California Citrus State Historic park
California Citrus State Historic Park is a 248-acre park located in Riverside, CA, that was established in 1915 to preserve the history of the citrus industry in the state. The park is home to a vast collection of citrus trees and artifacts, as well as historical buildings that tell the story of the industry's growth and development over time.
The park features a museum that provides visitors with a wealth of information about the history of citrus in California. The museum features a wide range of exhibits that highlight the industry's importance to the state's economy and culture, as well as its impact on the development of the state's agricultural industry.
One of the park's most notable attractions is the Citrus Variety Collection, which includes over 1,000 different varieties of citrus trees from all over the world. The collection provides visitors with a unique opportunity to see and taste a wide variety of citrus fruits, including many rare and unusual varieties that are not commonly found in grocery stores.
The park also features several historical buildings that have been preserved to showcase the history of the citrus industry in California. These include the Citrus Experiment Station, which was established in 1907 to conduct research on citrus crops and was instrumental in the development of new varieties of citrus fruits that helped to drive the industry's growth. Other historic buildings on the site include a packing house, a bunkhouse, and a barn, all of which provide visitors with a glimpse into the daily lives of citrus workers during the industry's early years.
In addition to its historical and cultural significance, California Citrus State Historic Park is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation. The park features several miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as picnic areas, playgrounds, and a visitor center with educational exhibits and programs.
One of the park's most popular events is the annual Citrus Heritage Festival, which takes place every spring and celebrates the rich history and culture of the citrus industry in California. The festival features live music, food vendors, educational exhibits, and activities for all ages.
Overall, California Citrus State Historic Park is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a wealth of information about the history of the citrus industry in California. With its vast collection of citrus trees, historical buildings, and educational exhibits, the park provides a unique glimpse into the industry's growth and development over time and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in California's rich agricultural history.