REDDING--CALIFORNIA’S NATURAL GETAWAY Sample Itineraries
Art and Culture Tour Redding boasts an extensive art-in-public-places program. From a rotating art exhibit inside City Hall, to the spectacular Sundial Bridge and various exhibits at Turtle Bay Museum, you are sure to find something that strikes your interest. 9:00 a.m.
Experience the world famous Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay
11:00 a.m.
Visit the North Valley Art League in beautiful and historic Caldwell Park
12:00 p.m.
Savor lunch at a locally owned and operated Downtown Redding restaurant
1:00 p.m.
Meander through the Old City Hall Arts Center
2:00 p.m.
Learn about Redding’s history and view 100 years of California paintings
3:00 p.m.
View a unique example of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture
4:00 p.m.
See a City Hall Art Exhibit and the Sculpture Park at City Hall
5:30 p.m.
Dine in historic downtown Redding
7:00 p.m.
Enjoy a show at one of California’s most famous theaters
The Sundial Bridge in Redding is the most unique pedestrian bridge in America. Featuring a 210-foot pylon that acts as the gnomon of a sundial, the bridge is the largest man-made sundial in the world, casting its enormous shadow on a giant dial plate bordered by a natural garden to the north. The designer of this world famous bridge is an artist in his own right. Award winning Spanish architect, artist, and engineer Santiago Calatrava is one of the world’s most famous and sought-after bridge designers. While visiting the bridge, check to see if the Turtle Bay Museum might be featuring any art exhibits, or any other exhibits that might appeal to you during your visit. You can check the calendar on line at www.turtlebay.org or by calling 530243-8850. The bridge is open seven days a week from 6am to Midnight, and there is no charge to view or walk across the bridge. Turtle Bay Park is open daily March to October from 9am to 5pm and Wednesday - Monday 9am to 5pm from November to February. North Valley Art League is a non-profit organization dedicated to the support of local artists, and the promotion and sale of art in the California North State. The League occupies the historical Carter House on the banks of the Sacramento River in downtown Redding. Surrounding the Gallery is the Matson/Mowder/Howe Celebration Garden, a native garden that creates a tranquil setting inviting artistic expression in all media. 48 Quartz Hill Drive in Caldwell Park, Tuesday Saturday, 11am - 4pm. ~ www.nval.org Truly a monument to the colorful history of Redding, Old City Hall Arts Center now serves as a central resource for the arts in Shasta County. The gallery offers professional exhibition space to local and regional artists. Built in 1907, this historic building once housed the city's offices, council chambers, and a police department. It still contains one of the original jail cells. Renovated in 1987 to coincide with Redding's Centennial, Old City Hall received a new cupola and was redesigned to house a gallery and performing arts theater. 1313 Market Street, Tuesday - Friday, 9am - 5pm, and Saturday 11am - 3pm during exhibitions ~ 530-241-7320
There are many great dining choices in the downtown area. Check out our Food and Wine page online for a list of locally owned and operated business that will give you a real taste of Redding! Six miles west of Redding, a row of old, half-ruined brick buildings remain as silent but eloquent vestiges to the lusty “Queen City” of California’s northern mining district which once was the hub of the north state. The park features a general store, a bakery, and a museum that is still home to the original jail and gallows. The museum features an art collection representing over 100 years of California paintings. 10am - 5pm, Wednesday - Sunday. 530-243-8194 Shortly before his death, architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed the Pilgrim Congregational Church in Redding. It was completed in 1958 with 23 steel and concrete triangular pillars that give the building a tent-like quality. Mr. Wright, with tongue in cheek, referred to the church design as “pole and boulder Gothic.” His thought was that the church would represent the ancient dwelling of Israel, a symbol of temporary, migratory, and transient lives. 2850 Foothill Blvd, Monday - Saturday, 9am to 5pm ~ 530-243-3121 The walls on all three floors of Redding’s City Hall are lined with spectacular artwork featured by various artists in a quarterly rotating art exhibit. Outside, the grounds are meticulously landscaped and offer visitors a chance to meander along paved walkways through the Sculpture Park at City Hall. The park is home to both permanent and touring works of stone, metal, and Mosaiculture art pieces. 777 Cypress Avenue. City Hall: Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm Located in historic downtown Redding, Maritime boasts award winning, French Californian inspired cuisine in a casual, elegant atmosphere. The bar features an extensive wine list, martini menu, and appetizer menu. 1600 California Street, Monday - Saturday, 5pm - 9pm, www.maritimeredding.com. Other good eats are Fuji Japanese Restaurant at 1545 Placer Street (530-243-8366), Market Street Steakhouse at 1777 Market Street (530-241-1777), and the Vintage Wine Bar and Restaurant at 1790 Market Street (530-229-9449, www.vintagedowntown.com), all of which are located within walking distance of the beautifully restored Cascade Theatre. Check the calendar of events at the Cascade Theatre before you depart for your Art and Culture tour in Redding. Most shows are Thursday, Friday, or Saturday nights between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. This is a venue you definitely want to check out if you have the opportunity! Built in 1935, this fine example of Art Deco architecture is a downtown Redding landmark that features a large front façade with a neon pylon sign, marquee, and cast concrete frieze depicting northern California industry. Besides it’s world-class shows and entertainment, it’s most famous trademark is the meticulously restored ceiling mural. If you go for a show, be sure to look up! 1721 Market Street, 530-243-8787, www.cascadetheatre.org
Redding Convention & Visitors Bureau 530-225-4100 / 800-874-7562 info@visitredding.com www.visitredding.com
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History and Geography Tours The eight-county Shasta-Cascade region is steeped in history. The Wintu, Yana, Achomawi, and Atsugewi tribes were the first people to inhabit this region, leaving a rich heritage of cultural artifacts. Gold discovered in 1848 triggered rapid settlement of Reading Springs, later to be called Shasta--the Queen City of the far northern mining camps. The Gold Rush lasted through the 50s, and was followed by a copper mining boom near the close of the 19th century. From 1890 to 1920, Shasta County was the leading copper producing region in California. During this same period, the logging and timer products industries began to establish themselves with small sawmills which developed into major wood products plants. The building of the Shasta Dam (1938-1945) again propelled Redding into rapid growth and development which continues today. Visit some of the many museums and historic landmarks throughout the region for a glimpse into our area’s past. *Note: Most museums are closed on Mondays. EAST Historic Monolith, Turtle Bay Museum, Shasta State Historic Park, Joss House, JJ Jackson Museum & History Center, Camden House, and Whiskeytown Visitor Center. NORTH Shasta Dam, Castle Crags, Dunsmuir Museum, Mt. Shasta, Heritage Junction of McCloud Historic Center, and Burney Falls. EAST 8:30 a.m.
Visit the Monolith--a tangible remnant of the building of Shasta Dam
9:00 a.m.
Interact inside the Turtle Bay Museum at Turtle Bay Exploration Park
10:30 a.m.
Relive Redding’s history at the Shasta State Historic Park
11:45 a.m.
Enjoy lunch at the Old Millhouse Deli
2:00 p.m.
Walk inside an 1870s Chinese Taoist Temple
3:00 p.m.
Browse a collection of historic artifacts started in 1922
5:30 p.m.
Enjoy dinner at one of Redding’s famous landmarks
7:00 p.m.
Take in a show at the historic Cascade Theatre downtown
The Monolith is the last tangible remnant of one of Redding’s most significant historical chapters: the building of Shasta Dam. The ruins of the old Kutras Aggregate Plant have kindled memories and become the site of many a resident’s more recent personal reflections. The Monolith was originally the foundation for the facility that processed the gravel used for the concrete in Shasta Dam. Since its closure in 1945, the structure had deteriorated, yet maintained a certain beauty. Turtle Bay Museum is the heart of the Turtle Bay Experience. Local and regional history takes center state in permanent exhibits in the Museum. Step into a Wintu bark house and learn about our local Native American culture, see authentic Indian baskets, and investigate the historic use of our area’s natural resources.
Six miles west of Redding, a row of old, half-ruined brick buildings remain as silent but eloquent vestiges to the lusty “Queen City” of California’s northern mining district which once was the hub of the north state. The park features a general store, a bakery, a museum that is still home to the original jail and gallows, and the oldest Masonic Lodge in California. 10am - 5pm, Wednesday - Sunday. 530-243-8194 Backtrack about 5 minutes toward Redding to dine at the Old Millhouse Deli & Restaurant. Enjoy a wide variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, and specials, but whatever you do, be sure to save room for dessert. The Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park is home to the oldest continuously active Chinese temple in California. Art objects, pictures, mining tools, and weapons used in the 1854 Tong War are on display. The temple also contains a wealth of religious artifacts brought to the area by the Chinese during California’s gold rush, and affords a fascinating look into the role played by Chinese immigrants in early California history. Tours on the hour from 10am - 4pm. Hwy 299 and Oregon Street, Wednesday through Sunday, 10am - 5pm ~ 530-623-5284 The J.J.Jackson Memorial Museum contains a collection of artifacts which began in 1922 when the Veteran’s Memorial Hall was constructed. When the hall caught fire in the 40s, artifacts were rescued and stored by Jake Jackson. With energetic local fund raising efforts and the assistance of State of California grant funds, the museum was constructed and opened in 1968. The museum’s collection provides the visitor an intimate look at all phases of the county’s rich history. The displays illuminate life, conditions, events and activities covering the period prior to the arrival of the first settlers to the present. 780 Main Street, Daily 12pm to 4pm, April - October. www.trinitymuseum.org 530-623-5211 Jacks Bar & Grill has been locally owned and operated since 1938. Now a Redding institution, Jacks is known throughout the west for some of the best steaks around. During its reign as top steakhouse, Jacks has been run by a World War I flying ace, housed an Old West prostitution business, and still sports the façade and décor of its early days, including two Old-West style paintings by a down-on-his-luck artist who was befriended by the original bar owner. 1743 California Street, 5pm - 11pm (bar 4pm - 11:30pm), closed Sundays, reservations recommended. www.jacksgrillredding.com Buz’s Crab Seafood Restaurant, Market & Deli is Redding’s own Fisherman’s Wharf. Established in 1968, this “funky fish joint” is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Enjoy casual dining in a wharf style atmosphere and eclectic seafaring décor. Menu choices range from fried seafood baskets to complete charbroiled seafood meals, southwestern, sandwiches and wraps, and, of course, clam chowder. Check the calendar of events at the Cascade Theatre before you depart for your Art and Culture tour in Redding. Most shows are Thursday, Friday, or Saturday nights between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. This is a venue you definitely want to check out if you have the opportunity! Built in 1935, this fine example of Art Deco architecture is a downtown Redding landmark that features a large front façade with a neon pylon sign, marquee, and cast concrete frieze depicting northern California industry. Besides it’s world-class shows and entertainment, it’s most famous trademark is the meticulously restored ceiling mural. If you go for a show, be sure to look up! 1721 Market Street, 530-243-8787, www.cascadetheatre.org NORTH 9:00 a.m.
Tour Shasta Dam Witness ancient Castle Crags
11:30 a.m.
Visit the Dunsmuir Museum Glimpse magical Mt. Shasta as you meander up the canyon
12:45 p.m.
Break for lunch in Dunsmuir or McCloud
2:00 p.m.
Browse the Heritage Junction of McCloud Historic Center
4:00 p.m.
Cool off at refreshing Burney Falls
6:00 p.m.
Enjoy dinner at one of Redding’s famous landmarks
7:00 p.m.
Take in a show at Redding’s historic Cascade Theatre
Although locals tend to disagree about the exact intended use of Shasta Lake--everything from fishing, to flood control, to swimming, irrigation, and power generation--there is no arguing the fact that the building of Shasta Dam propelled Redding back into rapid growth and development after a copper mining boom in the early 1900s left behind a wasteland of dead orchards and denuded hillsides. As you travel toward the dam, imagine the hillsides treeless and barren. It is said that the smoke from the smelters was so thick that “several men walked over a steep bank and fell into a creek and others ran into buildings and fences.” Tour leaves promptly on the hour. Be sure to arrive 20 minutes early to allow time to walk out to the center of the dam (minimal shuttle service is available for the elderly or handicapped). Please note that no cell phones, pagers, cameras, purses or bags of any kind, or weapons of any kind (including pocket knives) are allowed. Tour lasts approximately one hour. Call 530-275-4463 for more information. On the drive to Dunsmuir, you’ll pass ancient Castle Crags to the west. These soaring spires of ancient granite are about 6,000 feet tall and 170 million years old. There are 18 miles of improved trails available to hikers and backpackers in the area, including several miles of the famous Pacific Crest Trail. In 1851, the gold rush drove off most of the wild game and filled the rivers and streams with silt, ruining the annual salmon run on which the local Indians survived. The Indians objected angrily and relations with the settlers were strained. The 1855 “Battle of Castle Crags” between the Wintu Indians and miners took place at the northwest end of the park between what is now known as Battle Rock and Castle Lake. This battle was one of several triggers for the Modoc War (1872-73). This was perhaps the last battle in the West in which Indians relied exclusively upon bows and arrows. As you continue to travel up the canyon towards Dunsmuir, you will be afforded several wonderful views of massive Mt. Shasta, the jewel of the north state. Legend has it that, when the Chief of the Sky Spirits grew tired of his home in the heavens, he crated Mt. Shasta. In the 1800s, word spread of a city hidden inside Mt. Shasta peopled by an ancient race of superior beings called Lemurians. Believers still exist… But you don’t have to believe in ancient civilizations to feel that Shasta is magical. It’s graceful 14,162-foot summit can be glimpsed from 100 miles away on a clear day. The Dunsmuir Museum holds a collection of railroad history and exhibits including a 1919 Western Electric cordboard telephone switchboard, 1900 vintage women’s clothing, furniture, office equipment, cameras, and skis and implements. 4101 Pine Street (between Dunsmuir Avenue and Sacramento) ~ 530-235-2786 Pick a great restaurant in Dunsmuir, or drive into Mt. Shasta or McCloud: Burger Barn, 5905 Dunsmuir Ave, Dunsmuir, 530-235-2902 Tasty burgers, chicken, fish, philly cheese steak fries, and yummy shakes and frosties. Mon - Sat, 10:30am - 9pm and Sun 10:30am - 6pm, Closed Mother’s Day. Cornerstone Bakery & Café 5759 Dunsmuir Ave Dunsmuir 530-235-4677
Imaginatively prepared, hearty foods, and fresh baked foods. Try the soups and salads. Wednesday - Monday, 7am - 3pm (Sunday 8am - 2pm), Closed Tuesday Chocolate Café 233C Main Street, P.O. Box 964, McCloud 530-964-2817 Floyd’s Frosty 125 Broadway, P.O. Box 1046, McCloud 530-964-9747 River Grill & Bar 140 Squaw Valley Rd, McCloud 530-964-2700 Billy Goat’s Tavern, 107 Chestnut St, Mt. Shasta 530-926-0209 Upscale pub featuring 100+ beers and fine wine, steaks, burgers, vegetarian. Lily’s Restaurant, 1013 S Mt. Shasta Blvd, Mt. Shasta 530-926-3372 Vegetarian, Mexican, pasta, seafood, steaks. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. At the Heritage Junction of McCloud Historic Center, a range of displays are feature--such as logging industry memorabilia, early fire fighting equipment, a replica of an old church, a Corliss engine from the 1903 McCloud Steam Log Mill, and old mill office equipment as well as clothing and accessories from the middle 1800s to early 1900s. 320 Main Street ~ 530-964-2626 Burney Falls, located inside the McArthur-Burney Falls State Park, was named after pioneer settler Samuel Burney who lived in the area in the 1850s. Samuel’s descendants were responsible for saving the waterfall and nearby land from development and later gifted the park to the state in the 1920s. Burney Falls is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. Called “the Eighth Wonder of the World” by President Theodore Roosevelt, a hundred million gallons of water pours through volcanic rock from an underground spring at a cold and clear 47 degrees year ‘round. There is a small fee to enter the park. Call 530-335-2777 for more information. Jacks Bar & Grill has been locally owned and operated since 1938. Now a Redding institution, Jacks is known throughout the west for some of the best steaks around. During its reign as top steakhouse, Jacks has been run by a World War I flying ace, housed an Old West prostitution business, and still sports the façade and décor of its early days, including two Old-West style paintings by a down-on-his-luck artist who was befriended by the original bar owner. 1743 California Street, 5pm - 11pm (bar 4pm - 11:30pm), closed Sundays, reservations recommended. www.jacksgrillredding.com Buz’s Crab Seafood Restaurant, Market & Deli is Redding’s own Fisherman’s Wharf. Established in 1968, this “funky fish joint” is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Enjoy casual dining in a wharf style atmosphere and eclectic seafaring décor. Menu choices range from fried seafood baskets to complete charbroiled seafood meals, southwestern, sandwiches and wraps, and, of course, clam chowder. Check the calendar of events at the Cascade Theatre before you depart for your Art and Culture tour in Redding. Most shows are Thursday, Friday, or Saturday nights between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. This is a venue you definitely want to check out if you have the opportunity! Built in 1935, this fine example of Art Deco architecture is a downtown Redding landmark that features a large front façade with a neon pylon sign, marquee, and cast concrete frieze depicting northern California industry. Besides it’s world-class shows and entertainment, it’s most famous trademark is the meticulously restored ceiling mural. If you go for a show, be sure to look up! 1721 Market Street, 530-243-8787, www.cascadetheatre.org
Redding Convention & Visitors Bureau 530-225-4100 / 800-874-7562 info@visitredding.com www.visitredding.com
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Outdoor Adventure Redding is surrounded on three sides by millions of acres of public land, making it a great place to stay while exploring the hotbed of Adventure Travel in California. Mountains, rivers, streams, lakes, and back country roads offer an endless supply of outdoor activities throughout the region. Experience everything from mild…to wild. The possible itineraries are endless. If you would like assistance preparing an itinerary specific to your needs, please contact the Visitors Bureau today! *Hiking and Camping the Trinity Alps WILD The area of the Trinity Alps is undeniably beautiful, with sculpted granite cirques, sawtooth peaks softened by snowy caps, and cobalt lakes scattered like beads from a broken necklace. Hikers can get in high-altitude treks late in the season up to elevations of 9,000 feet. Trails lead through foxtail pine and mountain mahogany at middle elevations; higher up, firs predominate, but you’ll also see the rare weeping spruce. Many trails rise steeply to high peaks; the timberline is lower (7,000 feet) than in the Sierra, so you quickly get into rugged alpine terrain up here. Even day hikes take travelers to some scenic areas. In the northeaster corner of the wilderness, a good 2-1/2 mile trail climbs 1,200 feet to Adams Lake at 6,200 feet. To get there, drive about 16 miles up Coffee Creek Road to the sign for Adams Lake. Backpackers see this country best. If you have time for just one trip, the Caribou Lakes area is a good choice. From Big Flat Campground at the end of Coffee Creek Road, a tough 10-mile hike rises 3,000 feet to the lakes, where you’ll be rewarded with smashing views of Mount Shasta to the northeast. MILD Rented horseback trips can be an easier, but more expensive, way to get into the high country of the Trinity Alps. Guided trips start from two locations: Coffee Creek Ranch - Trinity Center, CA - 530-266-3343, www.coffeecreekranch.com Trinity Alps Resort *Obtain a Forest Service map, wilderness permit (required for all hiking and backpacking, even day hikes), trail conditions, and any other appropriate guide books in advance of your trip by contacting the Shasta-Trinity National Forest office at 530-226-2500. Also, visit their website at www.fs.fed.us/r5/shastatrinity/maps/ for more information. *White Water/River Rafting WILD If you’re looking for wild adventure, try white water rafting on the upper Sacramento River. Since the upper Sacramento River is a wild river and not controlled by dam release, rafting is best here during the spring and early summer when winter snows melt. Enjoy Class II, III, IV, and V runs on the Upper Sacramento, Canyon Creek, Salmon, Trinity, South Fork Trinity, or Klamath rivers. A variety of rafting companies lead trips from April through September. Trinity River Rafting - Hwy 299W, Big Bar ~ www.trinityriverrafting.com, 530-623-3033 Wilderness Adventures ~ www.wildrivertrips.com, 800-323-7238
MILD For a more relaxed water experience, try the Sacramento River between Redding and Anderson. The stretch from Redding to Anderson is one of the most pristine stretches of the river, and is perfect for scenic touring and shorter trips. North Country Raft Rental (seasonal) ~ www.raftredding.com, 530-244-4281
For the ultimate in relaxing experiences, try kayaking on Whiskeytown Lake. Bring your own and enjoy the quiet splendor of this beautiful lake, or hop on a kayak built for two and explore the quiet coves around the lake while learning about the natural and cultural values of the park on a Ranger guided tour. Tours are seasonal. During the summer months, register in advance. Reservations are required for ranger guided tours: 530-242-3462 Monday - Saturday, 9am to Noon. Whiskeytown Visitor Center ~ www.nps.gov/whis/planyourvisit/programes.htm, 530-246-1225 *The Sacramento River is very beautiful, but what is not immediately evident at first glance is that this river is a cold, fast moving mass of water. Be careful! Always consider using a qualified, certified, river guide, but at a minimum listen carefully to check-in and safety information provided by your rafting company, and utilize the tips and information available online at www.dbw.ca.gov/Pubs/Redding/index.htm
Redding Convention & Visitors Bureau 530-225-4100 / 800-874-7562 info@visitredding.com www.visitredding.com