Riverside, California, doesn't boast its own major international airport. This often leaves visitors and residents wondering about the best airport options for their travel needs. Choosing the right airport depends heavily on your final destination within Riverside County, your budget, and the type of transportation you prefer after landing. Let's break down the most common options and help you make the best choice.
What are the closest airports to Riverside?
This is a frequent question, and the answer depends on your definition of "closest." While technically, several smaller airfields exist closer to Riverside, they lack the commercial flight options most travelers seek. The most practical "closest" airports are significantly larger and offer a wider array of airlines and destinations. These are typically Ontario International Airport (ONT) and John Wayne Airport (SNA). We'll delve into the pros and cons of each.
What is the best airport to fly into for Riverside?
There's no single "best" airport; the ideal choice depends on individual circumstances. However, we can compare Ontario International Airport (ONT) and John Wayne Airport (SNA) to help you decide:
Ontario International Airport (ONT)
- Pros: Generally offers cheaper flights and is physically closer to Riverside than SNA. It also typically boasts fewer crowds and a more streamlined experience.
- Cons: The selection of airlines and direct flights might be more limited compared to SNA.
John Wayne Airport (SNA)
- Pros: Offers a wider variety of airlines and flight destinations, including more direct international connections (although typically requiring connecting flights for international travel to/from Riverside). The airport is known for its pleasant, less congested atmosphere, though this can be dependent on the time of day.
- Cons: Usually more expensive flights and further from Riverside than ONT. Parking can be pricier as well.
Which airport is cheaper to fly into, ONT or SNA?
Generally, ONT (Ontario International Airport) tends to offer cheaper flights than SNA (John Wayne Airport). However, this isn't always guaranteed and varies greatly depending on the airline, time of year, and your specific destination. It's always recommended to compare flight prices using flight comparison websites before making a decision.
How far is Ontario Airport from Riverside?
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is approximately 20-30 minutes away from most parts of Riverside, depending on traffic. The drive is relatively straightforward, primarily along the 215 Freeway.
How far is John Wayne Airport from Riverside?
John Wayne Airport (SNA) is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Riverside, depending on traffic conditions. This drive usually involves navigating the 91 Freeway.
What transportation options are available from each airport to Riverside?
Both airports provide various transportation options to Riverside:
- Rental Car: The most common and often most convenient choice.
- Ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft): Readily available at both airports.
- Taxis: Also available, though generally more expensive than ride-sharing.
- Public Transportation: While possible, public transportation options are generally less efficient and may require transfers.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best airport for your Riverside trip depends on your priorities. If budget is your top concern and you don't mind a slightly smaller airport with potentially fewer flight options, ONT is a great choice. If you prioritize a wider selection of airlines and destinations and are willing to pay a bit more, SNA is worth considering. Remember to always compare flight prices and factor in transportation costs when making your final decision.
