Forget everything you think you know about winter getaways. This year, trade the snow shovels and heavy coats for mild, sunny days and vibrant, local charm. Welcome to Corona, California, your perfect Southern California winter escape.
Picture this: crisp, clear mornings perfect for a scenic hike, followed by afternoons filled with unique local flavors and unexpected adventures, all without the bone-chilling cold.
The secret’s out—Corona is the winter destination you didn’t know you needed. From hidden culinary gems to stunning outdoor spaces, we’ve scoured the city to bring you the 14 best spots to visit in Corona this season.
Get ready to explore a side of the Inland Empire that will make you want to extend your stay.
1. Get Your Heart Pumping on a Corona Scavenger Hunt Adventure
Ready to see the city from a whole new angle? Ditch the standard tour bus and dive into a royalty-themed app-based scavenger hunt. This isn’t your childhood board game. Think of it as an interactive adventure that turns the streets of Corona into your personal playground.
You’ll solve quirky puzzles, uncover fun facts, and race (or leisurely stroll) to find hidden gems you’d completely miss on your own.
It’s a fantastic, engaging way for a group of friends or a family to spend a winter afternoon when the weather is just right—cool enough to be comfortable but sunny enough to ditch the jacket.
These hunts, like the popular “Florence Joyner Olympiad Park Scavenger Hunt: Olympiad’s Race of a Lifetime,” often start from local parks or landmarks.
You use your smartphone to navigate, making it a breeze to follow. Imagine the laughter as your team debates a clue or the triumph of checking another location off your digital list.
It’s part tour, part game, and all fun. This is one of the most unique things to do in Corona, transforming a simple walk into a memorable story you’ll tell for ages.
2. Savor a Cozy Meal at the Green River Cafe
After all that adventuring, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Make a beeline for the Green River Cafe, a beloved local spot that feels like a warm hug.
This isn’t a flashy chain restaurant; it’s the kind of place where the staff remembers your name and the menu is packed with fresh, satisfying classics.
They’re famous for a cozy atmosphere where you can truly relax, and their menu thoughtfully includes vegetarian and seasonal options to please everyone at your table.
Whether you’re craving a massive, hearty breakfast to start your day of exploring or a flavorful lunch to refuel, this cafe has you covered.
Reviewers rave about dishes like the Huevos Rancheros and consistently praise the friendly, attentive service. Open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily, it’s your reliable go-to for any meal.
Pull up a chair, order a cup of their coffee, and soak in the local vibe. Finding a place like this is what makes a winter trip to Corona so special—it’s authentic, welcoming, and downright delicious.
3. Discover Family Fun at Scandia Amusement Park
Thrills and laughter are always in season! For a dose of classic, lighthearted fun, head to Scandia Family Fun Center. This spot is a fantastic choice for a family outing in Corona, offering a bunch of activities bundled into one convenient location.
We’re talking mini-golf courses with fun themes, exciting go-kart tracks for a little friendly competition, bumper boats, and arcade games galore. It’s the perfect recipe for a day where kids can burn off energy and adults can feel like kids again.
The beauty of visiting Scandia in the winter is the crowd—or lack thereof. You’ll often find shorter lines and a more relaxed pace than during the busy summer months.
The Southern California winter sun usually cooperates, providing a brilliantly sunny yet comfortable day to be outside playing a round of mini-golf.
It’s a cornerstone for family fun in Corona and a guaranteed way to put a smile on everyone’s face. Don’t forget to trade in those arcade tickets for a silly prize before you leave!
4. Experience the Excitement of Silverlakes Park
Calling all sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts! Silverlakes Equestrian and Sports Park is a massive, state-of-the-art complex that’s more than just fields. In the winter, this place is buzzing with energy. It hosts everything from premier soccer and lacrosse tournaments to equestrian events.
Even if you’re not there for a specific game, it’s worth a visit just to feel the vibe and see the impressive scale of the facilities.
Walking around Silverlakes, you get a real sense of Corona’s active community spirit. You can grab a bite from a food truck, watch talented athletes in action, and enjoy the wide-open skies.
The park represents a modern side of Corona’s outdoor attractions, showing how the city has become a hub for major sporting events. Check their schedule before you go; you might just catch a thrilling championship match under the crisp winter sky.
5. Unwind and Get Pampered at Glen Ivy Hot Springs
Sometimes, the best part of a getaway is giving yourself permission to fully unwind. A short, scenic drive from Corona will lead you to the legendary Glen Ivy Hot Springs.
While not directly in Corona, it’s a beloved and iconic destination so close that no visit to the area is complete without considering it. This is your ultimate winter wellness retreat in Southern California.
Imagine sinking into a warm, mineral-rich grotto pool as the cool air brushes your face—it’s pure magic.
The spa offers a full day of relaxation with various pools, including the famous Club Mud where you can cover yourself in nourishing red clay. The winter season is arguably the best time to experience hot springs.
The contrast between the warm water and the cool, fresh air is incredibly invigorating. It’s a day dedicated to tranquility and self-care, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. For a truly special experience during your Corona winter vacation, this detour is an absolute must.
6. Cheer on the Action at Auto Club Speedway
Feel the need for speed? The Auto Club Speedway is the largest sports venue in Southern California and the heart-pounding home of NASCAR in the region. Winter is a great time to experience the sheer spectacle of a live race.
The roar of the engines, the smell of racing fuel, and the sight of cars blurring past at over 200 miles per hour is an unforgettable experience. Check their event calendar, as they host thrilling races and other exciting events throughout the season.
Even if you’re not a die-hard racing fan, the electric atmosphere is contagious. It’s a classic piece of American culture right in Corona’s backyard.
Pack some layers for the evening, bring your sunglasses for the day, and get ready for an adrenaline-filled outing. A day at the Speedway is a definitive entry on any list of top attractions near Corona, CA and a memory that will stick with you long after you head home.
7. Connect with Nature on a Guided Hike
Corona’s natural backyard is full of surprises, and what better way to discover them than with a local expert? The city’s Community Services Department frequently organizes guided hikes that focus on the area’s unique ecology.
Past hikes have had delightful themes like “Fawn-ing over Corona’s Deer!” and “All About Coyotes,” offering a fascinating look at local wildlife. These hikes are typically free or low-cost and are a wonderful way to meet both locals and fellow visitors.
Winter is the prime season for hiking in Southern California. The trails are green from seasonal rains, the temperatures are ideal for exercise, and the air is crystal clear, often offering stunning views.
Participating in a guided hike transforms a simple walk into an educational adventure. You’ll learn about the native plants, animal tracks, and the history of the land.
It’s a peaceful, rewarding way to spend a morning and is undoubtedly one of the best outdoor activities in Corona for nature lovers.
8. Spark Creativity at the Corona Public Library’s Maker Exchange
For a burst of creativity and hands-on learning, step into the Corona Public Library. But this isn’t just a place for quiet reading. They host an incredible program called the Maker Exchange. This is a free, communal space where you can explore technology, arts, and crafts.
It’s a brilliantly engaging activity for a rainy winter day or for anyone with a curious mind. You might find yourself tinkering with 3D printers, learning a new craft, or collaborating on a fun project.
The library schedules these sessions regularly, often in the afternoons and evenings. It’s a testament to Corona’s investment in its community, providing resources and space for people to create and connect.
Whether you’re a lifelong maker or just want to try something new, the Maker Exchange is a unique and inspiring stop. It shows that the best places to visit in Corona aren’t always the biggest or loudest—sometimes, they’re the ones that spark a new idea.
9. Tap into Local History at the Route 66 Museum
Take a drive down memory lane on the iconic “Mother Road.” While the main stretch of Historic Route 66 runs right through the Inland Empire, its spirit is captured perfectly at the nearby Route 66 Museum.
This museum is a vibrant tribute to the highway that defined American road trip culture. As you walk through the exhibits, you’ll see vintage gas station signs, classic cars, and nostalgic memorabilia that tell the story of hope, adventure, and the open road.
Visiting in the winter gives you a quieter, more reflective experience. You can take your time imagining the countless families and travelers who once passed this way, seeking new beginnings in California.
It’s a fun and educational pit stop that adds a rich layer of history to your trip. For anyone looking to add a slice of classic Americana to their winter itinerary for Corona, CA, this museum is a fascinating destination.
10. Enjoy a Day of Play at Castle Amusement Park
Unleash your inner child at Castle Amusement Park. This local favorite is another fantastic spot for family-friendly fun in Corona.
With a charming castle theme, it offers a variety of rides suitable for different ages, from gentle spins for the little ones to more exciting attractions for thrill-seekers. Like its counterpart Scandia, it also features arcade games and classic carnival-style snacks.
A winter visit means you can enjoy all the fun without the intense summer heat. The park often has a cheerful, festive atmosphere during the season, making it an even more joyful place to spend an afternoon.
It’s the kind of straightforward, happy entertainment that creates lasting memories. Watching your kids’ faces light up on a ride or winning a giant stuffed animal are the simple, perfect moments that define a great family vacation.
11. Find Your Center at a Community Yoga or Fitness Class
Want to stay balanced and energized while on the road? Look into the many community classes offered in Corona. The Corona Public Library and local community centers are hubs for wellness activities.
While specific winter schedules vary, these venues regularly host everything from adaptive art classes and story hours for kids to book clubs and computer skills sessions for adults. The principle is the same: connecting the community through shared interests.
Joining a local class, even just for a session, is a wonderful way to feel like a temporary local. It’s healthy, it’s social, and it adds a nice routine to your travel days.
Imagine starting a sunny California morning with a gentle yoga class in a park or learning a new skill alongside Corona residents.
It’s these authentic experiences that move your trip from being a simple tourist outing to a genuine Corona winter escape.
12. Explore the Shops and Eats at Corona’s Local Markets
No visit is complete without a little shopping and sampling. While the search results didn’t list a specific winter market, Corona and the surrounding Inland Empire have a vibrant scene of farmers’ markets and local artisan fairs.
These often continue year-round, moving indoors or to covered spaces during the cooler months. A quick online search for “Corona winter farmers market” before your trip will point you in the right direction.
Winter markets are a treasure trove of seasonal produce like citrus, root vegetables, and hearty greens. You’ll also find unique, handcrafted gifts—perfect for taking a piece of California home with you.
Strolling through a market, chatting with farmers and makers, and tasting fresh samples is a leisurely and delightful way to spend a morning. It connects you directly to the land and the people, making it a truly local experience.
13. Take a Scenic Drive Through the Corona Hills
Sometimes, the journey itself is the destination. Corona is nestled among beautiful, rolling hills, and one of the most relaxing things you can do is simply go for a drive. Plot a course on your map that takes you along roads like Green River Road or into the surrounding neighborhoods.
You’ll be treated to stunning views of the valley, impressive homes, and the unique, golden-brown landscape that defines a Southern California winter.
Pull over at a safe viewpoint, roll down the windows, and just breathe in the fresh air. You might spot hawks circling overhead or see the way the afternoon sun lights up the grassy hillsides.
This quiet, simple activity costs nothing but gives you everything: peace, perspective, and a true sense of the area’s natural beauty. It’s a perfect counterbalance to days filled with activities and a must-do for any Southern California winter escape.
14. Cap Off Your Trip with a Sweet Local Treat
You’ve earned it! End your Corona adventure on a sweet note by seeking out a legendary local dessert spot. While specific bakeries weren’t listed in the search results, every California town has its iconic ice cream parlor, doughnut shop, or bakery.
Ask a local where they go for a birthday cake or a weekend treat. You might discover a family-owned shop famous for its old-fashioned glazed doughnuts or a trendy cafe serving artisanal ice cream with wild, local flavors.
This final, sweet stop is more than just a snack; it’s a celebration of your trip. Sharing a milkshake or splitting a giant cookie is a moment of pure joy.
It’s the delicious period at the end of the sentence of your winter getaway. Finding that perfect, mouthwatering treat is a fun little quest that ensures your exploration of the best places to visit in Corona ends with a smile.
Conclusion
As you can see, Corona, California, is far more than a quick stop on the map. It’s a vibrant community with a fantastic mix of heart-pounding adventure, serene natural beauty, rich history, and cozy local charm.
Winter unlocks its full potential, offering perfect weather for everything from scavenger hunts and hiking to relaxing by a pool or cheering at a raceway.
So, what are you waiting for? The sunny, mild days and these unforgettable experiences won’t last forever. Start planning your Corona winter getaway today.
Check event calendars for the specific dates of your trip, make a dinner reservation at the Green River Cafe, and pack your bags for a Southern California escape that’s anything but ordinary. Your perfect winter story begins in Corona