UCR Surroundings

The University of California, Riverside (UCR) is located in the City of Riverside, about 40 miles east of Los Angeles and 75 miles north of San Diego. The small-city feel and proximity to the large metropolitan areas allow UCR students to experience the best of both environments. Like the rest of Southern California, the climate is generally mild and sunny, and Riverside was recently named on of America's top ten Most Livable Communities. The Pacific Ocean is located about 1 hour west of campus, while the San Bernardino Mountains and ski areas are located about 1 hour east. UCR's location is ideal in the sense that students can take advantage of a large variety of recreational activities near campus, some of which are described below.

Riverside has many local parks that are within a few miles of the UCR campus. Two popular areas for hiking and mountain biking are the Box Springs Mountain Preserve and the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park. There are several national parks and national forests within a two hour drive of campus, including Joshua Tree National Park, the San Bernardino National Forest, and the Cleveland National Forest. There are several resort areas located in the San Bernadino mountains, including Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake. Southern California has many beaches for swimming and surfing in both Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Some popular public beaches that are easily accessible from Riverside include Corona Del Mar, Huntington Beach and Venice Beach.

Cultural Attractions and Amusement Parks

Welcome to the Land of Magic!

Disneyland Park was the first theme park opened by the Walt Disney Company and the only one designed and constructed under the direct supervision of Walt Disney. Disneyland is located in Anaheim, California, approximately 40 miles from UC Riverside. Experience delicious food, spectacular rides, & amazing fireworks!

Visit the California Science Center

The California Science Center is a world-class educational resource and family destination featuring hands-on exhibits and inquiry-based education programs serving a diverse community of learners. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, California in historic Exposition Park. The Science Center is open to the public with free general admission to its four exhibit areas.

Explore the World's Artistic and Cultural Heritage

The Getty Center is located in Los Angeles, CA that features pre-20th Century European paintings, drawings, sculptures, decorative arts, and photographs from the inception of photography through present day from all over the world. Become inspired of our world's artistic endeavors and aw inspiring wonders.