Riverside California is in the southern part of the state. It is part of the Inland Empire and was founded in the late 1800’s. Riverside is the 12th largest city in the state of California. Did you know the famous singer Etta James was from Riverside? Riverside California is home to many interesting and fun places. This article should serve as easy guide to some fun places during your next visit to this great city! HANGAR TRAMPOLINE PARK Are you looking for a fun, high-adrenaline place to have family fun? This is the place for you! You will find wall-to-wall trampolines, open jump areas, trick areas with protective foam pits and even dodge ball courts! There is also a basketball area, bubble soccer, and so many other fun obstacle zones and activities! If you get hungry while playing hard, there is a café that serves different kinds of foods and treats. Hot dogs, pretzels, nachos, pizza, and ice cream can all be found here! There is also lunge areas with free Wi-Fi for parents while the kids play.
ADDRESS-12125 Day STP HONE-951-682-5867
RIVERSIDE LIVE STEAMERS
Joe Hunter was a steam locomotive enthusiast who founded the organization. RLS operates and maintains a railroad track that is used only by miniature steam locomotives. As train technology increased as time went by, Mr. Hunter realized that steam locomotives would eventually become a thing of the past. He then purchased 40 acres of land, and constructed a 4,300-foot railroad along with a steam locomotive with three cars. Up until his death in 1965, he operated this track. After his death, the track was turned over to the Riverside Live Steamers, and the railroad was expanded to more than 10,000 feet of track. Today, more than 20,000 visitors ride this historic miniature track each year.
ADDRESS-1421 Iowa Ave PHONE-951-779-9024
BALLET FOLKLORIO DE RIVERSIDE
This authentic Mexican-style dance company was founded by Ana de la Tejera in 1977. They put on enthralling performances throughout the year. The goal she had was to preserve Mexican culture through various songs, dance, and costumes. Ballet Folklorico de Riverside now has over 75 members who are led by four incredibly talented Maestas, or teachers. These talented dancers perform exciting routines at festivals, parties and even private events. ADDRESS-7115 Arlington Ave Suite F PHONE-951-354-8872
CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE BALLETThe CRB got its start in 1969. They are known for their outstanding choreography, beautiful performances, unique style and impressive talent. You can see this great ballet at either of the two major performances they have each year. When this company is not performing, their members stay busy with outreach efforts in the community, and fundraising events. Auditions are open to dancers of any age, and many CRB members receive scholarships and career opportunities from performing with the ballet. ADDRESS-3700 6th StPHONE-951-787-0879
RIVERSIDE CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET
You can find this popular marked in the heart of downtown Riverside. Homegrown goods, freshly baked bread and specialty foods are just some of the delicious foods you can find here. There are organic vegetables, decorative plants, and homemade items as well. Each Saturday of the year the Farmers Market is open from 8am-1pm. ADDRESS-Main and 6thSTPHONE-951-826-5408
GRIER PAVILLIONOpened in 2008 to commemorate Barnett and Eleanor Jean Grier, who were two of Riverside’s most well-known civil rights activists. Located on the 7th floor balcony of City Hall, it features a beautiful 10-foot-wide mosaic art piece known as the Center Circle of Inclusion. You can also find quotes adorned on the walls from many of the world’s most celebrated civil rights leaders. John F. Kennedy, Cesar Chavez, Rosa Parks, Mahatma Gandhi and Abraham Lincoln are just some of the people whose quotes you can find here. ADDRESS-3900 Main ST PHONE-951-826-5557
ENTOMOLOGY MUSEUMLocated on the Campus of University of California Riverside, this museum holds one of the oldest insect collections in California. This museum has an incredibly diverse assortment of well-preserved specimens from all around the globe. Started in 1923, private donations and university researchers have helped grow the museum’s holdings to over three million specimens. This museum helps educate the public about insects and also serves as a research center for undergraduate and graduate students. The museum is open to the public, and also by appointment. ADDRESS-900 University Ave PHONE-951-827-4315
CENTER FOR SOCIAL JUSTIC AND CIVIL LIBERTIESThe
Center is dedicated to teaching people about American politics and culture during the 20th century. You can find interactive displays that tell stories of Japanese internment camp occupants as well as civil liberty activists. Home to the Mine Okubo Collection, this powerful assortment of paintings, drawings and documents was created by Mine Okutobo during the World War II internment of Japanese Americans. It is used mainly for research and educational purposes, but is open to the public on Sundays from 10AM-4PM. Group tours can also be scheduled in advance.ADDRESS-3855 Market ST PHONE-951-222-8846
THE COVER WATERPARK
This popular family fun center is located in Jurupa Valley. You can find all sorts of fun exciting rides and attractions including waterslides, a lazy river, a flowrider, and a competition sized swimming pool. This pool is used often for local swimming and diving competitions; however, it is also open to the public during certain times of the week. There are various activities available, like swimming lessons, Jr. Lifeguard activities, special needs aquatics program and even aqua Zumba classes that happen at the junior Olympic-sized pool. This waterpark can also be rented out for birthday parties and special events. ADDRESS-4310 Camino Real in Jurupa Valley PHONE-951-360-1974