
City’s History in Brief in Riverside, California, United States
1. Riverside Museum
A vibrant museum showcasing Riverside's diverse history, from its agricultural roots to the founding of the University of California, Riverside.
- Hands-On Exhibits: Offers interactive experiences that engage visitors of all ages.
- Local Artifacts: Preserves and displays a vast collection of artifacts from the city's past.
- Temporary Exhibits: Regularly updates exhibits to reflect current events and trends in Riverside's history.
2. Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
A historic hotel blending Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with modern luxury.
- Rich History: Built in the early 20th century, it has served as a hospital, military headquarters, and movie set.
- Festive Atmosphere: Hosts annual festivals such as the Festival of Lights.
- Spa & Wellness Center: Provides a tranquil retreat for weary travelers.
3. Fox Performing Arts Center
A beautifully restored theater that showcases live performances, concerts, and events.
- Architectural Beauty: Features Art Deco architecture, making it a standout in the city.
- Diverse Performances: Offers a wide variety of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts.
- Community Events: Hosts community events, making it a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
4. California Citrus State Historic Park
A park preserving the history of California's citrus industry, with groves, exhibits, and a packhouse museum.
- Citrus Groves: Allows visitors to walk among mature citrus trees.
- Packhouse Museum: Showcases the processes used in packing and shipping citrus fruits.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for visitors of all ages.
5. Riverside Metropolitan Museum
A museum focused on the cultural history of the Inland Empire region, with exhibits on art, archaeology, and natural history.
- Cultural Diversity: Highlights the rich cultural diversity of the region.
- Archaeological Finds: Displays archaeological artifacts from the region's indigenous peoples and early settlers.
- Art Exhibits: Features rotating exhibits of contemporary and traditional art.
6. Orange Street Pedestrian Bridge
A historical pedestrian bridge over the Santa Ana River, offering a scenic view of the city.
- Scenic Views: Provides a unique vantage point for viewing the city and river.
- Historical Significance: Constructed in 1932 as part of the city's flood control system.
- Safe Crossing: Enables pedestrians to safely cross the busy Santa Ana River.
7. Fairmount Park
A large city park featuring historical sites, gardens, and recreational facilities.
- Historical Sites: Includes the historic Mission Inn Amphitheater and the Riverside Municipal Auditorium.
- Gardens & Nature: Features gardens, a lake, and walking trails for visitors to enjoy.
- Recreational Facilities: Offers sports facilities, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
8. Riverside Municipal Auditorium
A historic auditorium that has hosted notable figures such as Franklin D. Roosevelt.
- Architectural Significance: Designed by architect Myron Hunt, the same architect who designed the Rose Bowl.
- Historical Events: Has been a site for major historical events, including speeches by Franklin D. Roosevelt.
- Community Gatherings: Continues to host community gatherings and events.
9. University of California, Riverside
A public research university founded in 1954, offering a wide range of academic programs.
- Academic Excellence: Offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
- Research Opportunities: Supports research in fields such as medicine, engineering, and the arts.
- Campus Tours: Provides campus tours for prospective students and visitors.
10. Riverside Art Museum
A museum dedicated to contemporary art, with rotating exhibits and educational programs.
- Contemporary Art: Focuses on contemporary art from local, national, and international artists.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for visitors of all ages.
- Community Engagement: Engages the community through partnerships and outreach initiatives.
11. Riverside Public Library
A public library system with multiple branches offering resources and programs for all ages.
- Resource Center: Provides access to books, digital resources, and research tools.
- Community Programs: Offers programs for readers of all ages, including story times, workshops, and book clubs.
- Local History Resources: Has extensive resources on the history and culture of Riverside.
12. March Field Air Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of aviation and the military, with a focus on the United States Air Force.
- Military History: Highlights the role of the U.S. Air Force in local and national history.
- Aircraft Displays: Features a variety of aircraft, including vintage planes and modern jets.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits for visitors to engage with.
13. Riverside National Cemetery
A national cemetery serving the greater Riverside area, honoring those who have served in the military.
- Military Honors: Provides a final resting place for veterans and their families.
- Historical Significance: Serves as a memorial to those who have defended the United States.
- Visitation & Memorial Services: Offers visitation and memorial services for family members and friends.
14. Riverside County Courthouse
A historic courthouse constructed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, serving as a symbol of justice.
- Architectural Beauty: Features ornate details and beautiful tile work.
- Legal History: Serves as a symbol of the rule of law in Riverside.
- Public Access: Open to the public for tours and observations of justice being administered.
15. Riverside Fox Theater
A historic theater offering live performances, movies, and events.
- Architectural Beauty: Features Art Deco architecture with a stunning façade.
- Diverse Entertainment: Offers a variety of performances, including music, comedy, and dance.
- Community Events: Hosts community events and fundraisers for local charities.