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Road trip from San Francisco to Riverside
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Concerts & Shows
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Nightlife
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Museums
Outdoor Activities
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ITINERARY
8h 14m438 miles10 stops
1
Gloria Molina Grand Park
2
Ryan Bonaminio Park
3
The Brickwood Tavern
4
Van Buren Drive-In Theatre
5
Jack London's Cabin
Jack London's Yukon home during the winter of 1897-98.
6
Wildlife Learning Center
7
Oakland Zoo
Oakland Zoo was established in 1922 and is managed by the Conservation Society of California, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of wildlife both locally and globally. The Zoo is home to over 850 native and exotic animals. We're recognized for our outstanding animal care, particularly our elephant care program, and for our Leed-certified, 17,000 square foot, state-of-the-art veterinary hospital—the largest wild animal veterinary facility in Northern California. June 2018 introduced Oakland Zoo guests to an entirely new experience, California Trail, a monumental expansion furthering our commitment to animal care, education, and conservation with a focus on this state’s remarkable native wildlife—both past and present.
8
St. Patrick Catholic Church
9
Lake Merritt
Saltwater lake in the middle of the city.
10
Oakland California Temple & Visitors' Center
Open to the public, the Oakland California Temple & Visitors' Center is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. Visitors can walk through the colorful gardens lined with towering palm trees, sit by the fountains and cascading waterfall, enjoy the beautiful view of the San Francisco Bay Area, and feel the peace of the grounds. While you're there, you can take a guided tour at the Visitors' Center, learn more about you're family's history at the FamilySearch Library, and attend events at the Temple Hill Auditorium. Only members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can enter the temple itself. A coveted location for photographers, the Oakland Temple is one of the best locations to enjoy a sunset over the Bay. At night, the Oakland Temple is brightly lit and can be seen throughout the Bay Area. Devotionals, concerts, and performances are hosted throughout the month in the Temple Hill Auditorium and most events are free.
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OVERVIEW
Prepare yourself for an extraordinary adventure as we embark on an epic journey from the vibrant streets of San Francisco to the sun-kissed valleys of Riverside. Along the way, we'll traverse diverse landscapes and discover hidden gems, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
As we bid farewell to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, we'll venture through rolling hills and lush forests, marveling at the beauty of nature. We'll pass charming towns and bustling cities, immersing ourselves in the local culture and savoring the flavors of regional cuisine. The journey will take us across rivers and mountains, revealing breathtaking vistas and inspiring a sense of awe and wonder.
With every mile we travel, we'll uncover the rich history and heritage of California. We'll learn about the pioneers who shaped the state, the industries that fueled its growth, and the diverse communities that make it so special. The journey from San Francisco to Riverside is not just a road trip; it's an exploration of the Golden State's past, present, and future. Join us on this unforgettable adventure, where every turn offers a new discovery and every moment is filled with joy and wonder.
1
Start:Gloria Molina Grand Park
Los Angeles, California·
4.5
(98) review
227 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012-3201
2
Start:Ryan Bonaminio Park
Riverside, California·
4.5
(8) review
5000 Tequesquite Ave, Riverside, CA 92506
3
Start:The Brickwood Tavern
Riverside, California·
5.0
(9) review
3653 Main St, Riverside, CA 92501-2838
4
Start:Van Buren Drive-In Theatre
Riverside, California·
4.5
(81) review
3035 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92503-5656
5
Start:Jack London's Cabin
Oakland, California·
3.5
(90) review
Jack London's Yukon home during the winter of 1897-98.
6
Start:Wildlife Learning Center
Los Angeles, California·
4.5
(88) review
16027 Yarnell St Sylmar, Los Angeles, CA 91342-1011
7
Start:Oakland Zoo
Oakland, California·
4.5
(710) review
Oakland Zoo was established in 1922 and is managed by the Conservation Society of California, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of wildlife both locally and globally. The Zoo is home to over 850 native and exotic animals. We're recognized for our outstanding animal care, particularly our elephant care program, and for our Leed-certified, 17,000 square foot, state-of-the-art veterinary hospital—the largest wild animal veterinary facility in Northern California. June 2018 introduced Oakland Zoo guests to an entirely new experience, California Trail, a monumental expansion furthering our commitment to animal care, education, and conservation with a focus on this state’s remarkable native wildlife—both past and present.
8
Start:St. Patrick Catholic Church
San Francisco, California·
4.0
(98) review
756 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103-3113
9
Start:Lake Merritt
Oakland, California·
4.5
(926) review
Saltwater lake in the middle of the city.
10
Start:Oakland California Temple & Visitors' Center
Oakland, California·
5.0
(940) review
Open to the public, the Oakland California Temple & Visitors' Center is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. Visitors can walk through the colorful gardens lined with towering palm trees, sit by the fountains and cascading waterfall, enjoy the beautiful view of the San Francisco Bay Area, and feel the peace of the grounds. While you're there, you can take a guided tour at the Visitors' Center, learn more about you're family's history at the FamilySearch Library, and attend events at the Temple Hill Auditorium. Only members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can enter the temple itself. A coveted location for photographers, the Oakland Temple is one of the best locations to enjoy a sunset over the Bay. At night, the Oakland Temple is brightly lit and can be seen throughout the Bay Area. Devotionals, concerts, and performances are hosted throughout the month in the Temple Hill Auditorium and most events are free.
CHECKLIST
GPS device or app
Download Offline Map
Car charger and portable battery
Water bottles and snacks
Travel pillow and blanket
Sunglasses and sunscreen
First-aid kit
Trash bags
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Driver’s license and vehicle registration
Cash and cards
Camera or smartphone
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the driving distance between San Francisco and Riverside?
The distance is 438 miles
What's the travel time between San Francisco and Riverside?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 8h 14m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between San Francisco and Riverside?
Some popular stops include
Are there any cool sights or attractions I shouldn't miss on my drive to Riverside?
There are plenty! Here are some stops you shouldn’t miss on your way to Riverside
What’s the weather like in Riverside?
The weather in Riverside is generally mild year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. See the links below for more information
Weather in Riverside in January
Weather in Riverside in February
Weather in Riverside in March
Weather in Riverside in April
Weather in Riverside in May
Weather in Riverside in June
Weather in Riverside in July
Weather in Riverside in August
Weather in Riverside in September
Weather in Riverside in October
Weather in Riverside in November
Weather in Riverside in December
Interested in a detailed plan for your time in Riverside?
Plan your dream Riverside trip with our daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions! See them here!
A 1-day itinerary in Riverside
A 2-day itinerary in Riverside
A 3-day itinerary in Riverside
A 4-day itinerary in Riverside
A 5-day itinerary in Riverside
A 6-day itinerary in Riverside
Where else can I travel to if I'm starting my trip in San Francisco?
We have a lot of great trip options for San Francisco! See the links below for all the itineraries we created for you
