The Gold Rush brought many to the West but their excursions didn’t end there. Don’t let the coast be your last stop! Head to Chico, a city founded in 1860 by General John Bidwell, who brought with him one of the first covered wagon trains to California. After discovering gold, John used his new found wealth to the buy 28,000 acres of land that is now Chico, CA. He industrialized the town with streets and introduced a variety of roses to the city, leading Chico to be nicknamed the “City of Roses.” John also settled down in Chico and lived in what we know today as Bidwell Mansion. You can tour the 26-room Victorian House Museum, then visit Bidwell Park, one of the largest municipally owned parks in the nation. Encompassing 3,670 acres, the park has numerous trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding.
You can learn more about the city’s heritage at the Chico Museum. Housed in the historic Andrew Carnegie library and adjacent to California State University, Chico, the museum has a variety of diverse exhibits ranging from the history of Chico to regional agriculture. The Gateway Science Museum also has great exhibits for the scientist in your group!
Whether you want to tour the sites or enjoy a leisurely day outdoors, you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for in Chico. Hotels in the city are just a step away from enjoying the outdoors. They are the easy way to access recreation like biking, kayaking, fishing and hiking. Come for the history and outdoors and enjoy a relaxing night in an affordable room. Book with Choice Hotels for an exciting getaway to this small yet bountiful California city. Reserve online now!