An integral part of Southern California’s Inland Empire region, the city of Temecula is a rising star in the burgeoning Temecula Valley Wine Country, challenging California’s Napa Valley as the state’s premier wine region. History runs deep in the city, with dedicated preservation of historic buildings and Native American culture.
About 40 wineries and 1,416 hectares of vineyards draw wine enthusiasts from across the country to dozens of wine tasting rooms, tours and special events. Old Town Temecula hosts a renowned collection of antique stores and historic buildings from the 1890s, including hotels, museums and boutiques. The Temecula Museum keeps history alive with Native American exhibits, while the Pechanga Casino complex, run by the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, hosts major live entertainment shows, a comedy club, the renowned Journey At Pechanga golf course and numerous restaurants.
Temecula lies in the south-western part of Riverside County but borders San Diego County on the west. It’s about a 45-minute drive from San Diego on Interstate 15. The Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) provides bus service throughout Temecula, and numerous tour companies offer trips to wine country and the casino.
Temecula hosts an eclectic collection of 50s-style diners in and around Main Street, making it a retro destination for foodies and throwback aficionados. With names like Richie’s and Peggy Sue’s, the diner dynasty is alive and well in this quirky inland California enclave.