Corona is a city in transition. Agricultural areas are giving way to thousands of new houses, shopping malls, restaurants, and theaters. Not only has the population soared, the old downtown businesses are being upstaged by a new shopping mall and a chic “lifestyles” complex, Dos Lagos, scheduled to open in August 2006. Dos Lagos consists of expensive new homes, office buildings, a golf course, twin lakes, boutique-type stores, upscale restaurants, more movie theaters, and a large outdoor amphitheater.
Annual hometown celebrations include the Lemon Festival, Cinco de Mayo parade, a Halloween carnival, and a Christmas parade. For the past several years, the Corona Summer Theater Festival has grown into a popular event. Held at the Corona Civic Center (951 - 279-2298), four plays will be presented over a seven-week period, and include Shakespeare, a children’s mystery, and a musical.
Corona’s temperate climate is suited to year-round outdoor activities. Besides hiking and mountain biking in nearby Cleveland National Forest, there are six 18-hole golf courses, many of which are multi-elevation and quite challenging. Seventeen miles south of Corona, Lake Elsinore offers waterskiing, fishing, and personal watercraft. (1-800-328-6844). Sky diving and sail-planes are available at the south end of the lake.
There are three small, yet interesting museums. Heritage Park and Museum is a work in progress. Grassroots efforts are well underway to raise money to enlarge the museum, restore one of Corona’s original hotels at the site, build a miniature replica of the local railroad system, and many other historical projects. Uncle Bud’s Automotive Museum takes visitors from the past to the future of the auto industry. (By appointment. 951-808-1684) Quality West Wing is an unusual, politically themed museum. It teaches adults and children about our nation’s capitol through displays, hands-on learning activities, a history-based scavenger hunt, and a full-sized replica of the Oval Office. (By appointment. 951-808-1676)
Glen Ivy Hot Springs - Nestled at the base of the Santa Ana Mountains on the southern edge of Corona, the therapeutic spa is famous for its red clay mud baths and natural mineral hot springs. Glen Ivy has been in continuous use since 1860.
What began as a roadside produce stand over 30 years ago has blossomed into a tourist attraction. Tom’s Farms includes kiddy rides, a huge Ferris wheel, shops, 3 restaurants, and live entertainment on weekends. Special events are scheduled throughout the year. (23900 Temescal Canyon Rd. 951 – 277-9992)
Written by: Colleen Fliedner
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