Indoor and outdoor activities in Riverside will keep kids entertained.
The city of Riverside is east of Los Angeles near the Santa Ana River. Although several colleges and universities are located there, Riverside has a long list of activities throughout the year geared especially for kids. Children will find many exciting things to do to keep busy in Riverside -- from ballet classes to cultural celebrations.
Join a Day Camp
In the spring, the city's Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department sponsors activities for kids 5 to 12 years old, including crafts, playing indoor and outdoor games, sports and watching movies. The weeklong camps are held on weekdays during spring break. Each day camp takes place in a different park, starting in the morning and lasting until early evening. Resident and non-resident fees apply for each child. A snack is included, but children must bring their own lunch.
Take Classes
Kids up to 15 years old can participate in tot and youth classes and take lessons in dance, martial arts, music and theater, gymnastics and special interests such as art and cheerleading. The city's Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department offers classes from January to May, depending on the class. Some classes are once or twice a week and run for either one day or for up to 10 weeks. Classes are also divided by age group and some are only offered for a particular age group. Class fees apply.
Attend an Event
Throughout the year, the Riverside Metropolitan Museum hosts special programs and annual events for children of all ages. Annual events include the Chinese Moon Festival in September or October, where kids learn about Chinese culture through storytelling, calligraphy, crafts and games. Each year on the second Sunday of December, the Victorian Christmas Celebration features Father Christmas, caroling, home-baked sweets, crafts and activities. Every Nov. 2, kids can celebrate the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos, with children's activities, music, food, art and dance performances.
Visit a State Park
California Citrus State Historic Park in Riverside offers indoor and outdoor activities for kids of all ages to enjoy. Open seven days a week, the park has an activity center, children's play equipment, interpretive structure, amphitheater, picnic area, demonstration groves and a visitor center. Children can view exhibits and join programs, view wildlife and hike on trails while learning about oranges in Southern California. School tour/field trips are also offered.
Tags: activities kids, city Parks, city Parks Recreation, Community Services, Community Services Department