What to Do (and where to Stay) in Chico, CA

From college life to brewery crawls and one-of-a-kind shops, there are countless reasons why our little town of Chico, California might be calling your name. Whatever your reason may be, booking with Blixa guarantees a trip worth remembering! We aim to take the hassle out of deciding where to stay in Chico, CA and we put together a curated guide for every type of traveler.

If you’re touring the campus…

Whether you’ve committed to becoming a Wildcat in the fall or you’re just stopping by to tour Chico State, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to explore all the reasons it rules to go to college in Chico. Check out close-to-campus lunch spots like Celestinos for NY-style pizza, Madison Bear Garden (but please, just call it The Bear) for burgs’ and beers, or Js Tacos for late-night carnitas cravings. The Merriam Library has plenty of space and amenities, but if you’re seeking an off-campus study spot, pop into either Naked Lounge or Upper Crust (and check out the Used Bookstore next door!) and grab a cup of something cozy.

If you’re traveling for work…

When work has you on the road, you might as well sneak in a mini vacation while you’re at it! Even if you only have time for a quick cruise downtown for a bite, enjoy cafe eats with a rooftop view at Stoble, a newly-opened coffee house and workspace with plenty of flexible co-working options. If that big presentation or networking event has you feeling fried, check out Renew Float Spa for a full spa experience including massage, float tanks, hydrotherapy and more. If you prefer to unwind with a stiff drink, head to La Rocca for a tasting of local organic wines or B Street for a full bar with a side of duck fat-coated pub fare.

If you’re traveling with your significant other….

Travels with your sweetheart (whether we’re a stop on a roadtrip, a minimoon, or even just a staycation in your local home-away-from-home) mean you’ll definitely want to dial up the romance! If you’re going for a traditional date night, you’ll absolutely want to be wined and dined at Grana or Red Tavern (upscale bistro fare), Raw Bar or Aonami ( fresh sushi and vegan alternatives), and 5th Street Steakhouse or Crush (full cocktail bar and classic American eats). Catch an indie flick at the intimate Pageant theater–be sure to get there early to snag a seat on one of the couches, and then hit up Shuberts Ice Cream on your walk home for a scoop of desert!

Lovebirds who love to jam can almost always find great live tunes cranking out of Duffy’s Tavern or Argus Bar +  Patio, and be sure to bring a $5 to take advantage of their photo booth! If you and your honey would rather hit the great outdoors, bring your walking shoes to Upper Bidwell park and take the trek up the Browns Hole for a sunny day soak at a shallow clothing-optional swimming hole! Quick word of warning: the hike is long (but worth it!) so be  sure to pack plenty of drinking water.

If you’re traveling with your dog….

If you’re traveling with a fur baby (no matter the occasion) include them in the fun as well! Your pup is sure to love a leisurely stroll through lower Bidwell park, an off-leash romp and dip in the allocated areas of upper Bidwell park, or just a trot down any of the tree-lined streets your BnB is located on. Many restaurants downtown offer dog-friendly patios, but Parkside Taphouse and Burgers & Brew really shine when it comes to offering accommodations for furry friends (in the form of abundant water dishes–but we won’t tell if you sneak them a french fry off your plate!)

 Whatever the reason that brings you to town, we hope to give you many reasons to return! Book with superhost-status Blixa for elevated lodging, tireless service, and a commitment to making your stay equally memorable and stress-free.