Mission Inn Riverside (California)

This wonderfully historic Hotel in the heart of Riverside has not always been so big or grand. Originally built in 1876 as a two story, 12 room boarding house, additions were made over the years to where the final addition completed in 1931 made it what it is today. The facility now offers 239 rooms, and 28 suites, plus meeting rooms, restaurants, museum, pool, and wonderful courtyard. For some time it was "The" place to visit in southern California, but as Palm Springs grew this hotel saw less and less patronage. It closed for in 1985 for more than 7 years, while new owners and renovation could restore it to its original look and feel. Today it again is a fine example of the high-end hotel it once was. Presidents have stayed here and artifacts have been kept to display. A nice museum is on the property and even tours can be taken for a small fee. We stayed here in September of 1998 while on a conference in the area and although somewhat dusty in a few places the several rooms we say were comfortable nicely decorated and the lobby and entry were wonderfully large and grand.