Best Things to Do in Redding with Kids

If you’re looking for a wonderful, adventure-filled getaway to take kids in Northern California, Redding, California, is a fantastic option. Known as the “sunniest city in California” and the “trails capital of California”, there is a lot to discover beyond its treasured Sundial Bridge. There are particularly fun things to do in Redding with kids, from feeding parrots to splashing around a volcano and wading in picturesque lakes.

When planning a trip to Redding, Visit Redding is the ultimate resource to find things to do, places to stay, dining options, cultural entertainment, and family-friendly experiences throughout the area. I partnered with Visit Redding on this guide, but every recommendation here is exactly what I’d tell a friend planning a trip with their kids!

Whether you’re planning a quick overnight trip to Redding or making it a longer stay as your base camp to experience waterfalls and volcanoes at Burney Falls and Lassen Volcanic National Park, you’ll soon uncover the hidden gems in Redding and beyond.

This guide to the best things to do in Redding with kids covers everything from Turtle Bay’s kid-favorite experiences to kids’ play areas in coffee shops and toy stores, family-friendly restaurants, and tips for nearby day trips from Redding.

Why Visit Redding with Kids?

Redding is a fantastic family getaway, offering kids the perfect introduction to grand outdoor adventures in Northern California. It’s an especially simple drive from Sacramento, making it the perfect weekend spot for families looking for a change in scenery. There’s a lot to do for kids of all ages, including Turtle Bay Exploration Park, a must-do when visiting Redding with kids.

Quick Planning Guide for Redding

Where is Redding?

Redding is in Northern California along the Sacramento River in Shasta County. It’s not far from the Oregon border, nor from Sacramento. Redding is an easy day trip to major California attractions such as Burney Falls and Lassen Volcanic National Park.

How far is Redding from Sacramento?

Sacramento is a 2.5-hour drive to Redding. It’s a very smooth drive, as you take the 5 North the whole way.

How far is Redding from San Francisco?

The drive from San Francisco to Redding is approximately 3.5 hours.

What’s the best time of year to visit Redding?

Honestly, there’s no bad time to visit Redding. The spring and fall will have the mildest and most comfortable temperatures. We visited in the summer, and it can hit triple digits, as it did when we visited. However, we get the same weather in Sacramento, so it wasn’t different from what we’re used to.

While temperatures will be high in the summer, it’s also the time of year to experience seasonal attractions such as WaterWorks Park, seasonal splash pads, and more nearby water experiences, like Whiskeytown Lake.

How many days do you need?

When exploring Redding, 2 days is a good amount of time to see and do most things. If you plan to take nearby day trips and use Redding as a home base, I’d recommend extending the trip to at least 3 days.

Where to Stay in Redding with Kids

Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge

The Sheraton near the Sundial Bridge in Redding is an ideal place for families to stay for overnight travel. Situated in the perfect spot, the hotel is within walking distance of major attractions, such as Turtle Bay Exploration Park and its namesake, the Sundial Bridge. In fact, when you drive to these locations, you’ll have to park in the Sheraton parking lot.

The Sheraton is also attached to Mosaic, one of the best family-friendly restaurants in Redding. Additionally, it’s walkable to Branch House, which has a kids’ play area in its cafe. The convenient location is less than a 10-minute drive to downtown Redding.

Best Things to Do in Redding with Kids

Turtle Bay Exploration Park

When you think of things to do in Redding, Turtle Bay Exploration Park will likely be the first thing that comes to mind, particularly when visiting with kids. There are two main parts of the museum: the indoor museum and the outdoor Forest Camp. You’ll spend more time than you think at both spots, as there’s so much to do!

I recommend starting with the Forest Camp to knock out the outdoor exhibits earlier in the day, before it gets too hot. Highlights are animals in the Wildlife Woods, animal shows, playgrounds for all ages, the Stimpel Creek water feature, and stepping into the Parrot Playhouse to feed nectar to lorikeets (who will land right on your hands).

Inside the Turtle Bay Exploration Museum are immersive exhibits. Wander through a replica of Shasta Caverns and check out Aquatic Adventures, an aquarium-like exhibit where kids can see fish and marine life that live in the Sacramento River.

Tip: Have a Getout Pass? Turtle Bay Exploration Park is an included attraction!

McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

From the Turtle Bay Museum, walk over the Sundial Bridge, and you’ll find yourself at the entrance of the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. The expansive gardens span over 200 acres of native and non-native plants and trees. This is a fun way to get kids out in nature on easy, family-friendly paths. Plus, there’s a Children’s Garden, the “Mosaic Oasis”, which has a water feature and play structure.

Tip: The McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is home to the popular Redding Garden of Lights during the holiday season (more on that below).

Turtle Express Train Ride

Perhaps the most unique and fun way for kids to see the Sundial Bridge is to ride a train across it. The Turtle Express takes passengers across the Sundial Bridge and back, while providing an engaging narration about the sights you pass. The train doesn’t just go over one bridge, but two. In addition to riding across the famous Sundial Bridge on a train, it also rides over the tranquil Sulphur Creek Bridge.

My kids loved this kiddie train ride. However, take it in the morning before it’s too hot. The train doesn’t run in the afternoon due to the heat. Tickets are available to purchase inside the Turtle Bay Exploration Park Museum. The train ride can be a standalone experience if you’re short on time. You do not need museum admission to ride the train. Tickets are also available online.

The Turtle Express train ride runs Wednesday to Sunday from 9am to 1pm.

Sundial Bridge

I couldn’t write a list of the best things to do in Redding with kids without including Redding’s most iconic landmark, the Sundial Bridge. There are several ways to see the prominent landmark towering over the Sacramento River. Walk over the pedestrian bridge or take the Turtle Express train ride. The Sundial Bridge is both a working sundial and a sight to behold as Redding’s centerpiece. You can’t do a trip to Redding without checking off a visit to the Sundial Bridge!

Enterprise Park (Kids Kingdom & Fantasy Fountain)

There is not one but two reasons to visit Enterprise Park: Kids Kingdom and Fantasy Fountain. Kids Kingdom is an inclusive playground with a large castle-themed play structure. There’s also a big train structure for kids to climb on that my kids especially loved. The park has ziplines, including a zipline with an accessible seat. This is a fun playground in Redding for kids.

Next to the playground is the seasonal Fantasy Fountain Splash pad. I’ve got more details on this below in the seasonal attractions section, but know that this is one of the best splash pads we’ve come across in California, and it has an erupting volcano.

Tip: While at Enterprise Park, you might spot the mobile Kona Ice truck. Treat the family to shave ice on a hot day.

Oasis Fun Center

When you need to entertain kids, there’s plenty to do at Oasis Fun Center at Shasta Lake, just a little north of Redding. This spot has all the favorites, from mini-golf to go-karts, bumper boats, and an arcade. If your kids have wanted to pretend to be in Mission: Impossible, they can try out the laser maze.

Ferris Wheel Kids

Walk into Ferris Wheel Kids in downtown Redding, and you’ll immediately be drawn into this colorful and welcoming children’s store. You’ll find a wide selection of children’s clothing, toys, and gifts. We picked up a few books by local authors while there.

Bring the kids along so they can play in the Ferris Wheel Kids’ Hangout Spot. This interactive area for kids has a play kitchen and tool bench, trucks, and even a nook for curling up and reading books. It’s an adorable indoor play area for kids in Redding.

Country Bowl

For another family-friendly activity in Redding, aim for strikes or spares at Country Bowl, where kids can enjoy bowling at a laid-back alley. Country Bowl also participates in the annual Kids Bowl Free program.

Rare Air Trampoline Park

If kids need to bounce off the walls on a hot or rainy day in Redding, Rare Air Trampoline Park might be the spot to help them burn energy. Besides trampolines, there’s also a dodgeball arena, slam dunk court, rock climbing wall, and Ninja Course, to name a few other ways for kids to jump around.

Anderson River Park

Just south of Redding, Anderson River Park has picnic tables nestled in scenic spots throughout the park overlooking the Sacramento River. From hiking trails to a disc golf course, there are a variety of recreational activities for families. However, kids will mostly appreciate the Kiddieland play area and the seasonal River Splash Pad.

Tip: The River Splash Pad at Anderson River Park is open much later than most typical splash pads until 10pm. The splash pad fountains light up in different colors at night, creating a unique water experience for kids during summer evenings.

Ninja Coalition

If kids want to swing high and climb, they can test their American Ninja Warrior skills at Redding’s Ninja Coalition. In addition to a Ninja gym for adventurous kids, they also have laser tag.

Seasonal Family-Friendly Attractions in Redding

Fantasy Fountain Splash Park

Our family goes to a lot of splash pads since our toddlers are at a prime age for them, and let me tell you, Fantasy Fountain at Enterprise Park is one of the best splash pads we’ve seen in California. I already mentioned Enterprise Park, home to the Kids Kingdom playground, but I want to expand on Fantasy Fountain, the adjacent splash pad.

Fantasy Fountain is a massive splash pad with tons of sprayers, including a fire hydrant and dump buckets, but its primary feature is a towering volcano in the middle of the splash pad. It’s such a unique splash pad, and every 5-10 minutes, the volcano makes a thundering rumbling noise and erupts!

Waterworks Park

When temperatures hit 100°F  and over, families will need a place to beat the heat in Redding. WaterWorks Park is that place. We spent two hours here, and honestly, it wasn’t enough time, as we had so much fun and wanted to stay longer. What I loved about WaterWorks is that it’s a fantastic water park for kids of all ages.

Toddlers will love the Kiddie Playground, which is where we spent a lot of time with our younger kids. There’s a large activity pool next to some small water slides. With free life jackets available on a first-come, first-served basis, my 4-year-old went on his first real water slide (riding with me on a double raft on the Raging River Water Slide) and tested the lazy river with his dad.

Older kids have their choice of thrilling water slides from The Avalanche to sliding through the mouth of a dragon and even exiting through “the toilet bowl”. The Cowabunga Beach wave pool is also a big hit with families.

Redding Aquatic Center

Another spot to cool down in the summertime is the Redding Aquatic Center. Toddlers can splash and slide around at the water playground, while older kids can plunge down the water slide. If you want something a little more low-key than a full-on water park, then this would be a good option.

Redding Garden of Lights

While most of the seasonal attractions on this list are for the summer months, Redding Garden of Lights is a can’t-miss attraction in the wintertime. Every winter, over two million holiday lights illuminate the McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens at Turtle Bay Exploration Center and the Sundial Bridge. Redding turns into a winter wonderland with glowing lights and a holiday village.

The Turtle Express train ride also gets a holiday makeover, decked out in festive lights, and runs at night during Garden of Lights.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Redding

There are a variety of kid-friendly restaurants in Redding, from local ice cream shops to a food truck plaza and a coffee shop with a play area for kids; there’s a wide selection of dining options for families.

Branch House Riverfront Bistro

You can’t beat the location of Branch House, which is next to Turtle Bay Exploration Park and overlooks the Sundial Bridge. This coffee shop has a kids’ menu, but the big draw for families is the large indoor play space for kids. The kids’ play area at Branch House has a chalkboard, books, toys, and even a seating area for kids with placemats. The outdoor area also has lawn games like cornhole. Branch House is definitely one of the best kid-friendly restaurants in Redding.

Tip: Get stamped at Turtle Bay Exploration Park so you can leave to grab food (and coffee for parents) at Branch House, then return to Turtle Bay.

Taste & See Creamery

When the kids want a sweet treat, Taste & See Creamery is where to go in Redding for ice cream. This local shop serves handmade, small-batch ice cream with organic, all-natural ingredients. They have some amazing flavors, and when it’s hard to choose just one (because it will be), there’s an option to get an ice cream flight. Taste & See Creamery has three locations in the Redding area.

From The Hearth Kitchen and Pie Shop

If you’re craving comfort food in Redding, head to From The Hearth. They’ve got sandwiches, burgers, and rice bowls, to name a few things. They are known for their handmade pies, breakfast offerings, and wide selection of coffee. With an expansive menu and kids’ menu, there will be something for everyone in the family. From The Hearth has multiple locations in the Redding area.

Tip: There is a nice outdoor patio area for enjoying food al fresco at From The Hearth’s College View location.

Mosaic Restaurant

After a jam-packed day of exploring Redding with kids, the whole family can sit down to savor a full-service meal at Mosaic Restaurant. At first glance, you might wonder if it’s too upscale for kids, but it’s very kid-friendly. They have a kids’ menu with all the favorites like chicken fingers, pizza, and pasta. The kids’ menu has animals from Turtle Bay all over it that kids can color with crayons.

Mosaic is attached to the Sheraton, and both are just a short walk to the Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay Exploration Park. If you only have one night in Redding, it’s a very convenient location for families to see the major family-friendly Redding attractions while being close to great dining options like Mosaic and Branch House.

The Park

The Park is Redding’s food truck hub. It’s around the corner from Ferris Wheel Kids, so you could easily combine the two. Families can check out The Park for a variety of food trucks in a casual outdoor setting in downtown Redding. There are several lawn games such as bowling, cornhole, and large versions of Checkers and Connect 4 that will entertain kids (and adults) of all ages.

Best Family Day Trips from Redding

From spectacular waterfalls to lakes and a National Park, Redding makes the perfect home base for family-friendly day trips to some of Northern California’s best outdoor crown jewels.

Whiskeytown Lake

Distance from Redding: 20 minutes

I have to tell you that Whiskeytown Lake is very impressive. It’s a gorgeous reservoir in Shasta County that’s incredibly simple to reach from Redding. The water is crystal clear, and there are a few family-friendly beach areas with shallow entry for smaller kids to play and wade. Older kids will love swimming in the lake. Boat rentals, including kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, are also available. There are a variety of hikes in Whiskeytown Lake as well, ranging from easy to difficult. You’ll want to set aside plenty of time to enjoy Whiskeytown Lake.

An entrance pass is required for Whiskeytown Lake. Passes are available to purchase online or in person at the Whiskeytown Lake Visitor Center during its open hours.

Family-Friendly Beach Options at Whiskeytown Lake:

• Brandy Creek Beach
• Oak Bottom Beach

Family-Friendly Hike at Whiskeytown Lake:

• Crystal Creek Falls

I highly recommend hiking with kids to Crystal Creek Falls at Whiskeytown Lake. This is an effortless 0.6-mi trail that’s completely paved, ADA accessible, and stroller-friendly. It’s a short hike to a wonderful payoff of a waterfall overlook. If you have kids who can manage trekking down an unpaved rocky path to the base of the falls, you are allowed to swim in the natural pool of Crystal Creek Falls if you want to take a dip!

Tip: Combine a visit to Crystal Creek Falls and Oak Bottom Beach when visiting Whiskeytown Lake with kids. The two spots are close together, making it easy to do both in one outing. Trek to Crystal Creek Falls first, in the morning, before it gets too hot. Then let the kids enjoy the pristinely clear water at Oak Bottom Beach.

Shasta State Historic Park

Distance from Redding: 15 minutes

If you plan to drive to Crystal Creek Falls and/or Oak Bottom Beach at Whiskeytown Lake, you’ll go right past Shasta State Historic Park on the way. The old-timey brick buildings alongside the road are sure to catch your eye. Shasta State Historic Park preserves buildings and artifacts from Shasta City, once the epicenter of mining during the California gold rush. Explore the remnants of this California history and step inside the Courthouse Museum.

There is a small fee to visit Shasta State Historic Park. Kids 5 and under are free.

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

Distance from Redding: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Burney Falls is one of the most majestic sights in California, and it happens to be only a little more than an hour drive away from Redding. This isn’t just one waterfall to peer at, but a massive 129-foot waterfall cascading over an entire cliffside. It’s a sight to behold and one of the most beautiful places in California.

The panoramic, soaring Burney Falls makes for a very family-friendly day trip. A trail begins with an overlook and then descends closer to the falls. Do know that the Burney Falls trail is not stroller-friendly, as it has several steps.

As of 2026, day-use reservations are required to visit McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park through Sunday, September 27, 2026.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Distance from Redding: 1 hour (closest to Manzanita Lake entrance)

California has the most National Parks of any state, totaling nine. Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of those nine, and is often overlooked compared to Yosemite or Joshua Tree. Kids will love exploring the vast landscapes, from boiling hydrothermal areas to panoramic lakes that reflect snow-capped peaks.

Having been to most National Parks in California, Lassen has fewer kid-friendly trails than others. Many of the most popular trails in Lassen have moderate to hard difficulty levels. This means you could easily do most of the kid-friendly trails if you only have one day.

There are two entrances to the park. Redding is closest to Manzanita Lake on the north side. Speaking of Manzanita Lake, you will definitely want to add that trail to your list when visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park with kids! Just know that it’s not stroller-friendly, and your kids will want to spend more time than you might imagine throwing rocks in the lake.

Kid-Friendly Trails at Lassen Volcanic National Park (in order from the Manzanita Lake entrance):

• Manzanita Lake Loop (1.9-mi)
• Lily Pond Nature Trail (0.7-mi)
• Reflection Lake Trail (0.7-mi)
• Devastated Area Interpretative Trail (0.3-mi)
• Sulphur Works (0.3-mi)

Before leaving Lassen Volcanic National Park, stop at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, which is right near Sulphur Works. The visitor center has interactive exhibits for kids, souvenirs, and a cafe serving hot food, ice cream, and other snacks. Another bonus is that they have caffeinated beverages for tired parents. There’s also a family restroom at the visitor center with a changing table.

Lake Shasta Caverns

Distance from Redding: 30 minutes

After seeing a replica of Lake Shasta Caverns at Turtle Bay Exploration Park, families might want to take a day trip to see the real thing. Lake Shasta Caverns is a national natural landmark where visitors can descend into a geological marvel.

Getting to Lake Shasta Caverns is an adventure in itself. The two-hour guided tour starts with a boat ride, followed by a bus ride up a steep cliffside to access the caverns. After that, there are 500 to 600 stairs throughout the tour.

A day trip to Lake Shasta Caverns is probably better for older kids who have patience for the transportation transfers, can climb and descend hundreds of stairs, and can listen and pay attention to a tour guide. Therefore, for now, it’s probably best to stick with the replica at Turtle Bay Exploration Park if you have younger kids. Speaking of kids at Lake Shasta Caverns, there is a playground with some unique features to explore. So allow for extra time before or after the excursion.

3-Day Family-Friendly Redding Itinerary

If you’re wondering how to fit everything into one trip, follow the exact 3-day Redding itinerary our family did during our visit.

Day 1: Parks, Playgrounds, & Splash Pads

Lunch: Kent’s Meats & Groceries

Grab some sandwiches and provisions from Kent’s Meats & Groceries to take to-go, down the road to the next stop, Anderson River Park.

Next Stop: Anderson River Park

Enjoy your lunch from Kent’s Meats at a scenic spot overlooking the water in Anderson River Park. Afterward, let the kids run through the seasonal splash pad if it’s hot and during the summertime.

Late Afternoon: Enterprise Park (Kids Kingdom & Fantasy Fountain)

From one park to another, head to Kids Kingdom to let the kids play on the accessible playground and swing on the zip lines. You’ll want to allow ample time for kids to run through the splash pad if it’s a hot summer day.

Dinner: Mosaic Restaurant

Enjoy a nice sit-down dinner that’s still kid-friendly with the whole family at Mosaic Restaurant.

Day 2: Whiskeytown Lake, Turtle Bay, Downtown Redding, & WaterWorks

Morning: Whiskeytown Lake

Begin the morning at Whiskeytown Lake. Make Crystal Creek Falls your first stop. After the short (but great payoff) hike, continue to Oak Bottom Beach. Let the kids play in the sand and water for the rest of the morning.

Next Stop: Turtle Express Train Ride

Head to Turtle Bay for the Turtle Express train ride. Take in the sights of the Sundial Bridge while enjoying the train ride before it’s too hot.

Lunch: Branch House Riverfront Bistro

Before heading into Turtle Bay Exploration Center, grab a bite to eat at Branch House. Parents can actually finish a coffee while littles are occupied in the kids’ play area as they wait for their food.

Next Stop: Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Check out the animal show, climb the playground, and explore the fascinating exhibits—both indoors and outdoors—at this captivating children’s museum.

Afternoon: Ferris Wheel Kids

Pick up some new toys or books for the kids at the local children’s store in downtown Redding. Children can play in the store’s indoor play area while parents shop.

Late Afternoon: Taste & See Creamery

While in downtown Redding, take an ice cream break at Taste & See Creamery.

Late Afternoon: WaterWorks Park

Cool off from a busy day by splashing around in the wave pool and water slides at WaterWorks Park.

Day 3: Day Trip to Burney Falls & Lassen Volcanic National Park

Morning: From The Hearth

Fuel up for an adventure-filled day at one of From The Hearth’s locations.

Next Stop: Burney Falls

Day trip to Burney Falls and be awed by the massive waterfalls. Stock up on provisions in their General Store if you worked up an appetite.

Next Stop: Lassen Volcanic National Park

From Burney Falls, keep the adventure going and head to the Manzanita Lake side of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Trek some family-friendly trails throughout the park, making your way to your final stop of the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Redding worth visiting with kids?

Yes, it absolutely is! From outdoor adventures to one of the best museums in California with unique animal encounters like feeding lorikeets, Redding is worth visiting with kids. It’s particularly perfect to visit from Sacramento given the proximity, making it an easy and enjoyable destination for overnight travel.

How many days should you spend in Redding?

I recommend 2 days to explore Redding. However, I’d expand it to 3 days if you plan to take day trips to nearby spots such as Lassen Volcanic National Park or Burney Falls.

What is the best time to visit Redding with kids?

While spring and fall will have the most comfortable temperatures, visiting in the summer means can’t-miss seasonal attractions for kids like WaterWorks Park, Fantasy Fountain, and nearby day trips to Whiskeytown Lake. In the winter, Redding Garden of Lights is also reason enough to visit to see over two million festive holiday lights.

Is Turtle Bay Exploration Park worth visiting?

Yes! Turtle Bay Exploration Park should be at the top of your list when visiting Redding with kids. It’s easily one of the best museums in California for kids. From animal shows, playgrounds, an aquarium, and rotating exhibits, it will be a highlight for kids.

Is WaterWorks open year-round?

No, it is not. WaterWorks Park is a seasonal attraction typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Can you visit Burney Falls as a day trip from Redding?

Yes! Burney Falls is approximately a 1-hour 15-minute drive from Redding, making it an easy day trip and one of the best family day trips in Northern California.

Can you visit Lassen Volcanic National Park as a day trip from Redding?

Yes! At just a 1-hour drive from Redding, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very doable day trip for families looking to check off an underrated National Park from their list.

Where should families stay in Redding?

There are a variety of family-friendly hotels in Redding. However, the Sheraton Redding at Sundial Bridge is recommended due to its proximity and walkability to top attractions such as Turtle Bay Exploration Park and the Sundial Bridge.