Two Days in Oroville and Chico

As you drive up Highway 70 through orchards, the Gold Rush town of Oroville is the first major town you will encounter. After gold was discovered at Bidwell’s Bar, thousands of prospectors flocked to this area, establishing Ophir City (the original name given to Oroville). Drive past the Oro Dam Blvd. signs that point to Lake Oroville, and turn onto Montgomery Street, which will take you through the historic Downtown Oroville along the riverfront.

Breakfast at Mug Shots

On Montgomery Street, stop into Mug Shots Coffee House, the perfect local coffee shop to fuel up on caffeine and baked goods before driving to Lake Oroville. Grab a specialty coffee to go and jump back into the car.

Boat and Water-ski at Bidwell Canyon Marina

Now it is time to get out and explore the state’s second largest reservoir via Bidwell Canyon Marina. Head down Kelly Ridge Road to Bidwell Canyon to rent a ski boat or pontoon boat. From here, the options are endless: hike Bidwell Canyon Trail, fish for hungry bass or salmon, wakeboard or waterski the day away, or motor under the 1,108-foot Bidwell Bar Suspension Bridge. If you are really adventurous, and the reservoir is really full, pilot your boat high into a distant finger of Oroville to catch a glimpse of 410-foot Feather Falls.

Stay Shoreside at Loafer Creek Recreation Area

If you are looking for shoreline recreation, check out Loafer Creek Recreation Area, just up the road for shoreline picnicking, swimming, fishing, boat launch facilities, and even hiking and equestrian trails.

Dine Outside at Union

After a long day on the lake, stop in at the Union to unwind and refresh with live music and good eats on their expansive outdoor patio. Specializing in California cuisine with a seasonal menu made with locally sourced products, the Union is always a great way to end the day.

Stay in Oroville

Oroville’s centrally located Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lake Oroville has an indoor pool and hot tubs, complimentary breakfast — perfect for families or couples. Other options include affordable rooms at Americas Best Value Inn Oroville, Days Inn and variety of other locations. Visit the lodging page for a full list of Oroville lodging options.

Continue on Highway 70 to Highway 99, which will take you to Chico, the urban heart of Butte County. The largest city north of Sacramento, Chico is home to Chico State University, an abundance of outdoor recreations, and dining and shopping galore, much of which is within the walkable Downtown Chico.

Breakfast at Morning Thunder Cafe

Grab breakfast at Morning Thunder Cafe, a popular local breakfast spot known for generous portions and friendly service. Try the Bidwell Egg, an egg-bacon-and-cheddar bagel served with a heaping helping of country potatoes.

Explore Bidwell Park

With a big breakfast in your belly, explore one of the nation’s most spectacular municipal parks—Bidwell Park. Created by the generous donation of Annie Bidwell, wife of Chico founding father John Bidwell, the park extends from downtown Chico 11 miles into the foothills. You can access Lower Park directly from Downtown Chico—exploring tree-lined running trails and bike paths—or drive to Upper Park above Manzanita Avenue, where more serious hiking and mountain biking trails await—as well as beautiful swimming holes. Hike North Rim Trail, accessed at the Parking Lot B in upper park, to experience great views of the park and Chico. Off of this trail you will find “Monkey Face,” a picturesque rock outcropping that marks a great turnaround spot. If you are hot and sweaty after the hike, stop and take a dip at one of the many swimming holes along Big Chico Creek, including Bear or Alligator holes.

If Bidwell Park’s forest seems oddly familiar, it may be because portions of The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938) with Errol Flynn were filmed under the park’s impressive oaks.

Tour Bidwell Mansion

On your way back to downtown Chico, Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park is worth a stop and a tour. The iconic home of John Bidwell—pioneer, congressman, and agriculture innovator—is a great way to experience the history of Chico and Northern California. Check the Mansion’s hours carefully before visiting, as the visitor center hours and tours are limited. But the grounds are always open for public visitation.

Dine at 5th Street Steakhouse

Back in Downtown Chico, head to 5th Street Steak House for the restaurant’s signature hand-cut steaks cooked in a high-heat (up to 1,000 degrees) broiler to preserve tenderness.

Explore Nightlife at Parkside Tap House

If you are up for a final drink before turning in, Parkside Tap House has an impressive array of craft beer on tap and a full range of cocktail options. The indoor-outdoor bar and fireplace-equipped patio make it a perfect spot to enjoy an outdoor drink.