5 Things To Do in Redding, CA, After Work
Redding, CA, may have a charming small-town feel, but as the largest city in Shasta County and the largest city north of the state’s capital, you’ll be pleased to find it offers an impressive selection of things to do. This means young professionals aren’t left scratching their heads trying to find something to fill their time. Whether you’re looking to try the best food in town, discover local artists and musicians, or just take in the stunning natural landscape, Redding has just what you need to unwind after a long day. Close your laptop (or whatever you do to mark the end of your workday) and make a night of it with these five post-work itineraries.
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1. A Night in Nature
Redding is known for its outdoor recreation, and there are plenty of things to do. The area boasts over 40 city-owned and maintained parks and 80 miles of paved and natural surface trails. Shasta County boasts the beautiful Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Castle Crags State Park and Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Venture a bit farther out and experience Lassen Volcanic National Park, where you can see steaming fumaroles, pretty meadows with wildflowers and clear lakes.
“My ideal evening after work, especially during our long warm season, involves packing a picnic, grabbing my kids and two paddleboards, and heading to Whiskeytown Lake,” says Jennifer Zimmer, tourism marketing and communications manager for Visit Redding. “On a weeknight, you feel like you have the lake all to yourself. The sunsets are stunning, and the air and water temperatures are perfect. It’s so serene; you feel like you’ve traveled far away, but you’re only 8 miles outside of town.”
As for what’s in her picnic basket, Zimmer says she often stops by Sprouts or Orchard Nutrition Center for healthy, tasty and affordable grab-and-go options.
2. Fabulous Food
If your ideal weeknight involves tasting the latest chef creations, Redding’s vibrant food scene does not disappoint. Make reservations at View 202 to enjoy modern American cuisine in a luxurious indoor dining room or on the patio, which offers views of the surrounding landscape and Sacramento River. For a more casual dining experience, invite your coworkers to catch a game on the big screens at RAW – the area’s newest sushi spot.
No matter what dining option you choose, wind the evening down with a sunset view at Sundial Bridge or stroll around downtown, where you can work off your meal while doing a little window shopping at the local boutiques. And, if you saved room for dessert, Zimmer suggests stopping for a scoop of artisanal ice cream at Taste & See Ice Creamery, which has two locations in Redding.
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3. Appreciate the Arts
For the creative types, there are plenty of artsy things to do in Redding, CA. Book tickets to catch a live performance at Redding’s historic Cascade Theatre, where you’re sure to be captivated not only by the show but by the art deco architecture that offers an “old Hollywood” vibe.
Learn about local artists and maybe pick up a new painting for your home after wandering through the Redding Cultural District. There, you will find public art installations and art galleries, such as THE ART HUNGER. Because the area also includes several bars, cafes and restaurants, you can grab a bite or drink whenever cravings hit.
For live entertainment and food in one convenient location, Zimmer says an evening at The Park is a must-do. This food truck hub offers an abundance of casual dining options that you can enjoy al fresco while listening to free live music.
4. Simple & Easy
For those days when you’re too tired to “go out,” but you’re not quite ready to go home, you can find several low-key things to do in Redding, CA, that are sure to leave you smiling.
Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride (you can rent an e-bike nearby) along the Sacramento River Trail, an easy, paved and mostly flat loop with scenic views of the river, mountains, skyline and neighborhoods. Scenic overlooks line the path, so pack a snack to eat along the way or pick up takeout on your way home at a local favorite like Janya’s Thai Cuisine, Branch House Riverfront Bistro, or Mosaic.
5. Fun Festivities
The region offers many events and festivals, including ones you can attend after work. Zimmer suggests taking part in First Fridays each month, when businesses stay open late so you can eat, sip and shop your way through town. Yearly events include the Freedom Festival, where fireworks are launched over the Sacramento River every 4th of July, the incredibly popular Redding Garden of Lights at Turtle Bay during Christmas, and the multiday celebration of classic cars at Kool April Nites. There’s no shortage of ways to fill your evening with fun and excitement.
This article was sponsored by the Shasta Economic Development Corporation.