Getting Here
Southern California offers six convenient airports to choose from, each with its own perks depending on where you’re flying from or what adventures you’d like to add to your trip. Whether you’re landing close by at Ontario (the local favorite) or arriving from afar through LAX, getting to Riverside is easy and scenic. Scroll down to explore your airport choices, estimated travel times, and tips for navigating SoCal’s sunny freeways!

Closest Airports to Riverside
Ontario International Airport (ONT)
🛬 Distance: 23 miles
🚗 Typical drive time: 35–50 minutes
Best choice for convenience—most direct route and fewer traffic delays.
John Wayne / Orange County Airport (SNA)
🛬 Distance: 42 miles
🚗 Typical drive time: 55–75 minutes
Easy freeway access via CA-91; expect heavier traffic during rush hours.
Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)
🛬 Distance: 56 miles
🚗 Typical drive time: 60–75 minutes
Smooth drive along I-10 West—usually less traffic unless returning Sunday evening.
Long Beach Airport (LGB)
🛬 Distance: 58 miles
🚗 Typical drive time: 75–90 minutes
Scenic route but expect congestion near the 91 freeway corridor.
Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)
🛬 Distance: 66 miles
🚗 Typical drive time: 80–100 minutes
Smaller, easy-to-navigate airport—allow extra time for LA traffic patterns.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
🛬 Distance: 68 miles
🚗 Typical drive time: 90–120 minutes
Most flight options, but also the busiest; plan for longer travel times, especially during weekday rush hours or weekends.
💡 Travel Tip:
Traffic in Southern California can vary widely depending on time of day. Plan extra time if you’re arriving between 6:30–9:30 AM or 3:30–7:30 PM—or relax and enjoy a scenic drive with good tunes and a snack stop along the way!
