The Perris center is about 1 mile north of Orange Empire Railroad Museum and 5 miles south of Perris Auto Speedway.
Perris enjoys a Mediterranean climate, and residents will tell you that the keyword is “enjoy.” While that type of climate presents with hot summers and cool weather in the winter, it doesn't get colder than cool. From December to March, daytime temperatures average around the mid-60s, and at night, the temps hover near the mid- to upper 30s. In April and November, highs are in in the 70s and lows in the 40s. From May to October, the days are hot, and the nights are comfortable. July and August tend to see temperatures in the high 90s, so it's easily one of the most popular times to visit if you like the heat. If you don't, you could save by traveling in the off-season.
Winter promises lower prices on hotels. You might not want to chance a swim, but you can still explore the mountains and valleys to your heart's content — just make sure you pack warm clothes and layer up while you're outside. Late spring blooms in the most inviting manner and with very comfortable temps, although fall is just as lovely — and typically hot. Expect slightly lower rates in these seasons, with the possible exception of September. Reserve a room early for summer vacation to get a better chance at locking in an excellent price.
Discounts for AAA members are available at a number of spots in and around Perris. The Ramada Inn & Conference has deals on its already low rates as long as you present your membership card or number. Quality Inn offers several price points, giving you the potential to save on the bottom rate as well as your AAA discount.
La Quinta Inn & Suites in Moreno Valley is one of many local hotels that treat older guests to a discount. Beloved standby Howard Johnson in Riverside is another. For senior travelers on a budget, check into a stay at Travelodge Hemet.
Knights Inn HIghland takes proper care of veterans, active members of the military, and people in other government professions. Consider reserving a room at the La Quinta Inn & Suites to score a military discount, as well.
To get the best value during your Perris visit, think about what you get versus what you pay. Sometimes, the most valuable hotels are local spots, such as the Santa Cruz Inn in Riverside. Dynasty Suites, also in Riverside, has the option of kitchen capabilities, presenting a way to save money on food.
Red Lion Inn & Suites in Perris does the same, but it's right in the city, close to attractions such as the March Air Reserve Base. At a well-appointed place like Fairfield Inn & Suites in Temecula, you get extra value from the quality and attentiveness of the friendly hotel staff.
The Perris area is full of adventure, excitement, and educational opportunities, not to mention shopping and dining. Locally, the Orange Empire Rail Museum and the Perris State Recreation Area aren't the only venues for fun. The Perris Valley Historical Museum reveals the area's past in descriptive, engaging detail. History buffs ought to pay a visit to the Mott Historical Museum, too. After touring the March Field Air Museum, perhaps you can reserve a hot air balloon ride or go skydiving inside or outside.
Before the end of your vacation, stop by the Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum. You won't regret the time spent. It's just one way to learn about the culture of the first people to inhabit the area.
Visitors love heading to Riverside since it's so close. The University of California Riverside Botanical Gardens offers a cool, fragrant respite to the hot, humid days. The California Museum of Photography will inspire shutterbugs and change the perspective of admirers of the art form.
Whitewater Preserve, encompassing the Whitewater River, is home to a fragile but incredibly diverse habitat full of rare plants. Hiking along its trails might bring you into contact with bighorn sheep, bears, deer, and the fringe-toed lizard, an endangered neighbor.
Southern California celebrates food. You'll find a bevy of farm-to-table restaurants and locally sourced menus that celebrate every imaginable dietary need. You can also visit museums devoted to food, such as the Ark of Citrus, part of the Citrus Variety Collection on the grounds of the University of California Riverside. In San Bernardino, you should visit the Unofficial McDonald's Museum.
Riverside County contains much of the diverse flora and fauna for which the Inland Empire is well-known. Head to one of the many national parks and preserves in the area to get an up-close look at the landscape and the vegetation. The Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge is in Riverside County, as is the Dos Palmas Preserve and part of Joshua Tree National Park. Closer to home, Lake Perris State Recreation Area is a local favorite.
The Inland Empire is one of California's most underrated areas, so you're wise to take advantage of your proximity. Much of the state's most breathtaking geography spreads throughout the region. You're within reach of the San Jose Hills, the San Gabriel Valley, the Pomona Valley, and the San Bernardino Valley. Time your vacation perfectly, and you might see the Santa Ana Mountains in their wildest state. From Temecula to Chino and, of course, Coachella, you can hike, shop, or experience the high-end bohemian lifestyle. The Sonoran Desert is a must-see, as well, particularly if you've never been to the desert.
Forget what you think you know about Southern California. Visit Perris to discover the true heart of the region.
Below are reviews of the city of Perris, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Stayed here to play in a softball tournament.