Downtown
The heart of Riverside, downtown offers a vibrant urban scene with art galleries, restaurants, and bars housed in historic buildings. Start your visit at the Riverside Metropolitan Museum to learn about the city’s citrus heritage. Then grab lunch on Market Street, which is lined with restaurants and indie boutiques. At night, catch a show at the Fox Performing Arts Center before heading to Worthington’s Tavern, one of California’s oldest saloons.
Eastside
Eastside is one of Riverside’s up-and-coming neighborhoods thanks to ongoing community revitalization efforts. Enjoy panoramic views of Riverside and its mountains at Fairmount Park. Check out the eclectic shops and eateries along University Avenue, including organic groceries at the Eastside Food Co-op. Don’t miss the Riverside Art Museum, home to contemporary art exhibits by local artists.
La Sierra
Situated in northwestern Riverside, La Sierra offers a small-town vibe despite its proximity to the city. La Sierra University gives the area a youthful energy. Spend an afternoon browsing La Sierra Vintage, Treasures, & More, then enjoy homestyle Mexican food at Casa Blanca. Nearby, the 100-acre Rancho Jurupa Regional Park provides opportunities for hiking and exploring nature.
Canyon Crest
This affluent residential neighborhood features mid-century modern homes nestled against the Box Springs mountain canyon. Enjoy stellar city views along Scenic Drive or take an easy hike on the Box Springs Park trail loop. Stock up on snacks and refreshments for your adventure at Jensen’s Foods, a well-loved local market. Don’t miss the UCR Botanic Gardens, open to visitors every day.
Magnolia Center
Centered around Magnolia Avenue, this historic district charms with its tree-lined streets and Craftsman bungalows. Browse antiques stores and indie boutiques in the pedestrian-friendly downtown area. Refuel with coffee and pastries at the family-owned Simple Simon’s Bakery & Bistro. In the evening, catch live music at the Prohibition era speakeasy, The Salted Pig.
Arlanza
This quiet residential community northeast of downtown offers ranch-style homes with mountain views. Hit the greens at the well-maintained Arlanza Golf Club or bring the kids to play mini-golf at Castle Park, an imaginative amusement park. For groceries and essentials, locals frequent Stater Bros. Markets, known for its affordable prices. Arlanza Park also contains basketball courts, ball fields, and a playground.
Orangecrest
In Riverside’s south side, the Orangecrest neighborhood charms with citrus groves and roadside fruit stands. Stop by Olivewood Gardens to learn about the city’s agricultural history and enjoy the picturesque gardens. Orange Terrace Park features a community center, swimming pools, ball courts, and playgrounds. At Tio’s Tacos, enjoy delicious Mexican street food in a casual setting.
Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park
Just east of downtown, over 2,000 acres of hiking trails wind through Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park. Follow meandering paths up to panoramic lookouts and down to lush riparian areas along the canyon floor. Keep an eye out for roadrunners, coyotes, bobcats and mule deer. After your hike, reward yourself with a hearty meal at Canyon Crest Towne Centre’s many dining options.
Victoria
Located between Downtown Riverside and La Sierra, Victoria showcases historic architecture and small-town charm. Meander past Victorian and Craftsman style homes while admiring the neighborhood’s mature trees and quaint lampposts. Make a stop at Lincoln Park, home to a playground, basketball courts, and the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Monument. Fuel up on flaky croissants and fresh sandwiches at Victoria Bakery before browsing the antiques shops along Victoria Avenue.
Wood Streets
Bordering Downtown to the south, Wood Streets contains historic homes built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Marvel at the ornate Craftsman, Victorian, and Spanish Revival architecture as you stroll through the area. The Fox Historic Theatre on Market Street occasionally hosts community events. Visit on a Saturday morning to browse the Riverside Farmers Market at the Riverside Metropolitan Museum.
Hunter Industrial Park
Home to modern warehouses and commercial buildings, Hunter Industrial Park offers a peek into Riverside’s industrial side. Watch trucks rumble in and out of facilities operated by major distribution and logistics companies. If you’re an architecture buff, admire the geometric facades and contemporary materials used in many of the structures. Fuel up nearby at Hole in the Wall Bar-B-Q, popular with locals for its tender smoked brisket.
Mission Grove
This peaceful community features mid-century ranch homes tucked against the base of Box Spring Mountain Reserve. Enjoy leisurely hikes on the trails leading into the nature preserve from Ruth Lewis Park. Let the kids expend their energy at Fairmont Park’s three playground areas. Mission Grove attracts families looking for an outdoorsy lifestyle close to nature yet near city conveniences.
Northside
Historic Northside charms with its tree-lined streets and vintage homes in Tudor, Craftsman, and Spanish styles. The Northside Historic District contains over 200 homes built as early as 1869. Enjoy a picnic lunch under the sprawling oak trees at Fairmount Park, overlooking the cityscape. In the evening, catch live music and entertainment at the Evergreen Historic District downtown.
Arlington
This ethnically-diverse neighborhood south of Downtown offers affordable housing and a strong sense of community. Friendly corner markets and family-owned restaurants reflect the area’s Latino roots. Check out Food4Less for low prices on groceries and household essentials. On weekends, locals flock to Villegas Community Park to swim, play sports, or enjoy a picnic.
La Sierra South
As an extension of the La Sierra neighborhood, La Sierra South contains suburban subdivisions, commercial corridors, and portions of the La Sierra University campus. Visit Mt. Rubidoux Park to admire views of the Santa Ana River from hiking trails etched into the hillside. For breakfast, try coffee and pastries from Ddeep Dish Cafe & Art Gallery, a beloved local cafe and art space.
Orangecrest
Charming Orangecrest offers a small town feel and affordable residences. Tree-lined streets lead to cozy ranch homes and gardens filled with citrus trees and flowering plants. At Evans Park Community Center, families gather for classes, sports, and social events. For fresh, inexpensive Mexican fare, locals recommend Taqueria El Rodeo, a humble neighborhood favorite on Arlington Avenue.
Highgrove
Highgrove’s rural surroundings and equestrian properties attract nature lovers. Meander along the trails of Spring Mountain Ranch Preserve, keeping an eye out for hawks, cottontail rabbits, and bobcats. Horse aficionados can arrange boarding or riding lessons at the Highgrove Ranch Equestrian Center. Enjoy wallet-friendly family dining and classic American fare at Highgrove Grill.
Book a Bus With Us
No matter which Riverside neighborhoods you want to explore, Riverside Party Bus Company has group transportation covered. As Riverside’s premier charter bus company, we provide affordable, convenient bus rentals for any size group. Our modern charter buses and minibuses feature cushy reclining seats, WiFi, entertainment systems, and plenty of onboard amenities to keep your group comfortable. Let our experienced team whisk you around Riverside while you sit back and enjoy the sights. Contact Riverside Party Bus Company at (951) 425-4851 to book your neighborhood exploration of Riverside today!