5. Visit the Chico Certified Farmers Market
Fresh, regionally grown produce and handmade food from the local community can be perfect souvenirs to take home with you from Chico. So, head to East Second Street to discover the wide selection of organic fruits and vegetables offered every week at the Chico Certified Farmers Market.
Although the big draw here is the fresh produce, you'll also find arts and crafts, bath and body products, handcrafted jewelry, artisanal baked goods, and local honey at the market. Stuff your face with your body’s weight in delicious food, then walk it off around the downtown area. This is a top thing to do in Chico that foodies are bound to enjoy.
6. Get inspired at the Museum of Northern California Art
In addition to its many natural wonders, Chico has a rich cultural arts scene. The Museum of Northern California Art hosts rotating exhibitions of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photography by NorCal artists—it is a prime destination for an introduction to the region’s amazing emerging talent.
The museum also hosts many special activities and events throughout the year, including guest speakers, art workshops, and festivals (currently online). The latest exhibition, which ran until January 24, was titled Selfie and focused on the theme of “self” during the first 10 months of 2020 and COVID-19. The next exhibition, titled Dream State is set to be unveiled in early February; it can currently be viewed online.