Road Tripping from Cerritos to Hemet: The Top Five Things to Do
If you're seeking adventure and looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, road tripping from Cerritos to Hemet might just be the perfect escape for you! Along the way, you'll encounter stunning landscapes, interesting historical sites, and many outdoor activities that will keep you entertained from start to finish. The trip is approximately 80 miles long, with a halfway point in Riverside, CA. Here are the top five things to do on your journey.
1. Visit the March Field Air Museum
If you're a history buff or just love airplanes, the March Field Air Museum is a must-visit attraction. Located near Riverside, it houses over 80 aircraft from different eras, including World War II and the Cold War. The museum has exhibits that feature the Air Force's role in American history and displays rare artifacts that you won't find anywhere else. It's an educational and fun experience for the whole family.
Fun fact: March Field was established in 1918 as the Army's first "aerial port."
2. Take a Cruise at Lake Perris
If you're an outdoor enthusiast, take a break from driving and enjoy boat rides and fishing at Lake Periss. This 8,800-acre reservoir in Moreno Valley offers a variety of water activities, including fishing, kayaking and canoeing. You can also hike or bike the trails, and even camp if you choose.
Fun fact: The lake is around 131 feet deep and features a large diversity of fish, including catfish, bass, and bluegill.
3. Wander Around the Orange Empire Railway Museum
The Orange Empire Railway Museum is a unique place where you can explore how the locomotives helped build California. It's a fascinating history museum with a collection of 200 historic railway cars and trains. You can also ride on trolleys or speeders through the scenic countryside.
Fun fact: The museum's collection includes the world's largest collection of streetcars from Los Angeles Railway.
4. Traverse Idyllwild Nature Center
If you're seeking a serene and relaxing environment to enjoy nature's beauty, Idyllwild Nature Center will not disappoint! It's a tranquil setting among pine trees, with hiking trails that offer scenic views of the San Jacinto Mountains, soil ecology, and plant communities. The center also offers guided hikes and nature walks.
Fun fact: The center is home to diverse wildlife, including coyotes, deer, foxes, and mountain lions.
5. Experience Dia De Los Muertos in Old Town Hemet
Old Town Hemet is a must-visit quaint location. Among the many activities to enjoy like art galleries and antique stores, the celebrations during Dia De Los Muertos are a sight to behold. During the first weekend in November, the historic downtown celebrates the Mexican holiday with music, face paintings, and well-decorated booths.
Fun fact: The buildings in the historic downtown district date back to the 1800s and early 1900s, and some locations have even reported to be haunted.
Conclusion
The road trip from Cerritos to Hemet takes you on an 80-mile-long journey through some of Southern California's most fascinating landscapes and historical sites. From the March Field Air Museum, Lake Perris to the Orange Empire Railway Museum, Idyllwild Nature Center, and Old Town Hemet, there are a lot of attractions to keep you entertained throughout the trip. Depending on how much time you spend at each attraction, the trip could last up to three days. Nonetheless, it’s worth the trip. So pack your bags and hit the road to explore the beauty Southern California has to offer!