Chico Visitor Guide

You’re in Chico! You lucky soul. Whether you’re just visiting or are making the move of a lifetime, the News & Review, Chico’s award-winning weekly newspaper and publisher of this guide, would like to welcome you. In this upbeat, enjoyable community you will be playing with nearly 100,000 fellow Chico lovers. Alongside its cozy, close-knit feel, this college town if full of fun things to do. This Visitor Guide, together with our weekly newspaper, is the place to find out about special events and where to get away from it all. Enjoy!

Fall and Winter Highlights
When Chico cools down the action heats up. Check this calendar for the hot events of fall and winter, from performances to holiday goings-on.

Downtown
People-watching, shopping and just hanging out are a major focus of Chico’s historic and lively downtown. Go there and check it out!

University
Chico State University is right next to downtown Chico, which helps explain why the college is so much a part of the heart and soul of the city.

The Arts Town
Chico gets the nod—a huge one—from the author of a book listing the top 100 small arts towns in the nation. Hey, nothin’ we didn’t already know.

Lodging
Don’t bed down in a sleeping bag by the creek; there are plenty of comfy motels and inns in which to rest.

Excursions
Chico is the perfect place from which to explore, be it snow-capped Lassen Peak or fun-filled Lake Oroville. Explore!

Kid Friendly
There’s plenty for the kiddies to do here in Chico. Imagine growing up with a cork forest and fairytale playground at your disposal.

Bidwell Park
Hike, bike or just enjoy nature at scenic Bidwell Park, named in honor of the founding father and mother who deeded it to the city generations ago.

Take a Hike
The cooler months are a good time to pull your hiking boots out of the closet and take to one of the dozens of trails just a few miles from Chico.

Entertainment
Theater events, concerts or enjoying a bar band are among the options for those looking for the nightlife in Chico.

Shopping
Two malls, a swingin’ downtown, antiques, tours—what more could a shopper ask for?

Wine & Dine
After all this exploring, you’re probably hungry. Fortunately, Chico has eats for any palate or wallet.

Chico Map
Consult this handy-dandy map to find your way around the heart of Chico.