Campus & Community
The Riverside Community
Becoming a student at UCR means becoming a member of the Riverside campus community, the community of greater Riverside, and of Inland Southern California.
About the City
The City of Riverside is an exciting, diverse, urban center with a population of 270,000. It’s the largest city in one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States. With its beautiful, historic downtown – anchored by the world famous Mission Inn Hotel – it is a multi-faceted hub of arts and culture.
Find out about things to do, the city’s thriving arts community, community service opportunities, and more!
To help get you acclimated to the Riverside community, the Mayor’s Office has put together the Stomping Grounds Student Guide. This guide is a window to a Riverside you never knew existed. Figure out where to eat, plan a shopping expedition, see a movie, or just step out of your dorm room to socialize with friends who, like you, are ready to explore the excitement of Riverside. Get your copy here!
Riding, Driving and Parking
Getting Around
The Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) provides public transportation for Western Riverside County, operating 39 fixed routes, seven commuter routes and 15 demand response services. RTA's service area spans 2,500 square miles, the second-largest in the nation.
Get bus route and schedule information
Transportation & Parking at UCR
Transportation & Parking Services (TAPS) is the place to go if you plan to have a car at UCR or would like to have information on public transportation, TAPS can help you:
- Get parking permits
- Find schedules for the Highlander Shuttle
- Find RTA routes
- View employment opportunities
- Pay parking citations
- Learn about alternative transportation, including carpooling
Our Campus Transit Services team provides the Braveheart Shuttle, Trolley Express, Metrolink, and the midnight Bear Runner shuttle free of charge to students, faculty, and staff.
Visitor Information
Have relatives visiting from out of town? The Riverside Visitor Information Web site can help. Make hotel reservations, find out airport information, and get restaurant tips.
