🗺️ ~45 min–1.5 hrs from OC & LA
Inland Empire & Riverside with kids
Curated by Simir Shah
~45 min–1.5 hrs from OC & LA
Fall–spring (summers hot); late Nov–early Jan for the Festival of Lights
Who it's for: Families wanting an affordable, low-crowd mix of rides, history, gardens and art close to home.
Live in the area or want the full list? See our complete Inland Empire things-to-do guide.
What to do with kids
Family tips
- Visit the Mission Inn's Festival of Lights on a weekday evening to dodge crowds (the lights and outdoor mall are free to walk).
- Confirm Jensen-Alvarado in advance (appointment-only), and check Castle Park's seasonal hours.
Hours, prices and seasonal access change — confirm with each attraction before you go. Know a great Inland Empire & Riverside spot for families? Suggest it.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Inland Empire & Riverside good for a family day trip?
An under-the-radar region for families, Riverside and the surrounding Inland Empire pack in a classic amusement park, a fairy-tale historic hotel that becomes a holiday light wonderland, citrus-grove history, and hands-on art and ranch days. Because it's so close to OC and LA, it's an easy day trip with far smaller crowds than the coast. Families wanting an affordable, low-crowd mix of rides, history, gardens and art close to home.
How far is Inland Empire & Riverside from OC and LA?
~45 min–1.5 hrs from OC & LA. The best time to visit is fall–spring (summers hot); late nov–early jan for the festival of lights.