Check 'n Go

Reading about history is one way to familiarize yourself with the past's most significant moments, but being a part of it will make even more of a lasting impression. That's what you'll experience when you visit the Jensen Alvarado Ranch just outside of Riverside. Upon your arrival, you will encounter costumed interpreters who will guide you through vivid demonstrations of what life was like on a ranch in the late 19th century. You will be a part of the action as you find yourself helping out with such daily farm duties as churning butter or feeding the animals. You can also learn about how much of a challenge farming was back then when you visit the ranch museum that is also located here. This is where you will have a chance to see attractions like antique farm equipment as well as artifacts from the ranch's past.

The Fox Theatre in Riverside exudes a nearly palpable vintage charm. When you consider its history, it's no wonder that this haven for actors and performances of all kinds has a unique history and drama all its own. Initially featuring vaudeville performers, the theater soon began to screen films in the wake of the move away from vaudeville-type performances. Perhaps because of its proximity to Hollywood, this was a favorite entertainment venue for filmmakers to screen their soon-to-be-released movies for lucky audiences. The Fox holds the distinction of being the first place that Gone with the Wind was publicly screened. Various types of shows, concerts, and performances still take place here today.

The historical significance of the Harada House is linked to a high profile court case that took place between 1916 and 1918. The house was built in 1884 and is located at 3356 Lemon Street. It became the focus of a case that tested exclusionary legislation. At the center of the case was whether Japanese immigrant Jukichi Harada's children could own the house, as they were the American-born children of the immigrant. The court ruled in favor of the children, a law that set a significant legal precedent. The Harada House is now a National Historic Landmark and is overseen by the Riverside Metropolitan Museum. Tours are available by appointment.