Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park Visitor Center Reopens to the Public Beginning Aug. 7
Contact:
Jennifer Pooley
District Interpretation Manager
Northern Buttes District
(530) 922-0913
The Bidwell Mansion Association store has gifts and memorabilia while the exhibit hall invites visitors to explore local history. Photos from California State Parks.CHICO — California State Parks today announced that the visitor center at Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park will reopen to the public for regular weekly hours beginning Friday, Aug. 7.
The visitor center will be open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is no fee to visit. Parking is available for $10 per vehicle.
“Chico residents and visitors have expressed a strong desire to see the visitor center open on a regular basis,” said Northern Buttes District Interpretation Manager Jennifer Pooley. “We are thrilled to welcome the public back inside to explore the history of our region, connect with local partners and help shape the future of the park.”
Inside the visitor center, guests can explore an interactive exhibit hall highlighting the legacy of John and Annie Bidwell, including California’s early agricultural history, the founding of the City of Chico and the origins of California State University, Chico.
Exhibits also explore the Bidwells’ historical relationships with surrounding communities.
Visitors will also have access to the gift shop operated by park partner Bidwell Mansion Association. The shop offers local books, shirts, Bidwell olive oil and peach crate labels, as well as newly featured items including California-themed art prints, ornaments, regional pocket guides and specialty teas. Proceeds from the gift shop directly support educational programs at the park, including an upcoming pumpkin-carving event hosted by the Association this October.
Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park is one of more than 30 state historic parks that accept the California State Parks Historian Passport. While Bidwell Mansion remains closed, passport holders are invited to stop by the reopened visitor center as they explore the state’s history.
Upcoming Fall Youth Programming
Beginning Saturday, Sept. 19, State Parks interpreters will host a Junior Ranger series on select Saturdays from 10 to 11 a.m. Children ages 7 to 12, accompanied by a parent or guardian, are invited to participate in hands-on learning activities and earn badges, stamp books and other rewards throughout September and October.
Check out the State Parks event calendar for a full list of events.
Share Your Vision: Reimagine Bidwell Mansion
On Dec. 11, 2024, an arson fire severely damaged the historic Bidwell Mansion, which was completed in 1868 and had been undergoing an extensive renovation. The fire caused extensive damage to the mansion, while the visitor center and other surrounding buildings remained intact.
As part of the park’s ongoing recovery, visitors are invited to learn more about the Reimagine Bidwell Mansion initiative. State Parks is seeking public input, memories and ideas from community members to help guide the park’s recovery, future programming and long-term vision.
For more information about the Reimagine Bidwell Mansion initiative and the latest updates, visit the project webpage.
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California State Parks provides for the health, inspiration and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high quality outdoor recreation.