Best Things to do in Chico | Must-see attractions 2025

Bidwell Mansion

11:00 AM–4:00 PM

Park

525 Esplanade

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Bidwell Mansion in Chico, USA, features a 26-room Victorian home built for founders John and Annie Bidwell between 1865-1868. It is a historical landmark with guided tours.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Guided tours available during visiting hours.

20th Street Community Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

20th St

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20th Street Community Park in Chico, CA offers open green spaces, sports facilities, and playgrounds for families and community gatherings.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a fee.

Patrick Ranch Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

10381 Midway (Chico Oroville Hwy)

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Patrick Ranch Museum in Chico, California, features historical artifacts, picturesque gardens, and exhibits on local agricultural heritage in a restored 1866 Victorian house.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

General Admission: $5. Children under 12: Free. Discounts for seniors and students available.

Gateway Science Museum

Th-Sa 11:00-16:00

Museum

625 Esplanade

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Gateway Science Museum in Chico, CA, emphasizes hands-on STEM education and exhibits about regional science. Gardens showcase native plants from Northern California.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Membership grants unlimited free general admission for one year.

Chico Air Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

165 Ryan Ave North End of Airport

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Chico Air Museum features an extensive collection of aviation memorabilia, aircraft exhibits, and historical artifacts relevant to aviation in the United States.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and programs.

Chico Art Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

450 Orange St Ste 6

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Chico Art Center offers diverse art exhibitions, classes, and community events in Chico, California, showcasing local artists and cultural initiatives.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions or classes may have fees.

The Museum of Northern California Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

900 Esplanade

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The Museum of Northern California Art in Chico, USA, features contemporary artworks focusing on Northern California's cultural heritage and community engagement.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may charge a fee.

California State University Chico

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

400 W 1st St (at Hazel St.)

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California State University Chico, founded in 1887, offers a diverse educational environment with a strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement in Chico, CA.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free for general access. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chico

Varies by event

Event hall

Chico

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The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Chico promotes values of inclusivity and social justice within a welcoming community. Located in Chico, CA.

Duration: 1-2 hours for services or events.

Free. Donations accepted to support community programs.

Manzanita Place

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Chico

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Manzanita Place in Chico offers lush gardens, historical architecture, and spaces for events and community activities in a serene locale.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some workshops and special events may require a nominal fee.

Chico Women's Club

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

592 E 3rd St

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Chico Women's Club is a historic auditorium in Chico, California, offering a range of cultural events and community activities in a charming setting.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events and performances may require a ticket purchase.

Ranchaero Airports

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Airport

2599 Oak Park Ave (at Rosenthal)

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Ranchaero Airports in Chico, USA, serves as a regional hub for domestic flights, featuring modern amenities and efficient services.

Duration: Typically 1-2 hours for check-in and boarding.

Prices vary by airline and time of booking; check individual carriers for specific rates.

Chico Mall

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

1950 E 20th St

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Chico Mall in Chico, California, offers diverse shopping options, dining venues, and entertainment, making it a vibrant retail hub for locals and visitors alike.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free to enter. Individual store purchases may incur costs.

Bidwell Memorial Presbyterian Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

208 W 1st St (Broadway)

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Bidwell Memorial Presbyterian Church in Chico, CA, offers a historic and vibrant space for worship and community engagement.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted for special events.

The Esplanade Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Chico

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The Esplanade Baptist Church in Chico, CA, offers a welcoming environment for worship and community activities, serving as a local beacon of faith since its founding.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations welcome during services and events.

Islamic Center of Chico

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mosque

Chico

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Islamic Center of Chico serves the local Muslim community with prayer services, educational programs, and cultural events. It plays a vital role in promoting understanding and cooperation.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for specific events.

St. Augustine of Canterbury Anglican Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

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St. Augustine of Canterbury Anglican Church is a historic church located in the South Campus Neighborhood of Chico, California, blending rich tradition with community service activities.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have fees.

SS. Cyril and Methodius Orthodox Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

2956 Cohasset Rd

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SS. Cyril and Methodius Orthodox Church in Chico, United States, serves as a vital spiritual center, embracing Eastern Orthodox traditions and community.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are accepted for maintenance and community projects.

Upper Bidwell Park

Open 24 hours

Park

Old Chico Canyon Road

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Upper Bidwell Park in Chico, California, offers over 3,600 acres of trails, wildlife, and natural beauty, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some events may require paid tickets.

Caper Acres Playground

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Woodland Ave. (at Lower Bidwill Park & One Mile Recreation Area)

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Caper Acres Playground in Chico, California offers a vibrant, imaginative play space for children with themed equipment and scenic surroundings.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fee required.

Bidwell Park One-Mile

Open 24 hours

Park

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Bidwell Park One-Mile in Chico, United States, features a scenic mile-long path, surrounded by natural beauty, perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. No charges for park access or facilities.

Bidwell Park

Open 24 hours

Park

965 Fir St

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Bidwell Park in Chico, CA is a vast 3670-acre municipal park featuring 10 miles of trails and rich natural landscapes, making it the third-largest park of its kind in the U.S.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. No admission fee to enter the park.

1078 Gallery

12:00 PM–5:00 PM

Museum

820 Broadway St (West 8th St.)

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1078 Gallery in Chico, United States, showcases contemporary art and hosts literary readings, music, and theater events, fostering community engagement.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may have specific ticket requirements.

Orient & Flume Art Glass Co

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

2161 Park Ave

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Orient & Flume Art Glass Co in Chico specializes in handcrafted glass art since 1972, showcasing unique designs and hosting tours to reveal artistic processes.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free guided tours; art pieces available for purchase.

Bidwell at El Rey

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

230 W 2nd St (at Salem St.)

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Bidwell at El Rey in Chico features gardens, walking trails, and historical significance as the former estate of John Bidwell, a key figure in California's history.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.

St. John The Baptist Catholic Church & Parish School

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

435 Chestnut St (btw W 4th St & W 5th St)

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St. John The Baptist Catholic Church & Parish School in Chico offers worship services, religious education, and community activities for families and individuals.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcomed.

Butte Creek Ecological Preserve

8:00 AM-5:00 PM

Park

1179 Honey Run Rd

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Butte Creek Ecological Preserve is a protected area in Chico. It is home to many plants and animals, making it an important space for conservation and education.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Chico Museum

Th-Su 11:00-16:00

Museum

141 Salem St

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Chico Museum showcases the history and culture of Chico. It features various exhibits, including local art and historical artifacts, making it a great place to learn and explore.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Orient and Flume

10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Museum

2161 Park Ave

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Orient and Flume is a glass art studio in Chico, California. It is known for its vibrant glass pieces and skilled artisans who create beautiful works of art on site.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Degarmo Park

7:00 AM-9:00 PM

Park

199 Leora Ct

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Degarmo Park is a spacious park in Chico offering open fields, picnic areas, and walking paths. It features a playground and beautiful trees, making it a great spot for family fun and relaxation.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Horseshoe Lake

Open all day

Bodies of Water

Bidwell Park

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Horseshoe Lake is a scenic spot in Chico. It offers beautiful views and a peaceful place for picnics and nature walks.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free