Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
There's also a tour of the brewery's cutting-edge sustainable practices - their rooftop
solar fields are among the largest privately owned solar fields in the US, and they extended
a spur of local railroad to increase transportation efficiency. Recharge in the pub and
res-
taurant
.
Chico Creek Nature Center
SCIENCE CENTER
(
www.bidwellpark.org
; 1968 East 8th St; suggested donation adult/child $4/2;
11am-4pm Wed-Sun;
)
If you plan on spending the afternoon in Bidwell Park, first stop at this sparkling nature
center, with displays on local plants and animals and excellent hands-on science programs
for families. The exhibit hall is closed on Wednesday.
Chico State University
UNIVERSITY
Ask for a free map of the Chico State University campus, or about campus events and
Sts; 7am-11pm Mon-Thu, to 10pm Fri, 11am-10pm Sat, noon-11pm Sun school year)
, on the main
floor of Bell Memorial Union. The attractive campus is infused with sweet floral fra-
grances in spring, and there's a rose garden at its center.
Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
HISTORIC BUILDING
(
530-895-6144;
parks.ca.gov
; 525 Esplanade; adult/child $6/3;
noon-5pm Mon, 11am-5pm Sat
& Sun)
Chico's most prominent landmark, the opulent Victorian home was built for Chico's
founders John and Annie Bidwell. The 26-room mansion was built between 1865 and
1868 and hosted many US presidents. Tours start every hour from 11am to 4pm.
Honey Run Covered Bridge
HISTORIC SITE
(
www.honeyruncoveredbridge.com
; parking $3)
The historic 1894 bridge is an unusual style this side of the country and a favorite spot for
engagement photos. Take the Skyway exit off Hwy 99 on the southern outskirts of Chico,
head east and go left on Honey Run-Humbug Rd; the bridge is 5 miles along, in a small
park.
