Exploring Inland Empire Day Trips, Activities & Hidden Gems

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Southern California’s Inland Empire is a vast region that includes a large portion of Riverside County; during the first half of the 20th century, thousands of acres of citrus groves once extended from Pasadena to Redlands. New construction has replaced many citrus groves, but the Inland Empire boasts a wealth of natural treasures, outdoor activities, and hidden gems worthy of a day trip or a long weekend getaway.

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Historic Places & Museums – Inland Empire Road Trips – Kids Activities – Outlet Malls

Inland Empire Hiking, Camping, Adventures

Green Valley Lake Day Trip: San Bernardino Mountains

Nestled amid the San Bernardino Mountains at 7,200 feet, Green Valley Lake is one of the Inland Empire’s best-kept secrets. This “hidden gem” is a small lake covering just nine acres that does not allow motorized boats, making it a perfect spot for swimming and fishing. The Green Valley Lake store is the only option for groceries and freshly baked cookies. Visit website.

Lake Arrowhead Day Trip: A Perfect Getaway

Located in the pine forest of the San Bernardino Mountains, breathtaking Lake Arrowhead is a small resort town that serves as a perfect getaway when Europe seems unaffordable or time is limited. Dubbed “the Alps of Southern California,” the lake is private property, and only residents are allowed to use it, except for the Lake Arrowhead Queen Paddleboat, which is open to everyone. Visit website.

Lake Perris Riverside Camping Adventure

The Lake Perris Recreation Area is in a valley surrounded by mountains and between Moreno Valley and the city of Perris. It is one of California’s most popular outdoor recreation destinations and a great place to escape the summer heat and city life all year round. It is a favorite spot in the Inland Empire that is easily accessible and doesn’t require driving through any mountains. Park website.

Big Bear San Bernardino Mountains

Big Bear, California, is a beautiful mountain destination in the San Bernardino Mountains, around 100 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles. Visitors can enjoy fresh mountain air, clear blue skies, and a unique blend of calming stillness and outdoor activities all year round. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to mountain biking and off-road adventures in the summer, there’s something for everyone at Big Bear. Visit website.

Diamond Valley Lake Hemet Fishing & Hiking

Diamond Valley Lake is a serene fishing spot located in the valley of the San Jacinto mountain range in Hemet, California. It is an important reservoir for Southern California. The lake is famous for its exceptional fishing opportunities and a well-known hiking destination. During the spring season, the area is decorated with wildflowers. Lake website.

Lake Elsinore Day Trip Things To Do

Lake Elsinore is between Corona and Temecula in California, along Interstate 15. It is the second oldest city in Riverside County. The Town boasts Southern California’s largest natural freshwater lake, at a healthy level of 1200 feet. Several RV parks surround the lake, providing long-term and short-term visitor spaces. City website.

Deep Creek Hot Springs, Southern California

Deep Creek Hot Springs, located in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, is the most popular natural hot spring destination in Southern California. Most hikers opt for the shortest route and park at Bowen Ranch to get to the hot springs. The ranch is privately owned and charges a fee for daily use of the parking area. If no one is present to collect your payment, you can find envelopes to leave your fee. Please ensure that you pay the cost to support the upkeep of the property.

Skull Canyon Zip Line Adventure

Skull Canyon Zip Line is in sunny Corona, just off the I-15. It has been in business since 2009 and offers zip lines for individuals of all experience levels, including kids. The firm provides all necessary safety equipment and is proud of its excellent safety record. Weight and age restrictions vary depending on the difficulty of the zip line course, but anyone can take part in this increasingly popular pastime. Visit the website.

Wrightwood Day Trip San Gabriel Mountains, California

Wrightwood, a beautiful town near the Inland Empire Region, is ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway. It offers various outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, and snow-related sports. Wrightwood provides visitors with a tranquil and enjoyable atmosphere to unwind and revel in life. Hiking and mountain biking are some of the most popular activities in the area.

Table Mountain Campground Activities Things To Do

Nestled in the thick forest of the San Gabriel mountain range, above the busy freeways and bright lights of Los Angeles, lies one of the most picturesque campgrounds in the Angeles National Forest. The Table Mountain Nature Trail passes through the campground, allowing animal enthusiasts to observe the fascinating wildlife, including the rare and unique California condor. Table Mountain website.

Silverwood Lake Recreation Area

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area is in the heart of the San Bernardino National Forest. It offers stunning views of snow-capped mountain peaks reflected on a beautiful lake formed by the 249-foot Cedar Springs Dam. Visitors can enjoy various activities here, and an overnight stay is highly recommended. Camping is available on-site, with The Mesa Campground offering 136 family campsites. Silverlake SRA website.

Inland Empire Historic Places and Museums

Graber Olive House Tours Olive Tasting

Graber Olive House is a charming day trip destination in Ontario, California, that you can visit throughout the year. If you go there during the fall harvest season, you will witness the historic cannery of the Olive House. Graber Olive House has been experimenting with olive production since 1894. She is widely recognized for its excellent sources of mono-saturated fats (good ones) that can reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, olives and olive oil have been proven to lower cholesterol. Website.

California Citrus State Historic Park

As you park your car at California Citrus State Historical Park, you’ll be greeted by the refreshing fragrance of orange blossoms. Although citrus farms are rapidly disappearing from the Inland Empire, you can still admire rows of orange trees at this 250-acre park located in Riverside, California. At the park’s entrance, Gless Ranch operates a small fruit stand where you can buy fresh citrus and juice. Whether you’re entering or leaving California Citrus State Historic Park, don’t forget to stop by the fruit stand – it’s a must-visit spot! Park website.

Planes of Fame Air Museum

Planes of Fame Air Museum is located in Chino, California, specifically at Chino Municipal Airport. Visitors can enjoy exploring a vast collection of military aircraft and memorabilia, including beautifully restored and rare planes. The museum also features a small collection of military vehicles from World War II and hundreds of artifacts, memorabilia, and various uniforms from the same era. Visit website.

Motte Historical Car Museum Day Trip

If you’re looking for a fantastic place to celebrate a special occasion or go on a quick day trip, consider visiting the Motte Historical Car Museum in Menifee, situated in the southwestern part of Riverside County. The museum is housed in a barn constructed by Leon Motte in 1985, initially used as a produce market. In addition to its collection of cars and antiques, the Motte Museum also serves as a venue for weddings, special events, and classic car meets. visit website.

March Field Air Museum Inland Empire

If you’ve ever traveled through Riverside, you might have noticed March AFRB. The old hangar with a checkered roof surrounded by many aircraft outside the base is hard to miss. The March Field Museum is located there and houses a collection of more than 60 historic aircraft. You can also buy souvenirs from the museum store. Plan on spending at least three hours viewing the entire collection. If you’re coming with a tour group, give advance notice. Visit website.

Visit Redlands, California, Rich in History

Redlands, located in the Eastern Inland Empire, offers ample opportunities for sightseeing, dining, and exploring the rich history of Southern California. The city is famous for its Victorian mansions and beautiful orange groves. One of the most famous Victorian homes in Redlands is Kimberly Crest House. It was built in 1897 for one of the pioneers of Redlands.

Western Science Center Hemet California

Western Science Center in Hemet, California, is not quite the Natural History Museum but is well worth visiting. Many of the artifacts on display were unearthed when nearby Diamond Valley Lake (the largest artificial reservoir in Southern California) was under construction. Website.

Apple Valley Legacy Museum Apple Valley Inn

The Apple Valley Legacy Museum is firmly committed to preserving the Town’s history. The mini-museum and visitor’s center provide an excellent opportunity to learn about the area’s past and to gather ideas for preserving local landmarks. The museum is located in the former Bob Hope Cottage, which is situated in the historic Apple Valley Inn.

Mission Inn Riverside: A Romantic Destination

This stunning architectural gem features a mix of Spanish Gothic and Mediterranean-style buildings and is located in the heart of Riverside’s old town district. The hotel is a National Historic Landmark and a City of Riverside Historic Landmark. While the hotel’s exterior is breathtaking, the interior is just as impressive, with endless rooms waiting to be explored. Visit website.

Day Trip to the NHRA Hot Rod Museum Pomona

If you need speed, the Wally Parks NHRA Hot Rods Museum at the Fairplex in Pomona is a must-visit. From 6,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragsters to unique sportsman entries, there’s something for every racing enthusiast. visit website.

Yanks Air Museum Day Trip Chino, California

Yanks Air Museum is perfect for those who can’t get enough of magnificent men and their flying machines. Over 200 historic aircraft, from the early days of flight to modern-day aircraft, are displayed here. The west hanger houses 37 aircraft, several vehicles, military armament, and aviation. Visit website.

Road Trips from The Inland Empire

Ortega Highway 74 Road Trip Points Of Interest

California Route 74, or Ortega Highway, stretches just over 21 miles from beautiful San Juan Capistrano to growing Lake Elsinore Valley in the east, with its origins being nothing more than an Indian footpath and a fire trail along the San Juan Creek.

Temecula Valley Wine Tasting

Temecula Valley is a popular wine-tasting destination in Southern California, boasting nearly 40 wineries concentrated along Rancho California and De Portola Roads, with cool coastal breezes up from the Pacific Ocean in nearby San Diego. Old Town Temecula is an excellent choice to start your wine county day trip. Old Town is a refreshing blend of the past and present that features antique dealers, alfresco restaurants, and unique shops that offer just about anything your heart desires.

Escondido Day Trip Things To Do

Escondido, one of the oldest cities in San Diego County, is located 30 miles north of downtown San Diego and 20 miles east of the Pacific Ocean. The city was established in 1888, and its name means “hidden valley” in Spanish. Escondido’s most famous attraction is the Safari Park, the sister park to the San Diego Zoo. The Safari Park spans over 1800 acres and is home to exotic animals and beautiful botanical gardens.

Getaway Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa

Glen Ivy Hot Springs is an ideal place to plan a relaxing getaway. The resort takes a multifaceted approach to wellness, offering a range of treatments and activities to help you rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Over the years, Glen Ivy has become one of the most well-known names in the California spa market, attracting guests worldwide. If you’re planning a “Girls Getaway” or a trip with friends or family, the resort can create a customized experience. Website.

Fallbrook Where To Go What To See

Fallbrook is situated in the northern part of San Diego County and is famous for being the “Avocado Capital of the World.” In the 1920s, olives were the major crop in the area, but in the 1940s, they became a part of the rapidly increasing California avocado and floral industry. The yearly avocado festival is one of the most significant events in Southern California.

Inland Empire Kids Activities

Toms Farm Temescal Canyon Corona

Tom’s Farm is a popular destination in Temescal Canyon near Lake Elsinore, right off Interstate 15. Although it opened in 1974 in a remote location, the surrounding area has grown over the years, and so has Tom’s Farm. Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including a wine and cheese store, a duck pond, and a furniture store. It’s the perfect place for a fun day trip! Visit website.

Bates Nut Farm Day Trip

Bates Nut Farm is situated in a valley enveloped by oak trees near the Town of Valley Center in California. It is ideal for a family day trip. Locating the Farm can be an adventure for those visiting for the first time. Despite the passage of time, Bates Nut Farm has preserved its rustic charm and still provides a rural atmosphere. Farm website.

Southern California Train Museum

The Southern California Railway Museum has a remarkable collection of refurbished trolley cars. On most weekends, visitors can enjoy a ride on a 1.5-mile mainline, which was once part of the Santa Fe Railroad, in either trolley cars or a diesel-powered train. If you’re a train enthusiast, the Orange Empire Railway Museum is an excellent place for a day trip with children. Visit the website.

Logan’s Candies Ontario, California

Logan’s Candies is an old-fashioned candy store in Ontario, California. Thanks to the exceptional quality of its handmade candy, the store has always had a loyal customer base. However, with the rise of social media, Logan’s has gained even more popularity. Thousands of posts and videos showcase candy-making, drawing in candy lovers from all over Southern California. Children especially enjoy visiting this place, making it a must-visit destination. The store is located at 125 W B St, Ontario, California. Website.

Raging Waters Summer Fun

Raging Waters offers a variety of thrilling rides that are popular among visitors. These include the Tunnel of Terror, a forty-foot drop in complete darkness, and 360-degree turns. The Amazon Adventure is a more relaxed option, with a lazy river ride that provides a peaceful escape. Visit website.

Oak Glen Apple Orchards

Visiting the orchards is a must-do activity if you enjoy apples. They offer a variety of unique types, such as Vasquez and King David, which are only grown in Oak Glen. They also have “antique varieties” like Ben Davis, Gravenstein, and Pink Pearl, which are no longer commercially available. Nowadays, the orchards’ primary business allows visitors to pick apples directly from the trees. Oak Glen website.

Poway Midland Railroad

Known as “The City in the Country” due to its inland geographic location, lack of urban culture, and large open spaces, Poway is approximately twenty miles from downtown San Diego. Visitors can enjoy nearby museums, zoos, parks, arenas, and botanical gardens.

Highland Springs Resort Cherry Valley

Highland Springs Resort is just two hours from Orange or Los Angeles Counties. It has been a popular destination for over 100 years and is a relaxing departure whether you’re going on a day trip or a weekend getaway close to home. 123Farm

Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Day Trip

Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is an easy day trip from the mayhem of the nearby metropolises. The garden is in Claremont, California, just south of the San Gabriel foothills. This garden is a non-profit registered charitable trust dedicated to conservation. Website.

Inland Empire Outlet Malls

Ontario Mills Outlet Mall Inland Empire

Ontario Mills Outlet Mall is the big daddy of outlet malls, with over 200 retail outlets calling it home. While Southern California boasts beautiful weather almost any day of the year, the weather is always perfect at the mall. Visit website.

Lake Elsinore Outlets and Factory Stores

Lake Elsinore Outlet Stores are just off Interstate 15 near Lake Elsinore, California. The outlet mall opened in 1991, making it the second-oldest in the Inland area after Ontario Mills Outlets. It now has about 30 discount factory stores, down from 60. Visit website.

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Orange County Day Trips

Los Angeles Day Trips

Inland Empire Kids Birthday Parties

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