Situated on the Santa Ana River, Riverside is located approximately 60 miles east of Los Angeles in the Inland Empire region. It was founded in the early 1870s and quickly became a center for navel orange growing. As the decades passed and more prosperous citizens moved into the city, a golf course and polo field — the first in Southern California — were built. Large homes and popular hotels began showing up as well.
Today, Riverside boasts a number of iconic landmarks, exciting festivals, and thrilling outdoor attractions that reflect the authentic history, art, and culture of California. No matter what your reason may be for visiting Riverside, it's important that you find the best hotel for your needs so nothing stands in the way of you enjoying everything the city has to offer.
When to Visit Riverside, CA
The best time to visit Riverside is from March to May, when the weather is pleasant and temperatures hover around 70 degrees. It's a great time to explore the California Citrus State Historic Park, shop for organic items at the Downtown Farmers Market, or take a look at some local art while sipping coffee at the Daily Brew Coffee House. Best of all, you won't have to deal with huge swarms of crowds, and hotel rates will be relatively affordable.
June to August is Riverside's peak tourist season, so expect large crowds, packed attractions, and expensive hotel rates. If you don't mind the inconveniences and higher prices, this is a great time to visit the city. Although temperatures will reach scorching highs in the upper 80s, there are so many things you can enjoy. Within the city, you can visit Castle Park, an amusement attraction with 28 exciting rides and a refreshing swimming area. Or venture outside of the city to nearby Southern California beaches.
From September to November, temperatures drop to in the 70s, making conditions perfect for enjoying the city's many fall festivals and events. There's the Ghost Walk Riverside, Long Night of Arts and Innovation, and the famous Festival of Lights. Crowds will be much fewer, so you'll have an easier time getting around, and hotel rates will be affordable.
During the winter months, temperatures drop even further to in the 60s. Although the weather is chilly and sometimes rainy, you can still visit Benedict Castle, catch a weekly Flamenco dinner show at Cafe Sevilla of Riverside, or attend the Riverside Robot Expo. There is one advantage of colder temperatures and higher rain chances, however — you won't have to worry about crowds and can benefit from more affordable hotel rates.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Riverside, CA:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average rate trends by star rating class in Riverside, CA. Analyze these charts to calculate the cheapest dates to stay in Riverside for any future trips.
Luxury Hotel Options in Riverside, CA
4 Star Average Prices: $95.60
If you're looking for luxury, you'll find many great options in Riverside. The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a historic luxury resort located in downtown Riverside, near Riverside Convention Center, Fox Performing Arts Center, and California Baptist University. It boasts 238 elegant rooms, which feature everything from gorgeous views to granite countertops. Some of the rooms also feature oversized sleeping rooms with separate lounge areas and spacious balconies with outdoor seating.
Step outside of your room and enjoy the hotel's old-world decor and majestic visuals. You can also enjoy the world-renowned day spa, charming boutique, and participate in a variety of activities. Each Sunday, the hotel hosts its famous Champagne Brunch as well as afternoon tea and docent-led museum tours seven days a week.
Another great luxury hotel option is Marriott Riverside at the Convention Center. It's located in downtown Riverside, within walking distance to Fox Performing Arts Center, Riverside Main Street Pedestrian Mall, and Riverside Convention Center. In one of the hotel's guest rooms, you'll enjoy a convenient work station with ergonomic chair, plush pillowtop bed, and comfortable armchair. If you need more amenities, you can upgrade to a suite and enjoy the addition of a separate living area and whirlpool bathtub.
The hotel features a modern lobby, outdoor heated pool, and fitness center. For dining, there's a casual on-site restaurant serving delicious California cuisine as well as a Starbucks Coffee Bar serving pastries.
Affordable Hotel Options in Riverside, CA
3 Star Average Prices: $94.01
There are plenty of affordable hotel options in Riverside. Santa Cruz Inn Riverside is located in downtown Riverside, near the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, Raincross Square Convention Center, and Fiesta Village Family Fun Park. For your convenience, each of its 25 guest rooms feature a microwave, mini refrigerator, and complimentary internet access. Hotel amenities include an on-site guest laundry area and complimentary morning coffee and tea.
For another affordable hotel option, consider Dynasty Suites Hotel. This comfortable hotel is located a short distance away from downtown Riverside, convenient to Fox Performing Arts Center, Riverside Convention Center, and University of California at Riverside. It offers spacious guest rooms with many amenities such as refrigerators, microwaves, and 27-inch flat-screen TVs as well as plush beds, executive work desks, and granite-topped furniture. The hotel also offers complimentary continental breakfast and bottled water.
2 Star Average Prices: $69.06
Best Discounts in Riverside, CA
If you know where to look, you can find many hotels in Riverside offering excellent discounts. Comfort Inn University offers AAA, AARP, government, and military discounts on many of its rooms. It also offers advanced booking discounts and invites children 18 years and younger to stay for free. The hotel is located a short distance away from downtown Riverside, in close proximity to shopping, universities, and Riverside Convention Center. You can make yourself at home in one of its clean and comfortable rooms, which feature microwaves, refrigerators, coffee makers, and LCD TVs.
Hotel amenities include a relaxing outdoor pool with sun loungers and umbrellas, a convenient fitness center, and an on-site guest laundry area. There's also first-aid staff on duty 24 hours a day in the event of an emergency and complimentary breakfast served hot each morning.
If you'd rather stay outside of downtown Riverside, La Quinta Inn & Suites Moreno Valley is an ideal choice. It offers military discounts on its rooms and even has a military rewards program for returning guests. The hotel is situated near the Chinese Memorial Pavilion, California Citrus State Historic Park, and Riverside National Cemetery. Each of the hotel's 75 well-kept suites offer 40-inch HDTVs with premium channels, Bright Morning pillowtop beds, convenient work desks, microwaves, and refrigerators. If you're traveling with a large family and need more space, opt for a suite. These feature separate living and sleeping areas and include sleeper sofas.
For your convenience and comfort, the hotel features an indoor pool, fitness center, and business center. You can start each day with a complimentary Bright Side Breakfast, which includes all-you-can-drink coffee and juice.
Best Value Options in Riverside, CA
Are you looking for a hotel with good value? If so, you can find plenty of them in Riverside. Ayres Hotel & Spa Moreno Valley is located on the outskirts of the city, offering easy access to shopping, restaurants, parks, and museums. Its boutique-style suites feature stylish interiors, luxury bed linens, refrigerators, microwaves, and 32-inch flat-screen TVs.
You can go for a swim in the heated pool, work out in the well-equipped fitness center, or relax the day away in the full-service spa. Additional hotel amenities include a plush lounge, outdoor hot tub, and three Tesla supercharging stations. You can even enjoy complimentary made-to-order breakfast each morning.
Another great best value hotel option is Americas Best Value Inn. Although situated away from downtown Riverside, the hotel is convenient to three major shopping centers, a variety of restaurants, and a large cinema. You'll enjoy a stylish guest room with a refrigerator, microwave, 42-inch flat-screen TV, and coffee maker.
Outside of your room, you'll also enjoy an outdoor pool, on-site guest laundry facility, 24-hour front desk, and complimentary continental breakfast.
Unique Attractions in Riverside, CA
Whichever hotel you choose in Riverside, you'll be close to many of the city's most unique attractions. The Mission Inn Museum is located downtown, near the historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa. It offers an inside look into the history of the hotel and its development from an 1876 boarding house to the most elegant hotel in Riverside today. To experience the museum fully, you can take a docent-led tour, view exhibitions, and shop in the museum store.
Another unique Riverside attraction is the Fox Performing Arts Center. This Spanish Colonial Revival-style theater opened in 1929 as a vaudeville theater house. Since then, it has attracted well-known performers like Judy Garland and Bing Crosby to its stage and been the site of many motion picture previews. When you're in town, stop in and view a show. The theater boasts a full schedule of performers throughout the year.
Experiencing all of Riverside's unique attractions would be difficult — especially in one trip. But by visiting these two, you'll get an excellent feel for the city's charm and classic California character. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel in downtown Riverside or a more affordable one in an outer area, you can be confident that you'll find the perfect hotel in the city.
'I never stop looking for things to try and make myself better., “ Barry Bonds, American athlete who was born in Riverside.
Traveling is probably the easiest and most pleasurable things which can make you better! So, maybe it is a high time for a spontaneous getaway? Riverside sounds like a perfect destination. A variety of hotels in Riverside make it a very convenient place to visit. The only thing you will have to do is choose the best one for yourself. We are ready to help you with that! Just take a look at some of our Riverside hotels recommendations and book your favorite hotel right away!
Affordable Accommodation Options in Riverside
Are you looking for a cozy place to stay and wish to save money at the same time? It is very easy as Riverside offers its tourist many cheap hotels to choose from. Let's take a closer look at a couple of them! The first budget hotel we would like to suggest you is Thunderbird Lodge. This hotel a pool and offers free parking to its guests. What else could you wish for? Of course, the rooms are exceptionally comfortable as well! The second budget hotel which is worth your attention is Dynasty Suites hotel. This one offers free parking and free breakfast. In addition to that, its guests can also enjoy the perfect coziness and very welcoming atmosphere. So, which one of these cheap hotels are you going to book?
Looking for a Fancy Stay in Riverside?
The good thing about Riverside hotels is that all tourists can find their favorite ones. It also applies to those who are looking for a fancy stay. To be more exact, there are many fancy and luxurious hotels in Riverside to choose from! For example, you should definitely check out The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa. It is one of the most impressive places you can stay at Riverside. So, make sure to look for the available rooms there and you will have an unforgettable experience!
Exploring Riverside
Riverside is a city worth exploring. So, try to spend as many days as you can there. You can be guaranteed that you will enjoy every single minute of your trip to Riverside. Are you a museum lover? Congratulations then, because Riverside is famous for its great museums. Make sure to visit March Field Air Museum, Mission Inn Museum and Riverside Metropolitan Museum! In addition to great museums, Riverside also has an impressive nature. So, head to explore it and stop by Mount Rubudoux Park. What about relaxing a little bit? That's what holidays are for, aren't they? There are some awesome high class spa centers in Riverside. We would strongly recommend you to visit Tao of Massage and refresh both your body and soul there. Don't forget to do some shopping and make sure to explore the captivating nightlife of Riverside. You will not regret going to Status Nighclub, because it is one of the best ones in this area!
FAQs about hotels in Riverside
Recent traveler guest reviews of Riverside, CA
Below are reviews of the city of Riverside, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Happy labor day ??"
Score
4.0 / 5
Got to spend with family that lives here & now it's time to head back home happy labor day ☺️
Henry C., from 07-Sep-2026
"Friendly staff"
Score
5.0 / 5
Daniel A., from 20-Aug-2026
"Easy to get around"
Score
4.0 / 5
Easy to get around, lots of great shops and places to eat downtown.
Chris S., from 09-Aug-2026
"It’s my home "
Score
4.0 / 5
It's my home but living in zColorado which I don't like. I'm home sick for Riverside, California. Happy to be here and time ❤️
Stephany T., from 08-Aug-2026
"Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
There are multiple options of small places to eat, like breakfast and dinner.
Celeste V., from 14-Jun-2026
"We were able to work to the Convention center"
Score
5.0 / 5
Emily C., from 19-May-2026
"Great location"
Score
5.0 / 5
James H., from 16-May-2026
"Safe Area"
Score
5.0 / 5
Area is safe
Olene B., from 06-May-2026
"The Cheech Museum is a must"
Score
5.0 / 5
The Cheech Museum is a must. The sculpture garden at Tios Tacos should not be missed.
Beth W., from 10-Apr-2026
"Family friendly atmosphere"
Score
5.0 / 5
Angie C., from 21-Mar-2026
"Many Restaurants & Attractions"
Score
5.0 / 5
Many places to go and things to see. Huge selection of restaurants.
Leroy O., from 03-Feb-2026
"Downtown Riverside "
Score
4.0 / 5
Downtown Riverside was really nice, very walkable and lots of great eateries and fun shops.
Linda P., from 02-Feb-2026
"Was there for a funeral"
Score
4.0 / 5
Was there for a funeral but got to go shop and have some dinner.
Juliann M., from 22-Jan-2026
"Nice community was there on business"
Score
4.0 / 5
Glen K., from 10-Jan-2026
"Nice city"
Score
4.0 / 5
Susan B., from 08-Dec-2025
"Lots of shopping"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lots of shopping and restaurants.we were there for the lights and the fireworks at mission inn.
Carole P., from 24-Nov-2025
"Light festival"
Score
4.0 / 5
Mary L., from 22-Nov-2025
"Very Friendly"
Score
5.0 / 5
The people was very friendly.
Bessie M., from 08-Nov-2025
"I was there for the mission 5K run"
Score
4.0 / 5
Ramona E., from 21-Oct-2025
"Family"
Score
4.0 / 5
We were born and raised in the Riverside area, but moved to Georgia in 2009. This trip was to visit family and friends.
Teresa H., from 18-Oct-2025
"The Location is Unbeatable!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The location is unbeatable — right in downtown Riverside, near the library, Convention Center, and Fox Theatre. The historic Mission Inn is gorgeous (amazing brunch!), plus lots of food options nearby: Mezcal Palenque for Mexican, ramen spots, burgers, Tio's Café (quirky and fun), and even a southern Italian place that's only open Thurs–Sat. There's also a lovely bookstore with new and old titles, and a candy shop I wish we had time for. Everything's walkable, with plenty of clean public parking.
Ting W., from 19-Sep-2025
"Fun Stay"
Score
4.0 / 5
I'm from Riverside, it made my return fun. Thank You.
Barbara D., from 11-Sep-2025
"Loved the Old Town Feel."
Score
5.0 / 5
Rubin R., from 12-Aug-2025
"Near lots of places to eat!"
Score
4.0 / 5
A lot of places to eat close to the hotel, clean area.
David A., from 12-Aug-2025
"A Walk Through Wonderful "
Score
5.0 / 5
The entire walkways, cafes, museums (loved "Cheech's" and across the road, the antiques...and the hidden downstairs bar...the many cafes, restaurant of various cuisines...very good.
Elizabeth W., from 01-Jun-2025
"Amazing City "
Score
4.0 / 5
A beautiful vibrant city.
Mario L., from 09-May-2025
"Very Pleasant Staff"
Score
4.0 / 5
Hostesses were very pleasant.
Rosalyn H., from 28-Apr-2025
"Great location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Riverside is a very big beautiful city
Eufemia C., from 19-Mar-2025
"Great location"
Score
4.0 / 5
I like the area. The weather was great.
Rebecca A., from 13-Mar-2025
"The Culture!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The culture!
Carlos G., from 08-Feb-2025
"Light Show at Mission Inn!"
Score
5.0 / 5
We enjoyed the light show at the Mission Inn!
Tracy D., from 08-Feb-2025
"The Culture!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The culture!
Carlos G., from 08-Feb-2025
"Nice location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Italian restaurant
Amanda M., from 20-Nov-2024
"Great place!"
Score
5.0 / 5
A great place to enjoy ourselves; we have lived in the area a long time. We come back to visit often.
Gary L., from 23-Jul-2024
"Good City"
Score
5.0 / 5
It's a good city
Olis V., from 05-Jul-2024
"Clean & Roomy"
Score
4.0 / 5
It was clean and roomy.
Olis V., from 03-Jul-2024
"Beautiful College Campus"
Score
4.0 / 5
The college campus was beautiful.
Ronald H., from 17-Mar-2024
"Hills & Palm Trees!"
Score
4.0 / 5
We like the fact that it is surrounded by hills. We love the palm trees. The weather was perfect for February, compared to the Northeast. We had a good time.
Samuel N., from 29-Feb-2024
"Family Oriented"
Score
5.0 / 5
It's family oriented and always has something to do.
Sheree M., from 07-Feb-2024
"March ARB Air Museum"
Score
4.0 / 5
There were a few small eateries nearby that were pretty good. We enjoyed the Mission Inn walking tour and we also visited the nearby March ARB Air Museum, which was very interesting.
Paul B., from 23-Jan-2024
"Museums Two for One Price"
Score
5.0 / 5
Museums - two for price of one. The LA Fitness wasn't far away.
Mary A., from 22-Jan-2024
"Excellent!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Excellent!
Robert W., from 07-Jan-2024
"The place to be for fun times, good eats & relaxation!"
Score
4.0 / 5
I love Riverside and it's family oriented stores in close proximity; there's something going on every weekend. The place to be for fun times, good eats and relaxation.
Sheree M., from 26-Dec-2023
"Near Kaiser Hospital"
Score
4.0 / 5
We were near Kaiser Hospital in Riverside.
Angelica N., from 24-Dec-2023
"Castle Park"
Score
4.0 / 5
Castle Park
Edison D., from 09-Oct-2023
"Good Restaurants & the Mission"
Score
5.0 / 5
Glad they have the Mission and a good restaurants!
Richard Q., from 19-May-2023
"The Mission Inn at Christmastime!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The Mission Inn at Christmastime!
Sheri R., from 17-Dec-2022
"Festive area located near country club"
Score
5.0 / 5
Went to a country club for a holiday party not too far from the hotel. The shops, village and hotel were decorated very festively and it was a lovely way to ring in the holidays!!
Sharon W., from 05-Dec-2022
"Amazing Shopping!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Riverside is a very welcoming city that has loads of things to see and do and amazing shopping.
Jennifer R., from 15-Nov-2022
"Cheech Museum and Game Lab!"
Score
4.0 / 5
n addition to the hockey rink we visited The Cheech Museum and several local restaurants near the hotel (Retro Taco, The Food Lab and Tio's Tacos). The kids had fun at Game Lab.
Adrienne J., from 06-Sep-2022
"Lots of restaurants to choose from nearby."
Score
5.0 / 5
Lots of restaurants to choose from nearby.
Shirley H., from 16-Aug-2022
"Beautiful city & park!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful city, the park was a real bonus for us!
Dale W., from 29-Jun-2022
"Beautiful city with excellent restaurants nearby."
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful city with excellent restaurants nearby.
Aarron H., from 11-Apr-2022
"Beautiful city with excellent restaurants near hotel."
Score
4.0 / 5
Beautiful city with excellent restaurants near hotel.
Aarron H., from 08-Apr-2022
"Everything"
Score
5.0 / 5
Everything
Dimas D., from 09-Mar-2022
"The Riverside National Cemetery is a real treasure."
Score
4.0 / 5
I was there to attend a funeral of a long time friend. The Riverside National Cemetery is a real treasure.
Donald M., from 21-Feb-2022
"Riverside is full of history!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Riverside is full of history with beautiful architecture. The mission and courthouse in downtown Riverside are impressive. The houses have a variety of style and the scenery is beautiful.
Pamela G., from 06-Jan-2022
"Awesome Area! Great Food!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Riverside was cool and it was interesting to see the historic sites. Food was really good also
Anthony E., from 16-Aug-2019
"Great Stay!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Locations to eat were close by. Some within walking distance. Several different banks also close. Small shopping centers close and gas stations
Sheila H., from 22-Apr-2018
"Location Is A Plus"
Score
4.0 / 5
Centrally located for our tour of our four branches.
Frank B., from 02-Jun-2016
"Good times in Riverside."
Score
5.0 / 5
This was our first time in Riverside. The stay and community was a good experience and we would come back again.
Elmer D., from 21-Jul-2014
The average traveler rating of the city of Riverside, CA shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 61 reviews