No. There are admission fees. During the Festival of Lights, tour tickets’ price is around $25 for 12 and above. For children aged 3 to 11, the tickets cost $10, especially if you make reservations after 3 PM. But if you go to the Mission Inn earlier, you can cut costs and save some cash from the admission fees. For 12 and older, the ticket only costs $20. For 3 to 11-year-old children, the ticket is available at only $5.
For the parking spot, it costs $7. If you want to explore other attractions within the Mission Inn Hotel aside from the Festival of Lights, it is advisable to bring extra cash to avoid inconvenience.
Mission Inn started its Festival of Lights as a gift to the community. No one has thought it would be part of the tradition of many people’s Christmas celebration in Riverside and other corners of South California.
In 2017 alone, the Mission Inn Festival of Lights recorded approximately 750,00 visitors to witness the switch-on ceremony. Over 43% of those spent an average of $701 per pair during their stay in the hotel.
With the partnership of the city’s officials, the Mission Inn Festival of Lights has become a holiday destination for out of town visitors and locals. Some use the event for marriage proposals. Others make reservations for friend reunions or family traditions.
But because of the pandemic, the 2020’s celebration was not as grand as the past annual Festival of Lights. Still, the Mission Inn Hotel was transformed into a winter wonderland. More than 4.5 million lights were used during the event. There were also 400 animated figures. But there’s no switch-on ceremony. Plus, visitors were not allowed to stroll the main walkway to avoid a large crowd.
How Much Does the Festival of Lights Cost?
It is fun to spend the holiday season witnessing the Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn Hotel during Christmas.
During the latter part of November, the Mission Inn Hotel turned into a winter wonderland, perfect for people of all ages.
Apart from well-lit Christmas trees, there are other surprises the locals, and out of town visitors shouldn’t miss. Its animated figures are a few of the go-to destinations in the Mission Inn Hotel.
When you go inside the hotel, other holiday-themed decors will make your stay remarkable and impressive.
Aside from the hotel reservation, how much does the festival of lights cost? Well, it is relatively affordable and will not cause you a fortune. Also, remember that the price varies and changes every year.
In 2019, if you’re an early bird or buy tickets before 3 PM, you were only required to pay $20. The tickets for children were only $5.
But if you went to the Mission Inn Hotel after 3 PM, the tickets for 12 and above cost $25. For kids, they were available at $10.
In 2020, the cost of tour tickets was not announced even on the Mission Inn Hotel’s official website.
Due to Covid-19, the public could not walk down the main walkways to avoid large crowds. Plus, only hotel guests were able to go inside the hotel.
For this year’s Festival of Lights, it is too early for the Mission Inn Hotel to make plans. Meanwhile, there are other attractions to explore in Riverside. Popular go-to destinations include Mount Rubidoux Park, March Field Air Museum, California State Citrus Historic Park, Van Buren Drive-In Theater, UC Riverside Botanic Gardens, Fox Performing Arts Center, Fairmount Park, Main Street Mall, and Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park.
But prior to going to any of these attractions, be sure to do some research ahead of time. Also, know if they are open during this pandemic. Plus, follow extra safety precautions.
Is Mission Inn Riverside Pet Friendly?
The Mission Inn Riverside is not pet-friendly. Yes, you read it right. Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the hotel. Despite that, its customer service is extraordinary.
Mission Inn Riverside is considered a national historic landmark hotel for a reason. Started as a quaint abode boarding house, it has transformed into a full-service hotel in the 1900s. In 1903, it expanded with more than 200 guestrooms.
Its design is like a European castle. The architecture is superb and extraordinary. As you stroll around the main walkway, you’re like traveling in Europe.
From 200 guestrooms, Mission Inn Hotel boasts approximately 239 elegant, stylish, and luxurious rooms with 28 suites. Many of them are packed with private patios and intricate furnishings. But no rooms are the same, offering all guests a perfect opportunity to unwind.
Guests can also enjoy fine dining in world-class restaurants. The food is made of the freshest, the and the finest, highest quality ingredients. The Mission Inn Hotel also provides everyone some pampering services. Whether you want to relax or receive the best skincare services, the Mission Inn Hotel should be on top of your mind.
If you want to experience a unique and quality service, the Mission Inn Riverside will be your best bet.
Amenities include family rooms, business center, television, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, room service, restaurant, spa services, parking, wheelchair, smoking rooms, and more.
Does Festival of Lights Take Credit Cards?
The Mission Inn Hotel accepts credit cards. But during the Festival of Lights, it is not stated whether or not the hotel takes credit cards.
To avoid any hassle and other troubles, everyone is encouraged to have some cash on hand to buy tour tickets within a minute or two. You can bring your credit cards if the need arises. You can also visit the official website of the Mission Inn Hotel for further information to stay updated with the latest happenings of the hotel.
Alternatively, you can contact its customer service representatives for more details. The hotel prides itself on a professional and experienced staff that can accommodate all your concerns and other queries.
