Where to Play, Eat, and Stay in Butte County, One of Northern California’s Best-Kept Secrets

Things to do in Butte County

Explore Chico’s Bidwell Park by bike…

One of Chico’s must-visit stops for outdoor recreation is Bidwell Park, which spans 3,670 acres and is one of the largest municipal parks in the US. It’s divided into two sections, Upper Bidwell Park and Lower Bidwell Park, each offering a completely different experience.

I rented a bicycle from Greenline Cycles and rode through Lower Bidwell Park, where the flatter paved and dirt trails wind alongside Big Chico Creek. In contrast, Upper Bidwell Park is where the terrain becomes steeper, and dramatic basalt formations surround you. The two areas are completely different, and together they offer something for every type of adventurer.

Upper Bidwell Park: Old Chico Canyon Rd, Chico, CA 95928
Lower Bidwell Park: Petersen Memorial Way, Chico, CA 95926

…and stroll through the Chico Seed Orchard.

For a peaceful nature walk by a calm stream or a picnic surrounded by trees, head to the Chico Seed Orchard, also known as the “Tree Farm.” This 209-acre plant introduction field station is part of the Mendocino National Forest and serves as a site where the US Department of Agriculture researches plant species from around the world. The setting is quiet and relaxing, perfect for a morning stroll or an afternoon break in nature. It’s especially beautiful in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and yellow.

Chico Seed Orchard: 2741 Cramer Ln, Chico, CA 95928

Relax in Paradise. Literally.

When visiting Butte County, head to Paradise, a peaceful town in the Sierra Nevada foothills with a diverse range of outdoor recreation. Paradise Lake is great for hiking, kayaking, paddling, or fishing. The lake is serene, and on a calm morning, you can enjoy the reflections of the trees in the water as you walk the Paradise Lake Trail around the shoreline. The lake is open every day except Wednesday, and there’s a parking fee of $3 that’s paid in cash.

For a relaxed nature walk or a family-friendly spot in Paradise where kids can play, head to Bille Park, which features playgrounds, walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. The park’s expansion, which started in 2023, added hiking trails, a gazebo, and more shaded areas, making it an even better place to spend the afternoon.

Take in the views of Butte Creek Canyon from the overlook. The viewpoint is easily accessible, but nearby trails lead even closer for those who want to explore. For another beautiful vantage point, stop by the Butte Creek Watershed Overlook, just off the highway. It’s a great stop any time of day, but it’s especially spectacular at sunset when the sky lights up in color.

Bille Park: 501 Bille Rd, Paradise, CA 95969
Butte Creek Watershed Overlook: 4117 Skyway, Paradise, CA 95969

Pick your produce at Noble Orchards.

For a fun seasonal activity, go peach or apple picking at Noble Orchards, a family-run farm that’s been growing apples, peaches, and more since 1921. Its packing facility was destroyed in the 2018 Camp Fire, but the family continues to hand-pack their fruit with care. The orchard is open for u-pick during both peach and apple seasons, offering a fun and nostalgic experience that was one of my favorite experiences during this trip. I picked Granny Smith apples that were crisp, refreshing, and made for the perfect road trip snack for the rest of my trip.

Noble Orchards: 7050 Pentz Rd, Paradise, CA 95969

Get to know Oroville…

If you love charming small-town vibes, don’t skip downtown Oroville. It’s steeped in Gold Rush history and home to museums, local eateries, a theater, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. It’s also home to the Oroville Dam, the tallest dam in the US.

Start your day with a coffee from Mug Shots Coffee House, a locally owned café serving coffee, baked goods, and sandwiches. From there, explore downtown and check out some of Oroville’s historic landmarks along the Greenline Scenic Tour. Highlights include the Oroville Chinese Temple, Bolt’s Antique Tool Museum, and the Oroville State Theater, each offering a glimpse into the town’s past.

Greenline Scenic Tour: Various, Oroville, CA 95965

…and its outdoor spaces.

Just minutes from downtown, you’ll find Riverbend Park, which spans 210 acres along the Feather River. It’s a beautiful place to unwind or get active, with walking and biking trails, a playground, picnic areas, and two 18-hole disc golf courses.

There’s so much to do around Lake Oroville and the dam, no matter what kind of adventurer you are. From boating and kayaking to fishing, swimming, and even camping on floating campsites, the options are endless. For a more relaxed experience, you can drive across the dam itself or stop by the Lake Oroville Visitor Center to learn about the area’s history and enjoy panoramic views from the 47-foot observation tower.

Riverbend Park: 50 Montgomery St, Oroville, CA 95965
Lake Oroville Visitor Center: 917 Kelly Ridge Rd, Oroville, CA 95966

Visit the Feather River Fish Hatchery.

For another interesting stop in Oroville, swing by the Feather River Fish Hatchery to learn about the life cycle of Chinook salmon and steelhead. Visitors can watch the fish migrate through underwater viewing windows. Salmon typically migrate between mid-September and mid-November whereas steelhead spawn between mid-December and mid-February (although you can visit the hatchery on a guided or self-guided tour year-round). From the observation platform, you might even catch a glimpse of salmon leaping out of the river.

Feather River Fish Hatchery: 5 Table Mountain Blvd, Oroville, CA 95965

Where to eat and drink in Butte County

Sierra Nevada Taproom & Restaurant

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Sierra Nevada Brewing Company is a pioneer in the craft beer world, and a visit to its taproom is a must when in Chico. The restaurant menu features seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers, while the beer list represents everything from classic favorites to rotating seasonal brews. Whether you’re there for the food, the beer, or the atmosphere, you won’t be disappointed.

Sierra Nevada Taproom & Restaurant: 1075 East 20th Street, Chico, CA

Crush

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Chico’s Crush was my final dinner during my Butte County visit and the perfect way to end the trip. The menu blends Italian flavors with California-inspired cuisine, featuring standout dishes like the perfectly cooked filet mignon. For dessert, the Basque cheesecake is a must-try. It’s a popular spot, especially on weekends, so reservations are highly recommended.

Crush: 201 Broadway Street, Chico, CA

LaRocca Vineyards Tasting Room

For an organic wine experience, head to the LaRocca Vineyards Tasting Room in downtown Chico, where you can enjoy a tasting, a glass, and/or take home a bottle of its certified organic wines. LaRocca Vineyards has been making wine since 1984 on its vineyard in nearby Forest Ranch. The tasting room is cozy and features monthly rotating art exhibits from local artists.

LaRocca Vineyards Tasting Room: 222 West 2nd Street, Chico, CA

Nic’s

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In Paradise, Nic’s is a laid-back neighborhood eatery serving deli-style sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads. I ordered the avocado green goddess sandwich — fresh, flavorful, and filling. It’s the perfect post-adventure stop, conveniently located right along the highway.

Nic’s: 6256 Skyway, Paradise, CA

Ethan’s Eatery

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A local favorite in Oroville for breakfast and lunch, Ethan’s Eatery offers a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service. I ordered the turkey, bacon, and avocado wrap, made with hand-carved turkey and served with a side of house-made dressing. It’s an ideal place to grab a bite before heading home.

Ethan’s Eatery: 2275 Myers Street, Oroville, CA

Where to stay in Butte County

The recently opened Hotel Káterina in Chico has a chic, modern, and upscale vibe. The rooms are decorated in a sophisticated style with subtle equestrian-inspired touches. The minibar is thoughtfully stocked with a curated selection of local wine, spirits, and snacks. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a pool, sauna, rooftop bar, and on-site restaurant. Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s worth visiting for rooftop cocktails or a delicious brunch or dinner at Rancher’s Daughter.

Hotel Káterina: 1930 Baney Ln, Chico, CA 95928

Getting to and around Butte County

Butte County is easily accessible from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), the closest major airport, located about an hour and 20 minutes south of Chico. The airport’s rental car center operates frequent shuttles and hosts all major rental car companies, making it convenient to pick up a vehicle and start your trip.

Chico is walkable and bike-friendly, while Paradise and Oroville are best explored by car. Parking is easy and free at most destinations, and rideshare services such as Uber are widely available in Chico.