Nestled in the heart of San Bernardino County, Rialto, California, offers a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and engaging activities that cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this small city packs plenty of excitement that makes for an unforgettable experience.

One of Rialto’s most prized green spaces, Ferguson Park, invites visitors to enjoy its football field, stadium, and fully equipped baseball field. Catching a local game here is certainly a highlight for sports lovers. Additionally, the Renaissance Marketplace is a shopping haven that caters to everyone’s retail needs, while Rialto Library offers a quiet retreat for literature enthusiasts.

Moreover, the City of Rialto boasts many parks and recreational facilities, including picnic areas, ball fields, basketball courts, walking tracks, and more. The Kristina Dana Hendrickson Cultural Center is a testament to Rialto’s commitment to arts and culture, making the city a destination you don’t want to miss.

Things to do in Rialto, California

Historical Sites

Rialto Historical Society

The Rialto Historical Society plays a crucial role in preserving the city’s history and local culture. One of the key places to visit for a glimpse into Rialto’s past is the Rialto Historical Society Museum. The museum is housed in the former First Christian Church School, now renamed the Kristina Hendrickson Culture Center. It features numerous displays of artifacts and memorabilia from Rialto’s early history¹. Its unique collection will give you a better understanding of the evolution of this small city.

Lincoln Memorial Shrine

Located just outside Rialto, in Redlands, the Lincoln Memorial Shrine is a great place to learn more about history. This memorial, dedicated to President Abraham Lincoln, is a significant site of interest for Civil War history enthusiasts. The shrine contains a vast array of historical artifacts, rare books, and manuscripts related to the Civil War and Lincoln’s era. A visit to this unique museum will enrich your knowledge about this crucial period in American history.

First Christian Church

The First Christian Church, initially affiliated with the Rialto Historical Society, also has historical significance in the city. The church prides itself on its brown roof and inviting atmosphere, with Sunday services held at 10:30 am². While the church is no longer directly connected to the Rialto Historical Society, it remains a significant site in the community and an essential stop for anyone interested in Rialto’s history.

Parks and Outdoor Activities

Rialto, California offers a variety of parks and outdoor activities for residents and visitors alike. Explore some of the best options below for an enjoyable day outdoors.

Frisbie Park

Frisbie Park is a popular destination for both families and individuals. The park features a dog park for your furry friends to run and play. Other amenities within the park include:

• Picnic areas
• Ball fields
• Basketball courts
• Walking tracks
• Shelters

This park is perfect for a day of relaxation or engaging in various recreational activities.

Rialto City Park

Rialto City Park, also known as Flores Park, offers visitors a wide range of activities. The park includes:

• Sports complexes
• Playgrounds
• Picnic tables

Basketball is a popular activity at the park, and the picnic tables provide a great spot for a leisurely outdoor meal. It’s a worthwhile place to enjoy a sunny day with your family or friends.

Bud Bender Park

Bud Bender Park is another beautiful outdoor space in Rialto. The park provides the following facilities for public use:

• Picnic shelters
• Walking paths
• Tennis courts
• Playgrounds
• Skate parks
• Dog Parks

Make sure to reserve your picnic shelter online in advance, as reservations are required. A shelter reservation costs $66.40 per day (7:00 am-6:00 pm; $100 deposit).

Alec Fergusson Park

Alec Fergusson Park is another great location for outdoor fun. Facilities at the park include:

• Ballfields
• Basketball courts
• Picnic shelters
• Walking paths

The park is ideal for various recreational activities, and its availability for public use makes it a popular choice for outdoor enjoyment.

Sports and Recreation

Tom Sawyer Swimming Pool

The Tom Sawyer Swimming Pool is a great destination for those looking to beat the heat in Rialto. It caters to all ages and skill levels, with various swimming activities available.

Aquatic Center

Rialto’s Aquatic Center provides a variety of water-based activities for the community. This modern facility offers opportunities to improve swimming skills, participate in aqua aerobics classes, or participate in competitive swimming events. With dedicated spaces for casual swimmers and those training for competitions, the Aquatic Center caters to all swimmers, regardless of their experience level.

Rialto Community Center

The Rialto Community Center is home to multiple sports and recreational programs, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Here, you’ll find many opportunities to participate in sports, such as:

• Basketball: With indoor and outdoor courts available, basketball enthusiasts can practice their skills and join local leagues.
• Football and Baseball: The center’s football and baseball fields provide the perfect setting for casual and competitive play.
• Softball: Join a local team or enjoy a game with friends at the available softball fields.
• Tennis: Improve your serve or enjoy a doubles game on one of the tennis courts.

The Rialto Community Center is dedicated to providing diverse sports and recreational activities, making it a central hub for athletes and fitness enthusiasts in Rialto, California.

Arts and Entertainment

Rialto Community Players

The Rialto Community Players are a prominent fixture in the city’s arts scene, offering a variety of live theatrical performances throughout the year. With a focus on community engagement, this local theater group aims to enhance Rialto’s cultural experience by staging classic and contemporary plays. Watch for their upcoming shows and don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a fascinating performance.

Raquel’s Jazz Lounge

For a more laid-back entertainment experience, Raquel’s Jazz Lounge is the perfect spot for live music enthusiasts. Featuring talented musicians from various genres, this intimate venue presents an exceptional selection of jazz, blues, R&B, and more. The atmosphere at Raquel’s is perfect for a night of relaxation, engaging conversation, and appreciation of good music.

Theatre

Rialto has several other theatrical venues, including schools and smaller community theaters showcasing plays, concerts, and other performances. Whether you’re interested in a professional production or supporting local talent, there’s always something happening in the world of theater in Rialto.

In conclusion, the Arts and Entertainment scene in Rialto, California, offers diverse options for visitors and locals alike. From live theater with the Rialto Community Players to the soothing sounds curated at Raquel’s Jazz Lounge, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping and Dining

Rialto Marketplace

Rialto Marketplace is a popular shopping destination in Rialto, offering a variety of stores and dining options for visitors. The Cinemark Theater is one of the highlights, providing a convenient spot for catching the latest movies. In addition to entertainment, visitors can find several retail options, making the Marketplace an excellent destination for a day of shopping and leisure. Additionally, there are numerous restaurants and eateries within the Marketplace, serving a range of cuisines to cater to diverse tastes.

Downtown Rialto

Downtown Rialto offers a more intimate and charming shopping experience than the larger Marketplace. This area features a mix of local boutiques, shops, and specialty stores that appeal to both residents and visitors alike. In addition to shopping, downtown Rialto is home to a variety of local restaurants, serving up delicious meals from different cuisines, including:

• Cuca’s Mexican Restaurant: Cuca’s is a popular choice among Rialto residents to taste authentic Mexican food in a casual dining atmosphere.
• Taco Joe’s Restaurant: Another excellent option for Mexican food, Taco Joe’s is known for its flavorful tacos and vegetarian-friendly menu.
• Culichitown: This seafood-focused restaurant offers a unique dining experience inspired by the flavors of Sinaloa, Mexico.

Whether exploring the Rialto Marketplace or strolling through downtown Rialto, there is no shortage of options for shopping and dining in this vibrant city.

Library and Community Resources

Rialto Branch Library

The Rialto Branch Library, located at 251 West 1st St., Rialto, CA 92376, is a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike. With friendly librarians on staff, the library boasts a vast collection of books and magazines catering to various interests and age groups. They offer a convenient bookdrop for returns and a sheltered entrance, adding to their accessibility. The library’s hours of operation are as follows:

• Monday: 11 am – 7 pm
• Tuesday: 11 am – 7 pm
• Wednesday: 11 am – 7 pm
• Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm
• Friday: 10 am – 6 pm
• Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm

Rialto Recreation

The Pacific Electric Inland Empire Trail is an excellent option for recreational activities in the area, providing a suitable location for commuting and enjoying the outdoors. This trail is situated in the western San Bernardino Valley and offers expansive views, perfect for residents and visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of Rialto.

Nearby Cities and Attractions

Moreno Valley, CA

Moreno Valley is a bustling suburban city located approximately 20 miles southeast of Rialto. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the Inland Empire, Moreno Valley offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors:

• Lake Perris State Recreation Area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping.
• The March Field Air Museum allows visitors to explore aviation history and marvel at an impressive collection of military aircraft.
• Box Springs Mountain Reserve provides ample hiking trails with spectacular views of the surrounding area.

San Bernardino, CA

San Bernardino is a historic and culturally rich city about 10 miles east of Rialto. Some noteworthy attractions and activities include:

• San Bernardino National Forest, encompassing over 800,000 acres, is a prime destination for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
• The Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art, located at California State University, San Bernardino, showcases a wide range of art exhibitions and cultural artifacts.
• Glen Helen Raceway is a must-visit for motorsports enthusiasts, hosting a variety of off-road racing events throughout the year.

Los Angeles

Approximately 60 miles west of Rialto, Los Angeles is a world-famous destination known for its entertainment industry, diverse culture, and numerous attractions. Some highlights include:

• Hollywood is synonymous with the film industry, and the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame attracts millions of visitors each year.
• Universal Studios Hollywood offers both theme park rides and an exclusive behind-the-scenes studio tour.
• The Getty Center is an architectural marvel housing an extensive art collection, lush gardens, and panoramic views of Los Angeles.
• Sports fans can catch a game at the Staples Center, home to NBA’s Lakers and Clippers, as well as the NHL’s Kings.

These nearby cities and attractions offer a diverse range of activities and experiences for visitors to Rialto, catering to various interests and preferences. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or attractions for the whole family, there’s something for everyone within driving distance from Rialto.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular attractions in Rialto?

Rialto offers a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy. The Renaissance Marketplace is a popular shopping destination, featuring a variety of shops and a Cinemark Theater for moviegoers. The city also boasts a number of parks for outdoor enthusiasts, such as Ferguson Park which has a football field, stadium, and baseball field. For those interested in history, the Rialto Library is home to a vast collection of books and magazines.

Which Rialto events are worth attending?

There are various events throughout the year in Rialto that cater to different interests. Keep an eye out for local sports games, cultural events, and community gatherings. Check the city’s official website or local newspapers for upcoming events during your visit.

What activities can one do in Rialto at night?

Rialto has a number of nighttime entertainment options, including catching a movie at the Cinemark Theater or trying out virtual reality experiences and escape games at establishments like Immersive Gamebox. For those interested in a more laid-back evening, consider visiting a local bar or restaurant to enjoy some good food and drinks.

What nearby cities offer additional activities?

Rialto is conveniently located near other cities in Southern California, offering a wider range of attractions and activities. Some of the nearby cities include San Bernardino, Riverside, and Fontana, each with their unique offerings. Plan a day trip or weekend getaway to explore these neighboring cities and discover even more things to do.

What is the Rialto Aquatic Center like?

The Rialto Aquatic Center is a family-friendly facility that offers a range of aquatic activities, including swimming lessons, recreational swimming, and special events. The center features a pool, water slides, and play areas for children, making it a great place to cool off and have fun during the warmer months.

How do Rialto attractions compare to Riverside?

While Rialto has a variety of attractions to offer, Riverside is a larger city with more diverse options. Riverside is home to numerous museums, parks, and other attractions that cater to a broader range of interests. However, Rialto’s charm lies in its unique blend of history, community, and nature. Both cities have their merits, and visitors should explore each to experience what they have to offer.