Chico Visitor Guide

Sure, a lot of cities think they’re special. But they’re not Chico, with its hometown spirit, college town energy and get-back-to-nature appeal.

Besides the town’s jewel, Bidwell Park, there’s a thriving downtown, a top-notch university and an impressive arts scene. No wonder so many who visit end up making Chico their home.

This Visitor Guide includes information for those looking to settle here permanently, along with listings of events, features and all the detail you need to make your stay a great one, whether it’s for a weekend or a lifetime.

It’s brought to you by the News & Review, Chico’s award-winning weekly newspaper.

Look to this guide, and the News & Review each Thursday, for the special events, everyday adventures and favorite places that keep people coming back to this community of 100,000.

Welcome.

* These “Relocation Guide” sections are especially for readers new to town.

Spring and Summer Highlights
Sure, the weather gets hot, but so does the action. Fill your seasonal calendar with fun.

*Chico Facts
New to town? Don’t worry. This is a primer on your new home’s vital statistics, plus a guide to needs as varied as bus-riding and bill-paying.

Politics
It’s all local, they say

Golfing
Duffers have a variety of options to choose from, including golfing in scenic Bidwell Park.

Downtown
Downtown is the heart and soul of Chico, from shopping to students to late-night adventure.

University
Chico State University is what gives the town its vitality and drives much of the local economy. Plus, there’s lots of learning to be had.

*Education
Parents of the K-12 set have many choices of where to send their kids to school. We offer an overview of the public system as well as several private schools.

Bidwell Park
Bidwell Park is the pride of Chico and a natural choice to show off to out-of-town guests.

Lodging
You won’t be crashing on your buddy’s couch with these choices of motels and bed-and-breakfast inns.

Excursions
Whether you’re up for a day trip or a longer adventure, Chico is the perfect jumping-off point for hiking, picnicking, golfing or just exploring.

Shopping
Who needs the big city with Chico’s wide variety of shops?

Yo-yo Museum
Chico is proud to have in its midst the honest-to-goodness National Yo-Yo Museum.

*Health and Wellness
If you’re ailing or just want to keep in tip-top shape, Chico has a range of health and wellness options, from alternative healing to a skilled trauma center.

*Kid Friendly
From the animal-head fountains at Caper Acres to the Toyland-style trolleys, it seems like Chico is made is the smaller set.

Entertainment
If it’s nightlife you want, it’s nightlife you’ll get, with Chico’s wide selection of venues for after-five adventure.

Wine & Dine
You won’t go hungry in Chico. We’ve listed the town’s culinary offerings by category.