February 13, 2024

50 PERFECTLY PAIRED DATE IDEAS FOR ROMANCE IN REDDING

A young couple on a date facing the Sacramento River from Palisades overlook in Redding, CA

Whether you’re looking for first date ideas in Redding or planning date number 50 and want some fresh romance, we’ve got you covered. Redding offers amazing date night ideas, from scenic nature spots to delicious dining to cultural attractions and more.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, we compiled this list of 50 fun, creative date pairings in Redding, CA for couples at any stage. Much like pairing the perfect wine with a meal takes skill, we’ve done the work to pair the perfect local activity or attraction with a spot for dinner or takeout.

From Redding date nights like outdoor concerts paired with a local cafe to hiking paired with a picnic basket from your favorite deli, this list offers a perfect pairing for every couple.

So spark some romance in Redding and the surrounding Shasta County area. Forget the tired dates you’ve had on repeat, and have a truly memorable time with your sweetheart!

50 Perfect Date Pairings in Redding & Shasta County

1) A Dam Good Time: Take in the panoramic vistas at Shasta Dam before burgers at old-school Damburger. Damburger was established in 1938 when dam workers dined there during the construction phase.

2) Pedal to Palisades: Cruise along the Sacramento River Trail on Pedego e-bike rentals, then continue up the hill to Palisades Park’s cliffside overlook — the perfect sunset picnic spot.

3) Cloud Nine: Wow your date with a bird’s-eye tour over Redding via Air Shasta Rotor & Wing before enjoying elevated dining with a runway view at Peter Chu’s Skyroom. This popular Chinese food restaurant is located upstairs in the Redding Airport.

A couple with Bird scooters on the Diestelhorst Bridge overlooking the Sacramento River

Diestelhorst Bridge over the Sacramento River | Photo Credit: Brent Van Auken

4) Sundial Scootin’: Zoom side-by-side across the iconic Sundial Bridge on fun Bird scooter rentals. Head right on the north side of the bridge to continue along the Sacramento River Trail loop for the perfect ride.

5) Turtle Bay & Bistro Bites: Spend the afternoon exploring Turtle Bay’s animal exhibits, gardens, and art displays, then unwind over a glass of wine and bistro fare with river views on the patio at the neighboring Branch House Riverfront Bistro.

6) East Meets West: Embark on a cross-cultural journey in downtown Redding. Start at Juniper Stones, where you can explore Eastern spiritual traditions through healing crystals and protection stones. Then, travel west to the Mediterranean, savoring the rich flavors and aromas of Anthony’s Mediterranean Cuisine.

7) Shows & Slices: Grab oven-fresh pies at Fratelli’s Pizza Parlor in Foundry Square, and follow up with showstopping sets from live acts over craft brews at The Dip music lounge.

A couple roller skating at Viking Skate Country in Redding, CA

Viking Skate Country | Photo Credit: Hannah Lillian Photo

8) Like Totally 80s: Get your retro roller skates on at old-school Viking Skate Country after finding far-out vintage 80s fashions at Friday’s Vintage Co. From neon lights to disco balls, this rad pairing perfectly channels the 80s kid in you!

9) Heritage & Flavor: Absorb history and culture together at the Behrens-Eaton House, Turtle Bay, and the Shasta Historical Society. Wander through interesting exhibits before capping off your cultured date at The Shack.

10) Stroll & Soul Food: Walk the Clover Creek Preserve loop before enjoying modern Southern comfort fare at The Bantam Kitchen. The shareable Cowboy Nachos is a local favorite!

top of the world Redding, Ca

Top of the World | Photo Credit: Ryan Thompson

11) Top of the World: Work up an appetite on the Top of the World hike, rewarding your effort with jaw-dropping 360-degree vistas of Lassen, Shasta, and the Trinity Alps from the summit. Refuel on delicious healthy fare at Le Testimony Organic Bistro.

12) Pickleball is my Love Language: Rally on the Enterprise Park pickleball courts, then share warming ramen bowls at nearby Sweetspot. Don’t forget to top off your date with a house-made cupcake or gelato!

13) Downtown Gifts & Grub: Browse downtown’s chic Carousel boutique to handpick gifts and new outfits together. Then wander next door to The Park to enjoy food truck grub and a good drink under string lights.

A couple on a date on the shore of Whiskeytown Lake in Redding, CA

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area | Photo Credit: Brent Van Auken

14) Fuse Our Love at Whiskeytown: Grab takeout tacos from Fusion Lounge before picnicking or kayaking at gorgeous Whiskeytown Lake. Pick up tacos on Tuesdays for an incredible deal!

15) Sunset Stroll & Silver Screen: Meander the peaceful ponds on paved trails at Lema Ranch for golden hour views before catching a flick at Cinemark 14. Lema Ranch is a bird lovers paradise!

16) Park Marina & Margs: Work on your swing together, playing a round of Aqua Golf right on the Sacramento River. Then take a short drive down the road to Tortilla Flats, Redding’s oldest Mexican restaurant, to wind down your date over margaritas.

Shorty's Eatery at Shasta State Historic Park outside Redding, CA

Shasta State Historic Park

17) History & Hot Dogs: Wander Gold Rush-era buildings at Shasta State Historic Park before enjoying tasty hot dogs (like the tropical Hawaiian dog with mango and pineapple relish), deli fare, and Filipino dishes at Shorty’s Eatery.

18) Pottery & Pad Thai: Get creative with a pottery painting session at All Fired Up, then walk across the street to Thai Cafe for pad Thai, curry, and noodle dishes to refuel after all that artistic expression.

19) Themed Rooms & Sweet Scoops: Test your teamwork and race the clock solving puzzles at Extreme Escape, then debrief over inventive artisan ice cream at Taste & See Creamery in downtown Redding.

Telmo Miel Mural on Taroko

Telmo Miel Mural | Photo Credit: Brent Van Auken

20) Moseleys & Murals: Savor welcoming hospitality while tasting vinos at Moseley Tasting Room before a mural walk to admire artistic displays. Don’t miss Telmo Miel’s Forward Redding mural just a few blocks down the road on Pine Street.

21) Eats, Drinks & Theater Treats: Savor chops, seafood, and whiskey libations at Market Street Blade & Barrel, one of Redding’s favorite steakhouses. You only have to step next door to take in a show at the iconic Cascade Theatre.

22) Catch & (Don’t) Release: Hook trophy trout with area guides on Redding’s famed Sacramento River. Exit the river at South Bonneyview and make your way to Fall River Brewing Co. to trade fish tales over pints of aromatic, gold medal-winning Hex IPA and other crafty brews.

Inside the cave tour at Lake Shasta Caverns

Lake Shasta Caverns | Photo Credit: Brent Van Auken

23) Subterranean Sights: Take in towering mineral formations on a fascinating Shasta Caverns tour, then unwind over no-fuss American fare and specialty martinis at C.R. Gibbs American Grille attached to the Best Western.

24) A Winning Combination: Indulge in relaxing massages at Shasta Strong Wellness Spa before trying your luck with slots and tables inside Win-River Resort & Casino, followed by an all-American meal at Seasons.

25) Vintage Threads & Craft Brews: Unearth unique retro finds from rock tees to well-loved denim at Old 44 Vintage before sampling the 34-tap list over pub grub at neighboring Final Draft Brewing.

26) River Romance: Drift into love on an intimate River Romance cruise, floating under Sundial Bridge at sunset while enjoying a delicious meal tailored just for you. Then cap off the evening strolling hand-in-hand along the Sacramento River Trail.

A couple with Redding Bikeshare ebikes on the Sacramento River Trail admiring the Sundial Bridge

Redding Bikeshare e-bikes on the Sacramento River Trail | Photo Credit: Brent Van Auken

27) Bikes & Brews: Explore scenic trails with Redding Bikeshare’s pedal-assist bikes before parking it downtown for pints and pub fare at Woody’s Brewing Company. And remember to ask about the Chocolate Chip Pretzel Bread Pudding!

28) Vine & Dine: Sip award-winning sacramental wines in the newly opened New Clairvaux Vineyard tasting room before wandering across the street to The Lost Era cafe serving daily specials amongst curated antiques.

29) Longtime Love: Take in a local show at Redding’s longtime cultural staple Riverfront Playhouse. Next, step back in time for expertly prepared steaks and spirits in Jack’s Grill’s retro establishment, unchanged since its 1930s heyday.

30) River Sights & Thai Delights: Take advantage of golden hour along the Sacramento River at Caldwell Park, capped off with savoring Janya’s comforting Thai flavors. The mango sticky rice is always a hit!

A couple heading to a concert on the Redding Civic Auditorium lawn.

Concert on the lawn at the Redding Civic Auditorium | Photo Credit: Chase Smith

31) Dinner and a Show: This classic date is hard to beat. Savor California cuisine and drinks at Mosaic Restaurant before strolling across the parking lot for comedy, concerts, and more at the Redding Civic Auditorium.

32) A Spirited Affair: Discover healing crystals and protection stones chosen just for you at Juniper Stones before indulging in elegant fare and crafted cocktails at Rosé Kitchen & Spirits. Both locations are a short walk from each other in downtown Redding.

33) Shows & Slices: Grab oven-fresh pies at Fratelli’s Pizza Parlor in Foundry Square, and follow up with showstopping sets from live acts over craft brews at The Dip music lounge.

An axe in a log at Timberlords axe-throwing range in Redding

Axe-throwing at Timberlords | Photo Credit: Christopher Michael Everett

34) Best of Bechelli: Show off your axe-throwing skills hitting bullseyes at Timberlords on Bechelli Lane, then cozy up over candles, roses, and classic Italian cuisine for two across the street at Nello’s Place.

35) Satisfaction: Discover Redding’s creative community through exhibits and events at The Art Hunger located inside the historic Oddfellows Hall (I.O.O.F.) before enjoying wood-fired pizzas and salads down the street at Cinders.

36) Art with a Side of Rice: View rotating exhibits at the Shasta Arts Council Gallery inside Old City Hall before dining at lively hibachi tables across the street at Kobe Steakhouse. For a more private dining experience, request a table for two.

37) Climb & Caffeinate: Work up an appetite scaling walls at Shasta Rock Club’s indoor climbing gym before enjoying organic coffee, breakfast grillers, and scratch-made bites at community-loving Kaleidoscope Coffee.

A young woman with tattoos forming clay on a pottery wheel at Form Ceramics in Redding

Form Ceramics

38) Get Handsy: Go out Lady and the Tramp style at Pasta Pronto before a couples pottery date at Form Ceramics. Sign up for a private class for two, or inquire about the special vase-hugging event offered around Valentine’s Day.

39) Botanical Beauty: Fuel up on organic bites and coffee inside Evergreen’s vibey, plant-filled cafe before wandering to the nearby Floranthropist Studio. Together, you can hand-select houseplants or pick up gorgeous, ready-made floral arrangements.

40) Twice the Treat: Double down on self-care and tasty treats. Pamper yourself in the serene riverside escape of Urban Retreat Day Spa, then satisfy your sweet tooth with artful cupcakes from Sublime Cake Design in the same Park Marina area.

A couple enjoying dinner and cocktails on the View 202 patio in Redding, CA

Dinner on the View 202 patio | Photo Credit: Christopher Michael Everett

41) Riverside Relaxation: Take in stunning river views during a couples massage at Rose Mountain Healing Arts. Then head around the corner where View 202’s upscale fare and sunset views cap off a wonderfully romantic evening.

42) Nature’s Paradise: Stroll through the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, pausing to chat on a bench in a quiet alcove. Then sample Anthony’s Mediterranean Cuisine in downtown Redding.

43) Meat Lovers Oasis: Work up an appetite by go-karting and playing mini golf at Oasis Fun Center before indulging in smokey tri-tip, ribs, and more from Dill’s Deli. If the date’s going well, top it off with classic ice cream treats next door at 32 Below.

44) Uncork Culture: Explore local art and culture while touring the Redding Cultural District, which includes nearly 70 public art installations. Then walk into Westside Tap & Cork for sips and tapas. Check their calendar for special pairing events!

A couple on a date in Redding in an ATV at Chappie-Shasta OHV Area

Off-roading at Chappie-Shasta OHV Area | Photo Credit: Brent Van Auken

45) Down & Dirty: Kick up dust tearing over rugged trails in a side-by-side rental from Action Sports Rentals. Then savor an artisan charcuterie spread, custom-packed picnic-style from Cask & Cleaver, once you reach a scenic Chappie-Shasta overlook.

46) Rare & Raw: Spring skyward on wall-to-wall trampolines at Rare Air Trampoline Park, perfect for the young at heart! Then, bounce over to RAW Sushi & Bar for amazing happy hour deals like $5 rolls and sake.

47) DIY Signs & Cheers Vibes: Create custom wood signs at Board & Brush before grabbing a tasty bite and brew next door at the historic Post Office Kitchen & Spirits. You might feel like you stepped into an episode of Cheers!

Two guys mountain biking Redding trails

Mountain biking trails in Redding, CA | Photo Credit: Avery Rosenthal

48) The Trailblazer: Work up an appetite while exploring a new trail using the handy Redding Trail Guide for inspo. When the day of exploring is done, make your way downtown for Taiwanese cuisine and drinks at Taroko Asian Bar & Grill.

49) Hot Shots: Get fired up showing off your sharpshooting skills inside Nice Shot Shooting Range’s indoor facility. Then retire your weapons for the evening to relax over beautifully crafted meals and cocktails at Karline’s Restaurant & Bar.

50) Double the Country: Double down on the country vibe with strikes and gutters under disco lights at Country Bowl’s newfangled Clutch Bowling, then chill out with healthy Rawsome Kitchen bites inside Country Organics market a short walk away.

A south-facing aerial view of the Sundial Bridge with a pink and purple cloudy sky

Sundial Bridge | Photo Credit: Nolan Erickson

Plan Your Own Redding Romance

With 50 tailored date night pairings to spark fresh connection, Redding offers no shortage of romantic possibilities. From active outdoor adventures to indulgent foodie escapes — and everything in between — you’re sure to discover new favorite couple’s activities in stunning Shasta County.

As you embark on these creative dates, snap some pics and share the romance!

Tag us @VisitRedding and use #ReddingForRomance so we can see you enjoying these spectacular date ideas in the city we love.

Now it’s your turn to choose your perfect pairing and infuse your relationship with new energy. Pick an idea from our list, or get inspired to craft your very own Redding date. The options are truly endless when love is in the air!

Wondering where to stay in Redding? We’re happy to help. Shoot us an email at [email protected] for tailored recommendations.

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