The best things to do in Riverside County

“Open since 1938, Moorten Botanical Garden is a living desert museum where 3,000-plus species, glittering rocks, fossils, and the world’s first Cactarium make for an oddly soothing wander. Bonus for locals, the on-site nursery lets you bring home a well-behaved spiky souvenir.”

From the Palm Springs newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Fox Cineplex Is D'Place keeps it simple in the best way, with first-run movies, stadium-style seating, and a proper snack bar that nails the popcorn-soda-candy trifecta. It’s a small local spot that feels easy and affordable, perfect for last-minute plans or weeknight escapes.”

From the Beaumont newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing fairways, itching to join a club or group, or just want an easy dinner, Sun Lakes Country Club HOA mixes beautifully maintained grounds, exceptional facilities, and a genuinely welcoming crowd.”

From the Beaumont newsletter, September 30, 2026

“Desert Princess Resort & Club keeps it local with an immaculately groomed 27-hole championship layout designed by David Rainville, wide forgiving fairways, Tifdwarf Bermuda greens, and San Jacinto views, plus instruction and on-site dining when you want a round that feels both challenging and actually fun.”

From the Cathedral City newsletter, October 7, 2026

“Scenic, casual 18-hole public golf course surrounded by desert & mountain views.”

“Whether you're rounding up the crew or sneaking in a solo practice, Canyon Lanes at Morongo serves up 24 lanes, HyperBowling, Cosmic Bowling, leagues and tournaments, plus an on-site pro shop, food and gaming machines. It’s the easy, low-stress Banning hang when you want friendly competition and neon vibes.”

From the Banning newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Rock Fitness Climbing Gym packs 20,000 square feet of rock climbing and bouldering, yoga and fitness classes, plus a basketball and volleyball court, slackline and even cageball.”

From the Temecula newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Bear Creek Golf Course Maintenance lives at the member-only Bear Creek Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus signature design tucked below the Santa Rosa Plateau in Murrieta. If you’re considering a local membership, expect 18 pristine holes, strong member programs and clubhouse dining that turns post-round into a ritual.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Riverside’s Victoria Club has been doing it since 1903, quietly nailing the balance of play and unwind: an 18-hole course that stays interesting, tennis and pickleball, a proper pool scene, and legit dining for the post-match debrief. If you’ve been club-curious, this week’s a good time to peek via a tour.”

From the Riverside newsletter, September 29, 2026

“If you want early tee times, a golfer-friendly layout, and a solid practice setup, Jurupa Hills Country Club keeps things fun without the fuss. Lessons, a driving range, men’s and women’s clubs, and a clubhouse with a full bar... it’s an easy local go-to when you need a golf day.”

From the Riverside newsletter, October 7, 2026

“Whether you’re planning vows under the heritage oaks or just need a wholesome weekend adventure, Hawk Ranch Wedding Venue & Farm and Animal Tours delivers a 40-acre sanctuary near Temecula wine country.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Shake off the week at K1 Speed Corona, where adult karts hit up to 45 mph and juniors top out at 20 on a twisty indoor track. Rip some laps, chase your personal best, then refuel at the Paddock Lounge or wander the arcade while the adrenaline settles.”

From the Corona newsletter, September 30, 2026

“Now open to the public, Canyon Crest Country Club pairs a championship 18-hole course with panoramic San Bernardino Mountains views and a clubhouse restaurant, The Overlook Bar & Grill. Grab a tee time, then linger for a bite while the fairways make your short game feel optimistic again.”

From the Moreno Valley newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Indian Hills Golf Club / Weddings and Events keeps it classic with a par-70 layout over rolling hills and city and mountain views, plus the 19th Pub and Grille for post-birdie bragging. Locals love the community vibe, lessons to fix the slice, and a legit event center.”

From the Riverside newsletter, October 2, 2026

“California’s oldest motocross playground is still ripping, and Perris Raceway has revamped tracks for all levels, from Mini Nights to Big Bike Nights and Pit Bike Nights, plus weekend open practice.”

From the Lake Elsinore newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Skydive Perris brings the full-throttle thrill with tandem jumps from 14,000 feet, the rare high-altitude option, and even a one-of-a-kind DC-9 jet exit. Not ready to leap? Start in the onsite wind tunnel this week, then decompress at The Bombshelter with a cold drink.”

From the Menifee newsletter, September 23, 2026

“Whether you need a low-key date night or a family hang, Van Buren Drive-In Theatre and Swap Meet lines up big-screen picks like Insidious: Out of the Further and Spider-Man: Brand New Day under the Inland sky. Browse the Swap Meet for unexpected finds, then settle in for back-to-back flicks under the stars.”

From the Riverside newsletter, October 4, 2026

“Little Sprouts Indoor Playhouse is a safe, colorful wonderland for kids under 10, with imaginative play zones, soft climbing structures, slides, and sensory areas that make learning feel like adventure.”

From the Lake Elsinore newsletter, October 7, 2026

“A. and California Collectives to zine workshops that dust off your inner maker. Perfect Redlands reset when you need fresh visuals and a little spark.”

From the Riverside newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Mountain Vista Golf Club at Sun City Palm Desert serves up two Billy Casper designed championship courses to fit your mood, from strategy heavy Santa Rosa with sweeping views to friendlier San Gorgonio, with lush fairways, true rolling greens, and consistent bunkers.”

From the Coachella Valley newsletter, October 1, 2026

“Set in the foothills of San Gorgonio and San Bernardino, Oak Valley Golf Club gives you a legit challenge with all the SoCal views. Sneak in a round this week, hit a Range Night for reps, then celebrate at the 1906 Golf Pub & Grill.”

From the Yucaipa newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Seven Lakes Golf & Country Club is that polished Palm Springs membership spot where you can chase birdies, then stick around for a social calendar packed with activities. If your week needs a lift, consider this your sign to explore a Golf or Social Membership this week.”

From the Palm Springs newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Dos Lagos Golf Course is a public 18-hole par 70 by Matthew E. Dye, with four sets of tees to match your swing. Voted Touchstone Golf Course of the Year in 2019, it’s perfect for a midweek round, leagues, tournaments or even plotting your next celebration.”

From the Corona newsletter, September 24, 2026

“Swap your usual hang for a neon-bright round at GLO Mini Golf, where indoor mini golf, arcade games, immersive escape rooms, virtual reality, and console gaming all live under one roof. Easy pick for a spontaneous weeknight laugh with friends or a kids’ party that plans itself.”

From the Riverside newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Need an easy plan this week? Harkins Theatres Moreno Valley keeps the big releases rolling, sprinkles in fun throwback series like Tuesday Night Classics, and serves the kind of popcorn that mysteriously disappears before the trailers end.”

From the Moreno Valley newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Woodhaven Country Club keeps it fun, fast, and fair on a friendly par-70, 18-hole layout with wide fairways, firm turf, and just enough bunkers to keep you honest. Open to the public, it’s the easy local pick for a quick round then a laid-back hang at The Vista Lounge.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Round1 Bowling & Arcade at Temecula Promenade packs bowling, arcade games, billiards, karaoke, party rooms, and the Victory Zone into one hangout. Rally the crew from Hemet for an easy midweek reset, chase bragging rights, and remember what fun feels like for a couple hours.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, October 2, 2026

“Redhawk Golf Club is SoCal drama on grass, with elevation changes, a famous island green, and a championship layout that gives you real risk-reward on every hole. Book a lesson, groove at the practice facility, then debrief with good food and drinks at The Hawk’s Landing.”

From the Temecula newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Shadow Mountain Golf Course keeps things fun for locals with its 18-hole Let's Flamingo putting course, a wild, hilly green that can play easy or tricky, plus classic rounds that wind among modern architecture. Finish at Birdy Bar & Grill, or sneak in some swings on the golf simulator.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Palm Desert Aquatic Center keeps locals sane with legit lap lanes, splashy water slides, a splash playground and floating obstacle fun, plus water exercise classes when you want to call it a workout. Keep an eye on Dive-In Movies and Hot Summer Nights for easy, low-key plans this week.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“When you need an easy win with the crew, Castle Park Golf & Games nails it with four whimsical 18-hole mini-golf courses, over 20 rides, a brand-new arcade, and Buccaneer Cove to cool off, making it the kind of low-planning, high-smile afternoon Redlands folks actually repeat.”

From the Riverside newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Arthur Hills’ layout at Cross Creek Golf Club winds through Temecula’s hills for a quiet, shot-maker’s round that actually feels away from town. After the last putt, the De Luz Grill handles the hangout portion with valley views and a delicious menu, and booking is easy with their free app.”

From the Temecula newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Pins N Pockets packs 36 bowling lanes, two-level laser tag, a buzzing arcade with prizes, Escapology escape rooms, and The Tavern sports bar under one roof. Rally the crew for cosmic frames, gel blaster battles, or a private VIP lane night that actually feels like a night out.”

From the Lake Elsinore newsletter, September 23, 2026

“Skydive Elsinore has been soaring over the lake since 1958, with friendly pros guiding tandem jumps from 14,000 feet and training if you’re ready to learn. The views of the Ortega Mountains hit different... and with the 2026 World Championships landing Oct 8-14, it’s prime time to get in on the action.”

From the Lake Elsinore newsletter, September 26, 2026

“For a mellow round close to home, The Sands RV & Golf Resort pairs a friendly 9-hole course with mountain views, a heated pool and spa, and arts-and-crafts happenings in a relaxed 55+ community. Perfect for stretching the legs, meeting neighbors, and calling it a day by sunset.”

From the Desert Hot Springs newsletter, September 11, 2026

“When the crew needs an easy win, Portals Entertainment Center brings an immersive blacklight playground to the Temecula Valley with a 2,000-square-foot laser tag arena, two 9-hole mini golf courses, and an arcade for prize-chasing, plus Port Bytes slinging out-of-this-world snacks. Parties, hangouts, all ages.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, August 25, 2026

“The Oasis Country Club packs a breezy 60-par executive course threading past sparkling lakes, a Ted Robinson 18-hole putting course, and lighted tennis and pickleball courts for when the sun’s feeling extra.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, August 28, 2026

“For a legit local track that still feels like a treat, Journey at Pechanga is a public, award-winning par-72 Arthur Hills and Steve Forrest design with Temecula Wine Country vistas, an easy post-round bite at Journey’s End, and a pro shop big enough to get you into trouble.”

From the Temecula newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Whether you're craving a laid-back round with beautiful desert vistas or a course that sneaks in just enough challenge to keep things fun, The O'Donnell Golf Club is a private, members-only spot in downtown Palm Springs now accepting golf and social applications. Bob Hope played here for over forty years...”

From the Palm Springs newsletter, August 26, 2026

“, a lively tennis and pickleball scene, interest groups from hiking and biking to book club, plus great clubhouse dining when you’re done playing.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Whether you're chasing a quick nine or a full 27, Temecula Creek Golf Club strings together the Creek, Oaks, and Stone House nines across 300-plus acres with mountain views, oak shade, and year-round sunshine. Tournament ready, locals-friendly, and Golf Digest four-star, the conditions here are consistently legit.”

From the Temecula newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Nicklaus Design vibes, mountain views that photobomb your backswing and a Mid Century Modern clubhouse make Escena Golf Club the rare local hang to hit this week, where you can play a public round then linger at Escena Grill for California cuisine and patio time. Also, it was voted Best Public Course in Palm Springs.”

From the Cathedral City newsletter, August 20, 2026

“When the group chat stalls out on plans, Lucky Strike Hemet delivers with slick lanes, a lively arcade, a proper sports bar, and solid eats and cocktails. Roll a few frames, catch the game, play some pool, then pretend that turkey was totally on purpose.”

From the Hemet newsletter, October 7, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Old Temecula Walking Tours serves up real ghost stories and Temecula history in one eerie stroll through Old Town and the Historic Vail Headquarters. Led by a longtime local historian and investigator, it’s part storytelling, part ghost hunt, all the excuse you need for a fun night with friends.”

From the Temecula newsletter, October 3, 2026

“, The Golf Club at Rancho California nails that trio of beauty, challenge, and flexibility. Groove on the grass-tee range, chip and bunker practice included, then reward yourself at Rancho Cal Grill with those buttered-toasted bun hot dogs and a house-mix Bloody Mary.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Nick Faldo’s layout at Marriott's Shadow Ridge Golf Club pairs generous fairways with bold bunkers and postcard Santa Rosa views. Sneak in serious practice time, book a lesson at the Leadbetter Golf Academy, then high-five your round over something good at Giuseppe’s.”

From the Cathedral City newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Locals head to The Golf Center at Palm Desert for real tune-ups, with a large two-sided, night lighted range, quality practice balls, chipping greens, a practice bunker and a putting green, and a 9-hole par-3 that keeps wedges honest. PGA pro instruction and First Tee – Coachella Valley give it a true community feel.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Make Camelot Theatres your midweek reset, with art, foreign and indie films plus curated series like the Elizabeth Taylor Retrospective, Baby Boomer Blockbusters and Musical Matinees. It scratches the classic-cinema itch, finds you something new, and lets popcorn completely qualify as dinner.”

From the Palm Springs newsletter, September 25, 2026

“When the kids are climbing the walls, Mulligan Family Fun Center- Murrieta is an easy win with go-karts, laser tag, mini golf, arcade games, kiddie rides, batting cages, and a splash pad with water slides. Round up the crew and make it your midweek or weekend reset this week.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, September 27, 2026

“With mountain views and a course the SCPGA lists among its top 10, Desert Falls Country Club is a worthy excuse to sneak in a weekday round. Hit it, quit it, then slide into the club’s easygoing social scene for a well-earned catch up.”

From the Coachella Valley newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Swap wine flights for goosebumps with Temecula Ghosts: Ghost Tours and Haunted Pub Crawls, a guided wander through Old Town legends like La Llorona, the Palomar Inn, and the Welty Building. It’s part history lesson, part eerie storytelling, perfect when your Murrieta night needs a fun plot twist.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, September 13, 2026

“UEC Diamond 8 has this week’s new releases ready and online tickets so you can breeze in without overthinking plans. Perfect for a midweek reset or easy date night in Lake Elsinore, plus their release calendar keeps you in the loop when the next must-watch drops.”

From the Lake Elsinore newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Menifee Lakes Country Club is open to the public with 36 holes of Ted Robinson design, true-rolling greens, more than 100 strategic bunkers, and 36 acres of waterways that make every swing feel like a mini vacation. Hit the range or putting greens, book a tee time, maybe even sneak in a lesson.”

From the Menifee newsletter, September 16, 2026

“When you want a beautiful walk with a side of bragging rights this week, Soboba Springs Golf Course brings 18 holes with scenic water features, mountain views, and a design that keeps you honest. Warm up on the range, then celebrate at the bar and grill or hit their 21 pickleball courts.”

From the Hemet newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Need a midweek reset without leaving the valley? Canyon Lake Golf & Country Club pairs a Ted Robinson-designed par 72, 6,000-yard layout renovated to blend with the surrounding mountains and a laid-back Bar & Grill offering indoor and outdoor seating and Friday night live entertainment.”

From the San Jacinto newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Hidden Valley Golf Club brings elevation changes, Casey O’Callaghan’s crafty design, and legit mountain views that make every club choice matter. Book a tee time, scout each hole with their video tour, and sneak in a round that feels like a mini getaway without leaving the Inland Empire.”

From the Riverside newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Temeku Cinemas is that low-key local spot for a spontaneous movie night, with comfy reclining seats, popcorn seasoning packs you’ll overuse, and a crew that actually seems happy you’re there. Prices are friendly too, so you can justify the extra-large popcorn without the post-credit guilt.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Need an easy, zero-planning reset this week? Boomers Palm Springs has you zipping go-karts, sinking putts on mini golf, bumping boats, scaling a rock wall, taking swings in batting cages, then cooling off in the arcade... basically instant kid energy for grown-ups too.”

From the Cathedral City newsletter, September 23, 2026

“Family-oriented attraction offering a range of themed escape rooms to solve in an hour.”

“Public Art "Music" is a polished chrome and steel sculpture by Leonardo Nierman at the McCallum Theatre courtyard, a sleek 10-foot twist set within a reflecting pool that throws back desert light. Slip in for a two-minute pause and let the curves do the calming.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Whether your queue is stale or you just want something different, Festival Theaters Palm Springs keeps it lively with an eclectic lineup from offbeat indies to culty crowd-pleasers like Coyote Vs. Acme and The Dog Stars, plus plenty of showtimes that fit around actual local schedules.”

From the Palm Springs newsletter, September 4, 2026

“With panoramic Santa Rosa and San Jacinto views, Palm Desert Resort Country Club is a Joe Mulleneaux-designed 18-hole championship playground where you can book a tee time, rally on pickleball or tennis, then linger over bites at the clubhouse or the Roadrunner café.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, August 23, 2026

“If your Saturday needs a reset, Pechanga Golf Course delivers a par-72, links-style, award-winning layout designed by Arthur Hills and Steve Forrest, with sweeping Temecula Wine Country vistas.”

From the Temecula newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Indian Palms Country Club mixes 27 holes across the Mountain, Royal and Indian nines with water in play on 15 holes and fairways framed by legit mature trees, not just desert scrub. Warm up at the double-ended range and short-game area, then take your shot at the Mountain’s island-green 5th.”

From the Coachella Valley newsletter, September 23, 2026

“California Oaks Golf Club is a par-70 track by David Rainville that keeps big hitters honest with tight lines, dramatic bunkers and lively greens, yet stays welcoming for newer golfers. Friendly vibe, superb turf, and those San Jacinto views make it perfect for a midweek reset.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Give yourself a quick hit of hometown nostalgia with Forever Marilyn, the 26-foot Seward Johnson sculpture inspired by Bernard of Hollywood’s iconic The Seven Year Itch photo.”

From the Palm Springs newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Trampoline park where kids can jump and play dodgeball or basketball, alongside adults.”

“SilverRock Resort brings an Arnold Palmer Classic Course stretching 7,239 yards across 200 scenic acres, with the Santa Rosa Mountains backdrop, massive native bunkers, shimmering water features, and a legit practice area.”

From the Coachella Valley newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Whether you’re running errands or dodging the heat, the "Woman In Glasses" Mural delivers a punchy color blast and local attitude. Created by LA street artists James Haunt and Zes MSK, it’s a two-minute detour that makes your day feel 20% brighter.”

From the Palm Springs newsletter, October 8, 2026

“If your weekends bounce between fairways and guitar solos, Golf at Indian Springs BR keeps it simple, with a local-friendly course by day and Big Rock Pub’s live music by night. Grab your crew, play a round, then stick around when the stage lights kick on.”

From the Coachella Valley newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Desert Willow Golf Resort gives locals two distinct moods, with the newly renovated, bunker-studded Firecliff for precision junkies and the more forgiving Mountain View when you just want a scenic stroll. Warm up at the Palm Desert Golf Academy, then linger over California cuisine at The Terrace Restaurant.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Glen Ivy Golf Club pairs South Corona’s hilltop views with a public, championship-style 18-hole course that’s fun for friends and humbling in the best way. Warm up at the practice center, grab a bite at Canyons Grille, and keep it in mind for weddings or tournaments when you need an elegant local venue.”

From the Corona newsletter, October 7, 2026

“Whether you're hunting a one-of-a-kind piece or just need a creative reset, Backstreet Art District lines up working studios and galleries with paintings, ceramics, photography, mixed media, jewelry and more. Pop in, chat with artists, and find something that actually vibes with your home this week.”

From the Palm Springs newsletter, October 2, 2026

“Family-friendly and easygoing, Diamond Stadium of Lake Elsinore is where Storm games, promos and giveaways, and that Oscar Tortola Group Diamond Taproom all line up for a solid night out. Grab single game tickets or roll deep with groups and picnics, then just enjoy baseball the way it should feel.”

From the Lake Elsinore newsletter, September 30, 2026

“If golf is your favorite mix of joy, agony and character tests, The Plantation Golf Club reveres tradition and treasures camaraderie. A private course for players who bring an honest handicap and goodwill, it’s where matches feel meaningful and friendships travel the fairways.”

From the Coachella Valley newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Whether you're carving draws at sunrise or just in it for the clubhouse fork-and-knife afterglow, BIGHORN Golf Club brings world-class golf, fine dining, and a legit spa vibe together. A local’s move this week, if you can swing it… literally.”

From the Coachella Valley newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Just below the Santa Rosa Plateau in Murrieta, Bear Creek Golf Club is a members-only haven with 18 holes on a historic Jack Nicklaus signature design and the kind of views that might forgive your slice, plus it hosts special events and weddings for members and outside guests close to Wildomar.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, September 30, 2026

“Need a golf win this week? S. Golf School plus private instruction, clinics and custom club fitting can quickly tune up your game.”

From the Cathedral City newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Whether you need a midweek reset or an excuse to flex that new wedge, PGA WEST Pete Dye Mountain Course delivers playability with teeth... pot bunkers, rock outcrops, elevated tees and well-bunkered greens tucked against the Santa Rosa Mountains, all open to everyday players.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Public Art "Peace Memorial" gives you a quick, midweek reset between errands in the valley, no reservation required. Slip by for two calm minutes that somehow stretch time, let the noise drop and your shoulders unclench, a gentle reminder that slowing down actually helps you get more done.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, October 4, 2026

“Skip the couch and catch first-run Hollywood films in comfy recliner seating while you demolish house-made ice cream or a hand-crafted pizza, plus beer and wine. Mary Pickford Is D'Place also sprinkles in ScreenX, D-Box and 3D showings, so your weeknight escape actually feels like one.”

From the Cathedral City newsletter, September 17, 2026

“The Legends Golf Club at Temeku Hills blends Temecula Wine Country views with a hilly Ted Robinson layout updated by P. Dye, five tee boxes, five lakes, doglegs, and true rolling greens, plus a friendly, fun vibe and well kept fairways locals actually brag about.”

From the Murrieta newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Two championship tracks at Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort deliver smooth, true-rolling greens and San Jacinto views that make a pushed 7-iron feel poetic. Line up a public tee time this week, rally the usual foursome, and let the first tee reset your brain better than any inbox zero ever could.”

From the Palm Springs newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Arnold Palmer-designed Classic Club pairs tournament-level fairways, slate bridge views, and cascading-waterfall vibes with a clubhouse you’ll actually want to linger in, plus Bellatrix Restaurant for the post-round debrief.”

From the Palm Desert newsletter, August 31, 2026