About Chico
Chico is the most populous city in Butte County, California, United States. Located in the Sacramento Valley region of Northern California, the city had a population of 101,475 in the 2020 census, an increase from 86,187 in the 2010 census. Chico is the cultural and economic center of the northern Sacramento Valley, as well as the most populous city in California north of the capital city of Sacramento. The city is known as a college town, as the home of California State University, Chico, and for Bidwell Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world.
Places to visit in Chico
-
Bidwell Park
Park · 4 mi from centreOne of the largest municipal parks in the country, stretching along Big Chico Creek with shady trails, swimming holes and rugged canyon scenery in its upper reaches, perfect for hiking and biking.
-
Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park
HistoricAn Italianate mansion that belonged to the city's founders John and Annie Bidwell, open for guided tours that cover early Chico history and the couple's influence on the region.
-
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
Entertainment · 2 mi from centreA pioneering craft brewery offering guided tours, tastings and a taproom restaurant at its Chico home, with gardens and an outdoor area that hosts live music.
-
Gateway Science Museum
MuseumA science museum run by California State University, Chico, with hands-on exhibits about the natural history and science of the region and gardens of native plants outside.
Where to stay in Chico
Popular hotels in Chico, out of 28 properties you can book.
DoubleTree by Hilton Chico
From $95 per night
Best Western Heritage Inn - Chico
From $106 per night
Super 8 by Wyndham Chico
From $68 per night
Best Western Willows Inn
From $110 per night
Oxford Suites Chico
From $120 per night
Hampton Inn & Suites Chico
From $102 per night
Holiday Inn Express Willows
From $114 per night
Motel 6 Chico Ca
From $66 per night
Quality Inn Near Chico State
From $85 per night
Best Western Paradise Hotel
From $107 per night
Americas Best Value Inn Chico
From $69 per night
Residence Inn Chico
From $144 per night
Best time to visit Chico
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Chico is April to May and October, when average daytime highs are around 70–84°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Chico weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 81° 56° 31%
- Thu 22 Oct 64° 57° 54%
- Fri 23 Oct 76° 54° 12%
- Sat 24 Oct 75° 48° 5%
- Sun 25 Oct 77° 49° 10%
- Mon 26 Oct 80° 54° 10%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/Los_AngelesUTC−7
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Chico
These are the airports closest to central Chico. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- CIC Chico Regional Airport4 mi (6 km) from the city centre
Getting around Chico
Ride a bike. One of the best bike friendly towns around, the locals and students prefer to bike around it.
Chico travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Chico?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Chico is April to May and October, when average daytime highs are around 70–84°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
What is the weather like in Chico?
July is usually the warmest month in Chico, with average highs of 101°F (38°C). December is the coolest, with average lows of 43°F (6°C). The wettest month is typically February, with about 234 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Chico?
Chico Regional Airport (CIC) is the closest airport, about 4 miles (6 km) from the centre of Chico.
What time zone is Chico in?
Chico uses the America/Los_Angeles time zone (currently UTC−7). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Chico?
Ride a bike. One of the best bike friendly towns around, the locals and students prefer to bike around it.
What are the best places to visit in Chico?
Top sights in Chico include Bidwell Park, Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company and Gateway Science Museum. One of the largest municipal parks in the country, stretching along Big Chico Creek with shady trails, swimming holes and rugged canyon scenery in its upper reaches, perfect for hiking and biking.
Where should I stay in Chico?
Popular areas for hotels in Chico include Chico Area, Willows and Hwy 99. Well-reviewed options include DoubleTree by Hilton Chico and Best Western Heritage Inn - Chico.
How many hotels can I book in Chico?
Destina Holidays currently lists 28 properties in and around Chico, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
