A REDDING Renaissance

Downtown is revived with new restaurant and biking trail destinations that are worth exploring

Travelers heading north to Oregon on Highway 5 may think of Redding merely as a refueling pit stop. Others may recognize it as the county seat in the midst of Shasta's recreation mecca, a region splashed with lakes and more than 200 miles of hiking and biking trails. Perhaps they've seen the city's iconic Sundial Bridge, which stretches across the Sacramento River, one of the nation's top trout fisheries. But not many people take time to explore Redding's downtown core. Perhaps there hasn't been much reason to do so — until now.

These formerly ho-hum blocks of mostly one-story buildings are undergoing a renaissance. There's change and excitement in the air, and by summer, visitors will find many reasons — both cultural and culinary — to make Redding a vibrant destination, one worth several days to explore.

Downtown Redding has been brightened up considerably in recent years by a mural project that has splashed color over many buildings, making it a pleasure for strolling pedestrians. Miles of new bike lanes have been built as part of the Shasta Living Streets project. Pedal-assisted bike rentals are everywhere. By summer, the Shasta Bike Depot, a full service, cyclingoriented nonprofit, will take it a step farther with a snazzy new complex centered around a courtyard restaurant framed by murals painted by internationally known artist Mona Caran. And an expanded network of trails hugs the Sacramento River and beyond.

Modeled on iconic public markets around the world, the new Redding Market Center — which will open at 1551 Market St. this summer — will be a multi-story, indoor/outdoor gathering place showcasing artisan foods, craft cocktails, a restaurant, bakery, brewery, entertainment possibilities and fresh produce. Amanda and John Hutchings will open their third Redding outpost of Fall River Brewing here, and Bantam Kitchen will bring its burgers, po'boys and Cajun fare to the market this summer, too.

There are more new, noteworthy devel

COURTESY OF VISIT REDDING Redding bike trails hug the Sacramento River, offering views of wildlife, as well as the city's iconic Sundial Bridge. Biking is a key part of the city's renewed focus on the environment.

COURTESY OF VISIT REDDING People gather at Redding's California Place for performances at the two-day Redding Roots Revival music festival that is among the many reasons for visiting the city.

COURTESY OF SHASTA LIVING STREETS, SHASTALIVINGSTREETS.ORG Miles of new bike lanes have been built in Redding, including downtown, as part of the Shasta Living Streets project, which imagines a people-friendly district with vibrancy.