In the heart of Riverside, California Citrus State Historic Park celebrates the golden age when “Citrus was King.” This 248-acre living museum immerses visitors in historic groves, restored packinghouse exhibits, and citrus-scented trails—just a short drive from the 91 Freeway.
What Makes This Park Unique
Established in 1993, this park preserves both a cultural legacy and a working citrus orchard. It features demonstration groves. These groves still produce oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. The park tells the story of Eliza Tibbets’s famed 1873 navel orange trees. These trees launched Southern California’s citrus boom. Historic equipment and interpretive structures enrich the story of the migrant laborers, packinghouses, and early irrigation systems that shaped the region.
Top Activities & Amenities
Guided & Self-Guided Tours
Friday through Sunday at 10 AM, free docent-led grove tours explore varietals, citrus history, and orchard operations. These 45-minute walks include educational fruit tastings (dependent on season). Self-guided tour options use maps and interpretive signs along paved and dirt trails.
Citrus Groves & Citrus Museum
Rows of mature citrus trees form a fragrant, living classroom. The Visitor Center houses historical exhibits, vintage citrus-packing tools, and interpretive displays in a reconstructed early-1900s packinghouse setting. A small gift shop offers citrus-themed items and local products.
Picnic Areas & Outdoor Amphitheater
Scattered picnic tables and BBQ grills rest beneath shade trees—or atop a hill with valley views. A small amphitheater hosts concerts, workshops, and events like Shakespeare in the Park or seasonal citrus festivals.
Interpretive Exhibits & Historical Buildings
Explore interpretive structures that tell the Gage Canal and citrus greening stories. Antique orchard equipment sits on display outdoors, and educational plaques highlight the contributions of immigrant laborers and early irrigation infrastructure.
Photography & Bird Watching
Photographers love the sweeping grove landscapes lined with tall palms. Native and migrating birds—finches, orioles, and woodpeckers—flit through the canopy, creating a peaceful backdrop for outdoor portraits and nature shots.
Accessibility Features & Visitor Center Amenities
Accessible parking, paved pathways, ramps, and accessible restrooms ensure a comfortable visit. The Visitor Center is open Friday to Sunday (10 AM–4 PM), staffed with volunteers and park staff to answer questions and offer brochures.
Special Events & Educational Programs
The annual Citrus Festival each April features citrus tastings, cooking demos, live music, cultural booths, and educational booths. Throughout the year, guest-led jam tastings, master gardener workshops, paint & sip evenings, and Shakespeare performances animate the park.
Visitor Tips
- Parking costs $7 per vehicle (seniors $6); free with park passes.
- Park open weekdays 8 AM–5 PM; weekends extended to 7 PM April–September.
- Visitor Center and Gift Shop open Fri–Sun 10 AM–4 PM.
- Docent tours at 10 AM Fri–Sun; private group tours require reservation if 8+.
- Fruit tastings vary by season—call ahead to confirm availability.
- Dogs allowed on 6-ft leashes on trails only; not permitted inside buildings.
- No alcohol, drones, or firearms; speed limit 15 mph for vehicles and bikes.
- Bring sun protection, water, and camera for grove-shaded areas.
- Check event calendar before visiting—especially for Citrus Festival and evening programs.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Visit in early April during peak citrus bloom and the Citrus Festival. Fragrant orchards, jam tastings, and cultural booths create a vibrant family day. Don’t miss the scenic overlook behind the amphitheater—perfect for sunset photos with rows of backlit citrus trees.