December 16, 2022

TOP REASONS TO TAKE A BREAK FROM YOUR ROAD TRIP IN REDDING

Take a break in Redding

Take a break in Redding, California!

Redding has so much more to offer than a quick pit stop and cheap gas. Enjoy great food, coffee, and loads of outdoor adventure just minutes from the highway.

Whether you’re a road tripper from LA on your way to Portland or heading out on a family vacation in Seattle, Redding is the ideal place to stretch your legs, take in a great meal, and recharge your batteries. There are loads of awesome things to do in and around Redding as you pass through.

People love getting out and about in Redding, whether it be hiking, mountain biking, or fishing against the backdrop of the city’s breathtaking scenery. And there are many more activities close to town that are fast, easy, and fun for everyone. It really is too good a city to pass by.

Wondering where to eat, play, and stay?

Here are a few ways to take a break in Redding:

EAT (AND DRINK)

Thoery Coffee in Redding Ca

COFFEE 

Redding is fast becoming a premiere coffee destination in California, with a swag of local roasteries cropping up.

Theory Coffee Roasters has led the charge, with two locations at 1250 California Street and 1401 Hilltop Drive.

Theory is listed as one of Golden Bean’s top 30 coffee roasters in North America.

Not to be outdone, Evergreen’s famous and locally roasted Feast Coffee brings great beans and vibes at 2085 Pine Street.

BRANCH HOUSE RIVERFRONT BISTRO

Looking for a way to stretch your legs, grab a quick bite, and take in the local scenery?

You can do it all alongside the Sacramento River at one of Redding’s newest cafes, Branch House Riverfront Bistro.

Set between the Turtle Bay Museum and the Sundial Bridge, Brand House’s offers both indoor and river view patio seating.

Try the prosciutto quiche, Greek yogurt parfait, or a chocolate croissant. Coffee, teas, smoothies, and a seasonal daily menu are available all day beginning at 7 AM.

Deja VU with Bike

DEJA VU

Every day needs to get off to the right start, and you’ll make that happen at Deja Vu Restaurant & Espresso Cafe at 1590 California Street.

It has that kind of homey vibe that causes you to feel like you’ve been there before.

Located on the first floor of the historic Lorenz Hotel, Deja Vu has been family owned since 1995. Deja Vu offers its own coffee menu featuring the award-winning ‘Equator Coffee.’

Voted Redding’s best breakfast, you can choose from 15 different omelets and six versions of eggs benedict (shrimp, jalapeños, and chorizo, anyone?).

WILDA’S GRILL

You simply can’t pass up Wilda’s at 1712 Churn Creek Road for great food on the go.

This locally-owned restaurant is a food lover’s favorite, satisfying Redding locals with its eclectic menu and unique recipes.

Their signature dish is the Buddha Bowl, topped with spicy tofu, falafel, or grilled chicken—plus all the extras that make this a taste sensation.

(Ask to have your Buddha Bowl flipped in a hot dog box to order like a local.)

Or maybe you’d prefer a clash of cultures with falafel on naan bread, onion-ringed hot dogs, or what Wilda’s calls their ‘Hot Mess’—French fries, onion rings, and sweet potato fries are just the start of it.

Fall River Beers with Friends

Photo Credit: Brent Van Auken

BEERS AT FALL RIVER BREWING

From humble beginnings as garage-style home brewers in 2011, John and Amanda Hutchings have grown into owning and running one of Redding’s most loved breweries, Fall River Brewing Co.

Decked out with its own 30 BBL brewing system, their beers became quick favorites throughout California and Nevada.

If you’re looking for that authentic brewery vibe, head to where the good stuff is brewed at 4001 Eastside Road—beers, food trucks, arcade games, and more. You know the drill.

For a more civilized experience, the Taphouse at 1030 East Cypress Avenue is your go. Try the Widowmaker if you dare!

Mosaic

MOSAIC RESTAURANT

Named after and inspired by the mosaic tiles under the Sundial Bridge, Mosaic Restaurant is a Redding favorite.

The lush and charming patio is perfect for relaxed, casual dining or sipping on one of Mosaic’s signature cocktails like a Love & Mezcal or a Purple Rain.

This family-friendly restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

There’s even a dog menu for your four-legged friend!

You’ll find them next to the Sheraton Hotel, near the Sundial Bridge at 826 Sundial Bridge Drive.

View 202 Calamari

Photo Credit: Christopher Michael Everett

VIEW 202

For some of the best calamari in town and a spectacular view of the Sacramento River, you can’t go past the aptly named View 202 at 202 Hemsted Drive.

It’s a truly unique and luxurious dining experience with elevated American dishes, exciting cocktails, and that unbeatable view from the patio!

View 202 boasts an incredible range of whiskeys and even offers flights for those overwhelmed by the choices.

Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or dinner you are pondering, you won’t want to leave Redding without enjoying a table with the View.

Dudes Drive In

Photo Credit: Brent Van Auken

DUDE’S DRIVE INN

If you’re searching for something more classic Americana, then Dude’s is your go-to for some good old-school burgers, burritos, corn dogs, fries, and ice cream.

Family-owned and operated for three generations, Dude’s was established by Lewis (Dude) and Vi McCaslin way back in 1965!

Many locals consider Dude’s one of the most nostalgic restaurants in the area.

Discover why the locals keep coming back when you visit 1644 Hartnell Avenue. And don’t forget to order some gems!

JACK’S BAR AND GRILL

Jack’s entices you to take in the cool, retro vibe. And you’ll be glad you stayed for one of the best steaks in Redding (the 16 oz. New York Strip is a locals favorite)!

Built in 1935, Jack’s is a throwback to pre-World War II days when the street was an infamous and colorful strip of bars and late-night houses.

It’s also the last remaining business from those days—so they must be doing something right!

Find out more when you see for yourself at 1743 California Street.

TASTE AND SEE CREAMERY

Redding’s toasty summers demand a wide range of options for people to cool down, and what better way than some of the best ice cream in all of California?

Head to 1419 Market Street or Taste & See’s new 930 Hilltop Drive location for what truly is ice cream reinvented—a unique twist on one of America’s favorite desserts that you’ll have to taste and see!

Jake and Danny make sure every single mouth-watering flavor is made from scratch with premium local dairy and the finest raw ingredients.

Belgian Chocolate Ganache? Bourbon and Brown Butter Pecan, perhaps? Which one is your favorite?

PLAY

aerial redding

Photo Credit: Seth McGaha

WALK THE SACRAMENTO RIVER TRAIL

Walking is one of the best ways to see Redding.

The number of carefully crafted trails all over the city provides the best way to admire its postcard views.

Walking or riding the Sacramento River Trail is like a rite of passage when you visit the city—you just have to do it. A nice, easy 5 1/2 mile loop on either side of the Sacramento River, starting on the south side of the Diestelhorst Bridge, helps you gain your whereabouts.

Leave up to two hours for the trip and take plenty of water. Or, if you prefer, see it all in a fraction of the time by renting an electric bike.

Couple on bridge

Photo Credit: Brent Van Auken

HIRE UP AND FIRE UP YOUR FUN

Redding is a go-town adventure town, and no matter your thrill, there’s gear to hire to ensure you get the most out of your stay.

You’ll find e-bikes to rent for a leisurely hour-long ride along the Sacramento River at Jefferson State Adventure Hub, 827 N Market Street, or you can pick up a Bird Scooter just about anywhere.

Redding Sports Ltd at 950 Hilltop Drive has got you covered for mountain bikes and will point you towards the best trails nearby.

If kayaks and rafts float your boat, Headwater Adventure Company at 2655 Park Marina Drive is your destination.

Action Sports Rentals at 915 Wall Street can sort you out for ATVs and jet skis.

There are no limits, and there’s plenty of action close to town, so you can maximize every minute.

CALDWELL PARK

Families can get out of the car and stretch their legs at Caldwell Park with a playground, skatepark, BMX track, fields, and of course, the Sacramento River.

The Redding Skatepark reopened in April 2022 after a $1.3M upgrade, and it has all of Redding’s skating fanatics buzzing.

Caldwell Junior Bike Park has your kids covered if they prefer riding to skating.

Or for the little ones, a new playground comes complete with built-in slides with rock climbers, swings, spinners, towers, and the Spectra Orbit climber—one of the first in the world, right here at Caldwell Park.

Nur Pon Bird Watching

Photo Credit: Landon Cramer

BIRD WATCHING

The Wintu Audubon Society takes bird watching seriously! This group of birding enthusiasts has been part of the community since 1975. There isn’t a bird within miles of Redding they haven’t heard of!

Wintu Audobon is heavily focused on conserving and restoring natural ecosystems while supporting birds and other local wildlife. You’ll discover all the birding hotspots in and around Redding with Wintu.

Woman with parrots

Photo Credit: The Nomadic People

TURTLE BAY EXPLORATION PARK

There’s fun for the whole family at Turtle Bay, and it’s easy to pack a lot in quickly. Head to the iconic Sundial Bridge, turn right at Branch House Riverfront Bistro, and let the fun begin!

Charge your electric vehicle or Tesla while enjoying fascinating animals, learning opportunities, and the best playground in town.

Depending on the season, make sure the kids see the butterfly house and get the chance to feed the lorikeets at the Parrot Playhouse!

And you won’t want to miss the Turtle Bay Museum, where art, science, and nature come together.

STAY

Sheraton

Photo Credit: The Sheraton

SHERATON REDDING HOTEL AT THE SUNDIAL BRIDGE

Being a short stroll to the Sundial Bridge, the Sacramento River, the Civic Auditorium, and downtown Redding makes The Sheraton a great place to position yourself for a road trip overnighter.

The 4-star hotel provides quality amenities and all the comforts you need.

You’re next door to the highly-rated Mosaic Restaurant for a fresh meal, refreshing drink, or a scenic walk (or scooter ride) away from many other cafes and shops.

Oh, and it’s pet friendly too!

Best Western Plus Hilltop Inn

Photo Credit: Best Western Plus Hilltop Inn

BEST WESTERN PLUS HILLTOP INN

Where comfort and style collide, the Best Western at 2300 Hilltop Drive is your gateway to everything Redding has to offer.

Put your feet up after a long day behind the wheel, enjoying the contemporary and inviting rooms with free wi-fi, large HDTVs, and an on-site fitness center before cooling off with a dip in the pool.

Dine at the C.R. Gibbs American Grille for lunch or dinner, and look forward to the complimentary hot buffet breakfast awaiting you in the morning.

There are even pet-friendly rooms available.

RED LION HOTEL REDDING

Conveniently located at 1830 Hilltop Drive, the first thing you’ll notice about the Red Lion is its breathtaking view of the magnificent Sundial Bridge.

You might also be instantly drawn to the largest outdoor pool in Redding, the modern, state-of-the-art fitness center, or the Tesla on-site charging station.

But scratch below the surface, and you’ll uncover so much more awaiting you, like live music at the Three Shastas Bar & Grill.

Happy hour Wednesday to Sunday, from 4-6 PM, is sure to get you in the mood.

Americana Modern Hotel Lobby

AMERICANA MODERN HOTEL

If you love cozy small-town stays with loads of nostalgia, the Americana Modern Hotel is for you.

Recently remodeled and professionally designed, it’s difficult to find a more aesthetically-pleasing place to stay in the heart of downtown Redding.

The Americana offers flat screen cable TVs, Wi-FI, and coffee makers in every room. Kitchenettes and work stations are also available, as well as a workout room.

Traveling with pets? Your furry friends are welcome, too. You’ll find the Americana at 1241 Market Street.

Redding: A Road Tripper’s Paradise

This is just the beginning of your options when you take a break from your road trip in Redding. Whether you’ve got an hour or a day, you’re sure to maximize every second—then make plans to come back for a more extended stay!

If you’re looking for more things to do in Redding, we’ve got plenty more for you. Thanks for stopping by!

Get Our Newsletter

Want to hear more from us? Stay up-to-date with what’s happening in Redding!

Trees Graphic Trees Graphic Mountains Graphic Mountains Graphic