Things To Do
in Moreno Valley
Moreno Valley is a growing Inland Empire city in Riverside County known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and scenic outdoor spaces. It sits at the foothills of the Box Springs Mountain range, offering easy access to hiking trails and lake activities nearby. The city blends suburban calm with diverse dining, shopping, and community events that reflect its varied residents.
Expect warm climes, wide avenues, and a laid-back California vibe with convenient access to larger urban centers like Riverside and San Bernardino.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your first day with a visit to the stunning Lake Perris State Recreation Area, where you can enjoy a refreshing morning hike along the scenic trails. The crisp morning air and beautiful views of the lake will invigorate you as you absorb the natural beauty surrounding you. Don't forget to pack a breakfast picnic to savor by the water's edge.
After your morning adventure, head to the Moreno Valley Mall for some shopping and lunch at one of the many restaurants. Explore the shops for unique finds and enjoy a delightful meal while people-watching. This afternoon excursion allows you to experience local flavors and the vibrant life of the community.
As the sun sets, venture to the nearby Riverside Art Museum for an evening of cultural enrichment. Attend a special exhibition or a workshop to immerse yourself in local artistry and creativity. Cap off your day with dinner at a cozy, family-owned restaurant that serves delicious regional cuisine.
Begin your day at the March Field Air Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits of historical aircraft and learn about aviation history. The museum opens bright and early, allowing you to delve into the world of aviation before the crowds arrive. Take your time as you marvel at the unique planes and informative displays.
For lunch, take a short drive to the Box Springs Mountain Reserve, where you can enjoy outdoor dining amidst stunning mountain views. Afterward, spend your afternoon hiking one of the many trails, discovering local wildlife and breathtaking vistas. This blend of nature and meal offers the perfect escape from urban life.
Return to Moreno Valley for an evening stroll along the newly developed parks, where you can enjoy the beautifully landscaped surroundings. Grab a light dinner at a trendy local eatery known for its fusion dishes, combining flavors from around the world. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance as the stars begin to twinkle above.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline for a tank of driving | $40-70 |
| 💡Monthly utilities (electricity, water) | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to outdoor recreation and scenic mountain views
- Diverse dining options and family-friendly atmosphere
- Proximity to Riverside and other regional attractions
- Relatively affordable compared to larger coastal cities
- Limited nightlife within Moreno Valley itself
- Heavy traffic can occur on major corridors during commuting hours
- Hot summers require heat management for outdoor activities
- Some services and amenities are concentrated in nearby cities
Places to Visit in Moreno Valley
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views across Moreno Valley and the surrounding mountains; best at sunrise or golden hour.
Water reflections with mountain backdrops; ideal for sunset silhouettes and wide-angle landscapes.
Colorful street scenes, public art, and family activity spaces that capture daily life.
Quiet nature vantage spots offering trees, trails, and wildlife photography opportunities.
Food in Moreno Valley
Moreno Valley Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy fries topped with grilled carne asada, cheese, pico de gallo, and crema; widely available at taquerias and stadium-style eateries.
Must-Try!
Slow-braised meat in a tortilla with consommé for dipping; popular at many Mexican-focused spots in town.
A burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa; a local favorite at taquerias.
Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cotija, chili powder, and lime; a common street-side snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, local prepared foods, and small vendor stalls in a community setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common courtesy phrases, saying please and thank you, and a friendly greeting are appreciated in most settings.
Wait in line, respect personal space, and follow local traffic rules; be mindful in crowded areas.
Tipping is customary for service staff in restaurants and hospitality venues.
Safety
Tipping in Moreno Valley
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% in restaurants; $1-2 per bag for hotel porters; tip bartenders $1-2 per drink; casual service staff and ride shares also expect tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming flora around Box Springs and nearby trails; great for long hikes and city photography.
Very hot; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Warm days with cooler evenings; comfortable for outdoor exploring and scenic photography.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; layers are recommended and indoor options are plentiful.
Moreno Valley at Night
Hiking in Moreno Valley
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular ascent with expansive valley views; varying difficulty, appropriate for most hikers with water and sun protection.
Forest-adjacent trails offering shade, wildlife viewing, and quieter paths suitable for a relaxed hike.
Airports
How to reach Moreno Valley by plane.
Major regional gateway located to the west; typically the closest large airport for flights nationwide and internationally accessible via ground transportation.
Orange County gateway offering a wide range of domestic flights; about an hour’s drive depending on traffic.
Desert gateway with a selection of domestic flights; a convenient option for certain routes with good ground access.
Major international hub about driving distance with frequent long-haul and connecting flights; often used for international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable and influential segment of the population shaping local culture and cuisine.
A substantial portion of suburban residents contributing to the city’s diverse makeup.
A growing community with varied cultural and culinary influences.
Part of the diverse fabric of the Inland Empire with active community presence.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools, community leagues, and local recreation centers.
Common in youth leagues and city parks, particularly in spring and summer.
Amateur and youth leagues; rec leagues at parks and school facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Moreno Valley.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer veggie burritos, salads, and veggie-friendly bowls; look for bean-based tacos and cheese-based dishes; ask for modifications (no meat, dairy-free options) at most local restaurants.