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What is Riverside, CA Known For? 10 Things to Love About This City

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Updated on March 20th, 2024

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Welcome to Riverside, CA, a city with a rich blend of history, scenic beauty, and community vitality. From the iconic Mission Inn to expansive parks and cultural events, Riverside offers residents a unique array of opportunities and experiences. Whether you’re searching for a new home or eager to discover what Riverside is known for, this Redfin article is your guide to uncovering the distinctive qualities that make Riverside, CA, a truly special place.

riverside california

1. University town with UCR

Riverside is known for being a university town with UCR (University of California, Riverside). The presence of the university brings a vibrant and youthful energy to the city, with a diverse student population and a wide range of academic and cultural activities.

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2. Historic Mission Inn

The Mission Inn is a grand hotel that has been a landmark in the city since its construction in the late 19th century. It is known for its stunning architecture, luxurious accommodations, and rich history, attracting visitors from all over the world.

3. Riverside Plaza

This shopping center offers a unique shopping experience with a mix of national retailers, local boutiques, and dining options. With its open-air design and beautiful landscaping, Riverside Plaza provides a pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere for shoppers.

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4. Citrus industry heritage

The city has a long history of citrus cultivation and was once a major center for citrus production. Today, visitors can explore citrus groves, learn about the citrus industries’ history, and even participate in citrus-themed events and festivals.

5. Diversity in architecture

The city showcases a wide range of architectural styles, from Victorian and Craftsman homes to mid-century modern and contemporary designs. This architectural diversity adds to the city’s charm and creates a visually interesting environment for residents and visitors.

6. Riverside Unified School District

The district is recognized for its commitment to providing quality education to its students. With a variety of schools offering diverse academic programs and extracurricular activities, the Riverside Unified School District plays a significant role in shaping the future of the city.

7. Fairmount Park

This expansive park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its beautiful lake, picnic areas, walking trails, and recreational facilities, Fairmount Park provides a serene and scenic environment for outdoor activities and relaxation.

8. Hub for innovation and research

Riverside is home to several research institutions, including the University of California, Riverside, and various technology and biotech companies. This concentration of intellectual capital fosters a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and scientific advancement.

9. Riverside Community College District

The district offers a wide range of educational opportunities, including associate degrees, vocational programs, and transfer pathways to four-year universities. It plays a vital role in providing accessible and affordable higher education to the community.

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10. Riverside’s role in the navel orange industry

Riverside is known for its significant role in the navel orange industry. The city played a crucial part in the development and cultivation of the navel orange, a popular citrus fruit. Riverside’s contributions to the industry have made it a symbol of the city’s agricultural heritage and economic impact.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.
Marissa Crum

Marissa Crum

Marissa is a Content Marketing Specialist on Redfin’s Content Marketing team. She has been with Redfin for 3+ years, where she has also contributed to real estate support operations. A California native living in Los Angeles, Marissa loves taking walks, enjoying sunsets, and unwinding with a good movie. Her dream home is a modern cottage-style abode with a lush garden.

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