Museum of Riverside Expansion Passes Halfway Point

The ongoing rehabilitation project will expand the facility to 30,000 square feet by 2028.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Cultural

Bold vector editorial illustration of a modern steel structural framework beside a historic brick facade, representing building expansion. — The Museum of Riverside has passed the halfway mark in its expansion project, aimed at increasing exhibition capacity by 2028. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Museum of Riverside began a building rehabilitation project in June 2025 to increase its size from 20,000 square feet to 30,000 square feet. Construction is currently past the halfway point, with a grand reopening anticipated for the spring of 2028.

Why it matters

This expansion provides necessary space for exhibition changes and events that were previously impossible to host. The new galleries will allow the institution to better present stories that relate directly to the lives of Riverside community members.

The project will increase the museum footprint by 10,000 square feet, moving from a 20,000 square foot layout to a 30,000 square foot facility. These improvements are designed to accommodate expanded anthropological and natural history galleries.

The players

Museum of Riverside

This institution manages three historic sites and is currently undergoing a major renovation to modernize its gallery spaces.

Harada House

This historic site is one of three locations currently managed by the Museum of Riverside throughout the community.

Victorian Heritage House

Managed by the museum, this site continues to host collaborative events with external groups while the main facility undergoes construction.

The details

The construction work involves extensive underground maintenance and the installation of steel framing for the new structure. While the main site is under development, the museum continues to collaborate with external groups to host events at the Harada House and the Victorian Heritage House.

The rehabilitation project officially began in June 2025.
A mural was installed along the Orange Street Pedestrian Walkway in September 2026.
The monthly Artswalk occurs on the first Thursday of every month in Downtown Riverside.
The museum is scheduled to reopen in the spring of 2028.

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Industry Dynamics

The project follows the cultural engagement pattern set by the monthly Artswalk in Downtown Riverside. By integrating new public art into the construction site, the museum bridges the gap between traditional exhibit spaces and the active, pedestrian-focused culture of the downtown area.

Residents can continue to visit the museum's other historic properties, including the Harada House and Victorian Heritage House, while the main facility remains closed for construction. Public engagement continues through the monthly Artswalk held every first Thursday in Downtown Riverside.

The takeaway

The ongoing expansion represents a significant commitment to preserving local anthropology and natural history within the city. Residents are encouraged to monitor the museum's progress as it moves toward its planned reopening in the spring of 2028.