If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Riverside, CA., any time of year then check out this list of the Top Amusement Parks in Riverside. These are some of the most popular spots that locals and tourists visit when they want to have fun and get out of the house. Whether you are searching for a place to take the kids as a fun day trip or need ideas for things to do on a date night, these amusement parks will certainly be worth adding to your bucket list. Here are our top recommendations:
Southern California Coaster Club
This group of coaster enthusiasts meets up at least once a month, and each meeting features a different amusement park. Their next meeting is at Pechanga Resort and Casino in the middle of March, and it will be the 24th annual Festival of Colors, which is hosted by Pechanga Resort and Casino. The event is free and open to the public, though you’ll need to reserve a ticket in advance on the Pechanga website to attend. There will be all sorts of fun, festival-like activities and food, along with a fireworks show, of course. If you love amusement parks, this group is for you. It’s not just about coasters either — the group focuses on all types of amusement parks and rides. Members can share their trip photos and reviews, and get tips from seasoned amusement park veterans. Visitors can also check out the upcoming event calendar, where you can find out what event is happening next.
Pechanga Festival of Colors
Some visitors might not know that Pechanga Resort and Casino has more than just gambling; it also has some great theme park attractions. At the Pechanga Festival of Colors, guests are treated to a spectacular light show and firework display while surrounded by an amazing array of colors. This is one of the best events in the Inland Empire that only happens once a year, and is worth checking out. The Pechanga Festival of Colors is a free, outdoor event that kicks off at 5 p.m. and lasts until 10 p.m. Be sure to get there early so you have a good viewing spot, and wear warm clothing as it gets chilly at night. You’ll want to bring a blanket or some lawn chairs as there aren’t many places to sit. There will also be food vendors for hungry guests.
Boomerang & Safari
This is an amusement park aimed towards younger children, but there’s still lots of fun for adults too. Kids can enjoy a carousel, Ferris wheel, and a roller coaster, while adults can challenge each other to a game of mini golf or go on a safari adventure. There’s also a laser tag arena, but it’s not included in the price of admission. Admission to Boomerang & Safari is $29 for adults and $19 for children under 48 inches tall. It’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and stays open later on weekends. Boomerang & Safari is conveniently located on the I-215 and Arlington Avenue. Parking is free; however, it can get a bit busy during the weekends.
Big League Dreams
This sports-themed park is sure to inspire some friendly competition. It has batting cages for baseball, batting cages for softball, a skate park, an arcade with tons of games, and even a rock climbing wall. The park also hosts birthday parties, corporate event and team building activities. Big League Dreams is open 7 days a week, but hours vary by day. On the weekends, the park is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., while on weekdays it closes at 9 p.m. Admission prices vary based on the day, time and what activities you choose to do.
Desert Splash
This is one of Riverside’s largest water parks, and it’s open year round. It has more than 40 waterslides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and a kiddie area with a mini waterslide. There’s also an arcade and delicious food. Desert Splash is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the summer, but hours change to accommodate the winter season. Admission varies based on the day, time and age of the guest. A one-day pass costs $37.99 for adults and $28.99 for children. You can also purchase a season pass for $66.99. There are also group rates for parties that are held at the water park.
Great Games Riverside Park
If you have younger children and aren’t interested in long rides or hours at the water park, try Great Games Riverside Park. This mini park has a giant slide, a small climbing wall, a mini roller coaster, an arcade and a variety of other games for kids. The park is open on weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Great Games Riverside Park is located at the corner of Grove and Magnolia Streets in downtown Riverside. The entrance fee is just $5 per person, and kids under 36 inches tall are free. On the weekends, Great Games Riverside Park is a great place to visit if you want to do a fun activity, but don’t want to commit to a full day out at a water park. Plus, it’s a great way to get out of the house and enjoy some family fun while supporting the Riverside community.
Rancho Las Vegas
This is the only drive-in movie theatre in California. It’s in the city of Los Angeles, but it is worth the drive if you’re in Riverside. It has a retro drive-in experience and shows movies every weekend. Plus, it has a ton of food and drink options. You can order from your car and they’ll bring everything to you. You can also bring your own food, drinks and snacks. They’re open Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. The Rancho Las Vegas also hosts special events and has drive-in theatre classics like Rocky Horror Picture Show, Young Frankenstein, and Beetlejuice. This is a great place to visit for a fun date night or with the family. It’s family-friendly and open to all ages. Tickets are $19 for an adult car and $9 for a child car. You can purchase tickets online or at the box office. Bring blankets and pillows if you plan on staying for a long film as it gets chilly at night.