Sometimes, lesser known cities make the best weekend getaways because you can explore everything and get the most out of the city in a lesser amount of time. With convenient transportation options, it’s not difficult to visit the city’s major tourist attractions and discover the hidden gems that Perris has to offer.

Orange Empire Railway Museum. If you’ve got a passion for trains and all things locomotive, the Orange Empire Railway Museum is bound to impress you. The museum is home to the West’s largest and most expansive collection of railway related artifacts, with some of their items dating back to the 1870’s. Explore collections of railway locomotives, freight cars, passenger cars, interurban electric cars and more, or hop on the working streetcars, trains and electric cars on the museum’s railway. With over 200 streetcars and railway vehicles to explore and discover, there’s no doubt that visitors will get transported back in time to experience the early days of diesel, steam and electric railway travel.

Perris Auto Speedway. You don’t have to look further than Perris to visit a state-of-the-art racetrack. Built in 1996, the Perris Auto Speedway is a half-mile clay oval track with a raised back to allow all spectators a chance to catch all the action. A multitude of races take place at the Perris Auto Speedway with race cars of all kinds speeding down its tracks. From USAC and CRA Sprint Cars to more affordable American Factory Stocks, each race fills the speedway with a vibe that can only be described as electric. The speedway is located on the Lake Perris Fairgrounds and is just an hour’s drive from both Los Angeles and San Diego.

Lake Perris State Recreation Area. Open seven days a week, the Lake Perris State Recreation Area is an incredible place to visit in Perris for outdoor activities and the use of recreational facilities. Those who want a day frolicking in the water can head to Bernasconi Beach, while individuals who want to test their strength and mettle can spend some time at the Big Rock climbing area. Boating is another fun activity to participate in as the lake’s surface can accommodate roughly 450 vessels. Don’t forget to spot as many of the endemic wildlife as you can and to explore the many trails that wind around the Lake Perris State Recreation Area.

Perris Valley Historical Museum. Dedicated to gathering, protecting and preserving the history of the Perris Valley, the Perris Valley Historical Museum maintains a collection of artifacts, historical art, cultural art and natural science within their beautiful brick home on West 4th Street. Guests are welcome to peruse the museum’s exhibit at their own time and pace or participate in guided tours that offer inside information about many of the objects in the museum’s permanent collection. In addition to well curated exhibits, visitors to the Perris Valley Historical Museum can also participate in events that foster community building and partnership with other art and history loving individuals.