California Citrus State Historic Park

California Citrus State Historic Park is a 248-acre open-air museum in Riverside, offering in-person educational exhibits that tell the stories of the citrus industry's role in the development of Southern California.

This park emphasizes the importance of the citrus empire in Southern California’s expansion, and captures the intricacies of a time when "Citrus was King," by diving deeper into just how much of a lasting impact the citrus industry has on this region.

California Citrus history goes back to 1873 when Riverside resident Eliza Tibbets planted and cultivated two orange trees sent to her by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The trees flourished in the Mediterranean conditions of Southern California — and their success ultimately inspired and launched the thriving citrus industry of SoCal. Today, the land contained within this park is said to still produce high-quality fruits -- including Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.

The visitor center houses an educational museum and there’s antique citrus grove farm equipment on display scattered throughout the park. Traditionally, there are tours on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays which include a guided citrus tasting. There’s also an activity center, amphitheater, picnic area and event space.

When the time is right, this park can be an ideal location to host a wedding, gala event or group celebration with an impressive backdrop for photographs.

The towering palm trees and rows of scenic orange orchards remind visitors of the lasting significance of California Citrus on the state’s agricultural economy.