Riverside Travel and Things to Do Guide

The idyllic weather, close proximity to Los Angeles and picturesque beauty have drawn visitors to Riverside for more than a century. The wealth that has accumulated in the area has fostered development of the convention industry, and groups from across the globe flock to Riverside to experience the attention to detail and commitment to service that is ever present. With its charm and beauty, perfect weather and hospitable attitude, Riverside is the perfect destination for business and leisure travelers alike. With so much to offer, it is no wonder that Riverside welcomes five million visitors each year.The beauty of the city combined with the ease of getting to Riverside make it an attractive option for meeting planners. Just a short 17-mile drive from LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT) and with 550 weekly departures to 18 cities, travelers are always just two flights away from LA/Ontario International Airport. Once in Riverside, visitors find navigating the city a breeze. Whether by bus or by way of Riverside's numerous taxis, guests to the city soon learn that getting around can be part of the fun.When it comes to meeting venues, planners have numerous options for facilities, starting with the Riverside Convention Center. Featuring 65,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including a 27,953-square-foot hall and 10,000-square-foot ballroom, the Riverside Convention Center can accommodate groups of up to 3,000 guests. The center's downtown location makes it ideal for visitors who also want to enjoy the city's offerings, and the dedicated staff will ensure that no detail is overlooked.Other options for planners are the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, which offers 20,000 square feet of meeting space for conventions and exhibitions in 15 rooms; and the Riverside Marriott, boasting 14,000 square feet of meeting space in 14 rooms.For planners looking for alternative venues, there is no shortage of unique meeting facilities in Riverside. Host a meeting at the Riverside Art Museum in one of two first-floor galleries, the second-floor conference room, the lobby, atrium or rooftop. Or, groups can gather at Castle Park for a whimsical and memorable event. Additionally, the award winning tapas restaurant, Cafe Sevilla, features live entertainment and a festive atmosphere, while groups of up to 350 can enjoy the elegant surroundings and delicious meals at Mario's Place - one of Riverside's most well-respected restaurants.The capital of California's citrus growing region, Riverside's origins stem from the agricultural industry. Today, the city is one of the fastest growing cities in the nation and was named by Inc Magazine as one of the "best cities to do business." Additionally, Riverside is home to a campus of the University of California.