A millstone from one the Riverside area's first grist mills is embedded in the sidewalk outside the Mission Inn. The Mission Inn, a Riverside icon known for its eclectic history and charm, has starred in articles, movies and books, including the opening scene of a Anne Rice novel. Along with architectural styles and furnishings from around the world, the inn contains dozens of stories — some of them mysterious even to those who know the place best.
The Mission Inn Foundation, which keeps archives and runs the museum, has a committee dedicated to researching hotel history. Year: The original clock was made in in Nuremberg, Germany. The figures that appear underneath were added in Francis of Assisi, and a California Indian accompanied by a bear — were designed to rotate so a different one shows every 15 minutes.
In the Presidential Lounge, which you can now have drinks in, it was the original spot for weddings back in the day. President Nixon even got married near the fireplace here. If you are on the tour, you will probably head up to the second floor and be above the courtyard.
This Spanish inspired area is a beautiful place to sit with a meal and just relax in the shadow of the fantastic architecture. This area is also home to famous art all along its walls and a wall dedicated to the history of aviation.
This gated wall has copper wings for famous people in aviation. Everyone from Amelia Earhart to Buzz Aldrin has signed wings hanging on this wall. This is right outside the massive wooden doors that guard the chapel.
Home to one of the most ornate and beautiful chapels in Southern California, this spot hosts over weddings a year. It is easy to see why, as the golden altar, wooden chairs, and Tiffany stained glass are a sight to behold. The altar was bought from a family in Guadalajara, which traced its date back to the early s and shipped it through El Paso in 35 crates to Riverside.
It is said that the normal statue of Mary, which was in the center, did not come with it, so now it holds an old cross.
The top of the altar has a unique depiction of the trinity as well, with all of the three parts of God combining into one foot. The stained glass is Tiffany Glass , yes of the jewelry family, and was said to have been bought for a half million. This was a reasonable price for a piece like this, and apparently it was under the condition that it was not be dismantled. Either way, it is a magnificent sight to behold in the chapel. Lastly, on the way out, make sure to see the chair to a certain man with the last name Hilarius on it.
Across the courtyard from the main chapel is a small ten-person chapel that is also used for weddings. It is much more quaint but is equally beautiful. I liked the stained glass of the monk that was in the chapel as well. This main hall is where receptions happen at the hotel, and it is a beautiful vaulted ceiling room covered with art. In fact, along the grand entrance, there is a bust honoring Booker T. Washington's stay at the Inn. It's said that the ghosts of Frank Miller, and his sister Alice, still roam around the hallways and rooms of The Mission Inn.
Alice's former room, located on the fourth floor of the Inn, is a popular spot for paranormal investigations. It's been reported that she makes herself known there by creating cold spots, and even reaching out and touching people physically from time to time. The Bridal Honeymoon Suite, located across the hall from Alice's room, is said to be a hot spot of activity as well, and not just from the newlyweds inside.
It's was reported that in , a couple fled the room, and made a frantic escape from the hotel, just after reportedly being pushed on the stairwell by a spirit. During my visit to the hotel, prior to valet parking my car I noticed the beautiful grounds and the marquee 5 bell arch way welcoming guests to enter and enjoy.
As I proceeded down the main path way toward the hotel reception area I passed by a 5 foot tall bell. Granted, there are bells located in many areas of the grounds, however, this rather large bell was of great significance. Just down the walkway from the Nanking Chinese temple bell, you will happen across two exquisite rather large talking parrots.
They are beautiful in color and if you are lucky they will talk to you. I managed to get a whistle which made my day. I have visited the Mission Inn for fine dining experiences, spa treatments, weekend lodging and holiday festivities alike over the past several years. Some suggested demolishing the hotel and replacing it with a parking lot, but it limped along until , when Carley Capital Group bought the inn and surrounded it with a chain-link fence.
A planned renovation was expected to take two years, but in the group ran out of money and Chemical Bank foreclosed on the hotel. After more failed negotiations with prospective buyers, Roberts stepped in to purchase the Mission Inn in late He reopened it Dec.
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