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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Riverside's best

Places with nice views

You want to look out at the horizon while you eat.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Mount Rubidoux Park image 1
Mount Rubidoux Park image 2
Mount Rubidoux Park image 3
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Mountain park features scenic hiking trails with both dirt and paved paths for all skill levels. Visitors enjoy a 360-degree view from the top, including riverside spots with benches. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and romantic to lively during busy times.

The top offers a 360-degree view with scenery visible from many angles. Trails include two connected loops with spots to rest in shade and benches while taking in the riverside views.

People are saying

"The views from the top are amazing and panoramic."

"It's a great place for a walk with your dogs."

"The trail is easy and kid friendly, perfect for families."

Good to know

1

The trail opens half an hour before sunrise and closes half an hour after sunset.

2

The entire trail is steep with no guardrails, so caution is advised.

3

There is a lot of parking available, but no clear designated area.

02
Sycamore Highlands Park image 1

Park on a hill offers 360-degree views and a peaceful atmosphere with grassy areas and a playground. Families enjoy the family friendly space while watching sunsets and city lights from benches and picnic tables.

360-degree views from a high elevation offer stunning city and sunset scenes. The park provides beautiful scenery without a tough hike or long drive, with gorgeous night views adding to its appeal.

People are saying

"The sunset views here are stunning and spectacular."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with a fantastic view."

"The sunset views here are absolutely stunning."

Good to know

1

Parking at Sycamore Highlands Park is free but extremely limited, especially in the evening.

2

There are no restrooms available at Sycamore Highlands Park.

3

Dogs are welcome at Sycamore Highlands Park.

03
Two Trees Trail image 1
Hiking area

Trail offers scenic city views and friendly donkeys near the top. Path is dry and exposed, so bring water and sun protection. Visitors enjoy a cozy, active atmosphere with chances to spot wildlife and take short hikes to amazing views of Riverside and the horizon.

Short hikes lead to amazing views of the city and horizon. Trails offer beautiful scenery including a view of Riverside and occasional donkey sightings.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the awesome, beautiful views from the trail."

"You might see donkeys on this Kid Friendly trail."

"I found great free parking available."

Good to know

1

Parking near the donkeys is recommended due to break-ins in the lower area.

2

Bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen as the trail can be hot.

3

The trail is approximately 2 miles long and has steep parts.

04
Peace Tower image 1
Historical landmark

Mission Revival-style tower and adjoining bridge crown a gentle, paved trail perfect for hikers, cyclists, and pets. Enjoy panoramic views of the city, mountains, and valley, including the Mount Rubidoux cross. Smooth paths and benches invite peaceful reflection and nature connection.

Uninterrupted views of the cross atop Mount Rubidoux and the surrounding landscape stand out. The Peace Tower offers panoramic sights of the city, valley, and distant mountains both day and night.

People are saying

"I loved the panoramic views of Riverside and the mountains."

"I loved the amazing views of Downtown Riverside and the mountains."

"It's a great dog-friendly walk on a completely paved path."

Good to know

1

Bring water and sun protection for your visit to stay hydrated and safe.

2

Parking is available for free around the houses, about one block from the entrance.

3

The paved path is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it family-friendly.

05
California Citrus State Historic Park image 1

Natural citrus groves offer a tranquil atmosphere with paved trails and panoramic views of snow-covered mountains. Shady picnic spots invite relaxation while a hands-on museum provides citrus tasting and education. Trails wind through hills and orchards, blending beauty and learning.

Views from the hilltop and park showcase snow-covered mountains and citrus groves. Trails wind through hills and orchards, offering beautiful sceneries throughout.

People are saying

"I loved walking through the hilly orange groves at this park."

"The views of the snow-covered mountains are stunning."

"I found the museum's historical overview of citrus crops really interesting."

Good to know

1

Entry to the park is free, but parking costs $7.

2

Restrooms are not available at the park.

3

The visitor center and museum close at 4pm.

06
Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park image 1

Hiking and biking trails wind through hilly terrain with wide views of San Jacinto and Mt. Baldy. A small creek creates quiet spots for bird watching and rest. Frequent wildlife sightings include lizards and ravens, adding to the peaceful feel.

Beautiful views stretch across San Jacinto, San Gorgonio, and Mt. Baldy. Benches at the top offer spots to enjoy the valley floor of Riverside while exercising or resting.

People are saying

"The scenic views of the mountains and valley floor are beautiful."

"You'll love the beautiful views of the surrounding areas."

Good to know

1

Be cautious of rattlesnakes; they are present in the park.

2

There are no public restrooms; plan accordingly.

3

Expect to share trails with mountain bikers.

07
Doty Trust Park image 1

Park blends beautiful views with a large open grass area and playgrounds for kids. Walking trails and exercise equipment invite activity, while picnic spots and gazebos offer quiet gathering places. Mountain panoramas from hilltops add to the peaceful, spacious feel.

Beautiful views stretch from the hiking trail and hilltops, offering a wonderful mountain panorama. The park feels quiet and spacious, enhancing the sense of appreciation for the scenery.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful with great views and clean walking paths."

"I loved that the park was dog friendly and had dog fountains."

"I loved the beautiful views from the hill."

Good to know

1

The splash pad operates from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

2

There are no restrooms at Doty Trust Park.

3

Visitors should be cautious of rattlesnakes.

08
UC Riverside Botanic Gardens image 1

Botanical gardens feature rose and butterfly gardens with peaceful, family-friendly trails. Hilly paths offer breathtaking views of the city and campus. Quiet spots and benches invite meditative walks and mild hikes.

Gardens offer breathtaking views overlooking the campus and city. A long steep trail winds uphill, showcasing diverse trees and plants with quiet vistas.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, educational place for kids to explore nature."

"I paid only a couple of dollars for parking."

"The gardens offer a nice view overlooking the campus."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $2 per hour with a maximum of $6.

2

Entry to the gardens is free, but a $5 donation is appreciated.

3

The gardens celebrate their 60th anniversary this year with special events.

09
Martha McLean-Anza Narrows Park image 1

Large park offers beautiful river views and snow-capped mountains. Family-friendly with picnic pavilions and playgrounds. Quiet spot features a popular disc golf course and plenty of benches for rest.

Views include the Santa Ana river, snow-capped mountains, and an old historic railroad bridge. Scenic vistas also feature the San Gabriel and Saint Bernardino Mountains.

People are saying

"You'll love playing disc golf at these parks."

"It's a nice view of the mountains and river."

"I loved the well-laid-out and challenging disc golf course."

Good to know

1

The park lacks open restrooms and drinking water, so bring your own supplies.

2

Expect to find the bathrooms closed; they have been out of service for over a year.

3

Safety is a concern; it's wise to visit with friends or carry something for protection.

10
Challen Park image 1

Green hills offer rugged hiking with trails that challenge your cardio. Mountain landscapes provide amazing views on clear days. Trails suit walks with kids or dogs but need caution due to natural hazards.

Amazing views stretch across the mountains. Clear days reveal gorgeous scenery and great visibility.

People are saying

"I found the park beautiful with gorgeous views and flat trails."

"It's a nice, easy walk that's great for kids."

"I loved the amazing, gorgeous mountain views on a clear day."

Good to know

1

There is a dirt parking lot and curbside parking available on the Challen Street side.

2

There are no restrooms available at Challen Park.

3

Dog owners need to pick up after their pets.

11
The Riverside Airport Cafe image 1

Outdoor patio offers plane views and a pet-friendly vibe with giant games for kids. Loud DJ music creates a party atmosphere that can challenge conversation. Setting blends old school charm with lively energy near the runway.

Seating sits right next to the airport tarmac with great views of private planes taking off and landing. Both inside and outside spots offer a unique view of airplanes and nearby mountains.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and fantastic."

"The outdoor space has a DJ and games like giant connect four."

"I loved the nice view of planes taking off and landing."

Good to know

1

They have a planes and treats event scheduled for October 18th from 5 to 9 pm.

2

Beers are $3 during happy hours for bottles.

3

The cafe appears to get crowded on weekends; arriving early is recommended.

12
Indian Hills Golf Club / Weddings and Events image 1

Golf course challenges with narrow greens and offers magnificent views throughout. Event spaces shine with beautiful ceremony areas and impressive table settings. Atmosphere feels welcoming with well-kept grounds and a nice bar.

Magnificent views stand out across the course. Clean facilities complement the amazing scenery and awesome views throughout.

People are saying

"I found the golf course to be beautifully difficult and challenging."

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"The view from the course was magnificent."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on Fridays from 6 to 10 PM.

2

The course is in fair condition, rated about 3 out of 5.

3

Carts are not allowed in the parking lot.

13
Canyon Crest Country Club image 1

Golf course challenges with hilly terrain and fast greens. Clubhouse offers an old school vibe and a great patio with stunning views. Facility is handicap accessible and hosts events with ample parking.

Golfers enjoy a lovely fairway with a spectacular view of the course. The beautiful scenery enhances the experience throughout.

People are saying

"The golf staff here is super friendly and helpful."

"I found the course to be really fun and hilly."

"The view of the golf course is amazing and beautiful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for tee times, especially on weekends.

2

The course charges $112.00 for a round on Saturdays.

3

There is plenty of parking available at the facility.

14
Fairmount Park image 1

Large open space with rose gardens and a big lake offers beautiful sunset views and calm, friendly vibes. Sports courts and an amphitheater provide fun activities, while paddle boat rentals add to the peaceful setting. Perfect for families and groups seeking nature and recreation.

Beautiful sunset views and a big lake create a serene atmosphere. Well-maintained grounds include a rose garden and spots to watch ducks and pedal boats.

People are saying

"This park is really beautiful and large."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with an awesome playground."

"The scenery here is beautiful, especially the lake and sunset."

Good to know

1

Summer concerts occur every Wednesday night at 6pm.

2

Parking can be difficult to find at Fairmount Park.

3

Kids Playland offers great activities for children.

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