Lorrie-Photographer

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.

Sometimes, it is best just to let your kids run free and let them explore some wide open spaces. Finding such a destination isn't as hard as you think when you plan for an active afternoon of fun at Riverside's Bordwell Park. This popular attraction has been newly refurbished and features new playground equipment plus a few surprises. These include the recent addition of a climbing wall and upgraded basketball courts and ball fields.

There's plenty of high-flying history to discover when you visit the March Field Air Museum. This is where stories of aviation, military, and March Field all come alive. See various vintage aircraft, get up close to special collections of planes, and learn about some truly fascinating aeronautical history. You may even get to see one of these classic aircraft in the process of being restored.

Even though the beauty of nature is all around us all the time, it may be hard to stop and appreciate it given your hectic schedule of activities. You can take a much-needed breather when you take the kids to experience the UCR Botanic Gardens. This amazing collection of nature is more than just flowers and greenery. You will be able to relax along with the birds and the bees and other natural life forms in a remarkably captivating way. This attraction boasts an impressive 39 acres of flowers, woods, and gardens that also include hiking trails and several picturesque spots for the kids to play or for the whole family to enjoy a picnic.