Main Street Pedestrian Mall
Riverside's vibrant Main Street Pedestrian Mall, a lively hub of eclectic shops, diverse dining, and cultural events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & nightlife
Main Street Pedestrian Mall
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & nightlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Riverside's vibrant Main Street Pedestrian Mall, a lively hub of eclectic shops, diverse dining, and cultural events.
"Pleasantly busy, interesting shops and friendly people. Stop by Mez cafe, you'll love it."
🚶♀️ Stroll and Discover
Take your time to explore the diverse shops, cafes, and art installations. Don't rush the experience!
📅 Check Event Schedules
Look out for summer movie nights and monthly Artswalk events for a more vibrant visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Raincross Sculpture
9th Street & Main Street Pedestrian Mall
A unique, modern take on Riverside's iconic symbol, celebrating City Hall's 50th anniversary.
Lock in Your Love Monument
Main Street Pedestrian Mall (between 9th St. and University Ave.)
A charming spot to celebrate love, featuring a new monument perfect for photos and romantic gestures.
Artswalk Events
Along Main Street Pedestrian Mall
Experience monthly vibrant gatherings with live art, music, and over 120 vendors showcasing local talent.
Eclectic Boutiques & Bistros
Throughout the Mall
Discover a diverse array of shops, from unique boutiques and antique stores to delightful bistros and cafes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Timing is Key for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll and Discover
Take your time to explore the diverse shops, cafes, and art installations. Don't rush the experience!
📅 Check Event Schedules
Look out for summer movie nights and monthly Artswalk events for a more vibrant visit.
💖 Visit the Monuments
Capture memories at the new Raincross and 'Lock in Your Love' monuments.
🍽️ Try Local Eateries
Sample culinary delights at places like Mez cafe for a true taste of Riverside.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll and Discover
Take your time to explore the diverse shops, cafes, and art installations. Don't rush the experience!
📅 Check Event Schedules
Look out for summer movie nights and monthly Artswalk events for a more vibrant visit.
💖 Visit the Monuments
Capture memories at the new Raincross and 'Lock in Your Love' monuments.
🍽️ Try Local Eateries
Sample culinary delights at places like Mez cafe for a true taste of Riverside.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the mall.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Main Street Pedestrian Mall to be a pleasantly busy and diverse area with interesting shops and friendly people. It's noted for its eclectic mix of boutiques, bistros, and antique shops, with increasing weekend and evening activity. While generally well-regarded, some may find the pace slower than expected.
"The Main Street Pedestrian Mall in Riverside, California, stretching along Main Street from 5th to 10th street, was opened in 1966. The mall is flanked by City Hall and the convention center at either end. In 2008, the city carried out a $10 million renovation to the mall as part of the larger "Riverside Renaissance" project."
Xuxin G
"Pleasantly busy, interesting shops and friendly people. Stop by Mez cafe, you'll love it."
Renee Dar-Khan
"More of the shops and restaurants are now open on weekends. Night life opportunities are increasing."
William Hunt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Main Street Pedestrian Mall is located in downtown Riverside, stretching along Main Street from 5th to 10th Street. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available in nearby garages and street parking. Public transportation options also serve the downtown area.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available near the mall. It's advisable to check signage for rates and time limits.
Absolutely! The pedestrian mall is designed for walking and cycling, making it a pleasant experience to arrive on foot or by bike.
Major freeways like the 91 and 60 provide access to downtown Riverside. Follow signs for Main Street or the downtown area.
The mall is generally accessible, with smooth pathways. However, it's always a good idea to check specific venue accessibility if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Main Street Pedestrian Mall is a public space and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the area.
The pedestrian mall itself is always open. However, individual shops, restaurants, and attractions within the mall will have their own operating hours, which can vary.
While general access to the mall is free, special events like Artswalk or summer movie nights may have associated costs for specific activities or vendors.
Weekdays, especially during business hours, tend to be less crowded than weekends. For a lively atmosphere, evenings and weekends are best.
Generally, pets are allowed on the pedestrian mall, but it's always best to check the policies of individual businesses you plan to visit.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a diverse range of shops, including eclectic boutiques, antique stores, specialty shops, and more.
Yes, the mall boasts a variety of dining options, from casual bistros and cafes to restaurants offering different cuisines. Mez cafe is a recommended spot.
Nightlife opportunities are increasing on the mall, with several bars and establishments offering evening entertainment.
The mall is home to many independent businesses, including Artists on Main, offering a chance to support local artisans and entrepreneurs.
Absolutely! The variety of boutiques and specialty shops makes it a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
📸 📸 Photography & Landmarks
Don't miss the unique Raincross sculpture and the 'Lock in Your Love' monument for memorable photos. The vibrant streetscape itself is also very photogenic. 
Yes, the historic Mission Inn Hotel is a landmark in Riverside and offers stunning architecture and photo opportunities, often recommended for sightseeing.
During Artswalk events, you'll encounter various live art demonstrations and potentially murals. Keep an eye out for local art throughout the mall.
Golden hour, just before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for photos. Evenings can also be picturesque with the city lights.
Drone usage is typically regulated in urban areas. It's best to check local ordinances and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond organized events, the Raincross sculpture and other public art installations add cultural depth to the area. Exploring the eclectic mix of shops, including galleries and artisan boutiques, will also satisfy your artistic curiosity. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Hub of Culture and Community
This fosters a strong sense of community and provides a platform for local artists and businesses to thrive. The mall also hosts seasonal events, such as summer movie nights, offering a charming way to enjoy the outdoors and connect with fellow residents and visitors. Beyond organized events, the mall is dotted with unique landmarks that tell the story of Riverside. The Raincross sculpture, a modern interpretation of the city's iconic symbol, celebrates the 50th anniversary of City Hall.
Nearby, the 'Lock in Your Love' Monument offers a romantic spot for couples and a picturesque photo opportunity. These installations add character and points of interest, encouraging exploration and discovery as you stroll along Main Street. The ongoing revitalization efforts, including a significant renovation in 2008, have ensured the mall remains a welcoming and engaging space for all. Navigating the Main Street Experience
While the mall itself is always open, individual business hours can vary, especially on weekdays. It's advisable to check specific opening times if you have particular shops or restaurants in mind.
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