When to Visit Chico, CA
Chico experiences a Mediterranean climate marked by hot summers and mild winters. If you're planning a summer visit, be prepared for hot, sunny days with highs in the mid-90s. Temperatures cool off in the fall and spring, with average highs in the low 70s and moderate rainfall. Winters in Chico can get chilly, with lows in the upper 30s. The rainy season also falls during the winter, and the area can receive nearly five inches of rain per month in December and January.
The late spring and early summer tends to be the most popular time to visit Chico, but it's also the most expensive. Book your accommodations in advance to find great deals, or consider traveling during a less expensive time of year to save. Hotel prices in Chico tend to drop in the fall and remain low throughout the winter.
Most of Chico's signature events happen from the early spring through the late fall. The city's Thursday Night Market is scheduled every week from April to October, while Friday Night Concerts entertain locals and visitors alike weekly from May through early September.
Slice of Chico kicks off the summer season with a day of family-friendly activities, great deals from local vendors, and plenty of local watermelon for everyone. In late September, Taste of Chico welcomes attendees to sample dishes and delicacies from over 50 local restaurants, try more than 100 types of wine and beer, and listen to the Chico area's best bands.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Chico, CA:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average price trends by star rating class in Chico, CA. Analyze these line graphs to calculate the cheapest time to stay in Chico for your upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotels in Chico, CA
4 Star Average Prices: $60.00
While you won't find traditional luxury brands in Chico, you can live large at these upscale and all-suites options throughout town.
At the Oxford Suites Chico, you'll have a range of suites to consider, including queen studios, executive king suites, and family double king suites. All rooms feature mini fridges, flat-screen TVs, and DVD players, so you can enjoy a cool beverage while you watch the latest movies. Kick back beside the outdoor pool, enjoy a relaxing soak in the spa tub, or soothe your sore muscles in the sauna. Wake up to a complimentary buffet breakfast, and treat yourself to a beverage and a bite to eat at a complimentary evening reception.
When you choose the Residence Inn by Marriott Chico, you can select roomy studios or spacious suites with double, queen, or king beds. Each guest room includes all of the comforts of home, such as a kitchen with a stovetop and refrigerator, a flat-screen TV with cable programming, and a workspace. Stay in shape in the 24-hour workout center, go for a swim in the outdoor pool, or prepare an outdoor meal in the barbecue area. In the evening, join other guests to enjoy a snack and a drink at a complimentary reception.
At the Courtyard by Marriott Chico, you can choose from standard rooms and suites, some of which come equipped with whirlpools. You'll get a restful night's sleep on the pillow-top beds, and the separate sitting area is ideal for stretching out and catching a movie or connecting with friends and family over the free Wi-Fi. Spend your afternoon at the outdoor or indoor pool, and relax in the spa tub. In the evening, have a bite to eat at the hotel restaurant, and unwind with a drink at the bar.
Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Chico, CA
3 Star Average Prices: $133.43
Traveling to Chico on a budget is easy, especially when you book your stay at one of the city's most affordable hotels.
The Heritage Inn Express Chico is located right in the center of Chico's downtown area, which means it's central to most of the city's main attractions. Whether you get around by car or on foot, you'll appreciate the convenient location and the budget-friendly room rates. All guest rooms include basics like microwaves and mini fridges, along with coffee makers, workspaces, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel even offers an outdoor pool, free on-site parking, and complimentary breakfast to make the deal even sweeter.
When you stay at the University Inn, you'll be in the heart of downtown and near academic institutions like California State University - Chico and Butte College. Choose from standard or deluxe rooms, and relax with amenities like free wireless internet access, workspaces, and designer toiletries. Go for a swim in the outdoor pool, catch up on the day's headlines with a free newspaper, and dig into a complimentary continental breakfast. With a great location and free on-site parking, this hotel a great deal.
Also located near the center of Chico, the Rodeway Inn offers affordable queen rooms near the Chico Museum and the Chico Municipal Airport. All rooms feature LED TVs with cable programming, mini fridges, coffee makers, and free Wi-Fi. Rely on the knowledgeable front desk staff members for tour and ticket assistance, and fuel up for the day with a free continental breakfast.
Just minutes from California State University - Chico, the Safari Inn Chico Motel offers easy access to the north side of Chico and Highway 99. Choose a standard or a double room, which are all equipped with essentials like free Wi-Fi, microwaves, and mini fridges. Get a restful night's sleep on a Select Comfort Bed, and relax poolside on a hot California afternoon.
2 Star Average Prices: $87.86
Best Hotel Discounts in Chico, CA
Get the value you want from your Chico stay when you apply the best group discounts. AAA members get discounts at the Ramada Plaza Chico and the Residence Inn by Marriott Chico. Seniors and AARP members save at the Quality Inn Chico and the Americas Best Value Inn. Government employees and members of the military get low rates at the Rodeway Inn and the Super 8 Chico, California.
Best Value Options in Chico, CA
You'll get the most value out of your stay when you book a room at one of the best mid-range hotels in Chico.
Stay at the Super 8 Chico, California, and you'll find comfortable rooms with queen or king beds, microwaves, mini fridges, and complimentary wireless internet access. Have a blast at the outdoor pool, freshen up with the hotel's laundry facilities, and wake up to a free continental breakfast each morning.
At the Quality Inn Chico, you'll be near the National Yo-Yo Museum, Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park, and much more. All rooms include microwaves and mini fridges so you can keep snacks close at hand, as well as flat-screen TVs with digital programming and free Wi-Fi to help you stay connected. Start your day with the hotel's free breakfast buffet, and go for a swim in the outdoor pool. The Quality Inn also offers a business center and free parking to add even more value to your stay.
Located in the heart of downtown Chico, the Americas Best Value Inn is convenient to the Chico Museum, the city's Amtrak station, and Highway 99. All 39 rooms in this small hotel include essentials like mini fridges, microwaves, coffee makers, and free Wi-Fi. The seasonal outdoor space is the ideal place to stay cool, and the front desk staff offers 24-hour assistance. In the morning, start your day with a free continental breakfast.
The Ramada Plaza Chico is located near Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park, and it's convenient to the Chico Museum and downtown Chico. Room options range from standard to suites, and some have pool views or are outfitted for pets. Keep in mind that there's a pet fee of $30 if you plan to travel with your furry friends, though the fee may change based on the length of your stay. With nearly 5,000 square feet of event space, conference spaces, and meeting rooms, the Ramada Plaza Chico makes a great host for weddings, corporate functions, and more.
Can’t-Miss Attractions in Chico, CA
Discover the beauty of Chico at Bidwell Park, one of the largest municipal green spaces in the nation. The park spans over 3,600 acres and offers a variety of recreational options. Go for a swim at Sycamore Pool, or head to Peregrine Point for a round of disc golf. Visitors can also hike, ride horseback, and star gaze in Bidwell Park. Just outside of Chico, Butte Creek Ecological Preserve is ideal for hiking, biking, and even wildlife spotting.
Learn about the history of the city at the Chico Museum, which is located adjacent to the California State University - Chico campus. Nearby, the Chico Air Museum reveals Chico's aviation history and displays aircraft both indoors and outdoors.
Beer fans won't want to miss their chance to visit the Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, located in the heart of Chico. Join one of the free tours and sip on a fresh glass of beer afterward, or stop by the brewery for a few brews and some live music.
From natural preserves to historic museums, Chico has plenty to offer. Find the ideal place to stay in Chico, and start planning your trip to this Northern California city.
FAQs about hotels in Chico
How much does a cheap hotel in Chico cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Chico can be as cheap as $87.86 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Chico cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Chico has been $133.43 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a higher-end hotel in Chico cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Chico has been $60.00 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
What did travelers think of the city of Chico?
Below are reviews of the city of Chico, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Close to the hospital and eateries."
Score
4.0 / 5
Close to the hospital and a wide variety of places to eat. A very friendly town and I love the trees and houses.
Pamela K., from 19-Aug-2024
"Everything you need!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Chico has accessibility to pretty much everything you need.
Debra G., from 11-Aug-2024
"Proximity to Enloe Hospital"
Score
5.0 / 5
I endured outpatient surgery at Enloe, a very nice hospital with great medical and support staff. OK with no probs.
Ellen W., from 02-Aug-2024
"College Town"
Score
4.0 / 5
My grandson is going to college there
Almira F., from 24-Jul-2024
"Charming Town"
Score
4.0 / 5
Chico is a very charming town. We'll be back.
Jackalyn E., from 09-Jul-2024
"Park Ave Pub is a Must!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Park Ave Pub has great burgers and fresh made chips. A must for anyone in town for lunch or dinner.
George W., from 06-Jul-2024
"Good location and good breakfast."
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice accessibility. Close to restaurants. Good breakfast
Brenda C., from 26-Jun-2024
"Love the Thrift Shops!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Love the thrift shops!
Susan A., from 21-Jun-2024
"Vibrant and full of fun stores!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Vibrant and full of fun stores!
Joan T., from 09-Jun-2024
"Delicious Restaurant Near Hotel!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Delicious dinner at Tres Hombres and it was in walking distance!
Gary M., from 26-Mar-2024
"Great Small Town"
Score
5.0 / 5
Chico a great small town. Great food and friendly people.
Bonnie T., from 30-Dec-2023
"Great Food!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Chico a great small town. Great food and friendly people.
Bonnie T., from 30-Dec-2023
"Nice!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Nice!
Valerie S., from 01-Dec-2023
"Beautiful town with great places to eat, visit & enjoy!"
Score
4.0 / 5
We love Chico…spent lots of summers there as a child, attended junior college at Chico state. Beautiful town with great places to eat, visit and enjoy.
Teresa O., from 15-Nov-2023
"Near Oaks Country Club"
Score
4.0 / 5
I went to a wedding at the Oaks Country Club and the venue was beautiful.
The personnel GREAT.
Carmen G., from 12-Nov-2023
"A Little Bit of Everything!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I love that Chico has a little bit of everything that I enjoy.
Debbie W., from 11-Nov-2023
"Beautiful Town"
Score
4.0 / 5
We love Chico…spent lots of summers there as a child, attended junior college and Chico state. Beautiful town with great places to eat, visit and enjoy.
Teresa O., from 31-Oct-2023
"Great Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
The moderate temperature and great restaurants.
Colleen B., from 04-Oct-2023
"The University"
Score
4.0 / 5
The University.
Crissy B., from 16-Sep-2023
"Good Place & Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
Close to most everything with a good atmosphere.
Dori F., from 04-Jul-2023
"Bidwell Park & College Campus are Lovely"
Score
4.0 / 5
Fun place to stroll around downtown. The college campus and Bidwell Park are lovely.
William S., from 20-Apr-2023
"Bidwell Mansion"
Score
5.0 / 5
You have the Bidwell Mansion, a lot of restaurants, there is so much to see and do. Enjoy your time there in Chico, Ca.
Pat R., from 23-Mar-2023
"Nice Area!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice area, cute small town.
Sandra H., from 02-Feb-2023
"Wonderful Parks, Nice Restaurants & Bars! Fun Place to Visit!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Fun to visit. One Mile and park area are wonderful for walks. Downtown has some nice restaurants and bars!
Sally C., from 26-Dec-2022
"Mulberry Station"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great musician at Mulberry Station
Herbert G., from 25-Dec-2022
"clean!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very Clean. friendly. lots of resturants
Jason G., from 21-Jun-2022
"Very clean and comfortable"
Score
4.0 / 5
We enjoy Chico. There are good restaurants, fun bars, and cute affordable boutiques downtown .
Lori W., from 25-May-2022
"Love this city!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I love this city, especially downtown area.
Enrique S., from 28-Nov-2021
"Quaint!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Love the quaint little college town !
Nancy S., from 02-Nov-2021
"School Town"
Score
5.0 / 5
The stores and definitely the coffee houses.
Martin B., from 10-Oct-2018
The average traveler rating of the city of Chico, CA shown above is
4.4 out of 5 based on 30 reviews