Anderson is a city in Shasta County that has been growing in popularity over recent years. Thanks to its excellent location and dynamic views which include both mountain and lake scenery, we can see why. With a fairly young average age of 34 years old, the population of Anderson have created a city that has plenty to do in terms of both daytime and nighttime entertainment. If you’re looking for an affordable vacation that includes blue skies, beautiful vistas and lots of fun then be sure to check out our extensive list of things to do in Anderson, California, and book your holiday today.
1. Learn more about fish culture at Coleman National Fish Hatchery
Ok, so this might be a rather unique first entry to our list, but we still love it! This local fish hatchery spawns and raises Chinook salmon and steelhead trout. These fish then migrate to the Pacific Ocean. On an average 13 million juvenile fish find their way out to the great wide sea thanks to the Coleman National Fish Hatchery. Self-guided tours are available which is a great way to learn more about the species and the hatchery itself. If you’re lucky you’ll be there for the feeding frenzy. It’s amazing to see all the fish jumping out of water.
Coleman National Fish Hatchery
Address: 24411 Coleman Fish Hatchery Rd, Anderson, CA 96007, United States
Website: Coleman National Fish Hatchery
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
2. Head down to the vibrant Volonte Park
There are plenty of onsite facilities for everyone in your party to enjoy Volonte Park. It is home to the Anderson Little League and Anderson High School Baseball teams so you can regularly see the teams practice or watch a match. The playground area is ideal for the younger members in your group and everyone can enjoy the wetland walking trails. There is also a well-equipped concrete skateboard park including a 6 feet (1.8 meters) bowl combination, 8 feet (2.4 meters) extension, and street course area.
Volonte Park
Address: Volonte Park, Anderson, CA 96007, USA
Website: Volonte Park
Price: Free
3. Discover nature at Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association
If you’re looking for a trip filled with nature you will not want to miss the Shasta Cascade area and the association that cares for it. You can enjoy the many trails which will take you past numerous lakes, waterfalls, parklands and even fishing spots. This area covers 20 percent of California and is lovingly protected by the Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association.
Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association
Address: 1699 CA-273, Anderson, CA 96007, United States
Website: Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association
Price: Free
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4. Organize fun for everyone at Historic Hawes Farms
If you’re planning a trip with your family, the Historic Hawes Farm is an absolutely must-visit location. There are zip-lines, go-karts, and even jump pillows (think of pillow-shaped trampolines) and we know that your children will be so excited to go. Additional attractions include a pony ride, train ride, and historical stagecoach rides. Regardless of the time of year, there are always plenty of fun interactive and musical events taking place at the farm, so be sure to check online and see what’s in store for you.
Historic Hawes Farms
Address: 6465 Deschutes Rd, Anderson, CA 96007, United States
Website: Historic Hawes Farms
5. Prepare for activities at Anderson River Park
This huge park encompasses something for everyone to enjoy. Wanting to do a bit of physical activity? Anderson Park has space for softball, tennis, basketball, bocce ball and even disc golf. For something a little less strenuous you can enjoy the many walking trails which will take you through beautiful nature and we’re sure you’ll have encounters with lots of wildlife. If you have small children you can keep them entertained in the Kiddieland Play Area.
Anderson River Park
Address: 2800 Rupert Rd, Anderson, CA 96007
Website: Anderson River Park
Price: Free
6. Grab a deal at Shasta Gateway
Stop by Shasta Gateway for a spot of shopping. With over 30 outlet stores we’re sure that you’ll find a bargain or two. There’s everything from shoes to clothes and accessories. Now you can get a full outfit at just one outlet area, usually with tag listing of up to 70% off the regular retail price. Check online before you go to see what products are on sale during your visit. There are also regular events and an event calendar can be found online.
Shasta Gateway
Address: 1856 Highway 273, Anderson, California, 96007
Website: Shasta Gateway
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9.30am - 8pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm
7. Get the insider knowledge at California Welcome Center
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Obviously we’d always recommend speaking to the professionals to find out what exactly will be happening in and around Anderson during your stay. Luckily, the California Welcome Center has lots of information that you can peruse and take for free. Confused about what to do next? Don’t worry because the friendly staff are there to give you plenty of helpful tips and insider information. There are actually 18 centers scattered across the state of California, so if you plan to move on to another location after Anderson you can even ask for some helpful tips about the next location.
California Welcome Center
Address: 1699 CA-273, Anderson, CA 96007, United States
Website: California Welcome Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 4pm
8. Explore the sites of preservation at Horsetown-Clear Creek Preserve
This beautiful area of preservation is an absolute must-see while you are in Anderson. In total it covers 27 acres (10 hectares). The whole area has been lovingly cared for with many picnic areas, local events, and walking trails. Come summer or winter there are always breathtaking sites in this preserve and it feels great to get away from the city to a quieter and a more relaxed pace of life. Check the event calendar online to see what is happening during your visit. It’s great fun for the entire family.
Horsetown-Clear Creek Preserve
Address: Clear Creek Rd, Anderson, CA 96007, United States
Website: Horsetown-Clear Creek Preserve
Price: Free
9. Buy local honey at Nossorc Nature Enrichment Center
This not-for-profit organization is dedicated to promoting a sustainable way of life. They produce local honey, organic greens and are regularly expanding or changing what they offer. Throughout the Anderson area keep your eyes glued for their local produce and even beeswax candles. It’s a great way to support a local business. Head there at the right time of the year and you’ll be able to see the lavender fields in full bloom. It’s a beautiful sight and smells divine. The Nossorc Nature Enrichment Center has a ‘classroom’ style layout where you can learn lots about beekeeping and organic food sustainability.
Nossorc Nature Enrichment Center
Address: 5966 Bourbon Lane, Anderson, California, 96007
Website: Nossorc Nature Enrichment Center
10. Grab a beer and watch the latest games at All Stars Sports Bar
This bar has a fun but relaxed vibe. As you can probably tell by its name it specializes in playing the sports games on big-screen televisions. But don’t worry if that’s not your interest because you can sit back, relax and simply enjoy a good drink. Depending on the day there are various deals on drinks and the customer service comes highly recommended so we’re sure that you’ll have lots of fun. Heading to the All-Stars Sports Bar is also a great way to meet the locals and make some friends. Sometimes live music is available on the weekends so check in advance and get yourselves down to the All Stars Sports Bar.
All Stars Sports Bar
Address: 2659 Balls Ferry Rd, Anderson, California
Website: All Stars Sports Bar
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 2am; Sun: 10am - 2am
11. Don't miss the newest releases at Valley 11 Cinemas
Also known as the Valley 11 Reel Theatres, it gives you the perfect opportunity to catch up on all of the latest movies that you have been dying to see but haven’t yet made time for. This little cinema is popular with the locals and offers both 2D and 3D screening. There are adult-only evenings and various discounts throughout the week. We think that the ticket prices, to begin with, are fair. Grab your favorite refreshments, get cozy and enjoy the movie.
Valley 11 Cinemas
Address: 1816 CA-273, Anderson, CA 96007, United States
Website: Valley 11 Cinemas
Price: 6 USD
12. Try innovative cocktails at Firehouse Lounge
Whether you like classic beers or fancy cocktails there is surely something to get your tastebuds watering. In fact, if beer is your thing you can supersize it at Firehouse Lounge. Otherwise, we suggest you start by trying one of the numerous innovative cocktails. Ever expected to see a prawn in your cocktail? Neither had we until we first heard about Firehouse Lounge. It’s another popular local haunt, especially on Friday night with karaoke and Saturday, with a live DJ. There is also a happy hour from 5pm until 8pm. You’re welcome!
Firehouse Lounge
Address: 2905 E Center St, Anderson, California
Website: Firehouse Lounge
Opening hours: 9am - 2pm (daily)
13. Meet your four-legged friends at NorCal Trail Rides
It’s time to change the pace of life, and jump on top of a horse. Whether you’re experienced or not, you can either take a free session or indeed learn the basics with a one-off or series of lessons. This is a fun activity where participation is not dependant on your age. Children as young as two years old can take part and have fun learning about horses. There are various trails that can be taken, from one-hour to two-hour sessions and each will take you through the beautiful countryside. It’s a great opportunity to see the local surroundings from an entirely different perspective. There is even an onsite Airbnb vintage trailer if you decide you want to stay for a few days to really get the most out of the experience.
NorCal Trail Rides
Address: 21260 Hawes Rd, Anderson, California, 96007
Website: NorCal Trail Rides
Price: 55 USD (lessons), 80 USD (trails)
14. Feel the Mexican vibes at Burrito Bandito Anderson
We’re all a bit partial towards Mexican food and Burrito Bandito does not disappoint. You’ll find the old Mexican classics, including burrito classics, quesadillas, tacos, burrito bowls and chips with salsa. We’d definitely recommend trying the carne asada from the menu, it’s delicious! You can even order online or dine in at the restaurant. If you choose to dine-in, you can wash it all down with a Corona and lime.
Burrito Bandito Anderson
Address: 2805 East Center Street, Anderson, CA
Website: Burrito Bandito Anderson
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8.30pm; Sun: 11am - 8.30pm
15. Fill your tummy at Sonic Drive-In
Next, and last on our list, is another food option. This time we’re sending you to Sonic Drive-in for some classic comfort food. For more than 60 years Sonic Drive-In has been satisfying the hunger of many weary travelers. We’d recommend anything from the menu, to be honest, but our favorite has to be the Sonic Cheeseburger and an Oreo Cheesecake Shake. It sounds delicious, right? Believe us. It is. They also organize some fairly impressive teacher-led charity events.
Sonic Drive-In
Address: 1522 E Greenville StreetAnderson, SC 29621
Website: Sonic Drive-In
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 10pm; Sat: 8am - 10pm; Sun: 10am - 10pm
Explore Anderson on your next holiday
Phew! That’s it, we’ve reached the end of our extensive list of things to do in Anderson, California. We think that this is plenty to keep you happy during your holiday. Whether you are traveling as a family, couple, solo-ist or even just passing through on a business trip, we’re sure that everyone can enjoy the delights of Anderson. So, what are you waiting for? Anderson is waiting for you, simply book your holiday and start planning a fun trip.
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