Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip Between Avondale, AZ and Riverside, CA

Are you planning a road trip from Avondale, Arizona to Riverside, California? Make sure to add these five stops to your itinerary to experience some of the highlights along the way!

Route Highlight

Before we dive into the best places to visit, let's talk about the route. The journey from Avondale to Riverside is approximately 350 miles and takes around six hours. You'll be driving through the scenic Sonoran desert before entering California and heading towards the Inland Empire region.

Stop 1: Salvation Mountain (Calipatria, CA)

Salvation Mountain is a colorful, artistic masterpiece located in the desert of Southern California. The mountain is made entirely of adobe clay and is covered in vibrant, hand-painted murals and messages of love and salvation. A visit to Salvation Mountain is a truly unique experience- it's no wonder it's been deemed a National Treasure by the United States Congress.

Stop 2: Joshua Tree National Park (Twentynine Palms, CA)

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-see on any Southern California road trip. The park is named after its famous Joshua trees and is home to stunning rock formations and unique desert landscapes. Take a hike, go rock climbing, or simply take a leisurely drive through the park to admire its natural beauty.

Stop 3: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (Palm Springs, CA)

Take a break from driving and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Coachella Valley on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The tramway takes you on a 10-minute ride up to Mount San Jacinto where you can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy a meal with a view, or simply take in the stunning panoramic views of the desert below.

Stop 4: Temecula Valley Wine Country (Temecula, CA)

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Temecula Valley Wine Country. This region boasts over 40 wineries and beautiful vineyards- perfect for a leisurely wine tasting or a scenic picnic. Take a guided tour to learn more about the winemaking process, or simply stroll through the vines and soak up the California sunshine.

Stop 5: Mission Inn Hotel and Spa (Riverside, CA)

End your road trip in style with a visit to the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa in Riverside. This stunning hotel is a National Historic Landmark and boasts Spanish architecture, beautiful gardens, and world-class dining and spa services. Take a tour of the hotel's famous art collection or simply relax and unwind in this luxurious oasis.

Conclusion

A road trip from Avondale to Riverside is the perfect opportunity to explore some of the highlights of Southern California. From colorful desert art to scenic vineyards and luxurious spas, these five stops along the way are sure to make your trip one to remember.