California State University, Chico Parent Guide
Things to See & Do
Bidwell State Historic Park
(530) 896-7800
4th Street and Cypress Avenue
www.chico.ca.us (click Park Dept.)
Annie Bidwell donated approximately 2,500 acres of land to the city of Chico in 1905. Since then the city of Chico has purchased additional land and in total the park is 3,670 acres. Bidwell Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States. There are two main sections of the park known as Upper and Lower Bidwell Park. There are many activities to enjoy at the park such as swimming, picnicking, biking, horseback riding, hiking, golf, baseball/softball fields, and much more!
Farmers Markets
Every Saturday Year-Round
2nd & Wall, Downtown Chico
7:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Rain or Shine
Venders gather to sell locally grown produce and various goods at Chico’s Farmers Markets.
Wednesdays
North Valley Plaza Mall
(at the corner of East Ave & Pillsbury Rd)
June - October • 7:30 a.m.
Thursday Night Market
Organized by the Downtown Chico Business Association (DCBA)
Downtown- Broadway between 2nd and 5th Street
April- October
6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Local produce, arts, crafts, vendors, and live entertainment.
University Farm
(530) 898-5844
www.csuchico.edu/ag
The Paul L. Byrne Agricultural Teaching and Research Center (ATRC), known as the University Farm, is an 800 acre hands-on agricultural educational program. The ATRC was established through the efforts of Senator Paul L. Byrne in 1960. Thousands of students benefit from the University Farm, either through class labs or working as part-time employees. Many farmers and ranchers benefit from research conducted on the farm and it also benefits the community through its produce and meat sales. The University Farm is located five miles south of the main CSU, Chico campus on Hegan Lane.
Chico Public Art & Murals
There are many murals and public art on display that can be found throughout the city of Chico. For specific locations, please pick up a brochure at the Chico Chamber of Commerce Office at 300 Salem Street or visit the Chico Art Center on the corner of W 5th Street and Orange Street.
