Walston-Lake, Linda

Break the kids away from their cell phones, video games and computer screens and get the whole family moving when you take everyone out for a day of fun at Riverside's Don Derr Park. This sprawling and inviting area offers a little something for every member of your family. One of the more popular features of the park is the PlayBooster and PlayShaper playground components that offer a challenge as well as a good dose of exercise to any child who climbs all over them. The Gemini Sidewinder 2 is another notable attraction, as are the many slides, swings, and seesaws that make Don Derr Park such a fun and exhilarating place to take the whole family.

Riverside's Mission Inn dates back to 1903 and stands as one of the city's greatest assets. The structure features various architectural styles that all complement each other to work to create a stunningly beautiful landmark. The museum portion of the inn features exhibits and attractions that are related to the hotel's history and founder as well as vintage photos of the area and other interesting pieces. There is also a gift shop on site that features souvenirs like t-shirts and mugs as well as a few surprises like exquisite hand crafted bells.

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.