20 Amazing Things To Do In Corona - Karta

20 Amazing Things To Do In Corona

Trip Ideas Sep 18, 2025

Tucked against the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains, Corona, California, may look like a suburban stop on the map—but dig a little deeper and you’ll find a city with surprising layers. Known in the early 1900s as the “Lemon Capital of the World,” Corona built its reputation on sprawling citrus groves that fed the nation. Those roots still linger in its name (Spanish for “crown”) and in the city’s pride for its agricultural past.

By mid-century, Corona shifted gears—literally. Its Grand Boulevard once hosted international road races that drew crowds in the tens of thousands, earning it a place in California’s car culture history. Today, the city balances that legacy with a modern pulse: family-friendly parks, craft breweries, mountain trails, and easy access to both LA’s buzz and Riverside’s charm.

In this guide, we’ll peel back the stereotypes and show you the best things to do in Corona.

1. Stagecoach Park

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A community park with open green spaces, playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic areas, popular with families.
  • Address: 2125 Stagecoach Road, Corona, CA 92882
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall for pleasant outdoor weather.
  • Distance to city center: About 3 miles southwest of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Free entry.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Accessible restrooms, trails, and play areas.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–10 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 10 p.m.
  • Discounts / Deals: Free community park.

The Stagecoach Park in Corona owes its name to a time when Southern California’s inland valleys were crisscrossed by dusty trails and stage routes long before freeways reshaped the landscape. In the late 19th century, Corona (then called South Riverside) grew as a farming settlement known for citrus groves and its distinctive circular Grand Boulevard. Stage lines passing through the area carried passengers, goods, and news between small ranching towns, laying the groundwork for Corona’s growth into a community.

Stagecoach State Park (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with  Reviews)

Today’s Stagecoach Park preserves both green space and memory. Its name evokes the era when horse-drawn carriages and stagecoaches were the lifelines of the region, threading Corona into a larger network of Southern California trade. Interpretive touches and the open layout give modern visitors a chance to imagine how early travel shaped settlement in this once-rural corner of Riverside County.

More than a neighborhood park, Stagecoach Park is a reminder of how Corona’s past remains present. It ties the city’s heritage of movement—whether by stagecoach, train, or freeway—to its continuing role as a crossroads between the Inland Empire and greater Southern California.

2. Mountain Gate Park

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A scenic neighborhood park featuring walking trails, sports fields, and children’s play areas.
  • Address: 3100 S. Main Street, Corona, CA 92882
  • Best time to visit: Morning or evening walks; weekends for family activities.
  • Distance to city center: About 4 miles south of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Free entry.
  • Parking: Free parking available.
  • Accessibility: Accessible restrooms and paths.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–10 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 10 p.m.
  • Discounts / Deals: Free attraction.

Mountain Gate Park sits at the base of the Santa Ana Mountains, where Corona’s geography has always shaped its story. The range provided both challenges and opportunities to early settlers, who carved ranches and orchards into the foothills. Water runoff from the mountains fed the groves that made Corona a citrus powerhouse in the early 20th century, while the rugged terrain created natural boundaries for the community’s expansion.

MOUNTAIN GATE PARK - Updated September 2025 - 95 Photos & 27 Reviews - 3100  South Main St, Corona, California - Parks - Yelp

The park reflects this close relationship with the landscape. Open fields, trails, and playgrounds are set against the backdrop of ridges that have framed the city for generations. In many ways, Mountain Gate Park preserves what has always drawn people here: fertile soil, scenic vistas, and the sense of being on the threshold between valley and mountain.

It is more than a recreational site—it is a modern link to Corona’s heritage as a settlement built around land, water, and geography. For families and visitors, Mountain Gate Park provides not only leisure but also a connection to the natural setting that has shaped the city’s history since its founding in 1886.

3. Corona Heritage Park & Museum

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A cultural landmark showcasing Corona’s citrus industry history with museum exhibits, art galleries, and community gardens.
  • Address: 510 W. Foothill Parkway, Corona, CA 92882
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall; Saturdays for tours and events.
  • Distance to city center: About 2 miles from downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Free admission (donations encouraged).
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Accessible entrances and restrooms.
  • Opening Hours: Saturday 10 a.m.–2 p.m. (museum); park open daily.
  • Closing Hours: 2 p.m. (museum).
  • Discounts / Deals: Free entry; special event pricing may apply.

The Corona Heritage Park & Museum preserves the agricultural and civic history of a city once called the “Lemon Capital of the World.” Established on the site of former lemon groves, the museum tells the story of Corona’s rise during the citrus boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Railroads carried carloads of fruit across the country, putting Corona on the map as one of California’s most productive farming communities.

Corona Heritage Park and Museum | House structure at Corona … | Flickr

The park itself contains restored homes, gardens, and exhibits that recall the people who shaped the city’s early years. Displays feature artifacts from Corona’s citrus packing houses, photographs of its famous “Circle City” motor races along Grand Boulevard in the 1910s, and stories of immigrant families who helped build the community. By preserving these legacies, the museum ensures that Corona’s agricultural roots remain visible even as the city has grown into a suburban hub.

Walking through the grounds is like stepping into multiple eras at once—Victorian houses, citrus groves, and community buildings share space with modern exhibits. The Corona Heritage Park & Museum stands as a reminder that beneath the freeways and subdivisions lies a city defined first by orchards, industry, and civic ambition.

4. The Shops at Dos Lagos

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: An outdoor shopping center with lakeside walkways, boutique stores, dining, and a luxury movie theater.
  • Address: 2780 Cabot Drive, Corona, CA 92883
  • Best time to visit: Evenings for dining and entertainment; weekends for events.
  • Distance to city center: About 6 miles south of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Free entry; shopping and dining vary.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible walkways, shops, and theaters.
  • Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (varies by store).
  • Closing Hours: 6–9 p.m. depending on venue.
  • Discounts / Deals: Seasonal sales and restaurant specials.

The Shops at Dos Lagos is a modern retail and lifestyle center built on land tied to Corona’s agricultural and military past. “Dos Lagos,” meaning “two lakes” in Spanish, refers to the twin manmade lakes created as part of the Temescal Canyon redevelopment. This land once supported citrus groves and later served as part of the U.S. Navy’s Cold War-era communications facilities before being transformed into a mixed-use community.

The Shops at Dos Lagos (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with  Reviews)

Opened in the mid-2000s, the Shops at Dos Lagos blends open-air shopping with landscaped lakes, pedestrian bridges, and cultural spaces. While its architecture and design serve modern consumers, the development itself reflects a larger historical pattern: Corona’s constant reinvention of its land. From Native American villages and rancho lands to orchards, military installations, and finally retail, this corner of the city has always adapted to new needs.

Today, the center functions as both a shopping hub and community gathering space, hosting events, concerts, and seasonal celebrations. In doing so, the Shops at Dos Lagos connects Corona’s past cycles of land use with its current role as a suburban crossroads for commerce, culture, and community.

5. Corona Public Library

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: More than just a library, it hosts cultural programs, children’s storytimes, and community events.
  • Address: 650 S. Main Street, Corona, CA 92882
  • Best time to visit: Weekdays for quiet study; weekends for events.
  • Distance to city center: About 1 mile south of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Free entry.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible with elevators and restrooms.
  • Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 5–7 p.m. depending on day; closed Sundays.
  • Discounts / Deals: Free membership for residents.

The Corona Public Library has long been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural life. Corona’s first library traces back to the early 20th century, when civic leaders sought to provide education and opportunity for a community then thriving on citrus wealth. Like many American towns of that era, Corona benefited from the nationwide movement to establish public libraries as symbols of civic pride and progress.

The library - Picture of Corona Public Library - Tripadvisor

The current library, expanded and modernized, continues that legacy. Its archives preserve records, photographs, and documents that trace Corona’s development from its founding in 1886 to its evolution into a suburban hub of the Inland Empire. Exhibits and local history collections highlight the citrus boom, the Circle City auto races, and the growth of neighborhoods shaped by immigration and industry.

Beyond its shelves, the library functions as a community gathering place, echoing its original role as a civic anchor. Lectures, art shows, and children’s programs keep alive the tradition of learning and community-building that helped Corona define itself more than a century ago. It is not just a library, but a living link to the intellectual and social history of the city.

6. Over The Moon Escape Rooms

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: Interactive escape room venue with themed challenges ranging from detective mysteries to fantasy adventures.
  • Address: 2795 Cabot Drive Suite 180, Corona, CA 92883
  • Best time to visit: Evenings or weekends for group fun.
  • Distance to city center: About 6 miles south of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Typically $30–$35 per person.
  • Parking: Free parking available on-site.
  • Accessibility: Accessible building and restrooms; activity requires mobility and group participation.
  • Opening Hours: Wednesday–Friday 4–9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 12–10 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 9–10 p.m.
  • Discounts / Deals: Group rates and seasonal promotions.

Over The Moon Escape Rooms represents a much newer chapter in Corona’s history—one defined by interactive entertainment and community creativity. Escape rooms themselves are a 21st-century phenomenon, blending puzzle-solving, storytelling, and teamwork into immersive environments. Their popularity reflects a broader cultural shift toward experiential leisure, where groups participate directly in challenges rather than simply observing.

OVER THE MOON ESCAPE ROOMS - Updated September 2025 - 48 Photos & 136  Reviews - 1307 W 6th St, Corona, California - Escape Games - Phone Number -  Yelp

In Corona, Over The Moon situates this modern pastime within the city’s tradition of innovation and reinvention. Just as earlier generations turned groves into race tracks or military land into shopping centers, today’s residents transform storefronts into themed adventures. Each room, whether built around mystery, science fiction, or fantasy, carries on the long-standing local spirit of storytelling and community gathering.

Though far removed from Corona’s citrus and railroad past, Over The Moon is still tied to the city’s heritage: it shows how Corona has always adapted to cultural trends, using creativity to draw people together. The escape rooms are part of a new layer of local history—one where imagination and collaboration define the experience.

7. Stone Church Brewing

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A popular craft brewery offering small-batch beers with rotating seasonal releases and a family-friendly taproom.
  • Address: 2785 Cabot Drive Suite 160, Corona, CA 92883
  • Best time to visit: Evenings for live music or trivia nights.
  • Distance to city center: About 6 miles south of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Pints $6–$8; flights available.
  • Parking: Free parking in plaza lot.
  • Accessibility: Accessible taproom and restrooms.
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 3–9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 12–10 p.m.; Sunday 12–8 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 8–10 p.m. depending on day.
  • Discounts / Deals: Happy hour specials and mug club memberships.

Stone Church Brewing is rooted in Corona’s pattern of adapting old spaces to new uses. Housed in a historic building with architecture recalling Corona’s early 20th-century commercial boom, the brewery reflects the nationwide craft beer renaissance while anchoring it in local heritage. The name itself nods to permanence and tradition, echoing the churches and civic buildings that once defined downtown skylines.

Corona’s early settlers were no strangers to brewing culture. Immigrants from Europe brought traditions of beer- and wine-making, though citrus quickly overshadowed alcohol as the city’s economic driver. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, however, craft brewing emerged as a way to reclaim that heritage while revitalizing community spaces. Stone Church Brewing blends this history with a modern gathering place, where live music and craft recipes bring people together much as early taverns once did.

By combining historic architecture with contemporary tastes, Stone Church Brewing keeps Corona’s downtown lively and relevant. It is part of the city’s broader narrative of reinvention—proof that even as industries change, the impulse to gather over food and drink remains constant.

8. Evans Brewing Company

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: Known as one of Orange County’s first craft brewers, this location offers creative beers alongside a full gastropub menu.
  • Address: 1555 Pomona Road, Unit A, Corona, CA 92882
  • Best time to visit: Dinner hours for pairing brews with meals.
  • Distance to city center: About 3 miles northwest of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Pints $6–$9; entrees $15–$25.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible facility.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 10 p.m.
  • Discounts / Deals: Happy hour deals and growler discounts.

The Evans Brewing Company brings another chapter of brewing culture to Corona. As one of the region’s pioneering craft beer makers, Evans Brewing ties into a tradition that dates back to the earliest settlements, when small-scale brewing was part of daily life. Its presence in Corona reflects the Inland Empire’s shift from agricultural backbone to a hub for creative industries and lifestyle-driven businesses.

EVANS BREWING - Updated September 2025 - 97 Photos & 95 Reviews - 2440  Railroad St, Corona, California - Breweries - Phone Number - Yelp

Founded in the 1990s, Evans Brewing gained recognition as one of Southern California’s first craft breweries to reach commercial scale, bridging the gap between neighborhood microbreweries and larger distributors. In Corona, its taprooms and brews serve as both a local gathering place and a regional export, carrying the city’s name beyond Riverside County.

The company’s success mirrors Corona’s own trajectory—rising from agricultural roots into statewide recognition, while still keeping its identity grounded in community. Just as the city once exported lemons across the country, Evans Brewing now exports a different taste of Corona: craft beer shaped by local innovation and ambition.

9. Storytellers Brewery and Meet House

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A local microbrewery with a rotating selection of beers and community-focused events like open mic nights and trivia.
  • Address: 1090 Pomona Road, Unit D, Corona, CA 92882
  • Best time to visit: Evenings for live entertainment and social atmosphere.
  • Distance to city center: About 3 miles northwest of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Pints $6–$8; flights available.
  • Parking: Free parking on-site.
  • Accessibility: Accessible taproom and restrooms.
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 4–9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 2–10 p.m.; Sunday 12–6 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 6–10 p.m. depending on day.
  • Discounts / Deals: Specials for members and events.

The Storytellers Brewery and Meet House blends Corona’s brewing culture with its tradition of community gathering. Unlike larger breweries focused on distribution, Storytellers emphasizes narrative and connection—each beer crafted with a theme, each pint shared in a setting designed for conversation. This focus on stories reflects a deeper heritage: Corona has always been a place where communities grew through shared experience, whether in packing houses, churches, or civic halls.

The brewery’s name nods to oral traditions that carried history long before museums and written records. In Corona, these stories include the citrus boom, the famous Circle City races, and the waves of families who settled here through the 20th century. By combining local craft beer with communal space, Storytellers continues that legacy, creating a modern “meeting house” reminiscent of early town squares.

More than just a taproom, Storytellers Brewery embodies Corona’s ongoing transformation. It connects past and present by turning beer into a vehicle for memory and community, echoing the way previous generations gathered to exchange stories about harvests, races, or neighborhood life.

10. The Arts Colony

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A nonprofit art center that features local artist exhibitions, art classes, and community workshops.
  • Address: 4545-B Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501 (near Corona).
  • Best time to visit: During gallery openings or special art shows.
  • Distance to city center: About 12 miles northeast of Corona (in nearby Riverside).
  • Pricing: Free admission; class and workshop fees vary.
  • Parking: Free street and lot parking available.
  • Accessibility: Accessible gallery and classrooms.
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 7 p.m.
  • Discounts / Deals: Free exhibits; class package deals available.

The Arts Colony is Corona’s hub for visual creativity, preserving and promoting a cultural tradition that often gets overshadowed by the city’s agricultural and industrial history. Located in downtown Corona, the gallery and studios provide space for local artists to display work, teach classes, and collaborate. Its mission reflects the city’s broader effort to balance its heritage of industry with an investment in cultural life.

Corona’s history with the arts stretches back to its founding. Early settlers built schools and churches that doubled as cultural centers, while later residents formed bands, theater groups, and art clubs. The Arts Colony carries that lineage into the 21st century, transforming historic buildings into modern creative spaces. Exhibitions often include works inspired by the Santa Ana Mountains, the citrus groves, and Corona’s evolving cityscape, tying art to place.

By supporting local artists, The Arts Colony ensures that Corona’s story is told not only in words and photographs but also in painting, sculpture, and craft. It represents a vital layer of the city’s history, proving that creativity has always been part of community building, just as essential as farming, trade, or industry.

11. K1 Speed – Indoor Go Karts

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A high-speed indoor karting center featuring electric go-karts, racing leagues, and party packages.
  • Address: 8415 Haven Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 (about 15 miles from Corona).
  • Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons for shorter wait times; weekends for lively atmosphere.
  • Distance to city center: About 20 minutes northeast of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Races $25–$30 per person; packages available.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Accessible facility; activity requires mobility.
  • Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday 12–10 p.m.; Friday 12–11 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.–12 a.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 9 p.m.–12 a.m. depending on the day.
  • Discounts / Deals: Multi-race packages and membership discounts.

K1 Speed in Corona continues a legacy of racing that has been part of the city’s identity for more than a century. Corona earned fame in the early 1900s for its Grand Boulevard races, when its unique circular roadway hosted high-speed automobile contests that drew national attention. Though the races ended in 1916 after several tragic accidents, they left Corona with the nickname “The Circle City” and cemented its connection to motorsports.

K1 Speed brings that tradition into a modern indoor setting. With electric go-karts, precision tracks, and team-building events, it transforms the thrill of racing into an accessible experience for families, groups, and competitive drivers alike. Its location in Corona is more than coincidence—it ties directly into the city’s racing heritage, updating the roar of early 20th-century engines into the whine of modern electric motors.

For Corona, K1 Speed is both entertainment and history in motion. It shows how the city continues to embrace its racing legacy, reshaping it for new generations while honoring a chapter that once made its streets world-famous.

12. Corona City Hall

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: The hub of Corona’s local government, often visited for civic events and community services.
  • Address: 400 S. Vicentia Avenue, Corona, CA 92882
  • Best time to visit: Weekdays for official business or city-hosted events.
  • Distance to city center: In downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Free entry.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking lot.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible with ramps and elevators.
  • Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday 7 a.m.–6 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 6 p.m.; closed Fridays and weekends.
  • Discounts / Deals: Free community resource.

The Corona City Hall represents the civic backbone of the community, reflecting more than 130 years of local governance. Since Corona’s incorporation in 1896, city government has evolved alongside its rapid growth—from a small citrus-farming settlement into one of the Inland Empire’s major suburban centers. City Hall is the physical and symbolic heart of that evolution.

Corona City Hall (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)

The building itself, a modern structure with clean lines and public spaces, speaks to Corona’s post-World War II expansion, when suburban planning and civic infrastructure became essential to managing growth. Within its chambers, decisions have been made that shaped everything from water rights for groves to zoning for housing tracts, retail centers, and industrial parks.

Corona City Hall embodies the city’s dual heritage: rooted in its 19th-century agricultural founding yet constantly adapting to the pressures of 20th- and 21st-century development. For residents, it is not simply a government office but the keeper of the city’s trajectory, where policies echo the struggles and ambitions that defined Corona’s past and continue to shape its future.

13. Castle Park

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A family amusement park with rides, mini golf, arcade, carnival games, and seasonal Halloween and Christmas events.
  • Address: 3500 Polk Street, Riverside, CA 92505 (about 10 miles from Corona).
  • Best time to visit: Weekends or evenings; fall for Halloween events, winter for holiday lights.
  • Distance to city center: About 15 minutes northeast of Corona.
  • Pricing: Day passes $25–$35; parking $10.
  • Parking: On-site paid parking.
  • Accessibility: Accessible rides and facilities.
  • Opening Hours: Friday 4–9 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 12–9 p.m. (seasonal weekday hours).
  • Closing Hours: 9 p.m.
  • Discounts / Deals: Online ticket discounts, season passes, and group rates.

The Castle Park amusement center in nearby Riverside reflects the postwar boom in leisure culture that reshaped Southern California in the mid-20th century. Designed in 1976 by Bud Hurlbut, a pioneer of theme park attractions who also worked on rides for Knott’s Berry Farm, Castle Park combined the region’s fascination with fantasy architecture and family recreation. Its towers, turrets, and carnival rides tapped into the same imagination that fueled the growth of Disneyland and other themed attractions across the state.

Castle Park (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)

While Corona built its reputation on citrus groves and motorsports, Castle Park embodied the parallel rise of Southern California as a playground for residents and tourists alike. Miniature golf courses, carousels, and arcade halls mirrored the optimism of an era when affordable, local entertainment became part of suburban life. For many Inland Empire families, Castle Park provided a taste of the amusement boom without a trip to Anaheim or Los Angeles.

Today, Castle Park continues to anchor regional nostalgia. Its whimsical design and classic rides connect generations of visitors, reminding them of a time when the Inland Empire’s open land was reimagined not just for farming or housing, but for pure recreation.

14. Fog It Up!

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A local entertainment venue offering escape rooms, laser tag, and themed party experiences with fog effects.
  • Address: 1131 Pomona Road Suite B, Corona, CA 92882
  • Best time to visit: Evenings or weekends for group events.
  • Distance to city center: About 3 miles northwest of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Activities $15–$30 per person.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Accessible entrances and restrooms.
  • Opening Hours: Friday 4–10 p.m.; Saturday 12–10 p.m.; Sunday 12–6 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 6–10 p.m. depending on day.
  • Discounts / Deals: Group packages and birthday specials.

Fog It Up! is a niche business that speaks to Corona’s growing role in creative industries and event culture. Specializing in DJ supplies, lighting, and atmospheric effects, the shop reflects how the Inland Empire has become a hub for entertainment professionals and community celebrations. Its presence underscores a shift from Corona’s agricultural and industrial past toward a diversified economy that now includes arts, music, and events.

Historically, Corona has always embraced gatherings—whether citrus festivals in the early 20th century, auto races along Grand Boulevard, or cultural fairs tied to the city’s diverse immigrant communities. Businesses like Fog It Up! carry that tradition into the modern era, providing the tools to transform parties, concerts, and civic events into immersive experiences.

Though small compared to Corona’s large-scale institutions, Fog It Up! plays a role in shaping the city’s cultural identity. It reflects the ongoing story of how Corona adapts to new trends, ensuring that celebration and community expression remain as central to its life today as they were in its citrus-growing heyday.

15. Tom’s Farms

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A family-friendly attraction featuring fresh produce stands, restaurants, a petting zoo, rides, and seasonal festivals.
  • Address: 23900 Temescal Canyon Road, Corona, CA 92883
  • Best time to visit: Weekends for entertainment; weekdays for quieter shopping.
  • Distance to city center: About 8 miles south of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Free entry; attractions $5–$15; food and shopping vary.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Accessible shops, restaurants, and restrooms.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 8 p.m.
  • Discounts / Deals: Seasonal promotions and family packages.

Tom’s Farms, located just outside Corona along Interstate 15, began in 1971 as a humble produce stand. Its origins tie directly into Southern California’s agricultural heritage, when roadside markets dotted highways to sell fresh fruit, nuts, and homemade goods to travelers. Over the decades, it expanded into a sprawling destination with restaurants, craft shops, a petting zoo, and weekend entertainment, transforming from a farm stand into a cultural landmark.

Tom's Farms (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)

The site reflects a broader trend in California’s history: the blending of agriculture and tourism. As citrus groves and vineyards gave way to suburban development, places like Tom’s Farms preserved the memory of when the region’s economy was rooted in soil and sweat. Families came not only to shop but to experience an atmosphere reminiscent of Corona’s farming past.

Today, Tom’s Farms functions as both marketplace and nostalgia. Its combination of rustic charm and roadside Americana keeps alive the tradition of farm-based commerce, linking Corona’s 20th-century citrus belt to modern Southern California’s appetite for experiential destinations.

16. Nightmare at Dos Lagos

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A seasonal haunted house attraction at The Shops at Dos Lagos, featuring themed mazes, live actors, and spooky effects.
  • Address: 2780 Cabot Drive, Corona, CA 92883
  • Best time to visit: October evenings for Halloween season thrills.
  • Distance to city center: About 6 miles south of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Tickets usually $20–$30 per person.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking at Dos Lagos.
  • Accessibility: Limited accessibility due to dark, uneven paths.
  • Opening Hours: Evenings 7–11 p.m. (seasonal).
  • Closing Hours: 11 p.m.
  • Discounts / Deals: Online ticket discounts and group rates.

The Nightmare at Dos Lagos haunted attraction taps into Corona’s long tradition of community events while embracing modern entertainment trends. Located within the Dos Lagos development—land once used for citrus groves and later by the U.S. Navy during the Cold War—the haunted house reimagines historic ground as a seasonal stage for thrills and storytelling.

Haunted attractions have deep roots in American culture, dating back to early 20th-century traveling carnivals and Depression-era fundraisers. In Corona, Nightmare at Dos Lagos connects that heritage with local identity, drawing families and thrill-seekers each Halloween season. Its presence also illustrates how Dos Lagos itself, a mixed-use center built in the 2000s, has become more than retail—it is now a cultural gathering place.

Nightmare at Dos Lagos is a reminder that Corona’s history is not only agricultural or civic, but also social. From citrus festivals to auto races, from fairs to haunted houses, the city has long embraced public spectacle as part of its identity. This attraction continues that legacy, offering a modern twist on community storytelling.

17. The Pumpkin Factory

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A family-friendly fall festival with pumpkin patches, hayrides, carnival rides, and seasonal treats.
  • Address: 2780 Cabot Drive, Corona, CA 92883 (at The Shops at Dos Lagos).
  • Best time to visit: September–October during harvest season.
  • Distance to city center: About 6 miles south of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Free entry; rides and activities $1–$10.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Accessible walkways and restrooms.
  • Opening Hours: Seasonal, typically 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 9 p.m.
  • Discounts / Deals: Combo ride tickets and family packages.

The Pumpkin Factory in Corona is part of a long agricultural tradition that once defined the city’s identity. For generations, pumpkins, citrus, and other crops filled the fertile fields around the Santa Ana River basin. Seasonal harvest festivals were community highlights, reflecting the rhythms of planting and gathering that shaped everyday life in rural Southern California.

THE PUMPKIN FACTORY - Updated September 2025 - 148 Photos & 93 Reviews -  1545 Circle City Dr, Corona, California - Pumpkin Patches - Phone Number -  Yelp

The Pumpkin Factory carries that heritage into the present through agritourism. Families come for hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking—activities that echo the harvest celebrations of Corona’s farming past. These events preserve the connection between land and community even as surrounding fields have been replaced by housing tracts, freeways, and retail centers.

In many ways, The Pumpkin Factory is more than a seasonal attraction. It is a living reminder that Corona’s story begins with agriculture. By turning harvest into celebration, it keeps alive the traditions of gathering, storytelling, and community spirit that have always been at the heart of life in the “Circle City.”

18. Big Air Trampoline Park

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: An indoor trampoline and adventure park with dodgeball, foam pits, climbing walls, and slam dunk zones.
  • Address: 705 N. Main Street, Corona, CA 92880
  • Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons for fewer crowds; weekends for family outings.
  • Distance to city center: About 2 miles north of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: $15–$25 per person depending on jump time.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Accessible observation areas; trampoline activity limited.
  • Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday 3–9 p.m.; Friday 12–10 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 7–10 p.m. depending on day.
  • Discounts / Deals: Memberships, family night deals, and group packages.

The Big Air Trampoline Park represents a modern chapter in Corona’s history, where recreation and entertainment adapt to the needs of a suburban population. Indoor trampoline parks emerged nationwide in the early 2000s, offering families and young people safe, high-energy alternatives to traditional playgrounds or gyms. In Corona, Big Air reflects the city’s ongoing reinvention of space once devoted to industry and farming into hubs for leisure.

Though it may seem far removed from Corona’s agricultural or civic heritage, Big Air echoes a deeper tradition: the importance of community gathering places. Just as citrus festivals and auto races once brought residents together, trampoline parks now serve as modern meeting grounds for birthdays, youth groups, and neighborhood events.

Big Air is part of the narrative of a city that continually evolves to match the culture of its people. Where orchards once stretched and packing houses hummed, today families bounce, play, and celebrate—adding another layer to Corona’s dynamic story of transformation.

19. Ontario Park

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A local green space with open fields, walking paths, playgrounds, and shaded picnic areas.
  • Address: 2000 Ontario Avenue, Corona, CA 92882
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall for mild weather.
  • Distance to city center: About 2 miles west of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Free entry.
  • Parking: Free on-site and street parking.
  • Accessibility: Accessible playgrounds, trails, and restrooms.
  • Opening Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–10 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 10 p.m.
  • Discounts / Deals: Free community park.

Ontario Park in Corona reflects the city’s longstanding tradition of carving community green spaces from land once used for farming and ranching. Throughout the 20th century, as citrus groves and pastures gave way to residential neighborhoods, city planners recognized the importance of preserving areas for recreation and gathering. Ontario Park, with its open fields, playgrounds, and shaded corners, continues this legacy.

Lake Ontario Park (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)

The park sits within a region historically shaped by water from the Santa Ana River and irrigation systems that fueled Corona’s citrus industry. Where rows of lemon trees once stretched, families now gather for sports, picnics, and community events. In this sense, Ontario Park is a reminder of the city’s transition from agricultural hub to suburban center, while still preserving the communal values that orchards and harvest festivals once fostered.

For residents, Ontario Park is more than just a recreational site—it is part of the story of how Corona has continually adapted its land to meet the needs of its people. It embodies the city’s balance of growth and heritage, offering a slice of open space in a community that has always prized its connection to land and community life.

20. Luna Modern Mexican Kitchen

Important Information

  • Fun Fact: A popular upscale restaurant blending traditional Mexican recipes with modern twists, featuring fresh margaritas and stylish décor.
  • Address: 980 Montecito Drive, Corona, CA 92879
  • Best time to visit: Evenings for dinner and cocktails; weekends for vibrant atmosphere.
  • Distance to city center: About 3 miles northeast of downtown Corona.
  • Pricing: Entrees $15–$30; drinks $8–$12.
  • Parking: Free on-site parking.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible dining area and restrooms.
  • Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.–9 p.m.
  • Closing Hours: 9–10 p.m. depending on the day.
  • Discounts / Deals: Happy hour specials and seasonal menu promotions.

The Luna Modern Mexican Kitchen adds a culinary chapter to Corona’s cultural story. While Corona was built on agriculture—particularly citrus—the city’s growth also reflects waves of migration that brought new flavors and traditions. Mexican heritage has been central to Corona’s workforce and community since the early 20th century, when immigrant families labored in groves and packing houses, leaving a permanent imprint on local culture.

LUNA MODERN MEXICAN KITCHEN - Updated September 2025 - 2006 Photos & 2363  Reviews - 980 Montecito Dr, Corona, California - Mexican - Restaurant  Reviews - Phone Number - Menu - Yelp

Luna Modern Mexican Kitchen elevates this legacy into contemporary dining. Its menu blends traditional recipes with modern presentation, celebrating flavors that have long been part of Corona’s community fabric. The restaurant’s emphasis on atmosphere and artistry echoes a broader movement in the Inland Empire toward spaces that honor heritage while appealing to modern tastes.

For Corona, Luna is not just a restaurant but a cultural landmark. It reflects how food tells the story of place—tying today’s diners to generations of families who shaped the city. In its dishes and design, Luna embodies the ongoing narrative of Corona: rooted in tradition, yet always adapting, always modern.

Conclusion

Corona has always been a city of transformation. From its early days as the Lemon Capital of the World to its time in the spotlight as a racing hub, the city has never stood still. Yet it hasn’t lost its small-town heart either. Walk its historic Grand Boulevard, explore its parks, or catch a sunset over the Santa Ana Mountains, and you’ll see how Corona blends its past and present with ease.

What makes Corona special isn’t just its location—though being within reach of both Los Angeles and Riverside is a bonus. It’s the way the city offers balance. Here, you can trade the rush of the freeway for quiet mountain trails, swap the sprawl of SoCal for a cozy craft brewery, or let kids run free in one of the many green spaces that keep Corona rooted in community.

The best things to do in Corona, CA aren’t about flashy attractions—they’re about connection: to nature, to history, and to a way of life that still values slowing down. So next time you’re passing through, stop.

Interactive Map

Where to Eat in Corona

Restaurant Address Phone Notable Dish / Specialty
CISCo Restaurant + Bar 955 Montecito Drive, Corona, CA 92879 (951) 899-2288 Modern American fare; steaks, cocktails & upscale ambiance
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar 380 McKinley Street, Corona, CA 92879 (951) 379-3630 Gastropub comfort food; burgers, weekend brunch
Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill 2785 Lakeshore Drive, Corona, CA 92883 (951) 667-4200 Barbecue ribs & steaks; family friendly
Reunion Kitchen + Drink 2765 Lakeshore Drive, Corona, CA 92883 (951) 412-5246 Eclectic menu & cocktails; social dining vibe
Thai E-San Cuisine, Inc. 4300 Green River Road, Ste. 118, Corona, CA 92880 (951) 736-2842 Authentic Thai cuisine
Pokeport Corona 2150 California Avenue, Ste. 105, Corona, CA 92881 (951) 268-6608 Poke bowls & Hawaiian fare
Graziano's Corona Restaurant 333 Magnolia Avenue, Corona, CA 92879 (951) 734-8500 Italian & steakhouse classics
All Star Drafts Sports Bar & Grill 2785 Cabot Drive, Ste. 110, Corona, CA 92883 (951) 638-5757 Sports bar fare: wings, burgers & beers on tap

Corona Vs Other California Cities

Metric Corona, CA Riverside, CA Irvine, CA Anaheim, CA
Population (2023-2025 est.) ~160,000 ~330,000 ~310,000 ~350,000
Median Household Income $106,438 ~$70,000 ~$105,000-$110,000 ~$80,000
Per Capita Income $53,598 ~$32,000-$35,000 ~$45,000-$50,000 ~$32,000-$35,000
Median Home / Property Value $656,500-$785,000 ~$600,000 >$1,000,000 in many neighborhoods ~$750,000
Median Rent $2,136/month ~$1,900-$2,200 ~$2,700-$3,500 ~$2,400-$2,700
Average Commute Time ~35 minutes ~30-35 minutes ~30 minutes or less ~35 minutes
Poverty Rate ~9.06% ~14-16% ~7-8% ~12-14%
Homeownership Rate ~63.4% ~60-65% ~70-75% ~60-65%
Vibe & Role Suburban, residential with industrial components, moderately high income, part of Inland Empire Lower cost, more mixed income, growing Affluent, tech-oriented, high demand Tourism / entertainment component, more densely urban in parts

How to Get to Corona

By Air

  • Ontario International Airport (ONT) – Closest airport, about 20 miles north of Corona (~25 minutes by car). Good for domestic and some international flights.
  • John Wayne Airport (SNA) – Around 35 miles southwest (~40 minutes). Convenient for Orange County connections.
  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – About 60 miles west (~1 to 1.5 hours, traffic dependent). Major hub with global connections.

By Train

  • Metrolink commuter rail serves Corona with two stations:
    • Corona–North Main Station (on Main St.)
    • Corona–West Station (on Auto Center Dr.)
  • Lines connect Corona to Los Angeles Union Station, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange County, making train travel a convenient option.

By Bus

  • Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) operates local and regional bus routes in and around Corona.
  • Greyhound and FlixBus serve nearby Riverside and Anaheim, with transfers into Corona via local buses or rideshare.

By Car

  • From Los Angeles: Take I-10 East or I-5 South to CA-91 East into Corona (~1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic).
  • From Orange County: Take CA-55 North to CA-91 East (~40 minutes).
  • From Riverside: Take CA-91 West (~15–20 minutes).
  • From San Diego: Drive I-15 North to CA-91 West (~1.5 hours).

FAQ

1. Is Corona, CA a good place to live?

Corona is often seen as a desirable suburban community within the Inland Empire. It offers family-friendly neighborhoods, strong schools in many areas, and proximity to both Orange County and Los Angeles. The city has extensive parks, shopping centers, and newer housing developments. On the flip side, freeway traffic, especially along the 91 corridor, can be heavy, making commuting difficult. Overall, it’s a popular choice for families seeking more affordable housing than coastal cities while staying near job hubs.

2. How expensive is it to live in Corona?

Living in Corona is more affordable than nearby Orange County cities like Irvine or Anaheim, but it’s still costly compared to much of the U.S. Median home prices range from the mid-$600,000s to over $750,000 depending on the neighborhood, and median rent is above $2,000 per month. Groceries, utilities, and gas are close to California averages. Many residents accept higher costs in exchange for newer suburban developments, good schools, and the convenience of being close to both Inland Empire and coastal jobs.

3. What is the job market like in Corona?

Corona’s job market is diverse, with major employers in healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and retail. Its location along I-15 and CA-91 makes it attractive for distribution centers and warehouses. Many residents, however, commute to jobs in Orange County or Los Angeles. Remote work has made Corona more appealing for professionals seeking suburban space while keeping coastal jobs. Wages are solid in logistics and healthcare, but for tech or higher-paying industries, residents often look outside the city for opportunities.

4. What is there to do in Corona?

Corona offers a mix of outdoor recreation and family-friendly entertainment. Popular attractions include Eagle Glen Golf Club, Dos Lagos outdoor shopping and dining complex, and numerous hiking trails in the nearby Cleveland National Forest. Families enjoy sports complexes, parks, and community festivals. For nightlife or cultural events, many residents head to Orange County or Los Angeles. Corona’s brewery and dining scene has been growing, with local restaurants offering both casual and upscale options, making it a balanced but quieter lifestyle.

5. Is Corona safe?

Corona is considered relatively safe compared to many other Inland Empire cities. Most neighborhoods are suburban, with low to moderate crime rates. Property crime occurs in busy commercial areas, but violent crime rates are below the national average. Gated communities and newer developments tend to be very safe, and the city invests in community policing and neighborhood watch programs. As with any city, safety varies by neighborhood, so prospective residents often research specific areas before moving.

6. How is traffic and commuting in Corona?

Traffic is one of the city’s biggest challenges. The CA-91 freeway, which connects Corona to Orange County and Los Angeles, is often congested during rush hours. Many residents report long commute times, sometimes over an hour. However, Metrolink commuter rail provides an alternative, with two Corona stations offering direct service to Los Angeles, Riverside, and Orange County. Locally, roads are manageable, but anyone planning to work outside Corona should factor traffic heavily into their decision.

7. What kind of lifestyle can I expect in Corona?

Corona offers a suburban, family-oriented lifestyle with a growing mix of cultures. It has modern housing, good schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation like hiking, golf, and parks. Residents enjoy quieter living compared to dense coastal cities, while still being close enough to visit Orange County beaches, Disneyland, or Los Angeles attractions. It’s popular with families, commuters, and retirees seeking value and comfort, though it’s less appealing for those wanting a fast-paced, urban lifestyle.

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Emily Carter

With over 10 years of experience, Emily is a seasoned expert in planning bespoke tours across the United States and Canada, with a specialization in eco-tourism and adventure travel.