Before coming to the United States of America, people would always tell me “America has no culture; everything is stolen.” However, when I explored Riverside and indulged myself in its history, I found out this idea is so wrong. Here’s why Riverside is my top choice to appreciate the artistic culture of America.
Aside from the beautiful palm trees, Southern California is known for its orange groves. It all started in 1871 when the first orange trees were planted. Southern California is the only place with the perfect climate where the orange industry could thrive. By 1882, there were more than half a million citrus trees in California, almost half of which were in Riverside!
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/gxDDDFqSaJd0JsU4LHUVPJYadsc2tWoAr4jexVyB3g0btWBE1uYkkAJf4WYjDrT63onexdGZLNLW2tFUzsqJG6NrhqAxTROqoUjpKFSstoRu1nTm0eH80P6tZnBfq7amgdPAl7ze
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/zGMPXTr5lFth-XJmsQ7Dib_N2UnKjM7QlcUFdbpqwhNZkDiIoOusd5wsFYLi4mBRhMR40Z2qXYzKkNqgXmmoMilBJfrS3hkt-royNaOO6ZkmXTWxGbWgqDjbcU8EdOdUBu2_3v8C
When you enter Riverside, you’ll encounter the raincross symbol as you pass by street signs, light posts, wall art, or the city flag. The symbol is a combination of a bell and a cross. The bell is a replica of the bell used by the missionary priest that founded California Missions. The cross with two horizontal lines is a representation of dragonflies and water. This cross was used by locals while praying for rain.
The greatest historic landmark of Riverside is the Mission Inn hotel. Built in 1876 by the Miller family, this hotel still stands and prospers in the heart of downtown. If you want to know the history of the hotel and of Riverside as a whole, they offer tours for only $20. I went to one and it’s the main reason why I appreciate Riverside.
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/xipOZlyPngH_1IVsgOJG80mPoQ_FQZazTB2DIm3gIybx4hAHR5W9epwJqJgdcVEqa3-BDSU5nlu1YzT6U66_AmWEQ18SYgYdN_ClsIuKMqpZcxMtElaXuiVQtES4l6PBiPt3r91i
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7ky0vm0tcBhX3OCPOLEspViYpzmky9JJnVsPSt8rnuAN1KjbW6uenw_UWfuZ6hdIoMYAnfXbCOUe9F74JtpwpjNgmQOLbm_qGdiSWAyJb9I48vEmCHLSKAV_WlKBS4du5J5iYD3z
Everywhere you turn your eyes in Riverside, you’ll see artsy places like museums and art galleries. There’s a ton of wall art around the city to indulge yourself in! A good place to go to is the Riverside Art Museum. The entrance fee is $5 and is within walking distance of Mission Inn.
If you like antiquing, Riverside has got you covered! Whenever visiting this city, it’s a must to visit these shops. In front of Mission Inn, there’s even a two-story Antique Shop Mall! There are so many good finds here for a cheap price. I recommend visiting one if you’re into vintage items.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/z8fHIrHtZfX1syz-MTu-kqDQy6LGxFk64W6Gm0ktZph3HLJoggXvybrjqtGjYm7z8ANpde84btR06trFzLCIqNnJ4NWBY8SPDLfnuVQCRljN0Uh81tQ7-AWrcFcNGmEKy4ECCO28
That’s just the start of what Riverside has to offer! It’s a good place to appreciate culture and build visions. If this sounds like an interesting city for your next company event, visit Mind & Mill! We’re an event venue located at the very heart of Riverside. Learn more here and book an event now!