Fun Ideas for What to Do in the Inland Empire

👉 Jump to: Best Things | Sites & Attractions | Outdoor Adventures | Museums & Culture | Shopping

I was born and raised in the Inland Empire (“IE” for short). I’ve compiled a list of my absolute favorite activities here so that you can plan your own adventures! 

The IE is home to family-friendly activities, hiking trails, lakes, museums, and other attractions. It’s a huge area of Southern California and is full of local hidden gems that I think are super underrated. 

If you’re visiting from out of town, make sure to bookmark my guide on where to stay in the Inland Empire. 

All right, let’s get into it!

26 Best Things to Do in the Inland Empire

Joshua Tree National Park

Hike, camp, rock climb, and capture a desert sunset between famous Joshua Trees.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (760) 367-5500 | Website | Hours: 24 | Entrance: $30/vehicle for 7-consecutive days, $55 annual pass

Joshua Tree National Park is in the high desert and has one of the largest concentrations of Joshua Trees in the world. This other-worldly desert landscape is a natural playground for hikers and rock climbers alike.

Some of my favorite things to do in Joshua Tree include camping at Jumbo Rocks, hiking to the top of Ryan Mountain, and climbing around all the boulders and crags. Go in the springtime to view stunning desert wildflowers blooming amongst the cacti. 

The desert sky is illuminated with stars at night, so I’d highly recommend planning an overnight stay if you want to experience this astronomical beauty.

Temecula Wine Tasting

Leave the kids at home to discover the rich reds and whites of Temecula Valley.

📍 Google Maps | Website

Temecula is in the rolling hills of the Santa Ana Mountains, with endless seas of vineyards. Wine tasting is one of the best things to do here. Enjoy the rich flavors of the Inland Empire on an adults-only excursion! 

With almost 50 wineries to choose from, you’re sure to find one that suits your taste buds. There are even Temecula winery tours that take you winery hopping and show you the best of the best. 

I recommend staying overnight in Temecula, especially if you plan on doing a lot of wine-tasting. Jess’s guide on where to stay can help you find the best accommodation.

Deep Creek Hot Springs

Soak and relax in one of the state’s best hot springs.

📍 Google Maps | Deep Creek Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm Mon, Thu-Sun; Closed Tue-Wed | Entrance: Free – $10, depending on the entrance

Shhh — Deep Creek Hot Springs is one of the area’s best-kept secrets. 

It’s one of the best hot springs in California, located just over an hour from San Bernardino. There are several soaking pools nestled between canyon walls and neighbored by the creek. Water temperature ranges from 90-108° F, and there are plenty of spots to sprawl. 

The most popular way to get to the hot springs is via Bowen Ranch Rd. This trailhead is located on public property and costs $10 per person per day. There is also overnight camping available for $15-$20 per person, with provided picnic tables and fire rings.

👉 Pro Tip: Deep Creek can also be accessed from Lake Arrowhead. To get to Deep Creek from here, you’ll need to drive 20 minutes to the Bradford Ridge Trailhead. It’s free but requires a steep 7-mile round-trip hike.

Big Bear Lake

Carve some epic turns at the ski resort or refresh your kayak skills on the lake.

📍 Google Maps | Website 

Spending a day at Big Bear Lake is one of the most family-friendly activities in the IE. Big Bear is only 2 hours from Los Angeles, so it makes for the perfect escape from the big city. 

There are so many activities to do in Big Bear, like kayaking on the lake, visiting the wildlife zoo, and skiing at Big Bear Ski Resort. Check out the Stanfield Marsh Preserve if you’re interested in a leisurely walk and pretty sunsets.

Big Bear is great to visit in any season. Whether you’re into water or snow sports or just want to relax by a cabin fireplace with a good book, there’s something for everyone here.

Mount Baldy Lodge

Hang with the locals in a cozy mountain lodge.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (909) 982-1115 | Mount Baldy Lodge Website | Hours (Restaurant): 11 AM-8:30 PM Monday-Friday, 9 am-8:30 pm Saturday & Sunday | Entrance: Free 

Mount Baldy is the highest mountain in the San Gabriel range, and Mount Baldy Village is one of the quaintest California mountain towns. The Mount Baldy Lodge is one of the only public establishments in the tight-knit town. It’s where all of the Baldy locals hang out.

Grabbing a bite to eat at the Mount Baldy Lodge is especially rewarding after summiting one of the neighborhood mountain peaks. I usually opt for the vegetarian chili, mozzarella sticks, and a cold brew. There’s a jukebox, two pool tables, and even an outdoor concert series in the summer. 

In the winter, the Lodge transforms into the coziest cabin in the Inland Empire. Two roaring indoor fireplaces warm up the lodge, and hot cocoa topped generously with whipped cream warms up the belly!

Pioneertown

Visit a Wild West town that was literally made for the movies.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hours, but most shops open from 10 am-6 pm Thurs-Mon

Pioneertown is a revamped “ghost town” west of Joshua Tree National Park. The Wild West town was built as a movie set in 1946 and has long been a stomping ground for film directors and other SAG enthusiasts. 

The main street promenade features boutiques like a goat soap shop and vintage clothing store. My personal favorite Pioneertown stops are a vintage 6-lane bowling alley that was “forgotten by time” and the Red Dog Saloon near the end of the street.

Most first-time visitors stop at Pappy + Harriet’s biker bar and live music venue. Southern-inspired cuisine, hip bands, a wooden interior, and a full bar make Pappy’s the best dive in the West.

👉 Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check out the Pioneertown “Mane Street Stampede,” a cowboy show that takes place every 2nd and 4th Saturday.

Sites & Attractions

Idyllwild

Get to know a quirky mountain town, its hiking trails, and downtown boutiques.

📍 Google Maps | Website 

Tucked away in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is home to cozy cafes, hundreds of hiking trails, and an eclectic array of funky downtown stores. 

You’ll find tons of fun things to do in Idyllwild. It’s a pretty small town, so it makes for a great day trip. But you can also rent a rustic cabin or stay at the state park campground to ensure enough time to fully explore.

I recommend hiking San Jacinto Peak while in town. You can access the trail via the Marion Mountain trailhead, only a 15-minute drive out of town.

Mission Inn

Stay at one of the oldest and most elegant hotels in the IE.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951) 784-0300 | Website | Hours: Check-In: 4 pm, Check Out: 11 am | Room rate: starting at $224/night

The Mission Inn is one of the most iconic hotels in Riverside. What began as a small adobe boarding house in 1876 has transformed into a flourishing, luxurious hotel. Stay overnight at the Inn, or go just for the day to walk the property and eat at one of their unique restaurants. 

This historic Riverside landmark has hosted U.S. presidents and movie film crews. The most popular time to visit the Mission Inn is during the holidays, when the hotel is beautifully decorated with extravagant lights.

Palm Springs

See where famous Hollywood celebrities live when they’re incognito.

📍 Google Maps | Website

Palm Springs is a desert destination with extravagant homes, Hollywood movie stars, luxurious resorts, and boutique shopping. There are plenty of luxe places to stay in Palm Springs for people who want the ultimate relaxing getaway.

The Living Desert Zoo is one of the coolest Palm Springs attractions. Witness native flora and fauna in this thriving environment in the San Jacinto Mountains and learn more about wildlife.

I also recommend visiting Palm Springs on a Thursday when the VillageFest night market is in full swing!

Fox Performing Arts Center

Spend the night with some live performances in Riverside..

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951) 779-9800 | Website

Visit the Fox Performing Arts Center for an entertaining night. This colonial Spanish-style performing arts center is the main theater venue in Riverside and is definitely worth checking out if you love live shows.

Performances at the Fox range from comedy and theater to tribute nights and concerts.

Acrisure Arena

Watch epic shows in a brand-new arena in Palm Desert.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (888) 695-8778 | Acrisure Arena Website | Hours: Hours vary per event

Acrisure Arena is the Inland Empire’s newest arena, opening its doors in December 2022. The Arena is most notably the home of the Coachella Valley Firebirds hockey team, but it also hosts other exciting events. 

The arena has seen its fair share of concerts, sports games, holiday events, and WWE showdowns in its early years of operation. Performances by The Eagles with Steely Dan, Enrique Iglesias and Pitbull, and Olivia Rodrigo have been highlights.

The Acrisure Arena is intimate, ensuring a prime view of the stage or hockey rink from any seat in the house. Bars are conveniently located throughout the two floors so you can make a quick trip without missing a goal.

Lake Arrowhead

Relax in the village and putt putt around the lake on a boat tour.

📍 Google Maps | Website 

Lake Arrowhead is a luxurious mountain town that offers solitude away from the chaotic city life.

However, there are some stipulations for visiting. Lake Arrowhead Village is open to everyone. But you must either know a Lake Arrowhead resident or take a tour (such as the Arrowhead Queen Tour Boat) to enjoy watersports on the lake.

I recommend renting a cute cabin around the lake where you can relax after exploring all of the fun Lake Arrowhead attractions.

Castle Park Riverside

Give your kids an afternoon to remember at this affordable amusement park.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951) 785-3000 | Website | Hours: 4 pm – 9 pm Mon-Fri; 12 pm – 9 pm Sat-Sun | Entrance: $24.99+ adults, $19.99+ children

Castle Park is one of my favorite local theme parks — and it happens to be incredibly affordable. This amusement park in Riverside has rides, miniature golf, and year-round fun. 

Go on rides like Ghost Blasters, the FireBall coaster, Merlin’s Revenge, and Dragons Tower for a rush of adrenaline. You can also play arcade games and mini golf and even admire Kevin, the park peacock.

Outdoor Adventures

San Bernardino National Forest

Hike to some of the tallest peaks in SoCal.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (909) 382-2600 | Website | Entrance: $5 Day Use Pass

Hiking in the San Bernardino National Forest is one of my favorite activities. It receives far fewer crowds than the neighboring Angeles National Forest — making for a quieter, more pleasant outdoor experience.

San Jacinto and San Gorgonio are the most popular hikes in the national forest and some of the coolest hikes in California. San Jacinto can be climbed starting from Idyllwild or the Palm Springs Tram. San Gorgonio is the highest mountain peak in Southern California, standing at an impressive 11,503 feet. 

Both of these beautiful alpine hikes can be accessed in the winter — but you’ll need proper gear like microspikes, hiking poles, an ice axe, and crampons, depending on the severity of the conditions.

Mojave/Colorado Desert Camping

Camp in the desert without the crowds.

📍 Google Maps | Mojave Desert Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free

The Inland Empire is right in the belly of the Mojave Desert and extends to the entrance of the Colorado Desert. Camp for free among the thousands of Joshua Trees in the Mojave Preserve or amidst the wide-open desert east of Palm Springs. 

Most of the BLM land and lesser-known campsites like Corn Springs Campground never fill to capacity. In addition, you’ll often find little-explored trails and archaeological sites like the 10,000-year-old petroglyphs at Corn Springs. You can find other remote BLM camp spots via the iOverlander app.

The Midland Long-Term Visitor Area offers dispersed camping in the open desert. Midland straddles both the Mojave and Colorado Deserts.

Silverwood Lake

Spend an afternoon fishing on the lake for dinner.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (760) 389-2281 | Website | Hours: 7 am-7 pm (October-March), 6 am-9 pm (April-September) | Entrance: $10/vehicle, $20/vehicle (summer weekend & holiday)

The whole family can enjoy a fun day under the sun at Silverwood Lake for just a small fee. Bring a fishing rod, your bathing suit, and a packable lunch — you won’t know where the time has gone with the fun you’ll be having!

There are two swimming areas with beaches, which are manned by lifeguards. Those who want to stay overnight can reserve a campsite around the lake. 

This is where a lot of locals hang out, so be prepared to make some friends. Lake Silverwood is one of my favorite places to go on a lazy, sunny day.

Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park

Get some exercise amid the rolling hills of this wilderness park in Riverside.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951) 826-2596 | Website | Hours: 1 pm – 5 pm Thu-Fri; 9 am – 5 pm Sat-Sun; Closed Mon-Wed | Entrance: Free

The Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park comprises nearly 1,500 acres of open wilderness terrain. This is the perfect place to walk your dog, get in a quick run, or have a romantic date.

The Ameal Moore Nature Center is a popular gathering place within the wilderness park and hosts family-friendly events like nature-based crafts and group hikes.

This is also a good place to bike and go bird-watching. But watch out for rattlesnakes, the infamous long-term inhabitants of the wilderness park.

Mount Rubidoux Park

Hike an easy trail to a spectacular lookout in Riverside.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951) 826-2000 | Website | Hours: dawn-dusk | Entrance: Free

Mount Rubidoux is one of the most popular excursions for both hikers and mountain bikers. It’s located just outside of Downtown Riverside.

The 3.2-mile loop takes hikers on a paved road to a cross that marks the summit of the trail. Enjoy 360-degree views of the town below.

Mount Rubidoux Park is also a popular place to trail run, walk your dog, or enjoy your cup of coffee on a slow morning.

Museums & Culture

Riverside Art Museum

Get inspired by some local artists.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951) 684-7111 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Mon & Wed-Sat; 12 pm – 5 pm Sun; closed Tue | Entrance: $15.95 adults, $10.95 children (13-17) & seniors, free under 13

The Riverside Art Museum is located in Riverside’s Historic Mission Inn District, and it’s the best place in the Inland Empire to view local art. The museum also offers art classes for both children and adults.

The Riverside Art Museum primarily focuses on social issues. The permanent collection consists of over 2,000 objects ranging from paintings to mixed media work. Rotating exhibits have included topics like Indigenous Futurism.

San Bernardino County Museum

This museum highlights the different facets of life in the Inland Empire.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (909) 798-8608 | Website | Hours: 9 am-5 pm daily, Closed Mondays & County Holidays | Entrance: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $5 youth (ages 6-12), free under 6

Learn about local culture and history at the San Bernardino County Museum! 

The museum has a variety of permanent and rotating exhibitions, and its event calendar is overflowing with fun. Exhibits include everything from hands-on science activities to the natural history of the area.

Southern California Railway Museum

Step back into California’s rail history and even take a ride on a historic trolley at this museum in Perris. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951) 943-3020 | Website | Hours: 9 am-5 pm Tuesday – Sunday, Closed Monday | Entrance (weekend train & trolley rides): $13, adults, $9, children

The Southern California Railway Museum was founded more than 60 years ago and pays homage to California’s railway history.

This huge, 100-acre museum is home to a vast collection of locomotives, racecars, trolleys, model trains, and more. Learn more about the impressive railroad trade from a docent. The museum is open daily, and you can even come on a weekend for a train & trolley ride.

March Field Air Museum

Learn more about aviation at this Moreno Valley museum.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951) 902-5949 | Website | Hours: 9 am-5 pm Tues-Sun, Closed Mondays | Entrance: $18 adults, $12 seniors, $10 children (5-11), free under 5

View 107 aircraft and over 30,000 aviation artifacts at the March Field Air Museum.

The bombers, sleek fighters, and cargo aircraft are sure to fascinate visitors of all ages. This is the perfect day excursion for tourists staying at the Mission Inn.

California Citrus State Historic Park

Discover more about California’s rich history in the citrus industry.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951) 780-6222 | Website | Hours: 8 am-5 pm daily | Entrance: $7 per vehicle

The California Citrus State Historic Park is an open-air museum that pays tribute to California’s early history as a citrus-producing state. The state park explores the significance of the citrus industry with interpretive tours, fruit tasting, and an annual Citrus Tasting Festival.

Shopping

Ontario Mills

Shop for killer discounts just outside of LA.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (909) 484-8300 | Website | Hours: 10 am-8 pm Monday-Thursday, 10 am-9 pm Fridays & Saturdays, 11 am-8 pm Sunday

Ontario Mills is one of the most popular malls in Southern California. You can find everything you need at this outlet mall, even on a budget. 

The food court and surrounding restaurants are abundant, making this the perfect lunch meet-up spot. There are also two movie theaters and a kiddie play zone.

Redlands Farmers Market

Buy fresh produce, a vegan dessert, or a homemade tamale at this local market.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (909) 798-7629 | Website | Hours: Saturdays (March-November) 9 am – 1 pm | Entrance: Free

Source all your fruits and veggies locally from the Redlands Farmers Market. There are a few farmers markets throughout town during the week, but my favorite is the Saturday market on Sixth Street.

Sample fresh produce, vegan pastries, tamales, and stir-fry bowls. There are also local cafes and breakfast spots lining the market, making this area the perfect late-morning activity.

Lake Elsinore Outlets

Purchase discounted clothes and shoes at this less crowded outlet mall.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (951) 245-0087 | Website | Hours: 10 am-7 pm Monday-Thursday, 10 am-8 pm Friday-Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm Sunday

The Lake Elsinore Outlets should be on your Itinerary if you want to score some major shopping deals. It’s home to over 25 name-brand stores, like the Gap factory and Levi’s outlet. 

There’s also an extensive array of restaurants and eateries at the outlets, making it the ideal way to spend a SoCal afternoon.

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The IE encompasses some of the best things to do in California, so it’s well worth visiting this fantastic region. Leave a comment to let me know what you’re most excited to do. Happy travels!