Discover Lake Elsinore: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Introduction

Located in Southern California, Lake Elsinore is a charming city that offers something for everyone. From outdoor adventures to cultural immersion, this city has it all. In this travel guide, we will take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, family-friendly activities, and much more. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Lake Elsinore like a local.

Top Attractions

Lake Elsinore

The city of Lake Elsinore is named after the picturesque lake that sits in the center of town. This lake is the perfect place to spend a day fishing, boating, or picnicking. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and pelicans.

Skydive Elsinore

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Skydive Elsinore is the place to go. This skydiving center offers tandem jumps, solo jumps, and even skydiving lessons. The views from the plane are breathtaking, and the rush of jumping out of the plane is unforgettable.

Ortega Falls

If you’re looking for a beautiful hike, Ortega Falls is a great choice. This 0.8-mile hike takes you through a lush canyon to a stunning waterfall. The hike is easy enough for beginners, but the scenery is impressive enough to satisfy even the most experienced hiker.

Hidden Gems

Ortega Highway

Ortega Highway is a scenic route that takes you through the mountains from Lake Elsinore to San Juan Capistrano. The drive is breathtaking, with stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Along the way, you’ll find hidden gems like the candy store in the small town of El Cariso and the historic El Adobe de Capistrano restaurant.

DeJong’s Dairy

DeJong’s Dairy is a family-owned dairy farm that has been operating for over 100 years. The farm offers tours where you can see cows being milked, pet baby calves, and even try some of their delicious ice cream.

The Diamond Stadium

The Diamond Stadium is home to the Lake Elsinore Storm, a minor league baseball team. The stadium is small and intimate, making it a great place to catch a game. Plus, the views of the mountains in the background are stunning.

Food Scene

La Unica Mexican Market

La Unica Mexican Market is a small grocery store that also serves amazing Mexican food. Their carne asada tacos and burritos are a must-try, and their homemade salsa is addictive.

Lake Elsinore Brewery

The Lake Elsinore Brewery is a local brewery that serves delicious craft beer and pub food. Their burgers and fries are a crowd favorite, and their IPA is a must-try for beer lovers.

El Comal Mexican Restaurant

El Comal Mexican Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant that serves authentic Mexican food. Their chile rellenos and mole dishes are a must-try, and their margaritas are the perfect way to cool off on a hot day.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Hiking Trails

Lake Elsinore has a variety of free hiking trails that offer stunning views of the mountains and lake. Some of the best free trails include the Santa Ana River Trail and the El Cariso Nature Trail.

Free Concerts in the Park

During the summer months, Lake Elsinore hosts a series of free concerts in the park. Bring a blanket and a picnic, and enjoy some live music under the stars.

Happy Hour Deals

Many of the local restaurants and bars in Lake Elsinore offer happy hour deals. Check out places like Main Street Kitchen and Tap and The Lookout Roadhouse for discounted drinks and appetizers.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Outlets at Lake Elsinore

The Outlets at Lake Elsinore is a shopping center that offers a variety of stores and restaurants. They also have a play area for kids, making it the perfect place to spend a family afternoon.

Storm Stadium

In addition to baseball games, Storm Stadium also hosts a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year. Check their website for events like movie nights on the field and fireworks shows.

Exploring the Lake

Exploring the lake is a fun activity for the whole family. Rent a boat or kayak and spend the day on the water. You can also fish off the pier or have a picnic on the shore.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Adrenaline Junkie Jet Boats

Adrenaline Junkie Jet Boats offers a unique experience where you can ride in a jet boat that spins and jumps over waves. It’s a thrilling ride that is sure to get your heart pumping.

Orange Empire Railway Museum

The Orange Empire Railway Museum is a hidden gem that is worth a visit. The museum has a collection of over 200 historic railway cars and locomotives, and you can even take a ride on a vintage train.

Skull Canyon Zipline

If you’re looking for a unique way to see the mountains, Skull Canyon Zipline is a great option. The zipline takes you over the canyon at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour.

Natural Wonders

Ortega Falls

As mentioned earlier, Ortega Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is worth a visit. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is the perfect place for a picnic or a hike.

Mount San Jacinto State Park

Mount San Jacinto State Park is a stunning park that offers hiking trails, camping, and breathtaking views of the mountains. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the top for even more stunning views.

Joshua Tree National Park

While not technically in Lake Elsinore, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-see natural wonder that is only a short drive away. The park is home to unique rock formations and the iconic Joshua Trees.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Lookout Roadhouse

The Lookout Roadhouse is a bar and restaurant that offers live music and a fun atmosphere. Their outdoor patio has stunning views of the mountains, making it the perfect place to watch the sunset with a drink in hand.

Lake Elsinore Casino

The Lake Elsinore Casino is a local casino that offers table games, poker, and a sports bar. They also have live music and events throughout the year.

The Diamond Club

The Diamond Club is a sports bar that is located inside The Diamond Stadium. They offer a variety of drinks and pub food, and you can watch the game on their large TVs.

Local Markets

Lake Elsinore Farmers Market

The Lake Elsinore Farmers Market is held every Saturday and offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. It’s a great place to stock up on local goodies.

Old Town Temecula Farmers Market

The Old Town Temecula Farmers Market is a bit of a drive from Lake Elsinore, but it’s worth it. The market is held every Saturday and has a variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Lake Elsinore Outlet Market

The Lake Elsinore Outlet Market is held every Sunday and offers a variety of vendors selling everything from antiques to jewelry. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs.

Beaches and Mountains

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is a beautiful beach town that is only a short drive from Lake Elsinore. The beach has stunning views and a charming downtown area with shops and restaurants.

Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is a mountain town that offers skiing, hiking, and stunning views of the lake. It’s a great place to visit in the winter or summer.

Newport Beach

Newport Beach is a popular beach town that has a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions. The beach is beautiful, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy.

Cultural Immersion

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a historic hotel that is located in nearby Riverside. The hotel has stunning architecture and a rich history. Take a tour of the hotel or indulge in a spa treatment.