Fun Things To Do in Riverside, CA | Activities & More

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Riverside in California is known for its historical sites and educational opportunities. However, that does not mean this city is boring. On the contrary, Riverside has tons of fun family activities, beautiful scenery, and exciting points of interest for people from different walks of life.

Next time you’re in town and wondering what to do in Riverside, pull up this list of fun activities. We will guide you through the most interesting things to do in Riverside, California.

Tip: A motorcycle ride is one of California’s most remarkable ways to travel. So get on your bike, and ride across California’s great highways. Be sure to make a stop in Riverside.

Things To Do | Riverside

Riverside, California, has various activities and points of interest. From family-centered parks to murder mystery meals, you will easily be able to find something that is suited to your interests.

Castle Park

Merry Go Round at night

Castle Park in Riverside, California, is well-known as a family-friendly amusement park. Rollercoasters, a merry-go-round, a water log slide, and spinning flying saucers are just a few exciting rides available at this park.

There are also over 200 arcade games to choose from. Castle Park, a miniature golf course and a water playground is a must-see when visiting Riverside.

The Cove Waterpark

Baby playing in water at waterpark

At The Cove Waterpark, you can choose from various thrilling rides and attractions at this popular family amusement park. Water slides, a FlowRider, and a lazy river are available at The Cove. In their Olympic-sized swimming pool, there are also diving competitions.

Swimming lessons, aqua Zumba courses, and junior lifeguard activities are other things you can look forward to at The Cove. They also operate an aquatic programme for people with special needs. Don’t miss out on The Cove Waterpark’s exciting attractions, as there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Ballet Folklorico de Riverside

Women in colourful Mexican style dresses

The Riverside Ballet Folklorico is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This traditional Mexican-style dance troupe, founded by Ana de la Tejera, puts on stunning performances all year. Ana’s purpose is to maintain Mexican culture through dances, music, and costumes.

At Ballet Folklorico de Riverside, you won’t want to miss these colourful dancers performing unique dances. It is one of the best Riverside activities for anyone interested in different cultures.

Van Buren Drive-In Theatre

Film projector

The Van Buren Drive-In Theatre, which first opened its doors in 1964, is a terrific spot to go for some old-fashioned fun. You can see two movies for the price of one ticket, plus the audio is transmitted through FM radio so you can listen in your car.

The theatre sells a variety of tasty foods. Bring your blanket and pillow, and don’t miss out on the thrill of a drive-in movie. This is one of the most fun things to do in Riverside at night.

Gourmet Detective

Table with different food dishes on it

Gourmet Detective in Riverside is the place to go if you enjoy mysteries. This restaurant offers an engaging dining experience by hosting murder mystery evenings. You can have a delectable meal while watching expert actors perform a thought-provoking mystery.

The mysteries change regularly, so you can have a different experience each time you visit. So bring out your detective hat and grab a bite at Gourmet Detective.

Riverside, California | Points of Interest

Besides all of the fun activities Riverside has to offer, there are also many points of interest. From museums to gorgeous scenery, this is where any history or education lover will find their piece of heaven.

California Citrus State Historic Park

Close up shot of citrus tree

In Southern California, citrus is a significant business, and the California Citrus State Historic Park tells the complete story. This 250-acre park is the consequence of California’s Second Gold Rush. The park is full of beautiful, colourful citrus groves. The tourist centre also highlights the narrative of how California’s climate and fertile soil helped the citrus industry grow and thrive.

Don’t miss out on this lovely piece of California history, which offers guided tours over the weekend.

Mission Inn Hotel and Museum

Close up shot of airplane model

The historic Mission Inn Hotel is located at Main Street and Mission Inn Avenue crossroads in Riverside. This hotel is the home of the Mission Inn Museum. The creator of the Inn, Frank Miller, was known for his passion for aviation and fine art, and the museum houses numerous artefacts he discovered throughout the years.

The rooms have been restored to their original appearance. You can spend the day in the hotel spa before dining at Duane’s Prime Steaks and Seafood for dinner.

Riverside Metropolitan Museum

Native American beaded necklace

The Riverside Metropolitan Museum opened its doors in 1924. Initially, it housed Native American artefacts provided by Cornelius Earle Rumsey’s widow. The museum flourished swiftly as donations from local organisations, and individual citizens poured in.

The museum is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its main areas of interest are anthropology, history, and nature. In 2004, it also bought the ancient Harada House, a powerful civil rights monument.

This house was the focus of a court case between the State of California and Japanese immigrant Jukichi Harada. The court case tested the laws of whether immigrants could own property.

Grier Pavilion

Martin Luther King Jr. on a background of words

The Grier Pavilion was built to honour Barnett and Eleanor Jean Grier, two of Riverside’s most well-known civil rights pioneers. The Center Circle of Inclusion, a 10-foot wide mosaic art sculpture, is displayed here.

There are also quotes from some of the most well-known civil rights activists, including Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr. The Grier Pavilion is a must-see for anyone interested in civil rights history.

Entomology Museum

Close up shot of a dragonfly

The Entomology Research Museum, located on the University of California Riverside campus, houses one of the university’s oldest insect collections. Thanks to individual contributions and academic scholars, this museum has a rich collection of well-preserved specimens from all over the world.

The Entomology Museum aims to educate the public about insects and function as a research centre for undergraduate and graduate students. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in entomology or learning new things.

Final Thoughts on Riverside, Things To Do

So now that you have learned about all the fun and exciting things to do in Riverside, California, we hope we’ve piqued your interest. A gorgeous city filled with beautiful historic sites and fun theme parks, Riverside is perfect for families and solo travellers. It’s also a great place to stop if you’re backpacking on a budget.

So the next time you take a trip to California, be sure to put this city on your list. If you don’t, you might miss out on all the fun places to go in Riverside.