Boasting a picturesque setting on the banks of Sacramento River, Redding lies in the heart of Shasta County’s volcanic landscapes. It’s home to expansive green spaces and scenic walking trails, as well as one of California’s most impressive engineering artworks.
Things to do in Redding
Spend a day at the Turtle Bay Exploration Park, which lies at the gateway to the Sacramento River Trail. Learn about the region’s natural and cultural history at the Turtle Bay Museum, then discover the legacy of the Californian logging and railway industries at Paul Bunyan’s Forest Camp.
At the northern end of the park lies the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, which feature more than 80 hectares of native trees. Learn about herbal remedies in the medicinal garden, let the kids run loose in the children’s garden and wander through the Mediterranean Climate Gardens, which showcase species from Chile, South Africa and California.
Soak up the spectacular views of the Trinity Mountains along the Sacramento River Trail and learn about its role in the region’s late-19th-century hydraulic mining operations. The trail offers a close-up view of the iconic Sundial Bridge, a pedestrian and cycling cantilever bridge that’s surfaced with translucent glass, making it the largest sundial in the world.
Admire the Art Deco architecture of the Cascade Theatre, which was recently restored to its original 1930s condition. Beautiful murals and intricate tile work adorn the lobby, with big-name musical acts performing within its elegant interior throughout the year.
Getting around Redding
Redding is located just over two hours’ drive north of Sacramento International Airport and is connected to destinations across California by both buses and trains. Buses travel throughout Redding, which is also an easy city to explore by bicycle.