Mission Inn Hotel in Riverside

When I approached a new city, I usually had a specific address entered into the GPS so I wouldn't waste time and gas wandering around. Upon arriving in Riverside, I had no specific destination. I was not to meet my childhood friend, Evon, until the next morning for breakfast, and even though she insisted I stay with her, I was strongly pulled to stay in a hotel. I had no idea where her work was located, which was where we would meet the next day. My GPS lead me to the downtown area. I drove around taking it all in and soon drove past a beautiful building. I felt compelled to get out and explore.

As I walked up, I discovered it was a hotel; the Mission Inn Hotel. The grounds were stunning, especially late at night and lit up. I parked and went in to see if it might be within my budget, knowing it wasn't. To my pure joy, they offered me a deal that was cheaper than the Holiday Inn I had stayed in earlier this week. What a gift! I took the room, dropped off my bags, and set out on a three hour adventure exploring every nook and cranny of the hotel.

It is the most stunning building I have ever seen and the authentic beauty, history, and architecture took my breath for most of those three hours. Every window, door, gate, hallway, and corner is a stunning visual delight rich in historical charm - and the history dates back to 1876. It is not a fictional theme hotel that can be found in cities across the country. This is the real deal and it is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. And by coincidence, Evon's work was merely a block from where I stayed, and the Mission Inn Hotel is where she intended to take me for breakfast. I hope she can forgive me for not staying with her.

Evon

Next time you're anywhere near Riverside, you must stay at the Mission Inn Hotel: http://www.missioninn.com/hotel-history.htm

http://www.missioninn.com/