Welcome to Riverside, California: Best Activities for Families on a Budget

Planning a family trip to Riverside, California, but on a tight budget? Look no further! Riverside offers a plethora of budget-friendly activities that will delight both kids and adults, making your visit memorable and enjoyable. From exploring local history to relishing in nature, let’s dive into the top activities and parks you shouldn’t miss.

The Best Budget-Friendly Activities for Families in Riverside, CA

The Castle

For an unforgettable experience that’s both educational and fun, visit The Castle in Riverside. Although it’s a bit pricier than some of the options, the immersive experience of immersing into Riverside’s rich citrus history is worth every penny. The Castle offers a hands-on approach to learning about the citrus industry, which shaped the city. It’s a great way to engage with the history while keeping costs under control.

The State Citrus Historical Park

If budget is a major concern, The State Citrus Historical Park is a beautiful and affordable choice. This heritage site provides a fascinating glimpse into Riverside’s early days, particularly the significant influence of the citrus industry. Although it may not be as whimsical as a visit to The Castle, it still offers a wealth of educational value and opportunities for family bonding over shared history stories.

Fairmount Park

Another excellent choice for a budget-friendly day out is Fairmount Park. Designed by the famous landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, this northeastern park is a gem of Riverside. The park features a beautifully restored downtown area and a gorgeous lake where you can rent paddle boats. If you have young children, they'll love the opportunity to work off some energy and feed the ducks with the change you bring. It’s a perfect way to have fun and enjoy nature together without breaking the bank.

Additional Family-Friendly Activities

Peddle Boats and the Little Train

A visit to Fairmount Park can be even more enjoyable if you combine it with other nearby attractions. Hunters Park on Iowa Avenue is home to a little train that runs on Sundays, allowing young visitors to ride and explore the park. Additionally, Castle Park, a step away from Fairmount, is an amusement park featuring a miniature golf arcade and various other fun activities for the whole family. These additions make your day at the park even more exciting and memorable.

Castle Park

Castle Park is not to be missed if you are looking for a bit more action. This park combines the excitement of an amusement park with the charm of a miniature golf arcade. Perfect for the entire family, it offers mini-golf, carnival games, and amusement rides that are sure to provide endless fun. While a bit more expensive than some of the other options, the joy and laughter of the kids make it well worth the cost.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to explore the rich history of the citrus industry at The Castle or dive into nature and fun activities at Fairmount Park, Riverside, California, offers a variety of budget-friendly options for families. Each of these activities provides a unique and memorable experience, ensuring a fantastic trip for everyone. So, pack up your bags, and get ready for a fun and affordable adventure in Riverside!