Referred as the “Gateway to the Inland Empire”, Corona is a city located in Riverside County offering visitors and locals a variety of things to do and see. With a population of about 152,374, Corona boasts 394 acres of parks, skate parks, events, festivals and a variety of dining, shopping and entertainment venues. It is an ethnically diverse city with a major population of young folks and families. Today it is also known as the Privileged Suburb of LA. The city has something to amaze everyone!
History of Corona
Originally known as “South Riverside”, Corona was founded in 1886 at the pinnacle of the Southern California citrus boom, at the Santa Ana River Canyon upper end. Just a few miles away was the citrus community of Riverside, which led to the name “South Riverside”. All the settlers planted lemon and orange trees. In 1915, the country’s first lemon processing plant was built here and the town was called the “Lemon Capital of the World”. Citrus was the mainstay of the economy of the city in 1961, as well as the largest revenue source. In 1985, the largest cheese plant in the world was built on Lincoln Avenue, Corona.
In 1896, the name of the community was changed to “Corona” because of its circular street system. First international automobile race was held in Corona in 1913 that attracted many auto racing legends and folks. The event was a huge success that led to races again in the year 1914 and 1916. Corona grew rapidly in the twentieth century. In 1962, the Riverside Freeway 91 was built through the city. Before 1980s, agriculture played a significant role in the city’s economy. By late 1990s, the city became a prime suburb of LA. The city is home to many upscale areas that draw many celebrities from Los Angeles. It was once called as the “Bedroom Community” for LA, Orange County and several cities of Inland Empire.
Important Locations in Corona
Fender Center: The
Fender Center features music exhibits and memorabilia, as well as offers lessons in guitar, bass, piano, drums, band and vocal to kids aged 7-17. The center is home to exhibits and displays on artists, including Paul Rodgers, Johnny Cash, Joe Walsh, Steve Miller, Etta James and Merle Haggard. It includes historical artifacts, photographs, musical instruments and other music memorabilia.
Pole Position Raceway:
Pole Position Raceway features electric-powered go-karts, a gift shop and a small arcade. The speed of the karts is up to 45 mph. A perfect spot for thrill seekers!
Skull Canyon Zipline: Skull Canyon Zipline is offers 2-hours of zipline adventure across 160 across of mountain terrain. Hike to the peak of the canyon, feel the sensation of while being suspended above the ground and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Citrus Park: Beat the summer heat at
Citrus Park. It features a splash zone and playgrounds for kids. The water features will keep the children entertained for hours. There are seating areas, a barbecue pit and a snack shop, too. Lounge around, soak up some sun and let the little ones splash around. A grand dose of fun awaits adults and kids alike!
Corona Model Railroad Society: The
Corona Model Railroad Society features exhibits that showcases the role of railroad in establishment of Corona. This spot is dotted with model rails and other memorabilia that highlight the city’s past.
To know in detail about the important locations in Corona, click here.
Time Zone and Phone Codes of Corona
Time Zone
Corona lies in the Pacific Time Zone
UTC-GMT Offset: Corona is GMT/UTC-8hours during Standard Time; GMT/UTC-7hours during Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time Usage: Corona uses Daylight Saving Time
Time Zone abbreviation: PST is abbreviated for Pacific Standard Time and PDT is abbreviated for Pacific Daylight Time
Phone Code
Area code: 951
People and Culture of Corona
Corona is home to over 152,374 people with different ethnicities. The city is a pick-n-mix of different cultural and ethnic groups, including Whites, African Americans, Native Americans, Asians, Pacific Islanders and other races. Also, the city has a burgeoning art and cultural scene. It is home to Fender Center, which is steeped in music history and legends.
Best Time to Visit Corona
Corona is one of the few spots that you can visit anytime, throughout the year. It is warm year-round, perfect for recreational activities, like hiking, biking, etc. You can ramble around and explore Corona without worrying about the climate, as it is comfortable year-round.
Koroneburg Old World Festival (May)
Important Locations in Corona Map Guide
