Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Riverside Riverside charms travelers with its tree-lined streets, iconic landmarks, and mountain backdrops. The city is home to an array of cultural venues, gardens, and outdoor spaces perfect for exploration. From museums and theaters to hiking trails and open-air markets, Riverside combines small-city friendliness with California character. It’s a place where historic roots and creative energy thrive side by side. Top areas to stay at in Riverside Downtown Riverside The historic core of the city, Downtown Riverside features the stunning Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, lively pedestrian areas, and museums. Airbnbs here range from stylish lofts in heritage buildings to modern condos near cultural venues. Guests can walk to the Fox Performing Arts Center, restaurants, and seasonal festivals. Wood Streets Just west of downtown, the Wood Streets neighborhood is known for its charming vintage homes and community feel. Vacation rentals include restored Craftsman houses and cozy cottages ideal for families or longer stays. It’s a quiet, leafy area with a strong neighborhood vibe and proximity to downtown. Canyon Crest Canyon Crest is a hilly neighborhood near the University of California, Riverside, offering scenic views and suburban tranquility. Rentals here are often spacious homes with gardens and patios, perfect for groups or families. It’s close to parks, shopping centers, and campus attractions. The area appeals to both visiting academics and vacationers. Arlington Heights Located in the heart of Riverside’s greenbelt, Arlington Heights showcases the city’s citrus-growing legacy. The neighborhood is home to California Citrus State Historic Park and features orange groves and wide-open skies. Rentals range from ranch-style homes to rural retreats with mountain views. Victoria Neighborhood Centered around Victoria Avenue, this area boasts palm-lined boulevards and historic homes, giving it a timeless Southern California aesthetic. Vacation rentals here are elegant and well-located near trails, parks, and downtown. The neighborhood offers a perfect balance of beauty, convenience, and peaceful surroundings. Must-visit places and attractions in Riverside Mission Inn Hotel & Spa This historic and architectural landmark blends Spanish, Moorish, and Mission Revival styles in a luxurious setting. Even if you’re not staying at the inn, guided tours showcase its stunning interiors, chapels, and courtyards. Seasonal lights and festivals add even more magic. California Citrus State Historic Park A tribute to Riverside’s citrus industry, this park offers beautiful groves, museum exhibits, and tasting tours. Visitors can walk among orange trees and learn about the agricultural history that shaped the region. Guided tours and seasonal fruit picking enhance the experience. Riverside Art Museum Located in a 1920s-era building designed by Julia Morgan, this museum hosts exhibitions by regional and national artists. It also features community programs, workshops, and rotating installations. The museum offers a balance of traditional and contemporary works. Fox Performing Arts Center This restored 1930s theater is a glamorous venue for concerts, plays, and special events. From touring Broadway shows to local productions, the Fox brings live performance to life in a vintage setting. The interior architecture adds elegance to every event. Mount Rubidoux Park Mount Rubidoux is a popular hiking spot that offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys. The paved trail leads to a hilltop cross and historic monument, making it a scenic and meaningful destination. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the sunrise and sunset views. University of California, Riverside Botanic Gardens Located on the UCR campus, these gardens span 40 acres and feature themed collections of desert plants, tropical flowers, and California natives. Walking trails, shaded benches, and educational signage make it a peaceful place to explore. The gardens are often used for photography and small events. Heritage House This Victorian-era home offers a glimpse into life in Riverside during the late 1800s. Period furnishings, guided tours, and seasonal programs bring local history to life. The house and grounds are well-preserved and photo-worthy. Fairmount Park Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted’s firm, this large urban park features a lake, rose garden, golf course, and playgrounds. Paddleboats and walking paths make it ideal for leisurely afternoons. The park hosts community events and weekend picnics. Where to Find a Vacation Rental Near Riverside Palm Springs, California Just over an hour east, Palm Springs offers retro charm, resort luxury, and desert landscapes. Visitors can enjoy spas, golf, hiking in Indian Canyons, and shopping along Palm Canyon Drive. It’s a fashionable and sunny escape from Riverside. Relax in a vacation rental in Palm Springs with a private pool and views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Temecula, California About an hour south, Temecula is Southern California’s wine country, featuring vineyards, Old Town shopping, and hot air balloon rides. The area is perfect for wine tastings, romantic getaways, and scenic drives. It offers a relaxing contrast to Riverside’s urban feel. Unwind with vineyard views from a house in Temecula nestled between rolling hills and tasting rooms. Redlands, California Just 25 minutes northeast, Redlands is a historic town with a walkable downtown, Victorian architecture, and citrus heritage. Visitors can explore the Lincoln Shrine, San Bernardino County Museum, and local trails. The city offers a peaceful pace and charming ambiance. Enjoy the local history while staying in an airbnb in Redlands surrounded by old-growth trees and classic bungalows. Claremont, California Located about 45 minutes west, Claremont is a college town with tree-lined streets, bookstores, and artisan eateries. The Claremont Colleges bring academic energy and cultural events to the area. It’s an intellectual and artsy getaway close to Riverside. Spend a few restful nights in an apartment in Claremont just steps from galleries and campus courtyards. Big Bear Lake, California Roughly two hours northeast, Big Bear Lake offers a mountain escape with skiing in winter and lake recreation in summer. Cabins and vacation homes offer cozy comfort in scenic surroundings. Visitors can hike, kayak, or relax by the fire. Many opt for a vacation rental in Big Bear Lake with forest views and wood-burning fireplaces for seasonal stays. Embark on urban landscapes and captivating city life across America While diving into rich cultural and historical experiences in Riverside, explore further urban marvels across the United States. In New Jersey, uncover diverse West New York stay options where the Hudson River furnishes breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Head to Tennessee and explore vibrant music scenes by booking one of the Bristol TN rental homes, a city known for its rich motorsport history and the renowned Bristol Motor Speedway. Discover the academic charm of North Carolina through a Chapel Hill airbnb, where the intersection of art and academia at the University of North Carolina sets the stage for a vibrant local culture. Lastly, venture to California's own Santa Clarita airbnb to experience the varied themes of Six Flags Magic Mountain and the majestic Vasquez Rocks Natural Area. Each destination offers a unique urban adventure that complements the multifaceted appeal of the area.