Redding, California

Redding is the county seat for beautiful Shasta County, California, with a population of 90,000 (2008). The city was founded in 1844 when the local railroad built a spur through the area, and it was named for Benjamin B. Redding, an influential figure during the early to mid-1800s in California, who was the Central Pacific Railroad land agent in 1868 when the town was named.

Redding’s early economy was based primarily on mining and later the logging industry, which were active in the local mountains and foothills. In recent years, other industries have grown. In 1994, Redding was rated ninth in the top 20 cities for starting, relocating, or expanding a small business by Money magazine.

Located in the northern Sacramento River valley, Redding is easily accessible by car (State Routes 44 and 273, US Highway 299 and Interstate 5 all go through Redding) or by plane with Redding Municipal Airport located just south of the city. Redding’s location is convenient to many cities in Northern California, including Sacramento (150 miles south) and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Redding has two medical centers and a local shopping mall.

Visitors to Redding often enjoy visiting Turtle Bay Park and Museum, which has exhibits throughout the year. From spring to fall, attractions such as the Butterfly Garden and Tropical Bird exhibit are open. Sundial bridge, an example of worldclass architecture, is located nearby as well as hiking along the River Walk.