Lights display

If you’re interested in seeing how Riverside looked in the late 19th century, heading to Mission Inn Museum should be added to your bucket list.

2. Lake Helmet

If you enjoy the outdoors, visiting Lake Helmet can be a fun adventure for the entire family. Lake Helmet is located just one hour away from Palm Springs, California. This beautiful lake sits at an elevation of 4,500 feet. 

In addition, the area offers outdoor adventures such as fishing, boating, hiking, and even overnight camping. Lake Helmet is highly-rated on review sites such as Tripadvisor and Yelp. In fact, the lake has won the 2023 Trip Advisor award for being one of the most vibrant outdoor locations in Riverside. 

3. California Citrus State Historic Park

Ranked sixth out of 93 things to do in Riverside, California Citrus State Historic Park offers 300 acres of a beautiful landscape that shows off the remnants of the state’s citrus industry. Riverside used to be the epicenter of a booming citrus industry due to its fantastic year-round weather. 

After many years, the landscape of the city began to change rapidly. This state park provides a glimpse into the past and tells the story of how the citrus industry shaped the entire state of California. Visitors can roam the entire museum, participate in guided tours, and taste fresh fruit on the back of the patio on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

4. Toscana Country Club

If you have ever wanted to visit country clubs in Palm Desert California, look no further than Toscana Country Club. With a membership, you can enjoy a complete suite of amenities, such as the following:

  • Golf
  • Tennis
  • Pickleball
  • Bocce
  • Dining

Toscana Country Club is located in Indian Wells, which isn’t too far from Riverside, California. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, there are numerous activities to partake in while visiting Riverside, California. From visiting museums or playing golf at a local country club, you can enjoy the weather and ambiance solo or with your entire family. Before visiting Riverside, make sure that you dress appropriately for the trip and take sunscreen to avoid getting sunburned. Temperatures can rise very high during the summer months.

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015 and has been living abroad since 2014. Originally from Canada, she has embraced a digital nomad lifestyle, working online from various destinations worldwide. Melissa is passionate about travel, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit. Her extensive travels have taken her across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. Currently, she resides in Thailand.