Turtle Bay Exploration Park Redding California
A 300-acre cultural and natural history park featuring the iconic Sundial Bridge, museum, gardens, and wildlife exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Turtle Bay Exploration Park Redding California
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 300-acre cultural and natural history park featuring the iconic Sundial Bridge, museum, gardens, and wildlife exhibits.
"A magical blend of art, nature, and light that feels straight out of a fairytale."
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the park and the bridge. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Check Event Schedules
Special exhibits like Glowing Wild or Garden of Lights have specific dates and times. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sundial Bridge
Spans the Sacramento River
An architectural marvel, this glass-decked pedestrian bridge is a working sundial and a stunning landmark.
Turtle Bay Museum
Explore engaging exhibits on natural history, cultural heritage, and art, with interactive displays for all ages.
Parrot Playhouse & Butterfly House
Get up close with colorful parrots and enchanting butterflies; feeding opportunities available!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Redding Heat
Book Tickets in Advance
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the park and the bridge. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Check Event Schedules
Special exhibits like Glowing Wild or Garden of Lights have specific dates and times. :calendar:
💰 Feed the Parrots!
A small fee gets you nectar to feed the friendly parrots. So much fun! :moneywithwings:
☀️ Hydrate and Protect
Bring water and sun protection, especially during warmer months. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the park and the bridge. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Check Event Schedules
Special exhibits like Glowing Wild or Garden of Lights have specific dates and times. :calendar:
💰 Feed the Parrots!
A small fee gets you nectar to feed the friendly parrots. So much fun! :moneywithwings:
☀️ Hydrate and Protect
Bring water and sun protection, especially during warmer months. :droplet: :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Turtle Bay Exploration Park for its blend of natural beauty and engaging exhibits, particularly highlighting the iconic Sundial Bridge and the interactive animal encounters. While the park offers a fantastic experience for families and photographers, some note that admission fees can add up, and summer heat requires careful planning.
"We enjoyed our visit inside with several exhibits from fish to Legos to a steam punk special. Small but fresh and well curated. The outside was even more special with playgrounds, reptile house, and our favorite the buddies! 😍"
Adriana Laser
"Great animal show! We loved the butterfly exhibit and the parrots! Perfect place to bring children, or like us a day time date. I recommend going early to beat the heat."
Milan Franco
"A Magical Night at Glowing Wild – Redding’s Radiant Hidden Gem
If you’re looking for a night of wonder, beauty, and unforgettable memories in Redding, look no further than Glowing Wild. This lantern festival is unlike anything else in Northern California—an awe-inspiring blend of art, nature, and light that feels straight out of a fairytale.
From the moment you step through the entrance, you're transported into a dreamlike world filled with giant illuminated sculptures. Towering tigers, graceful dolphins, luminous butterflies, and glowing floral arches line the walking paths, each more breathtaking than the last. The colors are vivid, the craftsmanship is exquisite, and the atmosphere is pure magic.
What makes Glowing Wild truly special is how it transforms the familiar landscape of Turtle Bay and the McConnell Botanical Gardens into something otherworldly. The lanterns are perfectly placed to complement the natural surroundings, and as the sun sets, the entire area begins to glow with warmth and wonder. The iconic Sundial Bridge lit up in the background only adds to the surreal beauty."
Christopher Bray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Turtle Bay Exploration Park is located at 844 Sundial Bridge Drive in Redding, California. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. The park is situated along the Sacramento River, making it a scenic destination.
While direct public transportation routes might be limited, local bus services can get you close to the Redding area. It's recommended to check with the local transit authority for the most up-to-date information on routes and schedules.
Yes, the park is connected by trails, and the Sundial Bridge itself is a pedestrian and bicycle bridge, making it accessible for those arriving on foot or by bike.
The park is quite large, spanning 300 acres. Wear comfortable shoes and consider a map of the park to plan your route between the museum, gardens, and other attractions.
Yes, there are hotels located very close to Turtle Bay Exploration Park, including options with views of the Sundial Bridge, making it convenient for overnight stays.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary. The Sundial Bridge and surrounding grounds are free to access. However, the Turtle Bay Museum, Parrot Playhouse, and Butterfly House typically require a paid admission. Special events like the Garden of Lights or Glowing Wild have separate ticket prices. Expect around $18 for adults and $14 for children for general park admission.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for special events or during peak visiting times, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Operating hours can vary by season and for specific exhibits or events. The museum and outdoor areas generally have daytime hours, while events like the Garden of Lights run in the evenings. Always check the official Turtle Bay Exploration Park website for the most current hours.
Yes, discounts may be available for members, military personnel, or during special promotions. Check the park's website for details on potential discounts.
Absolutely! Walking across the iconic Sundial Bridge is completely free and offers beautiful views of the Sacramento River.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Sundial Bridge, the Turtle Bay Museum with its diverse exhibits, the interactive Parrot Playhouse, and the enchanting Butterfly House. The McConnell Botanical Gardens are also a highlight.
Yes, it's a fantastic place for kids! They'll love the animal encounters, interactive museum exhibits, playgrounds, and the chance to feed parrots and butterflies.
You can encounter various local wildlife, including parrots in the Playhouse, butterflies in their exhibit, and reptiles in the museum. The park's natural setting also attracts local birds and other small animals.
Yes, the park features outdoor play areas that are perfect for children to burn off energy.
Absolutely! The Sundial Bridge, gardens, and exhibits offer numerous picturesque photo opportunities. Remember to check any specific photography restrictions within the museum.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually food options available within the park, such as cafes or snack bars, offering refreshments and light meals.
Picnic areas are often available within the park grounds, allowing visitors to bring their own food and enjoy a meal amidst the natural beauty.
Dining options typically include casual fare like sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages. It's a good idea to check the park's website for current food vendor information.
Yes, the area surrounding Turtle Bay Exploration Park and the Sundial Bridge has several restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines.
Vending machines or smaller kiosks might be available for quick snacks and drinks, especially in high-traffic areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The Sundial Bridge is a prime photography location, especially at sunrise or sunset. The McConnell Botanical Gardens offer beautiful floral shots, and the lantern displays during events are incredibly photogenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and near attractions like the Sundial Bridge to ensure safety and respect for other visitors. Always check park regulations before flying a drone.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for the Sundial Bridge. Golden hour light can create stunning reflections on the glass deck and surrounding water.
While not always advertised, keep an eye on the park's event calendar or local photography groups for potential workshops or guided photo walks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Sundial Bridge and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife shots in the gardens. A tripod can help with low-light photography during evening events.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2Plan to arrive early to beat the heat, especially during summer months, and bring plenty of water. The park's layout is spacious, making it manageable for strollers, and the variety of activities ensures there's something to capture every child's imagination. Consider checking the schedule for any special animal presentations or activities.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
+1While the museum and special exhibits have admission fees, consider prioritizing one or two key attractions that interest you most. Bringing your own snacks and water can also help save money. Look out for any potential discounts or membership options if you plan on visiting multiple times.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1During seasonal events like the Garden of Lights or Glowing Wild, the park transforms into a photographer's dream with elaborate light displays. Be sure to check the park's photography policies, especially regarding tripods or professional shoots, and consider visiting during less crowded times for unobstructed shots.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marvel of the Sundial Bridge
+2Visitors often describe walking across the bridge as a breathtaking experience, especially when it's illuminated at night. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the river's gentle flow, creates a serene and almost ethereal atmosphere. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, serving as an iconic symbol of Redding and a testament to innovative design.
+1While the bridge itself is free to access, it's integrated into the larger Turtle Bay Exploration Park, which offers a wealth of other attractions. The bridge's presence enhances the overall visitor experience, providing a scenic pathway and a memorable landmark.
Exploring the Wildlife Exhibits
+2Another popular attraction is the Butterfly House, where you can immerse yourself in a world of fluttering wings. Depending on the season, you might be able to feed these delicate creatures as well. These interactive exhibits provide a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about and connect with nature in a hands-on way.
+1Beyond these specific exhibits, the park's natural setting itself is a habitat for local wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds and other small creatures as you explore the botanical gardens and surrounding areas. The museum also features exhibits on regional wildlife, offering educational insights into the local ecosystem.
+1Seasonal Spectacles: Lights and Lanterns
+1Another spectacular event is the Glowing Wild Lantern Festival, which showcases ten acres of illuminated wildlife sculptures. These intricate lanterns, depicting everything from tigers to dolphins, create a dreamlike landscape that captivates visitors. The festival is an awe-inspiring blend of art, nature, and light, making it a unique Northern California experience.
These events often require separate tickets and have specific operating hours, usually in the evenings. It's advisable to book tickets in advance, as they are very popular and can sell out. The transformation of the park into a luminous spectacle is a highlight for many visitors, offering a different perspective of the familiar grounds.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit