Perris, CA

During the 1880s, the area that is now Perris gained its first western settlers. Back then, the land was used primarily as pasture. In 1885, the railroad was established, bringing in new settlers and job opportunities, and Perris became an incorporated city in 1911. Visit the Perris Valley Historical Society and Museum to learn more about the area's rich history and culture.

This city hosts many annual events and festivals throughout the year. Residents gather for the annual Rods and Rails Extravaganza and the Potato Festival, which celebrates the role the railway has played in the area's growth.

The flavorful fare offered in Perris includes a combination of Southern spice and local cuisine. From comfort food like hamburgers to sizzling steak fajitas, the food here doesn't fail to satisfy your taste buds. Follow the scent of carne asada and fresh Mexican spices to Tacos El Chuleton. This restaurant serves up authentic dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. Try an order of the beef tripe tacos loaded with cilantro and smothered with a homemade salsa. At only $1 per taco, Tacos El Chuleton has the best deal in town. It also dishes out burritos loaded with meat, cheese, beans and fresh veggies. Harry's Café stands out as a local favorite for a casual meal. Stop in for breakfast, and enjoy a hearty meal of rib eye steak and eggs. Other breakfast staples include polish sausage and freshly grilled pancakes. Order up a turkey burger with a side of onion rings for a satisfying lunch. Opt for a specialty pizza, or create your own pie by choosing from a selection of fresh toppings at Valentino's Pizza and Sports Bar. You can also munch on mozzarella sticks and buffalo wings as you sit back and watch the game. The lasagna dinner is loaded with cheese, beef and roasted veggies and served with sides of salad and garlic bread. Thursday happy hour includes domestic beers for $1.29, so grab a brew and play a game of pool. In this quiet residential area, few nightlife options exist, so locals gather at the neighborhood dive and sports bars. Call your friends and head to Nara Hookah Lounge for a night out on the town; this place is clean and provides a lively and youthful atmosphere. Choose from a variety of hookah flavors, such as the guava safari melon dew, sip on a martini or just kick back with a good old-fashioned beer.

Under normal driving conditions, it takes around 30 minutes to drive from Perris to San Jacinto via the Ramona Expressway, and on-street parking is widely available. Perris does not have any specific bike lanes or trails, and many of the shops and attractions are spread out, making it difficult to access the area by foot.

Be sure to call Yellow Cab for quick and convenient service because you won't be able to easily hail a taxi in this neighborhood. Uber is also available, and Riverside Transit Agency provides public bus routes that connect to the other areas in the Inland Empire.

Put sunny days to good use when you take a trip to Lake Perris State Recreation Area. Pack up your gear and head out for a camping adventure, or launch your boat on the lake and cast out a line. Alternatively, throw on your swimming gear and lay out on the beach to catch some rays, and then take a dip in the lake. Lake Perris State Recreation Area stands out as the perfect place for a weekend getaway or holiday in the sun.

Head to Frank Eaton Memorial Park for a relaxing picnic day or to get in shape with a little outdoor recreation. Grill hotdogs on the BBQ and kick back in the well-equipped picnic area before taking a walk, or jog along the park's paved trails. This park also features baseball diamonds, basketball courts and a children’s playground.

Grab your favorite four-legged companion, and head to Rosetta Canyon Dog Park to enjoy some outdoor fun with your canine buddy. This park features separate areas for big and small playful dogs and basketball and tennis courts for the sports-minded humans in your party.

Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Perris costs about $780 a month, which is lower than the average rental rate of San Jacinto. Gas prices hover about 12 percent higher than the national average, and you can buy a beer in a local bar for about $4. A one-way ticket on the Riverside Transit Agency public bus costs $1.50. Overall, the cost of living here ends up slightly lower than the average living cost of San Jacinto.

You can grab little things you need for around your house at the local Walmart. Locals buy staple groceries at WinCo Foods, Food 4 Less and Stater Bros. Market. If you're looking for trendy clothing to glam up your wardrobe, check out ANGL boutique, which has hip and modern clothing and accessories for sale. Find a classy party dress, or pick up a cute skirt for casual occasions. Let JC Beauty Supply and Salon change up your look. This store stocks the best in quality cosmetics, beauty supplies and hair accessories. Here, you can also get your hair dyed, cut or styled by one of JC Beauty's hair professionals. Stock your pantry with fresh organic produce from nearby Cherry Hills Farmers' Market. Spend the afternoon wandering through the vendor stalls and scouting out the best strawberries, lettuce, oranges and squash. Be sure to also pick up some cage-free eggs, homemade hummus, organic honey or handmade jewelry.