13 Fun Free Things To Do In The Inland Empire

Looking for fun and exciting things to do in the Inland Empire? Don't worry, you don't need to break the bank to have a good time. With a bit of creativity and an open mind, there are plenty of free activities and attractions that can keep you entertained for hours. From exploring natural wonders to discovering fascinating cultural artifacts, we've compiled a list of 13 fun and free things to do in the Inland Empire that are sure to delight all ages and interests. So, put on your exploring shoes and get ready to have some fun without spending a dime!

Hike the Santa Ana River Trail

The inland empire is an expansive region located south of Los Angeles, California. It boasts a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities that can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. One example of such an activity is hiking the Santa Ana River Trail, which offers miles of scenic and challenging terrain that can be explored for free.

The Santa Ana River Trail spans 30 miles, stretching from San Bernardino to Riverside. It is maintained by the Santa Ana River Trail and Parkway Partnership and runs along the Santa Ana River, which provides a beautiful backdrop to the trail. The trail is open to hikers, runners, and bikers, making it a versatile outdoor activity for anyone looking to get moving and enjoy picturesque views.

One popular section of the trail is the portion that runs through Fairmount Park in Riverside. The park is a natural oasis in the middle of the city and provides a peaceful respite for hikers. The trail meanders through the park's gardens, lakes, and trees, creating a serene environment for exercise and relaxation.

Another highlight of the Santa Ana River Trail is the Canyon Crest Trailhead, which offers panoramic views of Riverside and the surrounding mountains. The trailhead is accessible by car and provides ample parking for visitors. Hikers can enjoy a moderate to difficult hike that spans 3.4 miles and takes them to the top of the mountain for stunning views of the city and beyond.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking for a good workout, the Santa Ana River Trail has something for everyone. The trail provides an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the inland empire and enjoy the outdoors without spending a dime. So grab your hiking shoes, pack a water bottle, and hit the trails for a fun, free adventure.

Explore the Redlands Art Walk

The Inland Empire is a beautiful region in Southern California that is full of exciting and fun activities to do. When it comes to finding free activities, you might think that your options are limited. However, that could not be further from the truth! One of the free and exciting things that you can do in the Inland Empire is to explore the Redlands Art Walk.

The Redlands Art Walk takes place on the first and third Saturdays of every month, from 11 am to 5 pm, in the charming downtown area of Redlands. This event is designed for the whole family, and it's an excellent opportunity to explore local art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

One of the great things about the Art Walk is that it is walkable. You don't need to worry about driving or finding parking. Just slip on some comfortable shoes and head downtown to enjoy a leisurely stroll while admiring the beautiful art displays along the way. The walk is also dog-friendly, so if you have a furry friend, feel free to bring them along!

During the Art Walk, you will find impressive art exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, crafts, and more. You can observe different art techniques, from oil paintings to pottery. It's also an excellent opportunity to meet local artists and learn about their artistic techniques and inspirations.

If you are interested in buying art, the Redlands Art Walk is an ideal place. You can browse the art pieces, talk to the artists, and purchase a unique piece of art to take home. The Art Walk is also perfect for gift shopping, and you can find great present ideas for your loved ones.

Besides art galleries, the Redlands Art Walk also includes music performances, street vendors, and food trucks. You can relax in the beautiful outdoor setting while enjoying delicious and affordable food and listening to live music.

In conclusion, exploring the Redlands Art Walk is an excellent way to spend a fun and free afternoon or a weekend day with your family or friends. You will have a chance to admire local artworks, chat with artists, listen to music, and enjoy delicious food. So, if you want to have unforgettable and artsy experiences in the Inland Empire, make sure to check out the Redlands Art Walk soon!

Visit the Riverside Art Museum

If you're looking for some free fun activities to do in the Inland Empire, then a visit to the Riverside Art Museum should be at the top of your list. This museum is open to the public free of charge, and it offers a wide range of artwork that will appeal to art lovers of all ages and interests.

Located in downtown Riverside, the Riverside Art Museum showcases a broad range of artwork from various artists and periods. The museum is home to over 1,500 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, graphic designs, and photographs, to name a few. The museum's permanent collection is primarily focused on California art, but it also includes works from other countries and cultures.

One of the unique features of the Riverside Art Museum is its focus on contemporary art. The museum regularly rotates its exhibitions, so you can expect to find fresh and exciting artwork each time you visit. Visitors can also participate in engaging art programs, such as workshops, lectures, and tours, which are designed to encourage discussion and exploration of contemporary art practices.

The Riverside Art Museum is housed in a beautiful Spanish-style building that was once a public library. The building has been renovated to meet the needs of the museum while still preserving its original character. Inside the museum, visitors will find several exhibition galleries, a research library, a museum store, and a courtyard where visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful California weather.

In conclusion, the Riverside Art Museum provides an excellent opportunity for free fun in the Inland Empire. With its ever-changing exhibits and broad collection of artwork, the museum is an excellent place to explore contemporary art in California. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or just looking for a unique experience, the Riverside Art Museum is a must-see destination in the Inland Empire.

Watch a movie in Downtown Riverside's historic Fox Theatre

Looking for free and fun things to do in the Inland Empire? Why not catch a movie at the Downtown Riverside's historic Fox Theatre?

The Fox Theatre is one of Riverside's most iconic and recognizable landmarks, with its Art Deco architecture and towering marquee. Built in 1929 as a vaudeville and movie palace, the Fox Theatre has since been restored to its former glory and is now a popular venue for concerts, comedy shows, and film screenings.

Every Wednesday at 1 PM, the Fox Theatre hosts a free movie screening as part of its "Wacky Wednesdays" program. The movies shown range from classic Hollywood films to modern blockbusters, so there's something for everyone. The seating is first-come, first-served, so be sure to arrive early to secure your spot.

In addition to the free movies, the Fox Theatre also offers guided tours of the building every Saturday at 10 AM. The tours are led by knowledgeable volunteers and cover the history of the Fox Theatre, as well as the architectural details and hidden features of the building. The tours are also free, but donations are accepted to help support the upkeep of the Fox Theatre.

So if you're looking for a fun and free way to spend your afternoon, head over to the Downtown Riverside's historic Fox Theatre for a movie or a tour. With its stunning architecture and rich history, the Fox Theatre is not to be missed.

Take a stroll through the UCR Botanic Gardens

If you're looking for some fun activities to do in the Inland Empire without breaking the bank, why not take a stroll through the University of California, Riverside (UCR) Botanic Gardens? With over 40 acres of beautiful natural landscapes, varied plant collections, and peaceful walking trails, the UCR Botanic Gardens is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Located at the foothills of the Box Springs Mountain Reserve, the UCR Botanic Gardens is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by visitors to the Inland Empire. The gardens are open year-round, from 8 am to 5 pm (or 6 pm depending on the season), and admission is free for everyone. That's right, you can experience the stunning beauty of the UCR Botanic Gardens without spending a dime!

When exploring the gardens, visitors can expect to see a variety of plants and trees from all around the world. From towering redwood trees to delicate flowers, there's no shortage of natural beauty to admire. The UCR Botanic Gardens is also home to an extensive collection of palms, cycads, and succulents, which are particularly striking against the backdrop of the arid California landscape.

One of the most popular attractions at the UCR Botanic Gardens is the Rose Garden, which showcases over 200 varieties of roses. Visitors can stroll along the winding paths and take in the sights and smells of the colorful blooms. If you're looking to escape the heat, there are also several shady areas throughout the gardens where you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

In addition to the plant collections, the UCR Botanic Gardens also has a variety of educational opportunities and events throughout the year. The gardens offer guided tours, workshops, and special lectures that are open to the public. The gardens frequently host outdoor concerts, art shows, and other cultural events that offer a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Whether you're a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful place to escape, the UCR Botanic Gardens is a must-visit destination in the Inland Empire. With its numerous walking trails, stunning plant collections, and educational opportunities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And best of all, it's completely free of charge! So why not spend an afternoon exploring the natural beauty of the UCR Botanic Gardens? You won't be disappointed.

Attend a free concert at Riverside's Fairmount Park

The Inland Empire is home to many free events, and one of the best ways to have fun without breaking the bank is by attending a free concert at Riverside's Fairmount Park.

Every summer, Fairmount Park hosts a series of free concerts featuring a variety of musical genres, from jazz to rock to pop, and everything in between. These concerts are held in the beautiful outdoor amphitheater, surrounded by lush greenery and a peaceful lake.

Apart from the music, there are plenty of other activities to keep you entertained during your visit to Fairmount Park. Take a stroll through the rose garden, go for a jog on the park's trails, or simply sit and enjoy the scenic beauty of the park.

If you're bringing young kids, they'll love the park's playgrounds, which are sure to keep them busy and happy. Bring a picnic basket and a blanket to sit on, and you'll have a perfect family outing that everyone will enjoy.

Parking can be a bit of a challenge, so arrive early to grab a good spot. And don't forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from the sun and bugs.

In conclusion, attending a free concert at Fairmount Park is an excellent way to have fun without spending a dime. With its scenic beauty, great music, and exciting activities, it is the perfect place for a summer outing with family and friends. So mark your calendar, pack your bags, and head to Fairmount Park for an unforgettable free concert experience.

See the stars through telescopes at the George F. Beattie Planetarium

The Inland Empire has plenty of attractions that don't cost a penny. One such place is the George F. Beattie Planetarium located on the Mt. San Antonio College campus in Walnut.

The planetarium provides visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the stars and planets through its impressive collection of telescopes. You can use it to see the cosmos in a way that’s not possible with the naked eye. You can participate in star-watching sessions and learn about constellations and celestial phenomena that occur in our galaxy and beyond.

The planetarium offers free public shows on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 pm until 7:00 pm. You can view live projection shows as well as digital video shows to learn more about our universe and what goes on within it. These shows are designed to educate visitors of all ages.

In addition, the planetarium offers educational programs during the day on weekdays, in order to educate and inspire school-going children with an interest in astronomy. These programs allow students to go beyond their textbooks and explore the wonders of space and time.

The George F. Beattie Planetarium is an exciting and fun place to visit for stargazers, astronomers, space enthusiasts, students and anyone who wants to learn more about our universe. Furthermore, the fact that it is free of cost make it worth scheduling a family or group outing to observe stars and the Cosmos in the comfort of a planetarium. So, come and see the stars at the George F. Beattie Planetarium. You just might be amazed at what you discover.

Visit the Ontario Museum of History and Art

If you're looking for some free fun in the Inland Empire, a great place to start is the Ontario Museum of History and Art. Located in the heart of downtown Ontario, this small yet fascinating museum holds a wealth of knowledge and exhibits on the history and culture of the region.

The museum offers a variety of exhibits throughout the year, highlighting everything from local artists and photographers to historical collections that showcase the development of the city and the surrounding areas. One of the most popular exhibits is the "Ontario's Changing Social Landscape" exhibition, which explores the social and political changes that have taken place in the city over the past century.

In addition to the rotating exhibits, the Ontario Museum of History and Art also offers various educational and family programs throughout the year. These include workshops, lectures, and hands-on art activities, making it a great spot for families with children.

One of the museum's most unique features is its collection of Native American artifacts. This collection includes traditional beadwork, pottery, and clothing from the local tribes, as well as tools and implements used for hunting and gathering.

If you're interested in local history and culture, a visit to the Ontario Museum of History and Art should definitely be on your to-do list. The best part? Admission is free, making it an affordable and interesting way to spend an afternoon in the Inland Empire. So, bring the family and explore the rich history and art of Ontario.

Explore downtown Claremont's picturesque village

The Inland Empire is full of hidden gems that can be enjoyed without spending a dime. One such treasure is downtown Claremont's picturesque village. From strolling along the tree-lined streets to exploring art galleries and unique shops, there is something for everyone in downtown Claremont.

The village of Claremont is home to many charming boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries that are well worth a visit. You can indulge in window shopping, admire the local art pieces, or simply just soak up the bustling atmosphere of the village. And the best part? Most of these stores are open seven days a week and offer free admission.

If you are a lover of history, Claremont is also home to the Pomona College Museum of Art which has a collection of over 10,000 works of art that showcase various elements of modern and contemporary art. Admission to the museum is free, and it is open to visitors six days a week.

One of the best ways to explore the village is to take a leisurely stroll along the Claremont Packing House. This historic building has been transformed into an exciting gathering place with multiple eateries, live music, and open-air markets. It's the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat, mingle with friends, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Another must-visit spot is the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, a 86-acre natural park that highlights the beauty and diversity of California's indigenous flora. The garden is open daily, and admitting is free for visitors.

If you're more of an outdoor enthusiast, pack a picnic, and head to El Barrio Park, a neighborhood park that's perfect for an afternoon of relaxation and fun. The park offers a playground area, picnicking spots, barbecue areas, and a large grassy field to toss a Frisbee or play ball.

In conclusion, downtown Claremont's picturesque village is a fantastic place to explore and have fun without spending a fortune. A visit to the village offers a fantastic celebration of culture, history, and art all in one bustling spot. So, grab your sneakers and enjoy walking around while taking in everything the village has to offer for free.

Take a self-guided tour of the Mission Inn in Riverside

When it comes to having fun in the Inland Empire, people often think of expensive outings and activities. However, there are also plenty of free things to do in the area, such as taking a self-guided tour of the Mission Inn in Riverside.

The Mission Inn is a historic landmark in downtown Riverside and one of the most iconic buildings in the city. It was built in 1902 in the Spanish Mission Revival style and has since become a popular tourist destination.

Taking a self-guided tour of the Mission Inn is an excellent way to learn about the history and architecture of the building. The tour is entirely free, and all you need to do is pick up a guidebook from the front desk and start exploring.

The tour will take you through the various rooms, courtyards, and gardens of the Inn, each with its unique design and history. Some highlights of the tour include the St. Francis Chapel, the Presidential Lounge, and the Japanese Garden.

The St. Francis Chapel is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and features intricate stained glass windows and a beautiful altar. The Presidential Lounge is where numerous presidents and other famous figures have stayed while visiting the Inn. Finally, the Japanese Garden is a serene and peaceful space complete with a koi pond and a tea house.

In addition to the free self-guided tour, the Mission Inn also offers a paid docent-led tour for those who want a more in-depth look into the building's history and architecture.

In conclusion, taking a self-guided tour of the Mission Inn in Riverside is an excellent way to have fun in the Inland Empire for free. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the area's history and is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. So grab your guidebook and start exploring the Mission Inn today!

Attend a free art workshop at the Riverside Art Museum

Looking for some fun and creative ways to spend your time in the inland empire without breaking the bank? Why not try attending a free art workshop at the Riverside Art Museum!

Located in the heart of downtown Riverside, the Riverside Art Museum (RAM) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the arts and culture of the region. As part of their mission, RAM offers a variety of classes and workshops that are free and open to the public.

One of the most popular offerings is their free art workshop series, which takes place on the first Sunday of every month from September to June. Each workshop is taught by a professional artist and focuses on a different medium or technique, from drawing and painting to printmaking and mixed media.

Participants of all skill levels are welcome, and the workshops are designed to be both fun and educational. The atmosphere is relaxed and supportive, and there is always plenty of individual attention and guidance from the instructor.

In addition to the art workshops, RAM also hosts a variety of other free events and programs throughout the year, including artist lectures, gallery talks, and special exhibitions. The museum itself is also free to visit on the first Sunday of the month, making it a great opportunity to explore the galleries and see some amazing artwork.

So if you're looking for a fun and free way to get creative in the inland empire, be sure to check out the free art workshops at the Riverside Art Museum. With a wide range of classes and a welcoming atmosphere, it's the perfect place to unleash your inner artist and have some fun!

Picnic and hike at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden

Looking for a fun and free way to spend a day in the Inland Empire? Look no further than the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden.

Located in Claremont, CA, this 86-acre garden is home to a variety of plants and wildlife, making it the perfect spot for a picnic and hike. Best of all? Admission is free on the second Tuesday of every month, and on the third Friday of every month from 8am to 5pm.

Pack a lunch and head to one of the garden's many picnic spots, like the serene Trout Lily Meadow or the shaded Oak Grove. After you've enjoyed your meal, take a hike along one of the garden's many trails.

Looking for a challenge? Try the 1.25-mile Loop Trail, which winds through the garden's various habitats, including a desert garden, a meadow, and a woodland area. If you're up for something shorter, try the half-mile Hidden Valley Trail, which will take you through a lush canyon filled with native plants and wildlife.

In addition to hiking and picnicking, the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden also offers a variety of events and educational programs throughout the year, including guided tours, plant sales, and workshops on gardening and sustainable living. Check their website for a full calendar of events.

So why not spend a day at the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden? With its beautiful setting, varied activities, and free admission, it's the perfect spot for a fun and budget-friendly day out in the Inland Empire.

Visit the Ontario Farmers Market on Saturdays

If you're looking for some fun activities to do in the Inland Empire that won't cost you a dime, visiting the Ontario Farmers Market on Saturdays is definitely worth considering. This weekly market is free to attend and offers a plethora of fresh produce, live entertainment, and local arts and crafts to enjoy.

Located at Jack Mercer Square in downtown Ontario, the market is open every Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM. Over 40 vendors come together to offer a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, cheese, pastries, flowers, and much more. Whether you're looking to stock up on fresh ingredients for your next home-cooked meal or just want to wander around and soak up the sights and smells, the Ontario Farmers Market is the perfect place to do it.

In addition to the incredible selection of food, the market also features live music and entertainment every week. Whether you're into bluegrass, country, or rock, there's a good chance you'll find something that appeals to your musical tastes. Plus, there are often other events and demonstrations taking place, such as cooking demonstrations and workshops on gardening and healthy eating.

And if you're interested in shopping for unique, handmade items, the market also has a selection of local arts and crafts on display. You'll find everything from homemade jewelry to hand-sewn clothing to stunning pieces of pottery and painting.

Overall, the Ontario Farmers Market is a great way to spend a few hours on a Saturday morning. Not only can you enjoy fresh, locally grown food, but you can also take in some live entertainment and support local artisans. Best of all, the market is completely free, making it an affordable option for those on a budget. So why not grab a friend or family member and head over to downtown Ontario this weekend to see what the market has to offer?

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