No matter your travel style—spontaneous detours or carefully mapped-out stops—Riverside County makes for an ideal Southern California road trip.
Best Local Roadtrips
Explore Beaumont’s Lavender Fields and Cherry Orchards
From May through July, the lavender fields in Beaumont are in full bloom, making for a unique road trip. Stop at 123 Farm for their annual Lavender Festival, where you can stroll through 20 acres of lavender fields, enjoy lavender-inspired food and drinks, live music, tractor tours, and shop at their marketplace. The sunsets and the views won’t disappoint!
Beaumont’s cherry orchards are just as beautiful. Plan your trip around the annual Cherry Blossom Festival and take in the carnival rides, beer garden, live performances, and other family-friendly happenings!
Citrus Season: Discover Riverside’s Agricultural Heritage
During the citrus season, take a quick road trip to California Citrus State Historic Park. You can explore over 250 acres of citrus groves, take a guided tour, picnic, and even sample freshly picked fruit! Then, head to Gless Ranch to pick up local oranges, figs, avocados, and grapefruits.
Mark your calendar for the Riverside County Citrus Festival, scheduled to take place on April 5, 2025.
Drive to Riverside: Enjoy the Stops along the Way
The following road trips are perfect for curious travelers visiting from nearby cities. Hit the road and make a few memorable stops before arriving in Riverside.
1. San Diego to Riverside: From the Coast to the Mountains
The drive from San Diego to Riverside may be short, but it's filled with plenty of exciting pit stops. Start your day with a visit to Queen Califia's Magical Circle in Escondido, located at the Iris Sankey Arboretum. This unique attraction (designed by 20th-century artist Niki de Saint Phalle) features nine large-scale sculptures, a "snake wall," and a maze entryway—perfect for a photo op!
Next, head to Briar Rose Winery in Temecula, a fairy tale-inspired location known for its award-winning wines. Afterward, hit the Desert Hills Premium Outlets in Cabazon to shop and stretch your legs. (And if you’re feeling lucky, Morongo Casino Resort & Spa is right around the corner!)
Once you arrive in Riverside, take some time to explore our downtown, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants, antique shops, murals, and museums.
2. Los Angeles to Riverside: Quick Escape from the City
If you’re in Los Angeles, Riverside is just an hour’s drive, making for the perfect SoCal road trip! Start your adventure with a breakfast stop in Orange County, where you can grab a bite at one of the many cafés in Anaheim's Packing District before heading to Downtown Disney to browse shops featuring your favorite characters.
After fueling up, take a break from the bustle and immerse yourself in nature at Chino Hills State Park. With rolling hills, scenic trails, and peaceful picnic spots, it’s the perfect place for a mid-day recharge.
Next, head to Corona, a charming town in Western Riverside County known for its outdoor recreation and local attractions. Unwind at the nearby Glen Ivy Hot Springs, where you can soak in therapeutic mineral baths or explore Skyline Drive Trail for additional hiking. If you’re into motorsports, check out K1 Speed for a family-friendly go-kart race.
Finally, end your trip in Downtown Riverside, where you’ll find a mix of historic architecture, arts, and top-notch dining. Book a stay at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, explore the exhibits at the Riverside Art Museum, or grab a drink at one of our local breweries to cap off your adventure!
3. Las Vegas to Riverside: Adventures in the Desert
The drive from Las Vegas to Riverside is more than just a straight shot through the desert—it’s a chance to explore quirky roadside stops, stunning scenery, and hidden gems along the way. Start at the Mojave National Preserve to explore the dunes—perfect for off-roading, horseback riding, camping, or hiking.
Next, swing by the World’s Tallest Thermometer in Baker for a photo before heading to the Outlets at Barstow for some retail therapy.
As you continue, stop at the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville to learn about America’s most famous highway. Then, make your way to San Bernardino to visit the Original McDonald’s Museum.
Once you reach Riverside County, you’ll have plenty more to explore. Norco, known as “Horsetown USA,” offers scenic equestrian trails and a charming Western vibe. In Jurupa Valley, outdoor lovers can visit the Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center, where dinosaur sculptures and unique geological formations make for a fun stop.
If you’re up for an adrenaline rush, Perris is the place to go—it’s known for Skydive Perris, where thrill-seekers can leap over the SoCal landscape. In Moreno Valley, take a scenic hike up Box Springs Mountain for sweeping views of the region, or explore the March Air Field Museum. Beaumont and Banning are known for their quaint downtowns and proximity to the San Gorgonio Pass, a gateway to even more outdoor adventures in Riverside!
Start planning your Riverside County adventure today! Explore all the exciting things to do, find the perfect hotel, and map out your trip for an unforgettable getaway.