Where exactly is UC Riverside located?

Hey guys, I'm a rising junior doing preliminary research on colleges and UC Riverside caught my attention. I'm not from CA and was hoping someone could give some insights about where exactly it's located? I'm curious about the city's lifestyle, climate, surrounding attractions etc. Any response would be so helpful, thanks!

UC Riverside is located in the city of Riverside, California. It's situated in the Inland Empire metropolitan area of Southern California, which is about 55 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. The campus is in a suburban setting and is conveniently located near major highways, which makes it fairly easy to travel to places like Los Angeles, Orange County, and Palm Springs.

Riverside is known for its warm, Mediterranean-like climate. Summers are hot and dry, averaging high temperatures around 90°F to 100°F, while winters are mild, rarely falling below 40°F. The city receives a fair amount of sunshine throughout the year with low rainfall, mostly occurring during the winter months.

As for lifestyle, Riverside offers a mix of urban and suburban living. The city is rich in history and culture and offers several attractions such as the historic Mission Inn, Riverside Art Museum, and the California Citrus State Historic Park, which pays tribute to the role citrus played in California's development. It's also home to various food festivals, art walks, and cultural events throughout the year.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to several hiking trails, parks, and the Box Springs Mountain Reserve. If you're a beach person, you're in luck because Southern California's renowned beaches can be reached within an hour or two.

For shopping and dining, there are numerous shopping centers and a range of food options that cater to different taste buds in Riverside. This coupled with the strong community feel and diversity makes it an interesting city to be a part of as a student.

It's always a good idea to visit if you can, to get a sense of the campus vibe and the city itself. You can also take a virtual tour available on the university's website.