Temecula Explore Local With RVshare

Temecula is a city in California, in the southwestern part of Riverside County. It’s known as a tourist and resort destination, with many visitors flocking here for its popular resorts, Temecula Valley Wine Country, and Old Town Temecula.  

Even those who have lived in the city for a decade would agree they haven’t experienced all that Temecula has to offer, while for those new to the region – well, they’ve got a lot to look forward to as well.

Ready to discover the best of Temecula, California? Let’s get started!

*Note: Some of the suggestions may not be doable due to coronavirus closures, but keep this list handy for when things start opening back up more! Be sure to check individual pages for specific operation details.

Temecula isn’t all hustle and bustle! There are also plenty of state parks and national parks both within and surrounding the area, all of which provide a tranquil escape for those looking to surround themselves by nature.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

TheOld Town San Diego State Historic Park is one of the region’s most famous and popular destinations, yet it’s just a 55-minute drive from Temecula! Here, you’re given the opportunity to learn about life in the Mexican and early American periods of 1821 to 1872. Enjoy reconstructed sites, museums, unique retail shops, and several restaurants, as well as hiking trails, picnic areas, and geocaching.

Mount San Jacinto State Park

You’ll findMount San Jacinto State Park around an hour-and-15-minutes’ drive from Temecula. Aside from admiring the beautiful, natural habitat, there are plenty of things to do here, including camping, hiking, horseback riding, exploring cultural sites, picnicking, geocaching, and more. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, so you may just want to spend an entire weekend – or week – here!

Crystal Cove State Park

What makesCrystal Cove State Park so popular? It’s home to 3.2 miles of beach, 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness, and an offshore underwater area. Plus, it’s one of Orange County’s largest remaining examples of open space and natural seashore and is just 1.5-hours’ drive from the city. There are plenty of outdoor recreational activities on offer here, including hiking, camping, swimming, and more.

Chino Hills State Park

Chino Hills State Park has a rich history, as the area was once home to the Gabrielino Indians, and later, the Spanish. These days, the park is home to more than 200 species of birds and mammals, numerous reptiles and amphibians, and thousands of types of insects and other invertebrates. You can enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, picnicking, geocaching, and more, while at the park.

Lake Perris State Recreation Area

Lake Perris State Recreation Area is just a 40-minute drive north of Temecula, making it a quick outdoor getaway for anyone looking for some tranquillity among nature. The scenery here is quite different from other state parks within the area, with Lake Perris being home to a rather dry, arid, and hot environment. With hundreds of species of wildlife calling the place home, wildlife viewing opportunities are plentiful. Other activities include hiking, boating, camping, fishing, swimming, geocaching, and more.

Still need to get your nature fix? If you’re craving seeing even more of the beautiful scenery that surrounds Temecula, then there are also plenty of hiking and walking trails for you and your family to enjoy.

Vail Lake Loop

If you ask locals for the best hike within Temecula, they’ll no doubt direct you to the Vail Lake Loop. It’s a 11.6 kilometer moderately trafficked loop trail that passes by the scenic Vail Lake. It’s accessible year-round and is rated as moderate, due to its steep uphills, which also provide great vistas.

Harveston Lake Loop

If you’re looking for an easy walk within Temecula, then the Harveston Lake Loop is for you. It stretches just 1.3 kilometers, passes by a stunning lake, and is great for all skill levels. The flat, paved sidewalk makes it easy for strollers, while dogs can also enjoy the trail, provided they’re on a leash.

Temecula is home to a bustling and trendy dining scene, so there’s sure to be a restaurant, café, or diner to satisfy your cravings. If you’ve worked up an appetite after a long hike, or simply feel like treating yourself to a delicacy, then you’re in luck. Here are our top restaurant recommendations!

Bushfire Kitchen

Bushfire Kitchen is a family owned and operated restaurant that aims to provide diners with healthy choices and high-quality ingredients, all at a reasonable price. Almost everything they serve has been made completely from scratch and is free of preservatives, food colorings, flavor enhancers and GMOs. Crowd-pleasers include their burgers, bowls, and empanadas.

Bluewater Grill

Craving some fresh seafood while in the region?Bluewater Grill has been operating for over 20 years and is committed to “serving guests pristine quality seafood, sustainably caught, and prepared classically or with a modern twist”. They have an award-winning chowder, a full bar and wine list, and offer more than 40 varieties of seafood annually.

Guadalajara Mexican Grill

Guadalajara Mexican Grill was founded in 1986 by the the Solano family. They take pride in providing the freshest ingredients to ensure high quality Mexican food, as well as having generous portions, a festive environment, and the best margaritas in town! We also hear their tostadas, enchiladas, and salads are like no other!

The Gambling Cowboy

The Gambling Cowboy is a chophouse and saloon on 5th Street in Temecula, in the heart of Old Town. The historic building will take you back in time, while the impressive wine list and classic steak and seafood menus will have you wanting to come back time and time again. They also host events and live music from time to time.

After feasting and enjoying all that the hiking trails and state parks have to offer, you may be wondering: “what next?” Well, when it comes to Temecula’s attractions and activities, you’re only just getting started. Here are some of the most fun things on offer in and around the city!

For kids and families

Looking to entertain some little ones? Or perhaps you’ve got some teenagers in-tow who are starting to get a little bored? Either way, these attractions will entertain both children, teens, and adults alike!

Pennypickle’s Workshop

AtPennypickle’s Workshop, you’re welcomed into the quirky world of Professor Phineas T. Pennypickle. It features 7500 square feet of hands-on inventions, gadgets, and experiments, allowing kids to learn as they play. It’s also referred to as the Temecula Children's Museum and is a much-loved attraction within the city.

Brainy Actz Escape Rooms

Visitors young and old love an escape room challenge, especially those here atBrainy Actz Escape Rooms! The escape games are made to test your teamwork abilities, problem-solving skills, and intellect to push your brains to the limit. It’s like a real-life puzzle, which you and your family will have 60 minutes to solve. Best of luck!

At night

What should you do in Temecula once the sun goes down? We’re glad you asked! Here are our suggested night-time attractions.

Pechanga Resort and Casino

Did you know thePechanga Resort and Casino has the largest casino floor in California? If gambling isn’t quite your thing, that’s ok, as Pechanga is home to so much more. There’s a palatial spa facility, center for concerts, meetings, and conventions, and a 4.5-acre tropical pool complex that features a dedicated restaurant, swim-up bar, three pools, two waterslides, a fountain and 27 spacious cabanas. It’s luxury at its finest!

Mulligan Family Fun Center

End a fantastic day with a fun night at theMulligan Family Fun Center! Here, you and your family can enjoy numerous amenities and partake in activities such as Hologate (virtual reality), lazer tag, miniature golf, go-karts, arcade games, kiddie rides, batting cages, and water slides. It’s open until 9 P.M. but be sure to check the current schedule before visiting.

Cheap Things to Do In Temecula

What can you do in or around Temecula that won’t cost anything more than a few dollars? The answer: plenty! Here are just two of our favorite attractions within the area that can be enjoyed on the cheap.

Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards 

Wilson Creek Winery is a family-owned winery nestled in Temecula Wine Country offering award-winning wine, gourmet food, and bustling tasting rooms. The attraction also hosts numerous events and concerts throughout the year, so be sure to keep an eye on their calendar for anything that takes your fancy.

Lake Skinner Park

If you’re still craving a nature fix, then you’re in luck.Lake Skinner Park is another beautiful area within Temecula, and best of all, it barely costs a thing to visit! You can enjoy recreational opportunities including camping, picnicking, a splash pad, hiking, horseback riding, sailing, and fishing. There’s also a well-stocked camp store if you’re in need of supplies. 

Free things to do in Temecula

Looking to get the most out of your time spent within the city of Temecula? Whether you want a fun way to waste away a Sunday afternoon or a date idea that won’t break the budget – here are our most recommended things to do in Temecula that won’t cost you a cent.

Temecula Valley Museum

Whether you’re simply visiting Temecula or are a resident of the city, we recommend visiting theTemecula Valley Museum to learn all about the region’s rich history. Exhibits depict key stories, including the Luiseno Indians, Mission San Luis Rey period, establishment of the ranchos, and transportation influences.

Harveston Lake Park

Looking for somewhere to escape to, for free, for an entire day? A visit toHarveston Lake Park is just what you need, as it’s a tranquil and beautiful park located in Temecula, meaning you don’t have to travel far. Enjoy the picturesque Harveston Lake, as well as a children’s play area, gazebo, picnic areas, and ADA accessible restrooms.

Spas in Temecula

Alright, by now you’ve probably been on your feet all day exploring the sights and delights that Temecula has to offer. If you’re craving some rest and relaxation, or even a bit of pampering, these are two of the best spas in the region.

Ethereal Day Spa

Treat yourself to some revitalizing spa services within the calming and beautiful atmosphere that is theEthereal Day Spa. You’ll find a long list of massages here (including everything from Swedish, Lomi-Lomi, and Thai to deep tissue, prenatal, and sports), as well as facials, waxing, threading, and more.

Allo Spa

Allo Spa is one of the largest spas within Temecula, so it’s safe to say that they offer services and treatments to cater for a wide variety of needs. You’ll find massages including deep tissue, hot stone, hot oil and Swedish Reflexology among their offerings, helping to alleviate your day-to-day stress and muscle tension. 

Best gyms and yoga studios

If rejuvenation for you is less about deep relaxation and more about sweating it out, then you’re in luck. Temecula is home to some of the highest-rated gyms and yoga studios within the region.

P4L Fitness

AtP4L Fitness, their workouts are tailored toward each individual to ensure you receive a personalized path for your fitness goals. They offer a wide variety of classes including Full Body Strength & Power, HIIT Core & Cardio, Muscle & Mobility, and Endurance Conditioning, helping to keep you fit, healthy, and happy.

Home Yoga Studio

HOME Yoga Studio is a beautiful, welcoming, peaceful, and inviting studio offering over 25 classes weekly. Just some of these include Kundalini Yoga & Meditation, Form & Flow, Restorative Yoga, Ashtanga, and so much more.

Looking to fulfill your wanderlust by heading outside of the region for a day? You could spend decades within Temecula without barely scratching the surface of all there is to do in this large city, but consider the following day trips next time you fancy a new adventure.

Palm Springs

The beautiful Palm Springs is less than a 1.5-hour drive from Temecula, providing you and your friends or family with an intriguing day out. Check out the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, Cabazon Dinosaurs (the world’s biggest dinosaurs), Knott’s Soak Party, and so much more. In fact, we won’t blame you for turning your day trip into a weekend-long stay!

Death Valley National Park

Around a 4.5-hour drive from Temecula is the world-famousDeath Valley National Park, and it’s well worth the trip. This land of extremes is one of the hottest, driest, and least hospitable places on Earth, but don’t let that stop you! You see, despite this, it’s still a popular destination for hikers, bikers, bird watchers, and other outdoor recreational seekers. Plus, it’s home to some of the darkest skies in the country, making it a dream destination for hobby astronomers and stargazers.

As a final reminder, some of these activities may need to wait until businesses fully reopen from coronavirus closures. However, there is still much to see and experience in Temecula that you can enjoy today! What are your favorite spots in Temecula? Send them our way to [email protected] or by tagging us on Instagram @rvshare and using the hashtag #rvsharelocal.