Tourist places in Moreno Valley, Moreno Valley Travel Info
Moreno Valley is a rapidly growing city in Riverside County, California, known for its scenic mountain views and family-friendly atmosphere. It serves as a dynamic crossroads in the Inland Empire, offering a mix of suburban comfort and outdoor recreation.
Moreno Valley is located in the Inland Empire region of Southern California. It sits east of Riverside and is surrounded by the Box Springs Mountains, Reche Canyon, and the Badlands.
Moreno Valley is known for being home to March Air Reserve Base, one of the oldest airfields in the U.S. military. It is also recognized for its rapid development and iconic "M" on Box Springs Mountain.
The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and fall (October to November) for comfortable outdoor weather. Summers can be intensely hot, often exceeding 100°F.
March Field Air Museum: A fascinating aviation museum displaying over 70 historic aircraft and artifacts from the history of flight and military aviation.
Box Springs Mountain Reserve Park: Offers rugged hiking and equestrian trails with panoramic views of the valley and the famous "M" landmark.
Lake Perris State Recreation Area: Located just south of the city, this reservoir offers boating, fishing, camping, and rock climbing opportunities.
Moreno Valley Mall: A central hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, including a movie theater and family activities.
Round 1 Bowling & Amusement: A popular entertainment complex featuring bowling, karaoke, arcade games, and billiards for all ages.
Hike up to the "M" on Box Springs Mountain, explore aviation history at the air museum, enjoy a picnic at Lake Perris, or play a round of golf at Rancho del Sol Golf Club.
The city offers a diverse culinary scene with strong Mexican influences, authentic pho spots, and classic American burger joints. Try the local taco trucks for an authentic taste.
Moreno Valley Mall is the main shopping destination, supported by several large retail centers like Stoneridge Towne Centre featuring big-box stores and restaurants.
Day Street Area: Located near the mall and UC Riverside, this area has the highest concentration of hotels and dining options.
Pigeon Pass Road: A quieter residential area near the mountains, offering easy access to hiking trails and nature.
Rancho Belago: The eastern part of the city, known for newer developments, larger homes, and a more upscale suburban feel.
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the nearest major airport, about 25 miles away. The city is accessible via SR-60 and I-215 freeways.
A car is essential for getting around Moreno Valley. Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) provides bus services, and a Metrolink station connects the city to Los Angeles and other regions.
Take a short drive to downtown Riverside to see the Mission Inn, head to Palm Springs for a desert getaway, or visit the wineries in Temecula Valley.
The Western Science Center near Lake Perris (a short drive away) holds fossils found during the reservoir's construction. Poorman's Reservoir offers a secluded spot for hiking and views.
Traffic on SR-60 can be heavy during commute hours, so plan accordingly. If hiking, start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Carry plenty of water.
Moreno Valley offers a blend of aviation history, outdoor adventure, and modern convenience. It’s a great base for exploring the Inland Empire while enjoying its own unique local attractions.