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Redding

Redding, California, United States

Escape to Redding: Where Adventure Meets the Great Outdoors Nestled in the heart of Northern California, Redding is more than just a dot on the map – it's a vibrant hub for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and au…

#Redding#California#United States#City#Northern California

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Redding.

Top Hotels in Redding

Top Flights to Redding

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Redding.

Tours

Explore the Sundial Bridge

Visit the famous Sundial Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel and pedestrian bridge that spans the Sacramento River.

Visit Turtle Bay Exploration Park

An educational and fun-filled experience with exhibits on art, history, and environmental science.

Shopping

Shop at the Shasta Mall

A large shopping center with a variety of stores, eateries, and entertainment options.

Outdoor

Discover Lassen Volcanic National Park

Explore hydrothermal sites, beautiful trails, and volcanic phenomena.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Redding.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Redding, California, is around 93,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Redding

Jan

12°3°

Feb

15°4°

Mar

18°6°

Apr

22°8°

May

27°11°

Jun

33°15°

Jul

38°18°

Aug

37°17°

Sep

33°14°

Oct

26°10°

Nov

18°6°

Dec

12°3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Redding.

What people love

Redding, located in northern California, offers several advantages for travelers:

Natural Beauty: Redding is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby Shasta Lake, Whiskeytown Lake, and Lassen Volcanic National Park. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, boating, fishing, and camping in these picturesque settings.
Outdoor Recreation: Redding is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. With its proximity to the Cascade Range and Trinity Alps, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure in the great outdoors.
Sundial Bridge: One of Redding's most iconic landmarks is the Sundial Bridge, designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. This pedestrian bridge spans the Sacramento River and serves as a functional timepiece, attracting visitors with its unique design and scenic views.
Local Attractions: Redding offers a variety of attractions for visitors, including the Turtle Bay Exploration Park, which features a museum, botanical gardens, and wildlife exhibits. The nearby Shasta Dam and Shasta Caverns also provide educational and entertaining experiences for tourists.
Historic Downtown: Redding's historic downtown area is a charming district with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can explore the local culture and heritage through its historic buildings and vibrant arts scene.

Overall, traveling to Redding provides an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of northern California's natural landscapes, engage in outdoor recreation, and explore local attractions and culture.

Please note that this information is based on general knowledge and may not cover all aspects of traveling to Redding.

What to know

Traveling to Redding, California, United States, has several potential drawbacks that visitors should be aware of:

Extreme Heat: Redding is known for its hot and dry climate, especially during the summer months. Temperatures can soar well above 100°F (38°C), which can be uncomfortable for those not accustomed to such heat.
Wildfires: Redding and the surrounding areas are prone to wildfires, particularly during the dry season. These fires can lead to poor air quality, road closures, and potential evacuation orders, impacting travel plans and safety.
Limited Public Transportation: Redding is a relatively small city with limited public transportation options. Having a car is almost essential for getting around and exploring the area.
Remote Location: Redding is located in Northern California, quite far from major cities like San Francisco or Los Angeles. This can make it less convenient to reach compared to other destinations in the state.
Outdoor Hazards: The region around Redding offers stunning natural beauty, but visitors should be cautious of potential hazards such as rattlesnakes, ticks, and poison oak while hiking or exploring the outdoors.
Limited Nightlife and Entertainment: While Redding has its charm, it may not offer as many nightlife or entertainment options as larger cities. Those seeking a vibrant nightlife scene may find Redding lacking in this aspect.
Water Activities Safety: Redding is located near the Sacramento River and Shasta Lake, offering water activities like boating and fishing. However, visitors should be cautious of water safety regulations and potential risks associated with these activities.

Overall, while Redding offers beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities, visitors should be aware of the potential challenges posed by its climate, remote location, and outdoor hazards.

Redding, California, is a city located in Northern California, serving as the county seat of Shasta County. Its history is rich, with roots going back to the 19th century.

Early History:

Native American Inhabitants: Before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by the Wintu people. They lived along the Sacramento River, utilizing the area's natural resources.

19th Century:

Gold Rush Era: Redding's history as a settlement began during the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s. Initially, it was a small settlement known as Poverty Flats.
Railroad Development: The significant turn for Redding came with the arrival of the Central Pacific Railroad. In 1872, the railroad established a station and named it "Redding" after Benjamin B. Redding, a land agent for the railroad.
Incorporation: Redding was officially incorporated on October 4, 1887. This was a period of growth spurred by the timber industry and the presence of the railroad.

20th Century:

Economic Development: The early 1900s saw Redding develop as a logging and agricultural center. The economy was bolstered by the construction of the Shasta Dam in the late 1930s and early 1940s, which was part of the federal government's New Deal projects.
World War II: The construction of the Shasta Dam during World War II brought thousands of workers to the area, significantly boosting the local economy and population.
Post-War Growth: After the war, Redding continued to grow, driven by its strategic location as a transportation hub and the availability of natural resources.

Significant Landmarks:

Shasta Dam: Completed in 1945, it is one of the largest dams in the U.S. and a critical part of California's water management system.
Sundial Bridge: Completed in 2004, this pedestrian bridge is a modern architectural marvel designed by Santiago Calatrava. It spans the Sacramento River and serves as part of the Turtle Bay Exploration Park.
Turtle Bay Exploration Park: A 300-acre cultural and historical complex that includes a museum, arboretum, and the Sundial Bridge.

21st Century:

Wildfires: In recent years, Redding has been affected by several significant wildfires, most notably the Carr Fire in 2018, which caused widespread damage and evacuations.
Economic and Cultural Developments: Redding continues to develop, with efforts focused on revitalizing the downtown area, promoting tourism, and leveraging its natural surroundings for outdoor activities.

Notable Figures:

Benjamin B. Redding: For whom the city is named, played a critical role in the establishment of the railroad that spurred the town's initial growth and development.

Redding today is known for its scenic beauty, proximity to national parks, and as a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts exploring Northern California.