Nestled almost equidistant between Sacramento and Redding, Chico combines the history and culture of the big city with the recreational opportunities of its rural surroundings. Pay your respects to Chico's founder, John Bidwell, by touring the mansion he built in 1865. This Italianate structure quickly became the center of Chico's social life in the nineteenth century. Or swing by Stansbury Home for another glimpse into days gone by. Chico's art scene is out in the open with nearly 40 murals splashed across its buildings. Ranging from historic to whimsical, the murals represent Chico's history and modern culture.

Although at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, visitors don't need to leave the city to find recreational opportunities. At over 3600 acres, Bidwell Park is one of the country's largest municipal parks. The Lower Park has ball fields, picnic areas, and the World of Trees walk, along with summer productions of Shakespeare's plays. For a more rugged terrain, try mountain biking in the Upper Park. Roll out some blankets and watch the stars at the Kiwanis Chico Community Observatory or find yourself on the links at the Chico Bidwell Golf Course.

Chico is located in the Northern Sacramento Valley of California approximately ninety miles north of Sacramento, in Butte County, east of Interstate 5.