Arts & Culture

Riverside is a hub of diverse art, rich culture, and impressive architecture.

Discover the cultural, entertainment, and retail core in the heart of Inland Southern California, a bustling hub of culture and entertainment features the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture. This vibrant district is enriched with landmarks, including the Fox Performing Arts Center, Riverside Art Museum, The Historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, and the new Main Riverside Library, each adding to the city’s cultural tapestry. The Main Street pedestrian mall is adorned with statues of historical figures like Martin Luther King and Mahatma Gandhi, transforming the area into a living museum extending to the iconic Riverside County Courthouse.

Journey through history with the Mission Inn Foundation’s walking tours to uncover the inn’s art and architecture. The Center for Social Justice & Civil Liberties and UCR ARTS offer engaging exhibitions and programs that highlight the contributions of notable artists and activists. Meanwhile, the Riverside Art Museum and the Riverside Metropolitan Museum present a mix of contemporary and traditional art. The new Main Riverside Library adds a modern twist to the cultural scene, offering tours and an Innovation Center. The Cheech Marin Center is a staple for Chicano art, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a diverse and enriching cultural experience.

ARTS

THE CHEECH MARIN CENTER FOR CHICANO ART & CULTURE

3581 Mission Inn Avenue Riverside, CA 92501 (951) 684-7111

The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art is a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Riverside. Named after the renowned actor and art collector, Cheech Marin, this center celebrates and displays the rich heritage and artistic expressions of the Chicano community. The center features a stunning collection of Chicano art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia installations, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience. Exhibitions highlight the diverse narratives and perspectives of Chicano artists, providing an enriching cultural journey for all. The center also hosts educational programs, workshops, and events, fostering dialogue and engagement about art and culture. With its commitment to promoting inclusivity and artistic excellence, the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art stands as a vibrant hub for creativity, appreciation, and celebration of Chicano art in Riverside and beyond.

THE RIVERSIDE ART MUSEUM

3425 Mission Inn Avenue Riverside, CA 92501 (951) 684-7111

The Riverside Art Museum (RAM) is a captivating destination that highlights a diverse range of artistic expressions in the heart of Riverside. Housed in a historic building, the museum’s spacious galleries show a rich collection of contemporary and traditional artworks, spanning various mediums and styles. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant displays, which feature local, national, and international artists, providing a platform for cultural exchange and creative exploration. The Riverside Art Museum also hosts thought-provoking exhibitions, educational programs, and engaging workshops, inviting visitors of all ages to delve deeper into the world of art. With its commitment to fostering artistic dialogue and promoting community engagement, the museum serves as a cultural hub that encourages appreciation and understanding of the visual arts. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a curious visitor, a trip to the Riverside Art Museum promises an inspiring and enlightening experience.

THE CULVER CENTER OF THE ARTS & THE CALIFORNIA MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY (CMP)

3834 Main StreetRiverside, CA 92501 (951) 827-3755

The Culver Center of the Arts and the California Museum of Photography (CMP) in Riverside are vibrant cultural hubs dedicated to the visual arts, boasting a diverse range of artwork that includes the world’s largest collection of stereographic photographs: the Keystone-Mast Collection, as well as the largest public collection of cameras in the American West. Notably, the CMP features “Fiat Lux,” Ansel Adams’s iconic black-andwhite images of University of California campuses. With a focus on photography, the CMP captures captivating images that tell compelling stories, and through exhibitions, workshops, and community events, these centers foster artistic appreciation and engagement in Riverside and beyond. Whether you’re an artist seeking inspiration or a visitor eager to explore the world of visual arts, this center offers an enriching experience for all. With versatile rooms, ultramodern facilities, and plentiful outdoor spaces, it’s the perfect venue for conferences, trade shows, and special events.

CULTURE

MARCH FIELD AIR MUSEUM

22550 Van Buren Blvd Riverside, CA 92518 (951) 902-5949

Explore the fascinating aviation history at the March Field Air Museum in Riverside! Discover 114 historic aircraft spanning nearly a century, from World War I bi-planes to modern jet fighters, rugged Vietnam-era helicopters, and cutting-edge drones like the MQ-1 Predator. Founded in 1979, the museum evolved from its original home at March Air Force Base to its current location near Interstate 215. With engaging exhibits for all ages, including early aviation marvels and iconic military planes, the museum offers an unforgettable journey through the evolution of flight. It’s a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts and families alike!

THE CIVIL RIGHTS CENTER FOR JUSTICE

3855 Market Street Riverside, CA 92501 (951) 222-8885

The Civil Rights Center for Justice houses the extraordinary Miné Okubo Collection, which is dedicated to honoring the impactful work of Japanese American artist Miné Okubo. Her art and outspoken commentary on social justice issues, particularly about the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, played a significant role in documenting the themed-20th-century history of Japanese Americans in the United States. Through her powerful artwork and advocacy, Miné Okubo brought attention to the struggles and experiences of her community. The collection serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of promoting equality and justice for all.

HERITAGE HOUSE

8193 Magnolia AvenueRiverside, CA 92504 (951) 826-5273

The 1891 Victorian home, owned by the Museum of Riverside, offers a glimpse into life in turn-of-the-20th-century Riverside. It is a testament to the affluent residences that once lined Magnolia Avenue. Initially started by the Riverside Museum Associates, a volunteer support group of the Museum of Riverside, Heritage House has been meticulously restored, reflecting its nineteenth-century origins. This grand residence is a meticulously researched example of historic tastes, values, and lifestyle. It was home to Mr. and Mrs. James Bettner, who settled in Riverside in the late 1870s, just a decade after the town’s start.