48 HOURS IN REDDING: CREATE YOUR CUSTOM WEEKEND ITINERARY

Forty-eight hours. One unforgettable Northern California adventure anyone can enjoy.

From the mist-wrapped Sundial Bridge at dawn to the glow of downtown at dusk, Redding packs more outdoor thrills, cultural discoveries, and natural wonders into a weekend than you ever thought possible.

The best part? With 300+ sunny days a year, we’re always ready for visitors. Let’s make every minute count.

Your Guide to an Epic Redding Weekend

Upper Crystal Creek Falls | Photo Credit: Avery Rosenthal-Murray

Day 1: Waterfalls, Wonders, and Wow Moments

Start your Redding adventure with a journey west on Highway 299, where history and natural beauty combine for an epic morning.

First stop: Shasta State Historic Park, where the Gold Rush era comes alive among preserved buildings and fascinating exhibits. It’s the perfect warm-up for the natural wonders ahead at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area.

At Whiskeytown, your first mission is to stop by the visitor center for your park pass.

Trust us, you’ll want to pause here for photos of the stunning vista before you.

Next is Crystal Creek Falls, a gorgeous cascade welcoming everyone to experience its beauty. The paved 1/3-mile trail to the falls is wheelchair-friendly, with convenient restroom facilities at the trailhead.

RELATED: WHISKEYTOWN WATERFALLS: YOUR GUIDE TO EXPLORING 4 WATERFALLS NEAR REDDING, CA

For our more adventurous explorers, the fun doesn’t stop at the main viewpoint.

Carefully make your way down to the base of the falls or venture up the right side to discover hidden cascades upstream.

Just remember to wear shoes with good grip, keep a close eye on the kids, and keep four-legged friends leashed. Those rocks can get slippery!

Turtle Bay Exploration Park | Photo Credit: Brent Van Auken

As afternoon rolls around, it’s time to experience one of Redding’s crown jewels—the iconic Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

Take a leisurely stroll across the glass-decked Sundial Bridge, pausing to admire how it transforms the Sacramento River into a work of art (and take a few selfies, of course!).

Wander through the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens‘ 10 stunning acres, which burst with illuminated seasonal magic during spring’s Glowing Wild or winter’s Redding Garden of Lights festivals.

Before exploring Turtle Bay Exploration Park, recharge with refreshments at Branch House Riverfront Bistro. Then, dive into an afternoon of discovery at the park, where every age finds their perfect adventure.

Let the kids run wild in Paul Bunyan’s Forest Camp, get up close with wildlife during an animal encounter, or lose yourself in the latest art exhibition. At Turtle Bay, curiosity truly knows no bounds.

Photo Credit: Avery Rosenthal-Murray

Day 2: Choose Your Adventure & Downtown Discoveries

Rise and shine—it’s time to choose your own Redding adventure!

One of our most impressive (and free!) experiences near Redding awaits at Shasta Dam.

Tours run at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m., but here’s a tip: arrive an hour early to snag your spot.

You’ll walk across the massive dam, descend 400 feet by elevator, and get an up-close look at the powerful Shasta Powerplant.

The views of Shasta Dam, Shasta Lake, and majestic Mt. Shasta? Let’s just say you’ll want to have your camera at the ready.

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A dam tour’s not your style? No problem! Redding’s got adventures for every spirit:

• Challenge yourself to the summit of Chamise Peak for panoramic views you won’t soon forget
• Take on the half-day journey to Whiskeytown Falls for an unforgettable waterfall experience
• Cruise our scenic bike paths from Sundial Bridge to Shasta Dam, or loop through the heart of Redding
• Get your paddle on with kayak or paddleboard rentals from Redding Adventure Hub or Headwaters Adventure Company (seasonal)

After a hearty lunch, it’s time to discover the heart and soul of Redding—our revitalized downtown.

Grab a pedal-assisted bike from Shasta Bike Depot and cruise past colorful murals that tell our city’s stories. Duck into local shops to discover vintage treasures and unique finds.

Welcome to Redding | Photo Credit: Avery Rosenthal

CHECK IT OUT: MURAL RIDER ITNERARY

Follow the aroma of award-winning coffee to local cafes, or treat yourself to wine tasting at downtown’s welcoming tasting rooms.

Looking for unique downtown Redding experiences?

Find your zen in the Capturing the Essence Salt Cave, put your problem-solving skills to the test at Extreme Escape rooms, or find the perfect read at Shop Around the Corner Books.

If you’re here on the first Friday of the month, you’re in for a treat. Our downtown comes alive with extended hours, special deals, and community spirit for First Fridays.

Redding Civic Auditorium | Photo Credit: Chase Smith

Cap off your perfect Redding weekend with live entertainment at one of our iconic venues.

From the historic Cascade Theatre to the modern Redding Civic Auditorium, from intimate shows at Riverfront Playhouse to cutting-edge productions at Axiom Repertory Theatre, there’s always something happening on our stages.

Check the Visit Redding calendar to see what’s playing during your stay.

Local Tips for Your Visit:

• Summer days can sizzle—plan outdoor adventures for morning hours
• Wear comfortable shoes ready for both trails and downtown exploring
• Pack water bottles and snacks for your adventures
• Bring swimwear during warm months—you never know when you’ll want to splash in
• For Shasta Dam tours, arrive early and bring photo ID
• Check seasonal conditions for water activities
• Follow Viva Downtown on social media for First Friday updates

Photo Credit: Avery Rosenthal-Murray

Want to time your visit perfectly?

Check out our Annual Event Guide to see what festivals and celebrations might align with your stay. From classic cars to trail runs, rodeos to holiday celebrations, there’s always something special happening in Redding.

Adventure is calling, and Redding answers with endless possibilities.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, culture lover, foodie, or fun-seeking family, your perfect 48 hours await in Northern California’s outdoor playground.

Come see why we’re proud to call this special place home—and why you’ll want to come back for more!

All that’s left to do now is book your stay.

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