Photo: UCR ARTS
Photo: Viridiana Sosa
Photo: UCR ARTS
UCR ARTS
★4.5(126 reviews)$Museum
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. School-age children and teens will appreciate the thought-provoking exhibitions and hands-on activities, while younger children (3-5) can enjoy family programs designed to introduce art concepts through play and creativity.
About
UCR ARTS brings contemporary art to life for families through engaging rotating exhibitions of photography and visual arts. With dedicated family-friendly programs and interactive learning opportunities, this welcoming museum makes art accessible and fun for children of all ages, encouraging creativity and visual exploration in a relaxed, educational environment.
Highlights
- ✓Rotating photography exhibitions showcasing diverse artists and perspectives
- ✓Interactive family programs and art-making workshops
- ✓Contemporary visual arts displays that spark conversation and creativity
- ✓Free admission with high-quality exhibitions typically found in larger city museums
- ✓Welcoming staff who help engage children with the artwork
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Saturday or Sunday mornings right when they open at 11 AM for the quietest experience and more personal attention from docents
- 2.Check their website before visiting for special family workshops and interactive programs that often require advance registration
- 3.The museum is located on historic Main Street in downtown Riverside, so street parking is available but can fill up on weekends,arrive early or use the nearby public parking structures
- 4.Pack a sketchbook and crayons so kids can draw their own interpretations of the artwork they see
- 5.Admission is free, making this an excellent budget-friendly option for introducing kids to the arts
Best Time to Visit
Saturday or Sunday mornings (11 AM opening) offer the calmest atmosphere for families. Weekday afternoons (Thursday or Friday) are also less crowded. Avoid first Saturdays when downtown Riverside hosts evening art walks, as parking becomes more challenging.
What to Know
Admission is free to UCR ARTS, making it an accessible option for all families. Street parking and nearby parking structures are available in downtown Riverside, and the museum is stroller-accessible for families with younger children.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with climate-controlled indoor galleries. Check their exhibition calendar as new shows rotate every few months, offering fresh experiences for repeat visitors. Special family programs may be scheduled during school breaks and holidays.
Nearby Eats
The Salted Pig (3 blocks away) offers a kid-friendly casual atmosphere with burgers and comfort food. Simple Simon's Bakery & Bistro is perfect for a quick lunch with sandwiches, soups, and sweet treats that kids enjoy.
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Park
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Barton Street Park in Riverside offers families a perfect blend of active play and relaxation with its well-maintained playground equipment, shaded picnic areas, and scenic walking paths. The park's thoughtful layout caters to children of various ages, making it an ideal spot for morning playdates, afternoon picnics, or evening family strolls through this welcoming neighborhood green space.