26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Redding (CA)

Redding is a beautiful city located in Northern California and is recognized as the sunniest city in California.

The city had a population of eighty-nine thousand, eight hundred and sixty-one from the 2010 census, but it rose to ninety-five, five hundred and forty-two after the 2020 census.

Redding offers a wide variety of outdoor activities that would always keep you busy and engaged. You will never get bored as there are many fun things to do in Redding, CA.

During your trip, some of the best places to visit in Redding include Sacramento River Trail, Shasta State Historic Park, Turtle Bay Exploration Park, Fun Factory Snowmobile Tour, Win-River Resort and Casino, WaterWorks Park, Swasey Recreational Area, and many others.

Would you want to feel the thrills and energy of Redding, California? Here are the top things to do in Redding, CA.

Things to Do in Redding, CA

1. Shasta State Historic Park

Shasta State Historic Park
Credits: Jasperdo / Flickr
Shasta State Historic Park

If you are looking for a perfect place to spend the day with your family, add a visit to Shasta State Historic Park to your list of fun things to do in Redding, CA.

Shasta State Historic Park comprises artifacts, items, and historical buildings that tell the story of California’s lusty “Queen City”.

You will find elevated relics of what was once a vibrant center during the California gold rush in the park, which includes cottages, cemeteries, old brick buildings, and more.

Shasta State Historic Park houses a newly restored county courthouse to its original 1861 appearance, and it contains an outstanding collection of historical California exhibits and artworks.

The park is usually open from 10am-5pm from Thursday to Sunday; make sure you take a walk along some of the quiet trails in the park.

Address: 15312 CA-299, Redding, CA 96003, United States

2. Eaton House Museum

Eaton House Museum
Credits: Joel Stratte-McClure / Facebook
Eaton House Museum

The Eaton House Museum was built by John Scott in 1895; it was later sold to the Sheriff of Shasta County and former judge Charles Behrens.

The house is also referred to as Behrens-Eaton House, built in a victorian-style and was transformed into a museum in 2003.

Eaton House Museum celebrates the Victorian age using exhibits of Victorian furniture, war artifacts, antique books, and housewares.

The Museum also showcases illustrations, papers, photographs, historical books, and letters, including historical data. Visiting the Eaton House Museum is one of the best things to do in Redding, CA.

Address: 1520 West St, Redding, CA 96001, United States

3. Shasta County Public Library

Shasta County Public Library
Credits: vagonik / Shutterstock

Shasta County Public Library is a public library and an innovative center in Redding filled with lots of history and knowledge.

The library is committed to enriching, serving, and educating the community in every way possible, and it has been doing this for more than one hundred years.

Shasta County Public Library is currently offering lots of resources to the community, and free programs are open for both adults and children of different abilities.

There is a wide collection of books and resources, including tutoring and computer services that you can’t get elsewhere.

Shasta County Public Library provides a tranquil and peaceful environment for anyone to feel comfortable and read while sipping a cup of coffee.

Address: 1100 Parkview Ave, Redding, CA 96001, United States

4. The Redding Aquatic Center

Redding Aquatic Center
Credits: vagonik / Shutterstock

Spending the day at the Redding Aquatic Center is one of the best things to do in Redding, CA. It is a place with a rich heritage.

The Redding Aquatic Center was built on the Lake Redding Park Plunge site, often referred to as the Plunge, for people to come and learn how to swim.

The center was expanded to a 50m competition pool with 1m and 3m diving boards, a two-story slide, and play structure for the activity pool after a renovation in 2003.

The Redding Aquatic Center offers different programs for all ages, including open swim time, family time, lessons, and water aerobics.

There is a fitness center that only requires an aquatics membership and no entry fee. The Redding Aquatic Center is the best place to relax and chill during winter, autumn, and summer.

They also have a fitness center which is free with an aquatics membership. And they have a whole slew of water activities that are perfect for kids.

Address: 44 Quartz Hill Rd, Redding, CA 96003, United States

5. The Riverfront Playhouse

Riverfront Playhouse
Credits: WinWin artlab / Shutterstock

To your list of things to do in Redding, CA, add a visit to the Riverfront Playhouse for a more unique and memorable experience.

The Riverfront Playhouse was established under the direction of David Morris in 1978 with the sole aim of providing a theatre for the community.

It is a wonderful outdoor theatre that produces live theatrical productions in repertory as a non-profit corporation.

The Riverfront Playhouse is the oldest operating nonprofit theatre in the community, which still offers exciting live entertainment.

The theater has a rustic feel with comfortable seats where the audience can enjoy the show from any point with beautiful views of the Shasta River.

Address: 1950 California St, Redding, CA 96001, United States

6. Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Turtle Bay Exploration Park
Credits: Chris Briggs / Shutterstock
Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Turtle Bay Exploration Park spreads to approximately three hundred acre reserve that brings you closer to nature.

The park consists of many botanical gardens, a museum, the sundial bridge, an arboretum, and more.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park’s museum houses a vast collection of permanent and temporary exhibits documenting the area’s cultural and natural science, art, and history.

The Museum features an underwater aquarium-style viewing tank, artworks, a recreation of a Native American bark house, and science displays.

Some of the gardens found here include southern & western Australian gardens, Mediterranean climate gardens, children’s gardens, and more.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park is open to RVs & trailers as a perfect way to fully use the large, dirt, overflow parking lot.

Address: 844 Sundial Bridge Dr, Redding, CA 96003, United States

7. Win-River Resort and Casino

Win-River Resort and Casino
Credits: Virrage Images / Shutterstock

Win-River Resort and Casino is your number one go-to location when you need a comfortable and peaceful place to lodge.

The resort consists of beautiful guest rooms and suites with soft beds, sofas, microwaves, fantastic suite bathrooms, and large living areas.

Win-River Resort and Casino doesn’t just provide a conducive environment for accommodations but also ensures you have all the necessary facilities and amenities.

The resort features an exclusive spa, heated outdoor swimming pool, coffee shops, bars, a wellness center, and several restaurants.

Win-River Resort and Casino is a favorite place for gamers, consisting of slot machines, a private poker room, table games, and roulette.

There is a beautiful golf course a few miles away known as the River Tasalmi Golf Course, where you can enjoy a round of golf.

Address: 2100 Redding Rancheria Rd, Redding, CA 96001, United States

8. Coffee Bar

Coffee Bar
Credits: Rafael Danendra Garuda / Shutterstock

Stopping by the Coffee Bar is one of the best things to do in Redding, CA, before setting out to start your day.

The Coffee Bar is a meeting spot for several locals and visitors alike that showcases the tradition of the Ace Cafe in a motorcycle-themed coffee bar.

The bar celebrates the cafe’s culture and motorcycle of the past and present while also serving some of the most famous coffees from different parts of the world.

Coffee Bar uses Giesen-roasted beans from Italian La Marzocco Strada and Netherlands handcrafted espresso.

They offer a little snack menu offering freshly baked treats and foods as well as coffee cakes, avocado salads, almond butter toast, Prosciutto Toast, Waffle with Fresh Fruit, and Maple Syrup, and so on.

The Coffee Bar features a store offering motorcycle-related merchandise as well as pins, clothing, stickers, coffee beans, and stickers.

Address: 2085 Pine St A, Redding, CA 96001 United States

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9. Fun Factory Snowmobile Tour

Fun Factory Snowmobile Tour
Credits: Parilov / Shutterstock

How does going on a Fun Factory Snowmobile Tour sound?

Fun Factory Snowmobile Tour gives self-guided tours and guided tours of Northern California with snowmobile rentals from Deer Mountain Snowmobile Park.

They offer you an experience you can’t get elsewhere as you explore the vistas, Northern California’s valleys, and volcanoes.

Fun Factory Snowmobile Tour takes visitors through Shasta Trinity National Forests, the Klamath, Mount Shasta, and Modoc.

Their staff is well experienced and highly knowledgeable as they lead riders through some of the most amazing landscapes in California and also answer all questions thrown at them.

Fun Factory Snowmobile Tour offers safety equipment like Snell-approved helmets to ensure all their guests are safe while having fun.

10. Headwaters Adventure Company

Headwaters Adventure Company
Credits: sergua / Shutterstock

If you’re in the mood for some outdoor fun, visit Headwaters Adventure Company.

Headwaters Adventure Company is a one of a kind company concerned with nothing but offering you a safe and exciting experience.

They offer the best kayak and standup paddleboards for rentals and purchasing, including excursions and expeditions.

Headwaters Adventure Company offers paddlers a breathtaking moment as they go on a calm and peaceful paddling or kayaking while also enjoying the beautiful views of Mount Lassen, Mount Shasta, and the Trinity Alps.

There is an adventure paddling group called the Shasta Paddlers open for everyone to join for excursions and day trips, including training courses and lessons.

Address: 930 Merchant St #1, Redding, CA 96002, United States

11. Rivercrest Park

Rivercrest Park
Credits: Rossario / Shutterstock

Your list of fun things to do in Redding, CA, is never complete without visiting Rivercrest Park with your loved ones.

Rivercrest Park offers different kinds of recreational opportunities to tourists and locals for an exciting and thrilling moment.

The park features several reserved areas with barbecue spots that are excellent for those who want to go for a picnic while enjoying the beautiful environment.

Rivercrest Park consists of a colorful playground with lots of play equipment for children to explore and have fun.

There is a Children Discovery Garden in the park with different interactive items like water play, a field trip area, and sand play.

Rivercrest Park also features a two-mile long paved walkway along the Shasta River with amazing views and hiking trails. This is one park in Redding you should visit to avoid missing out on the fun and excitement.

Address: 800 Woodacre Dr, Redding, CA 96002, United States

12. Jack’s Grill

Jack's Grill
Credits: Jack’s Bar & Grill Redding / Facebook
Jack’s Grill

Jack’s Grill is a highly recommended restaurant in Redding, that serves mouth-watering meals and unique drinks.

The interior section of the restaurant boasts of the 1930s decor and soft lighting in an elegant setting that will make you feel like you’re dining in your dining room.

Jack’s Grill features old-fashioned tables and booths with a wonderful full-service bar filled with bar stools.

The restaurant offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for guests to pick from and to ensure there is something for everyone who walks into the building.

They offer an extensive food menu which includes jumbo shrimps, deep-fried scallops, Southern fried chicken, pawns, filet mignon with baked potatoes, ribeye steak, blue cheese salad, steak & fries, and more.

Jack’s Grill also offers an impressive selection of cocktails and fine wines such as cabernet sauvignon, Chardonnay, Valley of the moon, and more.

Address: 1743 California St, Redding, CA 96001, United States

13. Shasta Rock Club

Shasta Rock Club
Credits: Flystock / Shutterstock

Visiting Shasta Rock Club is one of the best things to do in Redding, CA. Shasta Rock Club is the first and only indoor rock climbing gym in Redding, offering visitors a unique and challenging rock climbing experience.

This climbing gym is open to everyone regardless of their skills, both learners and professional climbers.

Shasta Rock Club is filled with an abundant wealth of rock-climbing based experiences starting from lessons & instruction for learners to challenging routes for experienced climbers.

The club offers fitness classes, high school climbing team practices, outdoor trips, summer camps, climbing competitions, and after school climbing clubs.

Shasta Rock Club is open for private events and celebrations such as birthday parties, team-building activities, and other programs.

Address: 2325 Athens Ave, Redding, CA 96001, United States

14. Whiskeytown Lake

Whiskeytown Lake
Credits: Martina Birnbaum / Shutterstock
Whiskeytown Lake

Whiskeytown Lake is located 8 miles west of Redding and is an excellent place for numerous recreational outdoor activities.

You can engage in any activity of your choice, such as swimming, hiking, waterskiing, sailing, camping, boating, and fishing.

Whiskeytown Lake is filled with largemouth, brown trout, spotted bass, smallmouth, and kokanee salmon. In addition, it is a fantastic place for bird watching as there are numerous wildlife and birds around the lake.

There is a large space for sunbathing and summer cool off, including reading a novel and having a sandy picnic with your loved ones.

Whiskeytown Lake is an excellent place to escape from all the bustling and hustling in the world, and you need an alone time to reflect and meditate.

15. Swasey Recreational Area

Swasey Recreational Area
Credits: Pavel1964 / Shutterstock

Swasey Recreational Area consists of numerous trails of different kinds and levels of difficulty suitable for different types of users in Redding.

The area features purpose-built flow trails and long climbing x-country trails as some trails follow historic mining ditches while others climb evenly to Mule Mountain Pass before linking to Whiskeytown NRA.

Swasey Recreational Area is a perfect place for cyclists and hikers both beginners and experts will find this place fun and equally challenging.

There is a popular and challenging Mountain biking loop that starts at the Wintu Trailhead and makes a counterclockwise loop that heads out on the Wintu trail and climbs up the Escalator.

Another incredible loop begins at the Oak Trailhead, rides up the Mule Ridge Trail, and heads down Cosmos way, then back to the trailhead. Exploring Whiskeytown Lake is one of the top things to do in Redding, CA, with your pals.

Address: Redding, CA 96001, United States

Planning to explore California? Get the best of attractions and activities in ChicoLa Quinta, and Irvine for a fun California vacation.

16. WaterWorks Park

WaterWorks Park
Credits: Sergey Novikov / Shutterstock

A perfect way to spend the day in Redding, especially during the hot summer days, is at WaterWorks Park.

WaterWorks Park is a place loved and cherished by everyone, both adults and children, due to the number of fun amenities and facilities available.

The park features many rides & water slides, lounge chairs, cabanas, pools, and lots more. Some of the popular rides include Raging River, Dragon, and the Cyclone Avalanche.

WaterWorks Park features a large lazy lagoon perfect for those who just want to relax and float around while the kids play.

There is a little but beautiful kiddo water playground for the smaller children consisting of water features and mini slides.

 WaterWorks Park features a fantastic snack bar that offers a comprehensive food options and a variety of beverages, including an outdoor barbecue area.

Address: 151 N Boulder Dr, Redding, CA 96003, United States

17. Oregon Street Antique Mall

Oregon Street Antique Mall
Credits: Ivan Kurmyshov / Shutterstock

That feeling of excitement when you found a rare treasure you can’t get elsewhere is second to none, and Oregon Street Antique Mall is the perfect place for you in Redding.

Oregon Street Antique Mall is your number one go-to shopping center that offers good deals for almost everything you need and more.

The mall offers a wide variety of vintage clothing, collectibles, antiques, and everything unique for affordable prices.

Oregon Street Antique Mall also offers antique furniture to decorate your office or home, including unique items which can serve as a gift to someone or souvenir for yourself.

The mall is open six days a month, which varies from time to time; they also host local artisans and makers. Oregon Street Antique Mall staff is nice and polite while attending to customers, and they are always ready to offer assistance when needed.

Address: 1261 Oregon St, Redding, CA 96001, United States

18. Wildcard Brewing Company

Wildcard Brewing Company
Credits: id-art / Shutterstock

Wildcard Brewing Company is a unique brewery in Redding, and a nice spot to hang out and chat with your buddies.

The brewery is known for brewing and distributing outstanding craft beer along with a different variety of wines and cider.

Wildcard Brewing Company was the first ever microbrewery in Redding, and they have been in existence for many years now.

This brewery is owned and operated by two friends, George and Kari Davis, and they specialize in nothing but making beers.

Wildcard Brewing Company offers high quality and tasty craft beers with a little food menu containing quick & happy bites.

Address: 1600 California St, Redding, CA 96001, United States

19. Kid’s Kingdom

Kid’s Kingdom
Credits: In Green / Shutterstock

If you are travelling with kids add a visit to Kid’s Kingdom to your list of things to do in Redding, CA.

Kid’s Kingdom is a great place for children to visit and have fun by engaging in different types of exciting activities.

Here, children are guaranteed a wonderful experience as they explore the entire environment to their heart-filled.

Kid’s Kingdom offers the kids the opportunity to make an underwater adventure using a fish tank or climb up rock walls for those who want to learn more about rock climbing.

The center provides a section for moms and dada to sit and relax as they watch their wards explore the beautiful park.

 Kid’s Kingdom also features new play equipment, swings, zip lines, and a train with an all-inclusive design, making it possible for children to use them without stress.

Address: 4000 Victor Ave, Redding, CA 96002, United States

20. Jetovator

Jetovator
Credits: Studio Peace / Shutterstock

The Jetovator is a water-propelled personal watercraft that uses high-pressure water jets to propel riders above the water.

It requires two people to operate, with a one rider on the PWC controls the engine’s throttle while the other rider on the Jetovator controls the height & the jetovator’s direction.

 At the Bridge Bay Resort on Shasta Lake, visitors can easily rent the Jetovator for high-powered water rides with different options for individuals and groups.

Jetavation Inc had continuously contributed to the hydro flight industry dating back to 2011 when it was officially opened.

The company started with the world’s first water-propelled flying bike, Jetovator, which is definitely Worth trying out.

Address: 20201 Charlanne Dr, Redding, CA 96002, United States

21. Jones Valley Houseboats

Jones Valley Houseboats
Credits: Pacific Southwest Forest Service, USDA / Flickr
Jones Valley Houseboats

Jones Valley Houseboats is a perfect addition to your list of things to do in Redding, for an unforgettable experience.

This is a houseboat rental company located at the Jones Valley Resort and the Silverthorn Resort with a wide variety of houseboats and watercraft rentals on Shasta Lake.

Shasta lake is one of the best places to explore a luxury houseboat vacation on one of the Jones Valley Houseboats.

Address: 22300 Jones Valley Marina Dr, Redding, CA 96003, United States

22. Sacramento River Trail

Sacramento River Trail
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Sacramento River Trail is a popular destination for people seeking an exciting adventure, and it is located 10 miles along the banks of the beautiful Sacramento River.

This trail is a multi-purpose paved trail perfect for walking, hiking, running, rollerblading, and bicycle riding.

Sacramento River Trail can be easily accessed from Hilltop Drive, Caldwell Park, and the scenic Sundial Bridge.

There are benches, and drinking fountains along the trail, donated by service clubs, private contractors, Boy scouts, and a local builders exchange.

Sacramento River Trail links to the spectacular glass sundial bridge and features a moderately flat loop with several shady areas on the south side of the river linking to Keswick Dam.

Address: Caldwell Park, Hilltop Drive, Redding, CA 96002 United States

23. Caldwell Park

Caldwell Park
Credits: Dolores Giraldez Alonso / Shutterstock

Like to know what to do in Redding, CA, for a fun time? Caldwell Park is a historic park with almost everything you need to have a fun day.

The park is packed with many wonderful facilities and amenities, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Caldwell Park features a good number of tennis courts and two ball fields for professional play or recreation purposes.

There are lovely kids’ playgrounds with different play equipment for the kids to explore and have fun however they like.

Caldwell Park also features a large lawn for picnicking with your partner, family, or get-together with friends or colleagues.

The park consists of event spaces available for rentals for any event, such as parties, weddings, conferences, meetings, and more.

Address: 3 Quartz Hill Rd, Redding, CA 96003, United States

24. Woody’s Brewing Company

Woody's Brewing Company
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Wood’s Brewing Company is a family-owned and managed local brewery that has existed since 1984. It is located in the downtown area of Redding, CA.

The local brewhouse is a popular spot amongst locals and visitors who come here to relax and enjoy delicious beers in their lovely setting.

Woody’s Brewing Company has a unique beer recipe that has been perfected over the years and used in producing their homemade lagers and ales.

The brewhouse has on-tap varieties of seasonal beers and well-known permanent beers. They also have an extensive food menu containing mouthwatering dishes to enjoy. 

Address: 1257 Oregon St, Redding, CA 96001, USA

25. Riverview Country Club

Riverview Country Club
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Enjoy golfing at one of Northern California’s most beautiful golf courses and a top-tier privately owned course in Redding.

The golf facility is generally considered top quality. This well-maintained 18-hole golf course features state-of-the-art driving ranges, excellent training facilities, and a vast selection of social activities, including activities about golf.

The clubhouse and practice area overlooking the Sacramento River and Mt. Bally Beyond offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. 

The clubhouse features a tennis court and swimming pool. It also has a robust schedule of social activities with the most outstanding banquet facility in the region.

Riverview Country Club is an ideal place to go golfing regardless of your skill level, with other exciting things to do to make your golfing experience worthwhile and memorable. 

Address: 4200 Bechelli Ln, Redding, CA 96002, USA

26. Minder Park

Minder Park
Credits: Ja Crispy / Shutterstock

Minder Park is a small neighborhood park in Redding, CA. It has a land size of one acre. Despite being a mini park, it offers exciting features to make your visit the most enjoyable. 

It is an ideal place to relax and unwind, enjoy a stroll, or even have a quick jog before heading out for work.

This beautiful park is an excellent spot to chill and have fun with loved ones and friends. It features seating amongst spacious green spaces.

Minder Park also has a basketball court, a kiddies’ playground with play structures and slides, a drinking fountain, and picnic tables.

Address: 1210 Minder Dr, Redding, CA 96003, USA

Check out more cities in California, here is a guide on things to do in Stocktonthings to do in Mount Shasta, things to do in Chula Vista, and fun things to do Truckee for a fun time

Plan your Trip to Redding

Redding, California, offers something for everyone, this makes this city an exciting place to visit.

It features numerous parks, fun entertainment centers, interesting and educational activities, as well as unique dining experiences.

Start planning a visit to Redding, pin this article as a guide to easily fall back to while making your list of things to do in Redding, CA.