Discover the allure of Western Riverside County, a SoCal gem perfect for a weekend getaway. In our guide, you'll explore nine dynamic cities—Riverside, Norco, Jurupa Valley, Eastvale, Beaumont, Corona, Perris, Banning, and Moreno Valley—each offering a unique blend of activities to suit every taste.
Whether you're unwinding in historic hot springs, savoring local culinary delights, or hiking scenic trails, you'll find endless opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery.
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Western Riverside County
Morning in Riverside
Begin your weekend at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, a historical landmark in Downtown Riverside since 1876. The hotel's stunning architecture showcases the Mission-Revival style, drawing inspiration from California missions and the early Spanish settlers.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast and coffee, then take a morning stroll around downtown Riverside before heading off to explore what Western Riverside has in store!
Calm and Comfort in Corona
Head to Corona’s Temescal Valley, just 20 minutes south of Riverside, and kick off your staycation with a refreshing spa experience at Glen Ivy Hot Springs! With over a century of history, Glen Ivy offers 19 unique pools and wellness treatments. Soak in their healing mineral baths or enjoy a playful mud treatment at Club Mud. This serene spa combines relaxation and rejuvenation, setting the perfect tone for a memorable weekend.
Lunch in Eastvale
Head over to Eastvale for a delicious lunch at Cravings Food Hall, where you can choose from ten diverse eateries offering everything from Japanese shabu-shabu to Taiwanese dumplings. This vibrant culinary hub is perfect for sampling a wide range of flavors in one lively spot.
After lunch, relax at Dairyland Park, a fantastic destination for families. With a fun water play area and a spacious dog park, it’s the perfect place for kids and pets to enjoy some outdoor fun.
Afternoon: Adventure in Jurupa Valley
Spend your afternoon at the Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center, just a short 15-minute drive from Eastvale. Dive into a world of adventure with educational trails featuring dinosaur replicas and vibrant native plants. Kids will be thrilled with the interactive exhibits, and everyone will enjoy the fascinating collection of fossils and the stunning variety of cacti. It’s a fun and engaging destination for all ages!
Evening in Norco
Make your way to Norco and explore the Hidden Valley Wildlife Area. Here, you can hike, horseback ride, or cycle along the scenic Santa Ana River, all while taking in views of the beautiful Temescal Mountains. Known for its equestrian trails, this area offers plenty of opportunities for more relaxed activities like bird watching. End your evening by watching the sunset over the hills and canyons of Western Riverside County.
Dinner in Downtown Riverside
After a long day of exploring, head back to Downtown Riverside for a delightful dinner. Visit the Riverside Food Lab, where you can choose from thirteen eateries offering extended hours for late-night dining. Whether you're in the mood for a craft cocktail or a gourmet meal, this local hotspot has you covered.
For a movie night, head to the Rubidoux Drive-In Theatre for a nostalgic drive-in experience. Enjoy popcorn, snacks, and a mix of classic and contemporary films under the stars in this charming outdoor setting.
An Evening at the Inn
As the evening winds down, return to your lodgings at The Mission Inn. Enjoy luxurious amenities, including a Tuscan-inspired spa and a variety of late-night dessert options, and check out their on-site museum filled with fascinating artifacts from around the world!
Day 2: Head South for Adventures and High Thrills
Early Morning: Moreno Valley or Beaumont
Start day two of your staycation with a refreshing sunrise hike at Box Springs Mountain Park in MoVal! From its trails, you'll enjoy expansive views of Riverside and Moreno Valley. This nature lover's paradise spans over 3,400 acres. The area boasts diverse flora and fauna, including wildflowers like California poppies and lupines and wildlife such as mule deer and red-tailed hawks. With trails for all levels, casual hikers and dedicated outdoor enthusiasts will surely find their perfect path.
Or, if Beaumont is more your vibe, book a sunrise tee time at the Oak Valley Golf Club or hit up Bogart Regional Park for an early morning hike through some of Riverside’s most beautiful landscapes. Both locations offer a serene start to your day, with the golf club providing pristine greens and the park offering picturesque trails.
Mid-Morning: Culture and Skydiving in Perris
For thrill-seekers, nothing beats the excitement of skydiving at Skydive Perris, one of the most renowned skydiving facilities in the nation. Skydive Perris offers packages ranging from outdoor tandem sky diving to indoor wind tunnel activities. With over 50 years of experience and one of the largest dropzones in the country, you can feel secure while knowing you’re experiencing the 5-star resort of extreme sports.
If you prefer a more laid-back morning, the Southern California Railway Museum offers a rich glimpse into the region’s railroad history with its extensive collection of railcars and locomotives. Among its holdings is the largest collection of Pacific Electric Railway rolling stock in the world! You’ll learn about these and more from the museum’s famously knowledgeable and passionate tour guides. All aboard!
Dine or Zip in Corona
If you're up for more thrills, head to Skull Canyon Ziplines for an exhilarating adventure. Spanning over 160 acres and featuring four courses to choose from, you can zip through the skies and enjoy breathtaking views of Corona and beyond.
Whether you've been hiking, skydiving, or exploring, you've likely worked up an appetite. For lunch, indulge in local cuisine at Goodfellas Cafe in Corona, known for serving the best lasagna in town in a family-friendly setting. If all-day breakfast is up your alley, visit the Silver Dollar Pancake House, the oldest restaurant in Corona dating back to 1922. With its vintage diner vibe, this beloved spot offers a generous menu featuring 15 varieties of pancakes, omelets, burgers, and hearty salads, perfect for a mid-day recharge.
Afternoon Attractions in Banning
Nestled along the edges of the San Bernardino National Forest, Banning offers a delightful mix of activities for visitors. Just outside the city, you can enjoy the excitement of Morongo Casino Resort & Spa or shop at the Cabazon Outlets. Within the city limits, Banning provides opportunities for hiking and horseback riding in the nearby wilderness, exploring local museums, and participating in seasonal festivals. Don’t miss a visit to the famous Cabazon Dinosaurs, where you can step back in time and marvel at these massive dinosaur replicas!
Return to Riverside: Cultural and Scenic Highlights
Head back to Riverside for a mix of cultural immersion and serene landscapes. Start with a visit to Mount Rubidoux Park, a cherished urban landmark that spans 161 acres. It features a network of paved roads and hiking trails, attracting daily walkers, joggers, and cyclists who come for sweeping views of the city.
Then, head into Downtown Riverside to explore the vibrant world of Chicano art at the Riverside Art Museum. Known simply as "The Cheech," this cultural hub celebrates the rich diversity of Chicano artists from Riverside and beyond, aiming to inspire and educate through rotating exhibits, concerts, performances, and special events year-round!
Evening in Downtown Riverside: Stroll, Dine, and Unwind
When the sun sets, take an evening stroll through Downtown Riverside. For dinner, enjoy a lively experience at Palenque Kitchen, where colorful decor and DJ music set the mood. This restaurant specializes in Mexican small plates and entrees, with cocktails focusing on mezcal and tequila. If you're in the mood for Italian, Mario's Place offers an upscale atmosphere and delicious pasta dishes. For a casual vibe, The Salted Pig serves inventive American cuisine and local craft beers, while Heroes Restaurant & Brewery is a Riverside favorite for its hearty pub grub.
A Staycation to Remember
Our weekend guide to Western Riverside County is packed with relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration, perfect for all kinds of interests. Customize your itinerary, uncover local treasures, and enjoy a memorable staycation in this vibrant part of Southern California. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an exciting escapade, Western Riverside County offers a rich and fulfilling experience that's sure to leave you wanting more!