Oasis in Riverside CA?

Why would anyone ever go to Riverside California?  Well, obviously not by choice right?  I got stuck there for a work trip recently and discovered the most amazing oasis: The Mission Inn.

In my airport taxi, I cruised across miles of highway and then through an unassuming and somewhat discouraging urban area.  I had no hopes of a travel adventure or even a comfy bed.  I was therefore a bit surprised when the taxi rounded a corner and and pulled into a valet loop surrounded by large old palm trees.  I had clearly landed someplace special.

Passing under a glorious arch, I wandered toward the lobby somewhat stunned.  I even passed live parrots on my way.  The lobby of The Mission Inn, which was originally built in 1876, has tall ceilings, wooden beams, comfy chairs, and friendly staff.  By the time I got to my room, I was ready to be amazed and I was not disappointed.  Just the door to my room was fantastic. The decor was stylish and unique.  And, I even had a peek-a-boo view of a flowery deck.

I spent part of my one work-free afternoon exploring …

  

 

 

 

The Inn has 4 restaurants on site.  My lunch was yummy and they even offered an all-you-can-eat dessert buffet.  Very dangerous!

 

Dinner at the on-site Mexican restaurant was fine.  The food wasn’t particularly special but the drinks and ambiance made it all worthwhile.

In fact, the hotel was so pretty at night that I had to go exploring all over again.

 

What does it all cost?  Rates are very variable.  The regular room rates are steep by our family-travel-budget standards ($199-$279) but not bad when compared to big-city hotels or fancy resorts. The Inn also hosts all sorts of specials such as “Honor Your Mother,” or “Poolside in Riverside” and offers cheaper rates on off-nights.  If you’re more the fancy-schmancy type, you may prefer the top-of-the-line Presidential Suite for a mere $1700.

Fun facts:

• According to Wikipedia, The Mission Inn, is the largest Mission Revival style building in the United States.
• There were once about 800 bells at The Mission Inn, now there are now approximately 500.
• There’s a spa on-site!

And what about Riverside?

I went for a long walk in Riverside, hoping to discover more glimpses of paradise but, alas, the fun seems pretty centered on The Mission Inn.  There is an art museum just across the street and a photography museum just a few blocks away both of which look like they’d be fun to explore.  There is also a new “promenade” which suggests that more good things are coming to Riverside.