Need a peaceful Northern California stop with riverfront trails, Western heritage, and scenic beauty? Head to Red Bluff! Situated along the Sacramento River at the gateway to Lassen Volcanic National Park, Red Bluff blends Old West charm with outdoor adventure. Whether you're exploring historic buildings, enjoying rodeo season, or hiking scenic parks, Red Bluff makes a great getaway or road trip stop in the Shasta Cascade region.

Red Bluff, CA Highlights:

  • For Adventurous Travelers: Hike the Sacramento River Bend Area – Discover miles of trails through oak woodlands, wildflowers, and river vistas managed by the BLM.
  • For History Buffs: Visit the Kelly-Griggs House Museum – Step back into Victorian-era Red Bluff with period furnishings and guided tours.
  • For Shoppers: Stroll historic downtown Red Bluff – Find antiques, artisan shops, and old-fashioned charm on Main Street.
  • For Couples: Walk the Red Bluff River Park trail at sunset – Peaceful riverside paths and scenic overlooks create a perfect date spot.
  • For Families: Spend the day at the Tehama District Fairgrounds – Catch the rodeo, carnival rides, or seasonal events and exhibits.

Best Time to Visit Red Bluff, CA

The best time to visit Red Bluff is spring and fall (March–May and September–October), when temperatures are mild and ideal for hiking, festivals, and riverfront recreation. Summers are hot and dry, but great for tubing or boating on the Sacramento River.

How to Get to Red Bluff, CA

  • If you are traveling by car: Red Bluff is located along I-5, about 2.5 hours north of Sacramento and 30 minutes south of Redding.
  • By Air: The closest airport with commercial flights is Redding Regional Airport (RDD), about 30 minutes away. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is approximately 2.5 hours south.
  • By Bus: Greyhound and local transit systems offer limited service; driving is the most convenient option.

Where to Stay in Red Bluff, CA

  • Hampton Inn & Suites Red Bluff – Comfortable and modern hotel with pool, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Red Bluff – Convenient location with spacious rooms and amenities ideal for travelers.
  • Classic Victorian B&Bs – Cozy inns and guesthouses offering a touch of historic Red Bluff charm.

Best Things to Do in Red Bluff, CA

Gaumer's Jewelry and Museum


Explore unique jewelry designs and discover fascinating mineral exhibits.

Gaumer's Jewelry and Museum

© Gaumer's Jewelry and Museum

What started in 1967 as a family-owned and run jewelry store in Red Bluff transformed into a fascinating combination of jewelry shop and minerals museum when the family got into rock hunting in a big way. Today, Gaumer's Jewelry and Museum is a wonderful place to visit, with large, colorful displays of unique jewelry, polished gems, ancient fossils, Native American artifacts, exotic minerals, and an exhibit on historic gold mining. There is a special blacklight room where the displayed rocks glow in the dark to the delight of the visitors, especially kids. Children love coming to Gaumer’s and there are frequent educational tours of the shop by school groups, by appointment. Visits to the museum part of the store are free of charge.

78 Belle Mill Rd, Red Bluff, CA 96080, Phone: 530-527-6166

California Route 36


Drive scenic winding roads and enjoy breathtaking mountain views.

California Route 36

© pixelkrusty/stock.adobe.com

California Route 36 is considered one of the most scenic and most dangerous roads in the country. The paved road consists of 140 miles of sharp and often unpredictable and unexpected twists and turns. The road connects Route 101 in Humboldt County and Route 395 near Susanville in Lassen County. One particular long series of twists looks like a roller coaster or something designed specifically for adventurous motorcyclists. Route 36 passes amazing and diverse topography, including some lovely redwood forests, and at many points it offers wonderful views, but you will be too busy trying to stay on the road to be able to enjoy the vistas. The road is mostly in great condition, except in a few spots where it gets a bit rough. It has big stretches with guardrails with scary drops on the other side, so drive carefully.

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

Sacramento River Bend Area


Hike peaceful trails and enjoy fishing along the river.

Sacramento River Bend Area

© AlessandraRC/stock.adobe.com

Stretching between the lush riparian areas along the Sacramento River and its tributaries and the rolling green hills of blue oak savanna, the Sacramento River Bend Area is a rich and diverse habitat for deer, salmon, bald eagles, osprey, migratory, and song birds. The verdant natural space offers many opportunities for recreation, such as camping, hiking, biking, hunting, horseback riding, boating, nature photography, and just relaxing and enjoying unspoiled nature. As you walk through the wetlands and along the creeks, keep an eye out for turtles, beavers, river otters, turkey vultures, deer, and even mountain lions. Watch out for rattlesnakes!

Jellys Ferry Rd, Red Bluff, CA 96080

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Tuscan Ridge Estate Winery


Savor local wines and admire stunning vineyard views.

Tuscan Ridge Estate Winery

© Tuscan Ridge Estate Winery

A boutique winery and vineyard, Tuscan Ridge Estate Winery is located on five majestic acres 5 miles off I-5 near charming Red Bluff. Tuscan Ridge grows Syrah and zinfandel grapes in their vineyard and works with other neighboring Sierra Foothills vineyards to supply them with additional grape varieties for their other wines. The winery uses a traditional style of wine making with very little handling to ensure that each varietal retains its unique characteristics. They make 18 reds and seven white wines and a nice port. Tuscan Ridge has a lovely Tuscan-inspired tasting room where visitors can sample their wines before selecting their favorites to bring home. On some days there are wood-fired pizza and antipasti platters to go with the wines. Plenty of games ensure that the guests can have a nice social time with other wine aficionados. The tasting room has indoor and outdoor spaces under the lovely romantic pergola and an ancient oak.

19260 Ridge Rd, Red Bluff, CA 96080, Phone: 530-527-7393

William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park


Discover pioneer history and explore preserved 19th-century adobe buildings.

William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park

© Andrea Izzotti/stock.adobe.com

William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park is located in the Sacramento Valley, near Red Bluff, on the west bank of the Sacramento River. The park was created in memory of California pioneer William Brown Ide, captain of the Bear Flag Revolt and the president of the short-lived California Republic. The main structure in the park is a lovely adobe building housing a museum. There is also an open-air museum that showcases realistic replicas of a carriage shed and a blacksmith shop. There is also a small visitors center. A spacious green picnic area overlooks the Sacramento River. The park organizes various programs and events during the year, such as Adobe Day, Adobe Ferry Championship, and a Pioneer Christmas Party. There are also regular demonstrations of pioneer crafts, period parties, and performances.

21659 Adobe Road, Red Bluff, CA 96080

Sacred Heart Catholic Church


Admire beautiful architecture and experience peaceful moments of reflection.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

© Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Sacred Heart Catholic Church is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Red Bluff. The stately brick building with tall twin spires on the corner of Main and Elm streets was designed by William H. Weeks and completed in 1906. Since then it has been providing folks in Red Bluff and neighboring communities with a place to go to pray and reflect. Two spires flank the three church portals. There is a lovely stained glass window with a large rose above the entrance, with more stained glass panels decorating the walls of the church. The inside of the church features an arched ceiling with a single nave. There are two large statues on each side of the altar. The ceiling is decorated with colorful images of saints. Sacred Heart Church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a religious and architectural landmark.

515 Main St, Red Bluff, CA 96080, Phone: 530-527-2209

Park of Study and Reflection


Walk serene paths and explore peaceful meditation spaces.

Park of Study and Reflection

© stock.adobe.com

Park of Study and Reflection in Red Bluff is one of about 40 similar parks on five continents dedicated to the studying of human beings and the possibility of their evolutionary development toward a nonviolent world and a world without discrimination. The park in Red Bluff has the same elements as all other parks: the stainless steel Monolith, which sets the park’s coordinates, the Donor Wall, which displays the names of people who contributed to the park’s construction, a water fountain, the Entrance Gate, which is designed to create a change in the internal state of those who enter, The Hall, the Center of Work, and the Center of Study. There is a range of activities and programs organized in the park throughout the year.

13499 Golden State Hwy, Red Bluff, CA 96080, Phone: 530-690-2201

Where to Eat:

Casa Ramos Mexican Restaurant


Savor authentic Mexican dishes in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

Casa Ramos Mexican Restaurant

© Monart Design/stock.adobe.com

Casa Ramos Mexican Restaurant is a popular family-owned chain of Mexican restaurants offering classic Mexican favorites such as enchiladas, carne asada, and chile relleno. Their Red Bluff spot is spacious, brightly colored, and cozy and it offers several large TVs for those who want to watch their favorite game while enjoying their food or margarita. The portions are large, the atmosphere is relaxed, and there are nice comfortable booths where families with kids can take their time enjoying their tacos, burritos, or tamales. Casa Ramos also has a nice outdoor patio if the weather is pleasant. Their menu is very large, with something for everyone. The best deal is the Combination, small or large, which comes with a bit of everything.

2001 Main St, Red Bluff, CA 96080, Phone: 530-527-2684

Shari's Cafe and Pies


Enjoy classic comfort food and indulge in delicious homemade pies.

Shari's Cafe and Pies

© Shari's Café and Pies

Located in Belle Mill Landing, Shari's Cafe and Pies in Red Bluff is one of 95 popular family-friendly restaurants that are open every day and all day for a reasonably priced breakfast, lunch, or dinner and absolutely the best pies in town. The place is spacious and unpretentious, with comfortable seats and cozy booths. Their menu is huge and has everyone’s favorite comfort foods, freshly cooked and hot. The portions are large and the sandwiches are massive, but whatever you order, leave some space for a piece (or two) of their famous pies.

128 Bell Mill Rd, Red Bluff, CA 96080, Phone: 530-529-1104

If you are interested in local events:

  • Red Bluff Round-Up (April) – Legendary PRCA rodeo with bull riding, barrel racing, live music, and Western heritage.
  • Tehama District Fair (September) – Classic county fair with rides, livestock, exhibits, and family fun.
  • Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting (December) – Celebrate the season with lights, music, and downtown festivities.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Red Bluff, California:

  • Redding (30 min) – Visit Turtle Bay Exploration Park, Sundial Bridge, and enjoy shops and dining along the Sacramento River.
  • Shasta Lake (30 min) – Enjoy boating, fishing, and scenic drives around one of California’s largest reservoirs.
  • Corning (20 min) – Explore olive tasting rooms, shop for local products, and tour the Olive Pit.
  • Bend Recreation Area (20 min) – A quiet area along the river great for picnics, hikes, and birdwatching.
  • South Yolla Bolly Wilderness (30 min+) – Remote forest and mountain area with challenging trails and alpine beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Red Bluff located?
    • Red Bluff is a small city in California, about 31 miles from Redding, on the banks of the Sacramento River and on the edge of the fertile Sacramento Valley.
  • What is a must-visit attraction in Red Bluff?
    • No visit to Red Bluff should pass by without checking out the fascinating Gaumer’s Jewelry and Museum of rocks and artifacts.
  • Where can you enjoy nature in Red Bluff?
    • The Sacramento River Bend Area is a great place to enjoy unspoiled nature and rich wildlife.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and beautiful wildflowers. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Red Bluff – A comfortable and modern stay. Visit William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park – Learn about California history and enjoy riverside views.
Summer (June-August) – Hot but great for river activities. Best Western Antelope Inn & Suites – A well-rated and centrally located hotel. Explore the Sacramento River – Go fishing, kayaking, or take a relaxing riverside walk.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Hampton Inn & Suites Red Bluff – A comfortable stay with great amenities. Attend the Red Bluff Round-Up – Experience one of the largest rodeos in the West.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and quiet, perfect for a peaceful retreat. Comfort Inn Red Bluff – A budget-friendly and cozy option. Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park – A short drive away for stunning winter landscapes.

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