Riverside

A short history of Riverside

Riverside, located in Southern California, was founded in 1870 and quickly became a thriving city due to its strategic location along the Santa Ana River. Originally a small agricultural community, Riverside experienced significant growth during the citrus boom in the late 19th century. The city's lush orange groves and beautiful Victorian architecture attracted visitors from all over, earning Riverside the nickname "The City of Arts and Innovation."

FAQ for Riverside

What is the best way to get there?

Riverside is easily accessible by car via major highways, such as Interstate 215 and State Route 91. The city also has an Amtrak station for those traveling by train.

What is this city famous for?

Riverside is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant arts scene. It is also home to the University of California, Riverside.

What are five interesting facts about the city?

Riverside is the birthplace of the California citrus industry.

The city is home to the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, a renowned architectural gem.

Riverside is known for its annual Riverside Festival of Lights, attracting visitors from all over.

The city has a thriving local food and craft beer scene.

Riverside is a gateway to outdoor adventures, with nearby hiking trails and scenic landscapes.

How did this city get its name?

Riverside was named after its location along the Santa Ana River.

What are some travel tips for the city?

Make sure to explore the historic downtown area, filled with unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Visit the California Citrus State Historic Park to learn about Riverside's citrus heritage.

Take a scenic drive along the Victoria Avenue, lined with stunning palm trees and historic homes.

Don't miss the opportunity to attend a performance at the Fox Performing Arts Center.

Plan a day trip to nearby attractions like Joshua Tree National Park or Disneyland.

Do I need a visa?

If you are a foreign visitor, please check the visa requirements for your country before traveling to Riverside.

When is the best time to visit the city?

The best time to visit Riverside is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and there are various events and festivals taking place.

Are there local customs I should know for i.e. Drinking, Greetings, Public transit?

When greeting someone, a handshake is the most common form of greeting in Riverside.

Public transit options include buses and the Riverside-Downtown Metrolink Station.

What is the time zone for the city?

Riverside operates on Pacific Standard Time (PST, UTC-8) during standard time and Pacific Daylight Time (PDT, UTC-7) during daylight saving time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

The voltage in Riverside is 120V, and the plug type is Type A/B, with two flat parallel pins.

What is the currency?

The currency used in Riverside is the US Dollar (USD).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

ATMs are readily accessible throughout the city, including at banks, shopping centers, and convenience stores.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Riverside, including at most hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

Yes, ApplePay and Google Pay are accepted at many establishments in Riverside.

How much do I tip in Restaurants/bars, Hotels, Taxis, Tour guides etc.?

In restaurants and bars, it is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill. For hotel staff, a tip of $1-2 per service is appropriate. Taxis and tour guides usually receive a tip of 10-15% of the fare or tour price.

City Information for Riverside

Founded	Population	Elevation
1870	320,764 Source 2022	827 ft (252 m)

Average temperatures for Riverside

Season/Month	Temperature (Celsius)	Temperature (Fahrenheit)
Winter (December - February)	10°C - 20°C	50°F - 68°F
Spring (March - May)	15°C - 27°C	59°F - 81°F
Summer (June - August)	20°C - 38°C	68°F - 100°F
Fall (September - November)	15°C - 30°C	59°F - 86°F