Redding — Blog - Traveling Newlyweds

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!

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!

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!

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

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!

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!

The culinary scene is alive and thriving in Redding, California! From hipster coffee shops to a iconic burger spot (it’s so good it made Yelp’s Top 100 List), to a hole in the wall Thai restaurant that locals obsess over, one thing’s for sure: You won’t go hungry in Redding. We sure didn’t! (Thankfully, there are endless places to hike it all off - so don’t worry about over-indulging!)

In no particular order, here’s some standout spots that we’ll definitely be coming back to!

COFFEE SHOPS/JUICE BARS

Evergreen

If you’ve been following us for awhile, you know that our love for a good coffee shop runs deep. So deep, that we’ll oftentimes plan our trips around them. Evergreen is the kind of place we’d re-route a road trip for. Its hip and happy aesthetic, bold coffee, perfectly toasted avocado toast and friendly baristas had our hearts - and our wallets - in a matter of minutes. If you only have time to go to one coffee shop while you’re in Redding, go here.

Theory Collaborative

They folks at Theory Collaborative take coffee very seriously, and it shows. This cafe and roastery make one mean pourover! Located right in the heart of downtown Redding, it’s a great spot to begin your day. Come hungry, they have a breakfast menu that’s just as tasty as their coffee!

Roots Juice Bar

We were both a little under the weather during our trip to Redding, so we were extra pumped to find a place serving fresh juice. We made a stop at Roots Juice Bar every morning we were there, and we still talk about how we miss it. They serve everything from juices and smoothies to wraps, bowls, shots, and even wine and beer! It’s truly your one-stop-shop for a healthy and organic meal!

Coffee is always our first stop… and Theory Collaborative was a great first cup in Redding

LUNCH/DINNER

Mosaic

Within steps from Redding’s iconic Sundial Bridge is Mosaic, a California-inspired restaurant specializing in local ingredients with a “wine country twist”. The food is fresh and hearty, and their artisanal pizzas are phenomenal. But our favorite part about Mosaic is their Doggy Menu - complete with doggy ice cream!

Woody’s Brewing Co

This family owned and operated brewery is a favorite among Redding locals - and while Woody’s beer is amazing, we’re also huge fans of their food! From their famous tots (served with some mouthwatering cajun aioli), to their hearty salads and specialty burgers, you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. And all of it pairs excellently with a pint (or two) of their tasty craft brews!

The Park - Redding’s Food Truck Hub

If you happen to visit Redding on a Thursday-Saturday, be sure to spend an evening at The Park - Redding’s food truck hub! This casual and family friendly food truck experience is a total blast, from live music to lawn games, you won’t be bored! And the variety of cuisine is extremely impressive - check out their Instagram to stay up-to-date with what they’re serving, and who’s performing!

Yak’s On The 5

If you’re a foodie and have done your research, chances are you’ve heard about Yak’s On The 5. What looks like a random roadside restaurant is actually a burger destination that has a cult following to prove it. Their burgers, tots, and homemade cinnamon rolls are so good, they’ve made the Yelp Top 100 List! It’s about an hour outside of Redding, but trust us when we say it’s worth the drive. COME HUNGRY.

Champa Garden

Located in a strip mall, Champa Garden may not look like much from the outside, but they make some delicious and authentic Thai cuisine. Come any night of the week and you’re bound to see a small line out the door, but don’t worry - you won’t have to wait long! It’s casual, affordable, and flavorful - don’t leave without trying their Pad Thai!

Can we point out that Bobby at that burger and half of this pizza :) Hehe

Speaking of burgers, Yaks doesn’t mess around.

DESSERT

Cookies and Yogurt

We were sold just by the name. I mean, who doesn’t love Cookies and Yogurt? But this local bakery and self-serve yogurt shop has a fun and quirky twist - it’s also a year-round Christmas shop! Name a better pairing than sweet treats and holiday decor… we’ll wait.

Taste & See Creamery

Made from scratch and using only natural ingredients, Taste & See Creamery’s ice cream is so fresh, it’s basically healthy! (At least that’s what we tell ourselves.) Regardless, this artisanal ice cream shop is the real deal. You’ll know what we mean after one bite of their signature Nutella Bonfire and S’mores flavor. Mmmm….

Did we miss a spot? We can’t wait to eat our way through Redding again, so leave a comment and let us know!

Why Redding Should Be Your Next Road Trip Destination

Where to Eat (and Drink) in Redding, California