Exploring Murrieta CA: A Walk Around the City

The city of Murrieta, California is along the second longest stretch of the Santa Ana River. The city covers almost 14 square miles, with a population that’s grown from 33,000 in 2010 to over 55,000 currently. In addition, the city has seen an increase in young families and new businesses popping up to serve them. Greater Murrieta is home to nearly 320,000 people and has become one of the most rapidly developing cities in California. Visitors can explore all this wonderful city has to offer, from historical sites to modern amenities and natural beauty. Whether you have an hour or a day, these are our favorite places to walk around Murrieta!

Walk through the Murrieta Library Gardens

First, we recommend walking through the Murrieta Library Gardens, a beautiful garden oasis that has won the Outstanding Public Garden Award. It features everything from cacti and succulents to rare flowers, herbs, and trees. There are also themed gardens, including a native plants garden and a children’s garden. If you visit on the third Saturday of the month, you can take a tour with a volunteer docent and learn more about the plants. You can also learn about the upcoming events and workshops held at the Murrieta Library Gardens, including yoga classes and nature exploration activities for children.

Check out the Murrieta Off-Road Recreation Area (MORRA)

Next, we recommend checking out the Murrieta Off-Road Recreation Area (MORRA). It’s a great place to walk, explore, and learn about local history. The area was once a wetland and was transformed into a riverbed in the 1950s, when the water was diverted for flood control. This open space park is a haven for local wildlife, especially birds and other critters that thrive in the native plants and trees. It’s also a great place for humans to hike, run, walk their dogs, or ride their horses. There are over 50 miles of trails, including beginner friendly paths that are wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Hike along the trails at Cooper Trowel Mountain Preserve

Cooper Trowel Mountain Preserve is a nature reserve located in the foothills of Murrieta. It’s home to over 250 species of plants, as well as a variety of native wildlife, including squirrels, coyotes, and rabbits. The preserve was created to protect and restore the native habitat, while providing a place for people to enjoy nature and learn about ecology. There are several hiking trails, including the Wildflower Trail, which is wheelchair and stroller friendly. The trails wind through the foothills and are great for walking, running, and hiking with your dog. They are also open for horseback riding and biking, so keep an eye out for other trail users.

Stop by the Murrieta Cal Council on Aging

Next, we recommend stopping by the Murrieta Cal Council on Aging. It’s an amazing place for seniors and people with disabilities to learn, connect with others, and participate in a variety of activities and programs. There are also free walking groups, which meet every Wednesday and Sunday. To join in on the fun, you just need to sign up and show up. The Cal Council on Aging also hosts a variety of events that are open to everyone in the community. You can attend everything from storytelling and writing workshops to health and wellness fairs and Murrieta massage. There are even special events, such as concerts, movies, and cooking classes.

Visit Old Town Murrieta and check out Mer

Lastly, we recommend visiting Old Town Murrieta and checking out Mer. It’s a gorgeous architectural landmark built in the 1920s. Murrieta’s Old Town is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to wander with friends and family, or by yourself. One of the most notable buildings in the area is Mer. It’s an art deco building that was once a car showroom for Mer Dodge and later turned into a car dealership. It’s now a public art space that’s open daily. You can take photos and explore the building, or attend one of the many events held here, including art shows and live music concerts.