Did you know that our service area produces much of the world’s rice, almonds, citrus, and other foods? The next time you enjoy sushi, nuts, or fruit, thank a California farmer!
Our area is on The Pacific Flyway — tens of thousands of beautiful Snow Geese can be seen wintering in fields that are kept flooded post-harvest to make their long journey between Alaska and Patagonia, South America possible. Area rice fields provide food and a resting place for nearly 230 wildlife species, and nearly 60 percent of the food for 7 to 10 million ducks and geese that migrate along the Pacific Flyway each winter (www.calrice.org). The Snow Goose Festival happens every January. Pelicans, sandhill cranes, herons, storks, eagles, and other birds can be found here as well. Going west from downtown Gridley, you’ll find Gray Lodge Wildlife Area, where visitors can walk or do a driving tour of the wetlands or view wildlife from blinds.
The City of Gridley was home to the one of the first Wells Fargo branches in the 1800’s, and is on the original Central Pacific Railroad line that formed part of the First Transcontinental Railroad in North America. It was also home to the Libby peach cannery. Hazel Street & B Street boast many original Victorian homes, American Craftsman Style homes and California bungalows.
The Hazel Hotel, in an Italianate architectural style, is one of many historical Gridley buildings and is on the National Register of Historic Places. You’ll find the Chamber of Commerce office there. too If you need a map or visitors information, we’ll be happy to help. The historic downtown commercial district where the hotel resides was renovated in 2014.
Don’t miss the Gridley Museum on the corner, where you can get a downtown walking tour brochure or arrange a docent-led walking tour. And be sure to shop at the small boutiques and shops – whether you’re looking for gifts, antiques, funky fashions, or rare books, you’re sure to find a treasure or two.
While visiting enjoy the Mediterranean climate in our parks! The kids will love the summer splash area at Vierra Park, or enjoy trick biking, skateboarding, or scootering in the downtown Skate Park. The Gridley pool at the fairgrounds is open all summer, and season passes are available. Daddow Park includes a gazebo with live music and tons of fun on Red Suspenders Day! Biggs offers playgrounds and picnic spots in the Biggs Family Park.
Gridley is also home to the Butte County Fair. Visit us in August and experience small town living at its best.
If your in the area during the winter holiday season, don’t miss out on the Winter Wonderland Festival in Historic Downtown with a light parade, vendors & shopping, music, and other family activities.
In Biggs, be sure to stop by The Lavender Ranch, where you can sometimes arrange a walk through field after field of pure, organic, lavender flowers in bloom.
Need more information? Check out the Explore Butte County Visitors Guide!
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