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 Riverside Metropolitan Museum brings together various aspects of science and history and presents them all in a way that uniquely reflects the beauty and diversity of the area. Everything from the flowering of desert plants, various anthropological exhibits, as well as various presentations that highlight different aspects of Riverside's natural history all perfectly combine to create an experience in which visitors will learn much while being fascinated several times along the way.
The Riverside Heritage House is a place where the area's history and agricultural significance are celebrated in a most dramatic way. The house itself is an impressive example of 19th century Victorian style, an architectural design that was popular with homes of the period. The home stands on 1.3 acres of citrus groves, and this historical attraction is meant to represent the significance and contributions of orange growers during the Golden Age of citrus horticulture.
Don't miss the opportunity to see a compelling performance of music, dance or drama in the uniquely intimate setting of the University Theatre on the campus of the University of California at Riverside. Even though the entertainment facility only seats 500, its state-of-the-art sound and lights assures that every moment on stage is equipped to pack a memorable punch. The unique proscenium stage allows for a great view of the action from any vantage point.