Can you feel it? That warm breeze, the blooming flowers, and yes, the buzz of excitement in the air – spring is almost here! And with it comes that special time we've all been counting down to... spring break! It's the perfect pause in our busy lives for some unforgettable family fun.
Lucky for us, Chico is just bursting at the seams with activities, camps, and attractions tailor-made for families on break.
Whether you're on the hunt for engaging spring break camps to spark your little ones' imaginations, on the lookout for fun (and free!) things to do, or eager to explore the best family-friendly spots around Chico, you've hit the jackpot. Welcome to your ultimate guide to making this spring break in Chico the best one yet for your family!
Spring Break Camps in Chico
Chico is home to a variety of spring break camps that not only keep your children engaged but also foster learning and creativity:
Camp Wild Heart at Thrive
1361 Hawthorne Avenue, March 18-22 9:30 am - 4:30 pm.
Ages 4.9 - 11 years.
Camp Wild Heart is hosted by Thrive any time school is out!
Register today!
CUSD Elementary Spring Break Camp
The following elementary schools will serve as camp sites:
Chapman, Emma Wilson, Neal Dow, Parkview, Rosedale, and Shasta.
March 18-22 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
Registration is open from February 27th to March 8th. Families will receive confirmation by email on March 12th.
CARD's Springtime Delight
PV Recreation Center - 2320 North Avenue, March 18-22
Full Day: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm $225
Half Day: 7:30 am - 12:30 pm $175
Grades 1st-5th
Main camp activities run from 9 am to 4 pm. Camp hours are flexible.
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Spring Break Fun in Chico
Parks and Playgrounds
Chico boasts an array of beautiful parks and playgrounds where families can enjoy picnics, leisurely walks, and playtime. Here are a few of our favorites:
Hooker Oak Park 1928 Manzanita Avenue
 Back Playground (with bathrooms) |
 Front Playground |
DeGarmo Park 3428 Esplanade
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Wildwood Park 100 Wildwood Avenue
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Community Events in Chico
Looking for family fun events happening during spring break? Here are a few standout events to make the week special:
Spring KID Day Hosted by yours truly with Mollie Openshaw, Author of "Gam Gam Am I Mixed?" Kick off Spring Break at the DeGarmo Park with refreshments, a storytime about KID virtues, fun outdoor play, and connection. FREE March 18
Family Fun Festival Carnival In the parking lot by Dick's Sporting Goods at Chico Marketplace. $30 wristband gets you unlimited rides. March 14-24
Local Nursery Crawl Discover local nurseries and watch your garden grow! Visit at least 6 locations for a chance to win a gift certificate. March 22 & 23
CARD March Owl Prowl Explore the intriguing world of owls through hands-on activities. $10 per child, $5 per adult. March 22
Want more? Make sure to check out our full Macaroni KID Chico calendar!
Indoor Activities in Chico for Yucky Days
Spring weather can be unpredictable, but that doesn't mean the fun has to stop. Chico has several indoor attractions that are ideal for keeping the little ones entertained on rainy days.
Find the Full Guide Here:
20+ Indoor Places to Play in Chico
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Kid-Friendly Day Trips from Chico
Looking for a quick getaway? Here are a few spots that make for a good day trip this time of year:
John's Incredible Pizza Roseville
384 North Sunrise Avenue in Roseville
Games, Rides, Endless Buffet, and Themed Dining Rooms!
See website for hours, as they vary by day and are about to change on 3/25/24.
Turtle Bay Exploration Park
844 Sundial Bridge Drive in Redding
Hours: Wed-Fri 9 am-4 pm & Weekends 10 am-4pm
Admission: Adult: $20, Child (4-15) $16, Senior (65+) $16, Ages 0-3: FREE
Sacramento Zoo
3930 W Land Park Drive in Sacramento
Hours: Enter Daily 9 am-3 pm, Closes at 4 pm
Admission: Cost varies due to Plan Ahead Pricing. Adult tickets seem to range between $18-24 and Child (ages 2-11) between $14-18
Ticket prices at the door will always be more than buying in advance.
Fairytale Town
3901 Land Park Drive in Sacramento
Hours: Enter Thu-Sun 10 am-4 pm, Closes at 5 pm
Admission: Adults and Children (ages 2-12) $8 on weekdays, $9 on weekends. Children 1 and under: FREE
Making the Most of Spring Break in Chico
Whether it's outdoor adventures, cool camps, or local fun you're after, Chico is ready to make this spring break unforgettable for you and your kids. Here's to making memories! Happy Spring Break!
Here's a BONUS for the first weekend of Spring Break - a FREE personalized letter from a Leprechaun for St. Patrick's Day!
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