Redding, California has been on our radar for years. We’re not sure why it took us so long to get there (as it’s an easy and scenic drive from our Southern California home), but whatever the case, this October we finally made the long awaited trip.
Now, we had heard that Redding was cool and underrated, but we really had no idea what we were going to find. What we discovered was a town rich in history, natural wonders, hip coffee shops (our favorite), and an evolving and revitalizing downtown. And we’re kicking ourselves that we didn’t come check it out sooner!
Our first sunset in Redding was INSANE
THE LOCATION
Located two and a half hours north of Sacramento and two hours south of the Oregon/California border, Redding is a true Northern California gem. Surrounded by jaw-dropping mountains (hello, Mt. Shasta!), it’s an outdoor paradise with over 200 miles of hiking and biking trails. But more on that later. We’ve always thought of Redding as more of a drive-through destination, on our way to Portland or Bend, but now we’re convinced it alone is worth the drive. One could easily spend a week there. And get this - they have over 300 sunny days a year!
See the Sundial Bridge peeking through?
THE HISTORY
Redding was founded in 1872, and was the Northernmost spot on the California railhead until 1883. It was a mining town, with significant copper and iron minerals, causing an economic boom in the early twentieth century. You can still explore the ruins of the Central Business District of the nearby Gold Rush town of Shasta, where there were once shops, bakeries, hotels, and more! It’s absolutely fascinating!
We love exploring historic towns!
THE NATURAL BEAUTY
We could dedicate an entire blog simply to the natural beauty of Redding (and we considered it), but we’ll try to keep this short. IT’S STUNNING. There’s lakes, rivers, waterfalls, caves, national and state parks, fishing, skiing, and so much more. Outdoor enthusiasts, this is the place for you. During our short stay in Redding we visited Shasta Lake, the famous Lake Shasta Caverns, Whiskeytown Lake, all 3 of the McCloud waterfalls, Hedge Creek Falls, and the peaceful and serene McConnel Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. And we left feeling overwhelmed with how much more there is still yet to see!
The Lake Shasta Caverns were a highlight!
Sally may have had the MOST fun exploring all of the waterfalls
Can you spot Bobby?
THE BUSTLING DOWNTOWN
Downtown Redding is charming - and it’s only getting better. From the moment we arrived and walked the iconic Sundial Bridge (the world’s LARGEST working sundial!), adventured through the Turtle Bay Exploration Park, dined at some phenomenal restaurants (more on the Redding food/drink scene here), and experienced downtown events like Redding’s weekly Food Truck Hub at The Park, we were sold. It’s a downtown that’s easily walkable and bursting with character, and it seems as though new fun spots are popping up quite often. We can’t wait to see it continue to evolve!
Exploring Turtle Bay Exploration Park!
It’s always dessert-o-clock for Alli
Redding is cool, y’all. You’ve heard it here first. Grab your friends, significant other, kids, pup, whoever you want, really - and make a road trip out of it!
If you need more convincing, here’s a blog with some of our favorite restaurants and coffee shops in and around Redding. Let us know if we missed a spot - because you better believe we’ll be back!