Set alongside the Santa Ana River, Riverside is a fascinating historic city known for its lively cultural scene and striking heritage buildings. Popular with couples, families and groups, the city is just an hour’s drive from L.A. — perfect for day trips. There’s a small selection of excellent accommodation options in Riverside, including attractive self-catering properties and an enchanting landmark luxury hotel. The best places to stay in Riverside are within easy reach of the city’s main sights, and well-placed for exploring.

Dubbed ‘The City of Arts and Innovation’, Riverside brims with galleries and museums, as well as hosting an exciting programme of annual events and festivals. Stroll the streets of the historic centre to admire fantastic heritage edifices, including the Beaux-Arts style Riverside County Courthouse — featured in multiple films and television series — and the beautiful Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, which is the largest Spanish Mission-style building in the USA. Culture lovers can also pop into the Riverside Art Museum, the California Museum of Photography and the March Field Air Museum, dedicated to the story of aviation. For a glimpse into turn-of-the-century Riverside, the grand Heritage House is the place to go. The Riverside Metropolitan Museum specialises in local history.

Amble around the California Citrus State Historic Park — the birthplace of the California citrus industry — or venture to Mount Rubidoux Park for hiking and cycling trails aplenty. The picturesque Santa Ana River Trail and Whitewater Preserve are also popular with outdoorsy travellers.

Riverside is famous for its brilliant cultural events. Book your trip well in advance if you plan to visit during the Festival of Lights or the Riverside Dickens Festival. The best places to stay in Riverside fill up fast!

The Best Places to Stay in Riverside

For Luxury

• Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a gorgeous Spanish Mission-style property, complete with arches, spires and grand communal spaces. Expect elegant rooms and suites, an indulgent spa and magical dining amongst the hanging gardens. One for groups, families and couples in search of striking architecture near Riverside's main attractions. Enchanting.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Los Angeles International Airport and take an hour-long bus or taxi to Riverside. Alternatively, travel to John Wayne Airport, close to Santa Ana and just 45 minutes' drive from Riverside.
• California is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Riverside is hottest in July and August, when the average temperature reaches 31°C. The cooler months of April - May and October can be lovely and far more tranquil for on-foot explorations.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Los Angeles.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in California.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Riverside