Downtown Attractions
Riverside presents a plethora of activities to engage every visitor. Whether it's meandering through the galleries of The Cheech, gaming at the Game Lab, or hiking Mt. Rubidoux, there's something for everyone. The dynamic blend of urban and natural experiences ensures that those seeking culture, adventure, retail therapy, or relaxation will find their perfect activity in downtown Riverside.
Downtown Pedestrian Mall
The Downtown Pedestrian Mall in Downtown Riverside is a bustling hub of activity and commerce that invites visitors to stroll, shop, and dine amidst a vibrant urban setting. Spanning several blocks along Main Street, this pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare is lined with a diverse array of shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, offering something for everyone to explore and enjoy. With its charming storefronts, outdoor seating areas, and lively atmosphere, the Downtown Pedestrian Mall serves as the beating heart of Riverside's historic downtown district, providing a welcoming space for residents and visitors alike to gather, socialize, and experience the vibrant energy of the city.
Arts & Culture
The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture
Explore the vibrant world of Chicano art and culture at The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and diverse perspectives of Chicano artists through exhibits, educational programs, and community outreach. Discover the power of art to unite and inspire, and celebrate the contributions of Chicano artists to American art and culture.
-
Location: 3581 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
Downtown Murals
Downtown Riverside is a vibrant canvas adorned with a rich tapestry of murals, each telling a unique story and reflecting the city's diverse spirit. From colorful street art to intricate historical depictions, these murals add character and charm to the urban landscape. Explore the streets and discover captivating works of art that celebrate Riverside's cultural heritage, honor local heroes, and showcase the creativity of talented artists. Whether you're strolling along Main Street or wandering through hidden alleys, the downtown murals offer an immersive experience that invites you to appreciate the beauty and creativity of Riverside's thriving arts scene
Mission Inn Museum
The Mission Inn Museum invites visitors to step into a world of timeless elegance and rich history. Housed within the iconic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, this museum offers a captivating journey through the landmark's storied past. Discover the architectural marvels and cultural treasures that have shaped the Mission Inn's legacy since its inception in the late 19th century. From its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture to its lavish interior adorned with exquisite artwork and artifacts, the museum provides insight into the hotel's role as a cultural hub and a haven for luminaries and dignitaries. Explore fascinating exhibits, guided tours, and interactive displays that illuminate the inn's evolution from a modest boarding house to a world-renowned destination.
- Location: 3696 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92501
Riverside Art Museum
The Riverside Art Museum (RAM) is a dynamic cultural institution dedicated to showcasing the vibrant arts scene of the region. Housed within a historic building that once served as a YWCA, the museum offers visitors a diverse array of contemporary and traditional artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and multimedia installations. With rotating exhibitions featuring local, national, and international artists, as well as engaging educational programs and community events, RAM serves as a hub for artistic exploration and creativity. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the Riverside Art Museum invites you to discover the beauty, innovation, and cultural significance of the arts in Riverside.
- Location: 3425 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
UCR ARTS - California Museum of Photography & The Barbara & Art Culver Center of the Arts
Under one roof, UCR ARTS brings together the California Museum of Photography and the Barbara & Art Culver Center of the Arts located in downtown Riverside. UCR ARTS is the West Coast’s premier university photography museum and contemporary art center. As an international arts hub and research center, we generate ideas and provoke dialogue through groundbreaking exhibitions, performances, and programming.
The California Museum of Photography has more than 500,000 pieces in its collection, spanning the history of photography. The Culver Center has over 1,500 works of contemporary art. Researchers and visitors from around the world come to UCR ARTS to explore its collections.
The Culver houses a 72-seat state-of-the-art film and video screening room; the Coil Atrium Gallery for exhibitions, music, and performances under a magnificent 35-foot skylight, and f-stop pedestrian gallery. Culver’s second floor contains an incubator for advanced research in the arts, dance studios, and a black-box theater. The screening room exhibits more than 250 different films every year and is one of just a few venues in the region to screen independent, foreign, documentary, and experimental films.
- Location: 3824 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92501
Center for Social Justice & Civil Liberties
The Center for Social Justice & Civil Liberties is a dynamic institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the principles of equality, diversity, and human rights through its compelling exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives. At the heart of the center's mission is the remarkable Mine Akubo Art Collection, which pays homage to the extraordinary legacy of Japanese American artist Miné Okubo. Through her poignant artwork and courageous commentary on social justice issues, particularly pertaining to the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, Okubo's legacy continues to inspire and educate visitors about the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities. From thought-provoking exhibits to enlightening workshops, the Center for Social Justice & Civil Liberties invites individuals of all backgrounds to engage in meaningful dialogue and collective action toward a more just and inclusive society.
- Location: 3855 Market Street, Riverside, CA 92501
Fox Performing Arts Theater
The Fox Performing Arts Theater is a timeless symbol of elegance and cultural significance. Built in 1929 and meticulously restored to its former glory, the theater exudes historic charm and grandeur. With its stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and ornate interior details, including a majestic domed ceiling adorned with celestial motifs, the Fox Theater offers a captivating setting for a wide range of performances, from Broadway shows and concerts to dance recitals and film screenings. As a beloved cultural landmark in the heart of downtown Riverside, the Fox Theater continues to enchant audiences with its rich history and world-class entertainment, ensuring unforgettable experiences for generations to come.
- Location: 3801 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
Historic Sites
Embark on a captivating journey through time in downtown Riverside. Today's downtown area is a vibrant tapestry of history, activity, and architectural splendor, complemented by tree-lined pedestrian spaces and an array of cultural and entertainment facilities. As you stroll through the streets, Riverside's rich heritage illuminates, highlighting key landmarks and sharing fascinating stories of its past. From the iconic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa to the historic Fox Performing Arts Theater, each step unveils a new chapter in Riverside's evolution. Experience the charm and allure of this urban getaway right next door, where the past meets the present in a delightful fusion of culture, history, and community spirit.
Walk your way through the history of Riverside with the Downtown Partnership's Guide!
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
Framed by its breathtaking Spanish Mission-style architecture, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa welcomes you to a destination where rich history and classic elegance exist in perfect balance with contemporary luxury and comfort.
Occupying an entire city block in downtown Riverside, California — just moments from the Riverside Convention Center — this iconic, AAA Four-Diamond hotel has remained faithful to the grand style and ambiance enjoyed by its very first guests in 1876. It is a place where magnificent vistas harbor countless intimate hidden treasures. And it’s an oasis where the outside world is left behind to set a vivid stage for memories that will last a lifetime.
-
Location: 3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
Riverside County Historic Courthouse
The Riverside County Historic Courthouse stands as a testament to Riverside's legal and architectural heritage. Originally constructed in 1903, this magnificent Beaux-Arts-style building has witnessed over a century of legal proceedings, echoing the growth and evolution of the city. Designed by architect Franklin Pierce Burnham, the courthouse reflects the grandeur of the early 20th century and has served as a hub for civic affairs and justice. Its striking facade, featuring classical columns and intricate detailing, speaks to the importance placed on civic institutions during its era. Over the years, the courthouse has undergone renovations and restorations, preserving its historical significance while adapting to modern needs. Today, it not only continues to serve as a center for legal proceedings but also stands as a cherished historical landmark, inviting visitors to appreciate Riverside's enduring commitment to justice and architectural elegance.
-
Location: 4050 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92501
Riverside Municipal Auditorium
The Riverside Municipal Auditorium stands as a testament to Riverside's rich cultural heritage and architectural grandeur. Built in 1929, this historic venue has been a hub for entertainment, events, and community gatherings for nearly a century. With its stunning Mission Revival-style architecture and ornate detailing, the auditorium exudes timeless elegance and charm. From concerts and theatrical performances to corporate events and private functions, the Riverside Municipal Auditorium offers a versatile space to suit a variety of occasions. Located in the heart of downtown Riverside, the auditorium is surrounded by vibrant streets lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a focal point of the city's thriving arts and entertainment scene.
-
Location: 3485 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
Harada House
The Harada House stands as a poignant testament to Riverside's complex history. Built in the early 20th century, this unassuming Craftsman-style home gained historical significance due to the Harada family's struggle for their rights during a time of discriminatory laws. Jukichi and Ken Harada, Japanese immigrants, fought against the California Alien Land Law, aiming to prohibit non-citizens from owning land. The Harada family's legal battles went all the way to the California Supreme Court, resulting in a groundbreaking decision allowing them to keep their home. Today, the Harada House is a National Historic Landmark, preserving not only the architectural beauty of the era but also commemorating a family's resilience in the face of adversity and their contribution to the broader narrative of civil rights in the United States.
-
Location: 3356 Lemon Street, Riverside, CA 92501
Outdoor Activities & Other Attractions
Mount Rubidoux
Mount Rubidoux, nestled in the heart of downtown, is a beloved landmark steeped in rich history and natural beauty. Offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, this iconic hill is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and spiritual seekers alike. From its historic significance as the site of America's first outdoor nondenominational Easter sunrise service to its storied past hosting illustrious visitors such as Booker T. Washington and Buffalo Bill Cody, Mount Rubidoux holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. With its winding trails, scenic vistas, and tranquil ambiance, a hike to the summit of Mount Rubidoux promises a memorable experience and a deeper connection to the vibrant tapestry of Riverside's cultural heritage.
- Location: 4706 Mt Rubidoux Drive, Riverside, CA 92501
Riverside Food Lab
The Riverside Food Lab in Riverside is a culinary haven where foodies gather to indulge in a diverse array of culinary delights. Ranked as 6th Best New Food Hall in the U.S. by Best Readers' Choice Travel Awards, this vibrant food hall features a curated selection of eateries and artisanal food vendors, offering everything from gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizzas to international cuisine and craft cocktails. With its communal seating and lively atmosphere, the Food Lab provides the perfect setting for friends and family to come together and savor the flavors of Riverside's thriving food scene. Whether you're craving comfort food classics or eager to explore innovative culinary creations, the Riverside Food Lab promises an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the rich diversity of flavors.
- Location: 3605 Market Street, Riverside, CA 92501
Riverside Game Lab
The Riverside Game Lab is a dynamic hub for gaming enthusiasts and creators alike. As a collaborative space dedicated to the exploration and advancement of gaming culture, the Game Lab offers a vibrant community where players can come together to share their passion for games of all kinds. From video games to board games, tabletop RPGs to virtual reality experiences, the Game Lab provides a welcoming environment for gamers to connect, collaborate, and unleash their creativity. With state-of-the-art equipment and a diverse array of events and workshops, the Riverside Game Lab serves as a catalyst for innovation and excitement in the local gaming scene, inspiring players of all ages to embark on unforgettable gaming adventures.
- Location: 3633 Market Street, Riverside, CA 92501