Things to do in Riverside
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
A historic landmark hotel with castle-like architecture, courtyards, and a famous holiday Festival of Lights families love to wander.
Free to stroll; tours ~$25Theme Parks & RidesCastle Park
Classic family amusement park with rides, four mini-golf courses, an arcade, and a summer water area.
~$30–40 ride wristbandParks & HikingCalifornia Citrus State Historic Park
Living-history park among working orange groves with picnic lawns, trails, and a glimpse of SoCal's citrus heyday.
Free; parking ~$5Farmers markets in Riverside
Downtown Riverside Certified Farmers Market
Riverside's flagship market on the Main St pedestrian mall, year-round rain or shine, with produce, hot food, and a stroll-friendly scene; EBT accepted (also Wednesdays).
Local restaurants in Riverside
Lake Alice Trading Co.
Downtown saloon-style BBQ joint with a casual, kid-welcoming atmosphere.
Tio's Tacos
Beloved taco shop set in an incredible folk-art sculpture garden kids can wander.
Simple Simon's
Downtown bakery-cafe famous for fresh bread and hearty sandwiches.
Las Campanas
Mexican restaurant at the historic Mission Inn with a lovely family-friendly patio.
Heroes Restaurant & Brewery
Downtown brewpub with a big menu and casual booths that suit families.
Back to the Grind
Funky downtown coffeehouse with desserts and a laid-back all-ages vibe.
Mario's Place
Upscale downtown Italian; more date night but welcomes well-behaved kids.
Riverside Food Lab
Downtown food hall with many local vendors — easy when everyone wants something different.
Zacatecas Cafe
Second-generation family Mexican cafe open since 1963, serving Josephine Medina's original recipes for breakfast and lunch.
Saku Ramen
Downtown Riverside ramen shop simmering its broth 12–18 hours and open 24/7 for casual family slurping.
Local shops in Riverside
Downtowne Bookstore
Woman-owned indie bookstore since 1979 near the Mission Inn, with new, used, and rare books.
Cellar Door Books
Independent bookstore hosting kids' storytimes, book clubs, and a friendly bookstore dog.
Sphinx Comics, Cards & Collectibles
Locally owned shop with comics, action figures, toys, games, and trading-card supplies.
Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.