Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Resembling a beached cruise ship, the shimmering-white 2004 Sundial Bridge spans the
river and is one of Redding's marquee attractions, providing an excellent photo op. The
glass-deck pedestrian overpass connects the Turtle Bay Exploration Park to the north bank
of the Sacramento River and was designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calat-
rava.
The bridge/sundial attracts visitors from around the world, who come to marvel at this
unique feat of engineering artistry. It is accessed from the park and connects to the Sacra-
mento River Trail system. The surrounding river scenery is beautiful.
Turtle Bay Exploration Park
MUSEUM, GARDENS
$14/10, after 3:30pm $9/5; 9am-5pm Mon-Sat & 10am-5pm Sun, closing 1hr earlier Oct-Mar; )
Situated on 300 meandering acres, this is an artistic, cultural and scientific center for visit-
ors of all ages, with an emphasis on the Sacramento River watershed. The complex houses
art and natural-science museums, with fun interactive exhibits for kids. There are also ex-
tensive arboretum gardens, a butterfly house and a 22,000-gallon, walk-through river
aquarium full of regional aquatic life (yes, including turtles).
decent light meals.
Cascade Theatre
HISTORIC BUILDING
Try to catch some live music downtown at this refurbished 1935 art deco theater. Usually
it hosts second-tier national acts, but if nothing else, take a peek inside; this is a neon-lit
gem.
Redding Trails
HIKING, CYCLING
Eighty miles of trails loop through parks, along rivers and up hills for strolling, hiking and
mountain biking. Check out
www.reddingtrails.com
for maps or pick up the pamphlet at
almost any hotel. The star is the Sacramento River Trail, which meanders along the river
all the way to Shasta Dam. There are several access points, including the Sundial Bridge.
