Redding, California, is a scenic and activity-rich destination, perfect for bus tour groups seeking outdoor beauty, cultural experiences, and memorable landmarks. For tour operators looking to craft the ideal Redding itinerary, we’ve rounded up a collection of suggested stops that are conveniently located and guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on your travelers.
Bus tours are the best way to navigate your adventure in Redding, especially if you’re traveling with a large group. With ample parking at many attractions and a compact footprint, it’s easy to build a smooth-flowing itinerary. The suggestions below offer minimal time in transit between stops and maximum enjoyment for your clients.
During the California Gold Rush, Whiskeytown was a hotspot for miners looking to gain wealth. On the 10-minute drive from Redding, you can visit historical landmarks at Shasta State Historical Park. Today, Whiskeytown is well-known for its beautiful lake and recreation activities. The old Whiskey Town is now at the bottom of the lake. Whiskeytown Lake is the perfect place to kayak, scuba dive, or simply swim, thanks to its pristine waters. Rent some paddleboards or pontoon boats for a nice morning on the lake.
The Sundial Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in California. Like the name suggests, the Sundial Bridge serves two purposes: a bridge and a giant sundial. This architectural marvel serves as both a functioning sundial and a pedestrian bridge, spanning 700 feet across the Sacramento River. Tour guests will enjoy taking in the bridge’s striking glass deck and scenic river views while learning about its unique design by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. It’s an ideal place for a group photo or a nature walk.
Located adjacent to the Sundial Bridge, the Turtle Bay Exploration Park offers a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences ideal for groups. It features both educational and entertaining exhibits on the connection of humans and nature, including an underground aquarium! Depending on how much you’d like to explore at the park, you can happily spend one hour to four hours immersed in the natural beauty of Northern California. The museum also offers group rates and has space for buses to park, making it a convenient and engaging addition to any itinerary.
Just across the bridge from Turtle Bay, the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens spans 200 acres of native and drought-tolerant landscapes common to a Mediterranean climate. Tour groups can enjoy a stroll through themed gardens representing plants from around the world. It’s a peaceful, nature-focused stop that pairs perfectly with the Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay for a well-rounded morning or afternoon outing.
Shasta Dam stands proudly as a feat of human ingenuity. Located on the Sacramento River within the natural beauty of the Sacramento Valley, Shasta Dam holds California’s largest reservoir and plays a pivotal role in California’s water infrastructure. There are free guided tours visitors can follow to learn about the impressive history of the dam, complete with a 428-foot elevator ride. Plenty of space for motorcoach parking makes it a logistically easy stop as well.
If your clients signed up for your bus tour due to their interest in arts and culture, the beautifully restored Cascade Theatre in downtown Redding is a must-see. Built in the 1930s, this historic Art Deco venue regularly hosts concerts, films, and live performances. Your tour company can coordinate with the theatre in advance to align with scheduled shows or arrange private tours of the facility, or our team can help with scheduling. The walkable downtown area also offers restaurants and local shops nearby for flexible scheduling.
Round out your itinerary with a relaxing late afternoon or early evening stop at one of Redding’s local wineries or craft breweries. Many of these venues offer tastings, tours, and shaded outdoor patios ideal for groups. Some even partner with local food trucks or caterers to enhance the experience. It’s a great way to give your guests a taste of Northern California’s laid-back lifestyle.
Though it’s a bit outside Redding proper, Lassen Volcanic National Park makes for a breathtaking summer itinerary option. With steaming fumaroles, clear mountain lakes, and accessible viewpoints, the park is a natural wonder that appeals to all ages. Rangers may be available for step-on guide services, and the visitor center provides an excellent overview of the park’s geothermal features. A great option for a full-day hub and spoke excursion from Redding.
With this additional option, not only do your clients get to experience one of the least congested national parks, but they also get to rest in the same room for two nights to start their next day’s itinerary fresh and rested.
Ready to embark on your adventure to Redding? We encourage bus tour operators to consider adding one or more of these stops to their itinerary to create a memorable and well-balanced experience for their guests. Get set for an unforgettable journey to a destination brimming with natural beauty, thrilling outdoor activities, and a welcoming community spirit.
If your travel group has any common interests or niches, connect with the team at Choose Redding to help you find just the right experiences to set your tour company apart from the others.
