Top Attractions for First-Timers
With a blend of outdoor spaces, historic sites, shopping centers, and family fun, Corona is easy to explore. Here are some top spots and activities I recommend checking out during your first visit:
Prado Regional Park
Spanning over 900 acres, Prado Regional Park is one of the largest urban parks in Southern California. It’s nestled right next to Lake Mathews and offers everything from hiking trails to fishing spots to campgrounds, an archery range, and disc golf course. The nature center and butterfly garden are sure to dazzle the kids. Prado Regional Park makes an excellent home base for outdoor exploration.
Corona Historic Park and Museum
Corona’s Historic Park and Museum brings our local history to life through historic buildings, antique citrus machinery, and learning exhibits. Stroll through the Lemon Packing House, Carriage House, Schoolhouse, and Blacksmith Shop to immerse yourself in Corona’s early frontier and agricultural days. The museum also hosts special community events and programs, so check their calendar during your stay.
The Shops at Dos Lagos
When you need a break from Corona’s sunny outdoors, spend an afternoon inside this large air-conditioned shopping center. The Shops at Dos Lagos has over 120 stores ranging from department stores like Macy’s to unique boutiques. You’ll also find a lively dining terrace with restaurants serving up everything from juicy burgers to sushi. It’s one of the top shopping and dining destinations in Corona.
Corona Crossings
Right off the 91 Freeway, Corona Crossings boasts major department stores like Target, Ross, Marshalls, all connected by a vibrant outdoor shopping promenade. The center also features a Regal Edwards movie theater, so you can catch the latest film after a day of hunting for bargains. With over 85 stores and restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find something.
Main Street Pedestrian Mall
Take an afternoon stroll down Main Street’s charming pedestrian walking mall in Downtown Corona. You’ll get a taste of Corona’s historic architecture while browsing cute boutiques, ice cream shops, cafes, and restaurants housed in early 20th-century buildings. Don’t miss stopping by the Corona Theater marquee, the only surviving theater from 1915 along Route 66.
Tom’s Farms
Embrace Corona’s agricultural heritage with a stop at Tom’s Farms, a working family farm founded in 1968. It’s open daily for folks to pick their own produce, shop for farm-fresh eggs and seasonal fruits and veggies, or snack on treats like fresh donuts, ice cream, and pies. Kids will love visiting the animals in the small petting farm outside. Stop by Tom’s for a quintessential taste of Corona’s roots!
How to Get Around Corona
Beyond deciding what to do, you’ll also need to think about transportation. Corona doesn’t have extensive public transit, so most visitors get around by car, taxi/rideshare, or charter bus. Here’s a quick rundown of each option:
Public Transportation
Corona’s public bus system is operated by the Riverside Transit Agency (RTA). The most useful routes for visitors are the 204 and 208 buses that run through major corridors like Sixth Street, Ontario Avenue, and Main Street. However, buses only run once every 30-60 minutes, so they’re best for short point-to-point trips, not all-day exploration.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis can be convenient but pricey for getting around Corona. Uber and Lyft are more affordable rideshare options; however, rides are not always available immediately in Corona and you may face surge pricing during busy times. With rideshares, you also have to coordinate multiple vehicles and don’t travel as a group.
Charter Buses
For family vacations, student field trips, senior tours, and other group travel, I highly recommend renting a charter bus! Charter buses allow your whole group to stick together in one comfortable vehicle while a professional team navigates Corona’s roads and transportation logistics. You can relax, save money on gas, avoid traffic, and focus on the fun!
Ready to Get Started?
I hope this insider’s guide gets you excited about everything Corona has in store! With beautiful scenery, historic sites, dining, shopping, and more, our city offers something for everyone. Next, all you need to do is book a charter bus rental for seamless transportation around Corona! We’d love to help your group explore Corona in comfort and style! Our experienced team at Corona Party Bus Company can match you with the perfect charter bus rental for your trip. Whether you need a mini coach bus for a small group tour or a spacious 56-passenger bus for a large outing, we’ve got you covered. All our charter buses feature luxury amenities like reclining seats, WiFi, TVs, and more to make your travels fun and stress-free. Ready to request a group charter bus quote? Call Corona Party Bus Company today at 909-321-6105 or submit the short form on our website. Let us handle the transportation details so you can focus on making wonderful memories. We look forward to helping your group charter a bus and discover the best of Corona!