
Mission Inn Avenue
A historic landmark hotel renowned for its stunning architecture and spectacular annual Festival of Lights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Mission Inn Avenue
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic landmark hotel renowned for its stunning architecture and spectacular annual Festival of Lights.

š Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging during the Festival of Lights. Arrive early or consider rideshare.
šø Photo Opportunities
The Mission Inn is incredibly photogenic, especially during the holidays. Bring your camera!

Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Festival of Lights
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
Millions of sparkling lights transform the hotel and surrounding area into a winter wonderland. A must-see holiday spectacle.

Mission Inn Hotel Architecture
3649 Mission Inn Avenue
Explore the stunning, historic architecture that transports you to Europe. A photographer's dream.

Catacombs Tour
Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
Uncover the hidden history of the Mission Inn with a guided tour of its intriguing catacombs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Festival of Lights Timing
Catacombs Tour Booking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
š Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging during the Festival of Lights. Arrive early or consider rideshare.
šø Photo Opportunities
The Mission Inn is incredibly photogenic, especially during the holidays. Bring your camera!
ā Hot Chocolate
Grab a warm hot chocolate from the Gingerbread Shop during the Festival of Lights.
š Catacombs Booking
Book the Catacombs tour by calling the hotel directly; online info is limited.
Tips
from all over the internet
š Parking Tips
Parking can be challenging during the Festival of Lights. Arrive early or consider rideshare.
šø Photo Opportunities
The Mission Inn is incredibly photogenic, especially during the holidays. Bring your camera!
ā Hot Chocolate
Grab a warm hot chocolate from the Gingerbread Shop during the Festival of Lights.
š Catacombs Booking
Book the Catacombs tour by calling the hotel directly; online info is limited.
š¶āāļø Explore Downtown
Historic downtown Riverside complements the Mission Inn with decorations and music.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mission Inn's stunning architecture and the magical atmosphere of the Festival of Lights. The sheer beauty and historical significance of the hotel are major draws, making it a popular spot for photos and exploration. However, parking and crowds can be significant challenges, especially during peak holiday events.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
š šŗļø Getting There
Mission Inn Avenue is located at 3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501. If driving from Los Angeles, take the I-10 E and CA-60 E. Parking can be difficult during peak times, especially during the Festival of Lights.
While mass transit is an option, it may not be the most convenient for out-of-towners unfamiliar with the area. Check local bus routes for service to downtown Riverside.
During popular events like the Festival of Lights, parking is scarce. Arriving early is highly recommended. Some visitors suggest exploring nearby streets or using rideshare services.
The Catacombs tour departs from within the Mission Inn Hotel. You'll need to book in advance by calling the hotel directly.
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is generally accessible. It's advisable to contact the hotel directly for specific accessibility information regarding tours or events.
š« š« Tickets & Entry
The Mission Inn Festival of Lights is generally free to attend, with millions of lights and festive displays. However, specific events or tours within the hotel may have associated costs.
The Catacombs tour is priced at $45 per person. It's recommended to book this tour in advance as spots are limited.
The Festival of Lights typically runs daily from 5 PM to 10 PM until early January. Check the official Mission Inn website for exact dates and times.
Yes, you can visit the Mission Inn to dine at its restaurants or simply walk around and admire the architecture and holiday decorations.
The annual Switch-On Ceremony marks the start of the Festival of Lights, often featuring fireworks. Check the RiversideFestivalofLights.com for details on this and other events.
šø šø Photography
The entire Mission Inn complex is a photographer's paradise. Look for the stunning courtyards, intricate details, and the grand facade, especially when illuminated during the holidays.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use in public areas of the Mission Inn. However, for professional shoots or specific areas, it's best to inquire with the hotel management.
For the Festival of Lights, dusk and evening are magical for capturing the illuminated displays. During the day, you can appreciate the architectural details and natural light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historic buildings. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A tripod can be helpful for low-light evening shots.
š½ļø š½ļø Food & Dining
The Mission Inn itself offers several dining options, including the Gingerbread Shop for hot chocolate and treats. Downtown Riverside also has various restaurants and cafes.
While dining within the Mission Inn can be upscale, you can find more budget-friendly options in the surrounding downtown area. Food vendors are also often present during the festival.
The Gingerbread Shop at the Mission Inn is a popular spot for festive treats, especially hot chocolate during the holiday season.
Reservations are highly recommended for dining at the Mission Inn's restaurants, particularly during peak seasons and holidays.
Dining options at the Mission Inn typically cater to a range of preferences. It's best to check the menus online or inquire with the restaurant directly about specific dietary accommodations.








Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit