The Inland Empire (IE) is a sprawling metropolitan area in South Central California that lies inland from Los Angeles. It is a wonderful destination for a family vacation. It’s a great place to visit because there’s so much to do, and everyone is so warm and helpful. This part of California offers history, nature, and good old-fashioned pleasure. Join ViewCation as we bring you a list of some of the best things to do in the Inland Empire, California.
NHRA Motorsports Museum.
The Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum is a must-see if you’re a racing enthusiast. The 28,500-square-foot building is home to a spectacular collection of automobiles that have been meticulously displayed to represent the apex of drag racing history. There are Top Fuel dragsters with 6,000 horsepower and wall-seeking Funny Cars with a short wheelbase.
Along with the thousands of one-of-a-kind sportsman entrants, there are also high-speed, 200 mph Pro Stock vehicles.
Additionally, you could come across artefacts from American motorsports’s more than 50-year history, such as photographs, medals, and racing apparel like shirts, ties, and helmets.
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.
About 15 miles from Palm Springs, California, you’ll find the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, which spans across 1,200 acres.
This tourist trap is awe-inspiring for the whole family and makes for a great weekend getaway. This unusual educational facility is ideal for teaching people of all ages about the beauty of desert plants and animals. The Living Desert’s purpose includes spreading awareness about the importance of preserving the desert’s unique wildlife population. Visitors can choose from a number of routes that will take them through the area’s various ecosystems and global zones. Species unique to each of North America’s four deserts are featured throughout the trail. At the Living Desert Zoo, visitors can enjoy a scenic camel ride across the Sonoran Desert, home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.
Get creative at the Sawdust Factory.
Sawdust Factory is a one-of-a-kind workshop where youngsters and adults may learn the art of woodworking. Visitors can choose the project they want to work on, and then they can personalize it with their own artistic touches. There is a wide selection of projects available for you to choose from, such as birdhouses, insect boxes, race cars, photo frames, and many more options. In addition to the cost of the project, there is a $4 workshop charge. However, make sure you check the website before going; there are days when there is no charge for the session! Furthermore, birthday parties can be held at the Sawdust Factory.
The Nature Preserve in Hidden Valley
This is one of the perfect locations for family-friendly activities.
On its 1500 acres, the Hidden Valley Nature Center also features 25 miles of trails perfect for hikers and horse riders. On Saturdays, kids of all ages may enjoy the Nature Center’s many hands-on exhibits and animal encounters between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The pond and the picnic area provide a fantastic place for people to gather together and have a wonderful day. Furthermore, the centre hosts a wide variety of educational events for its patrons at various times throughout the year.
Mitla Café, San Bernardino
The Mitla Café has been a staple of the San Bernardino community for decades. After all, it has been serving its regulars since 1937; a business doesn’t last that long without doing a good job of keeping its customers happy. While some in the Inland Empire may be aware of the famed chile relleno and menudo soup served at this quaint eatery, the place is still mostly unknown to the general public. If you can’t decide what to have, go with the #6 combo, which includes a chile relleno, taco, and enchilada. You’ll be glad you did
Rose Haven Heritage Garden
Anyone who adores beautiful blossoms must visit Rose Haven Heritage Garden. The 3.4-acre garden located in Temecula has been a hotspot for horticulturists and nature lovers since 1991. The garden has 1,600 rose bushes, including hybrid teas, floribundas, climbers, and mini-roses, and together, they give the garden its intoxicating aroma. The garden’s colour palette is just as diverse, spanning from bright reds to muted yellows and whites. The garden is under the care of the Temecula Valley Rose Society, and it is at its most beautiful in the months of April and May.
Before we proceed, be sure to hit the like button and subscribe to the channel If you haven’t already. Don’t forget to hit the post notification bell to be among the first to be notified of our daily uploads.
Visit the Western Science Center
Located in Riverside, California, the Western Science Center is called the county’s premier science centre and natural history museum. Families can learn about everything from Ice Age giants to archaeological wonders with permanent exhibitions like the Hall of Archeology and Snapshots in Time. Snapshots in Time is a hands-on exhibition of the fossil findings obtained during the excavation of Diamond Valley Lake.
Furthermore, the museum offers free admission and a variety of fun science-related activities for all ages on every first Saturday of the month.
Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa
People travel from far and wide to see this one-of-a-kind attraction, so it’s no surprise that Glen Ivy Spas would rank among the most popular in California. The resort is known for its excellent “Girls Getaways” packages. They are also well-known for employing alternative, non-Western methods, such as Reiki and Shiatsu. Take your body for a spin at the spa and get pampered from head to toe.
Sugarplum Farm
To create the ideal place for families to visit, Sugarplum Farm combines two things that are universally beloved: adorable animals and delicious chocolate. For up-close glances at animals like camels, zebras, and dwarf horses, visit this modest therapy and petting zoo in Temecula. You’ll also find a pig and a zonkey (a zebra-donkey mix) that act as tour guides. Along with the quality, handmade chocolates that Sugarplum produces for prestigious hotels, the farm also has a store where you can purchase honey and jams that are made there.
Skull Canyon Ziplines!
Skull Canyon Zipline, located in Corona’s pleasant climate along Interstate 15, has been open to the public since 2009. It has such a stellar reputation that it has been used as a backdrop for several movies, TV shows, and commercials.
In addition to providing the necessary safety gear, the organization also has an excellent safety record. The best part of it is that the event is open to people of all ages and ability levels.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the harsh landscape below as you soar through the skies in the comfortable warmth. You should rent a GoPro camera to attach to your helmet like many other daredevils do because a video of your time in Skull Canyon will make for an excellent memento.
Joseph Filippi Winery & Vineyards
For decades, the Cucamonga Valley was the premier wine-growing area in Southern California. Although urbanization has taken over the valley, the winemaking tradition remains, especially at the Joseph Filippi Winery & Vineyards. Established in 1922, the winery is presently run by the 4th generation of the Filippi dynasty and continues to make the world-famous Zinfandels for which the Cucamonga Valley is recognized. In addition, there are opportunities for wine tasting and tours, so be sure to give it a go and partake in the tradition of the valley.
Mission Inn Hotel and Spa.
Built in 1876 by Frank Miller, the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa has grown to become the significant landmark it is today. The stunning architecture serves as a setting for priceless works of art and antiquities gathered from all corners of the globe. It’s also an ideal venue for commemorating a milestone event.
In the lead-up to Christmas, many people make a point of visiting the Mission Inn for their annual Festival of Lights. Make it a point to visit the Mission Inn Museum as well for a holistic feel of the environment.
Jazz in the Pines
Jazz in the Pines is a fortnightly festival and a famous fundraiser held each year in Idyllwild. It also features lectures and performances by world-renowned faculty members at venues including the Idyllwild Arts Academy campus.
In 1994, the Holmes Amphitheatre played host to the inaugural annual Jazz in the Pines Festival, which combined wine tasting with live jazz. Throughout the day and night, local and out-of-town guests are entertained by performances by students and renowned jazz pros.
It is now time for us to hear from you. Let us know in the comments which fun activity piqued your interest the most. And, for those who have vacationed in the Inland Empire, California, what was the most memorable aspect of your experience? Remember to show your support by liking this video and subscribing to the channel. Enabling post notifications will ensure that you don’t miss any of our daily uploads. Catch you in the next one.