When you think of California, chances are the small city of Modesto isn’t the first place that comes to mind.
However, this Central Valley town is actually a great place to visit, with plenty of things to see and do.
Wether you want to check out classic car culture and enjoy live music at the annual Cruise Night, explore over 150 miles of hiking and biking trails, take a walking tour through Downtown Modesto, or learn about the area’s agricultural history at the McHenry Mansion, there’s something for everyone in Modesto.
If you’re planning a trip to Modesto, CA or just passing through, here are 25 of the best things to do in the city.
In this post, you'll find...
TLDR
- Best free thing to do in Modesto – Modesto Farmers Market
- Most famous Modesto attraction – Modesto Arch
- Best thing to do in Modesto with kids – Great Valley Museum
- Best activity for adults in Modesto – The Gallo Center for the Arts
- Best outdoor activity – Modesto Centre Plaza
- Best park in Modesto – Graceada Park
- Best food to eat – Persian food at Skewer’s Kabob House
- Best overall accommodation in Modesto – DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto
- Best day trip from Modesto – Yosemite National Park
FAQ
25 Best Things to Do in Modesto, California & Places to Visit
1. McHenry Mansion
Address: 906 15th St, Modesto, CA 95354
The McHenry Mansion is a 19th-century Victorian home and is one of Modesto’s most popular historical landmarks. Built in 1883, the McHenry mansion was once home to Matilda and Robert McHenry, a married couple living in Modesto who was thought to have traveled to the city before the Gold Rush.
After the death of Robert McHenry and his wife, the McHenry Mansion was turned into a sanitarium, and it eventually became a museum in the 1970s.
Today, this historic house museum is available for tours and is filled with its original Victorian-era furniture and artifacts. The McHenry Museum is open for tours Fridays, Sundays, and Mondays from 12:30pm to 4pm, and it’s a great place to learn about the city’s past. There’s a welcome center where guests can learn about the home’s past, sign the guestbook, and even a gift shop to purchase souvenirs.
The McHenry Mansion is also said to be haunted, so keep an eye out for ghosts!
2. Modesto Certified Farmers Market
Address: 1522 H St, Modesto, CA 95354
What better way to experience Modesto’s agricultural roots than by visiting the Modesto Certified Farmers Market? This farmers market is open year-round and features over 80 different vendors selling a variety of items like fruits, vegetables, flowers, nuts, honey, cheese, and more.
At the market, you can also find local food trucks selling things like tacos, BBQ, ice cream, and more. The Modesto Certified Farmers Market is open Thursdays and Saturdays from 7:30am to 1pm, and it’s the perfect place to get a taste of Modesto’s agricultural history.
It’s a popular spot to visit for those in Modesto and Stanislaus county.
3. Vintage Faire Mall
Address: 3401 Dale Rd Suite 483, Modesto, CA 95356
If you’re anything like me, the mall is one of the first places you visit each time you’re in a new city. Modesto’s Vintage Faire Mall is the largest shopping mall in Stanislaus County, and it’s the perfect place to go if you need to do some retail therapy. With over 165 stores, there’s something for everyone at this massive mall.
Some of the popular stores at Vintage Faire Mall include Macy’s, H&M, Forever 21, and Sephora. There’s also a food court with all of your favorite fast food chains if you need to refuel after a long day of shopping.
The mall is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 9pm and Sunday from 11am to 6pm, so you’ll have plenty of time to browse the stores.
4. Gallo Center for the Arts
Address: 1000 I St, Modesto, CA 95354
The Gallo Center for the Arts is a performing arts center that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, ballets, and Broadway shows. The Gallo center was formally opened in 2007 and features two different theaters; the Mary Stuart Rogers Theater and the Foster Family Theater. With a total capacity of over 2,000 people, there’s always something going on here!
Some of the most popular showed at the Gallo Center for the Arts include “The Lion King,” “Aladdin,” and “Hamilton.” In addition to plays, the Gallo Arts Center also showcases a few live musical performances throughout the year. If you’re visiting Modesto during the summer, make sure to check out the Summer Sounds Concert Series, which features a different artist each week.
The Gallo Center is also home to the Modesto Symphony Orchestra, so be sure to catch a performance if you’re a classical music fan! The concerts at the Gallo Center are free and take place on Thursdays from 7pm to 8:30pm.
If you’re a fan of the performing arts and looking for a night of fun filled entertainment in Modesto, this is definitely a place you’ll want to check out! You can view a full list of upcoming events on the Gallo center website.
5. Modesto Arch
Address: 875-857 I St, Modesto, CA 95354
An iconic symbol of the city, the Modesto Arch is a must-see for anyone visiting Modesto. The arch was built in 1917 to commemorate the city’s founding and is made entirely of granite. The arch spans 60 feet wide and 20 feet high, making it one of the largest arches in California.
The Modesto Arch is located in downtown Modesto and is a popular spot for taking photos. If you’re visiting Modesto during the summer, make sure to check out the Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday morning from 8am to 1pm under the arch.
The Modesto Arch is one of the most popular central attractions in the city and is definitely worth a visit while exploring the city.
6. Great Valley Museum
Address: 2201 Blue Gum Ave, Modesto, CA 95358
Calling all history buffs!
If you’re a fan of history, you’ll want to check out the Great Valley Museum. This regional history museum is dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural history of California’s Central Valley. The museum is home to a variety of exhibits, including an exhibit on the Gold Rush, a hands-on water exhibit, and an exhibit on the Native Americans of California.
There’s also a planetarium on site, which offers regular shows throughout the week. The museum offers a variety of both permanent and rotating exhibitions during the year.
The Great Valley Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm, and it’s located on the campus of Modesto Junior College. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for children, and free for students, making it a great activity for families or groups on a budget. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the museum on the day of your visit.
If you’re looking for Modesto things to do that are both educational and fun, a trip to the Great Valley is definitely worth considering.
7. Tuolumne River Trail
Address: 637 River Rd, Modesto, CA 95351
The Tuolumne River Trail is a 2.3-mile winding hiking trail that runs along the dense riverside woodlands of the Tuolumne River. The trail is a popular spot for bird watching, as it’s home to a variety of different species of birds.
The trail is also a great place to take in the natural beauty of Modesto; you’ll find yourself surrounded by tall trees, green grass, and the sound of the river flowing. It’s a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while getting some exercise in at the same time.
The Tuolumne River Trail is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and it’s located just a short drive from downtown Modesto. The trailhead can be found on Sylvan Avenue, and there is a parking lot available for visitors.
8. McHenry Bowl
Address: 3700 McHenry Ave, Modesto, CA 95356
Looking for Modesto activities to do with friends or family? McHenry Bowl is the perfect place to go! McHenry Bowl is a 32-lane bowling alley that offers open bowling, leagues, and tournaments. They also have an on-site restaurant and bar, making it the perfect place to spend an evening. McHenry also hosts birthday parties and other special events; you can find more information about their services on their website.
If you’re looking for things to do in Modesto on a budget, McHenry Bowl is a great option; games start at just $3.50 per person. The alley is open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 11pm, Friday and Saturday from 9am to 1am, and Sunday from 10am to 10pm.
So whether you’re an experienced bowler or you’ve never picked up a bowling ball before, McHenry Bowl is a great place to have some fun!
9. Modesto Art Academy
Address: 500 Scenic Dr, Modesto, CA 95350
Founded in 1930, the Modesto Art Academy is a local non-profit organization that aims to provide art education and promote art appreciation in the community. The academy offers art classes and workshops for all ages, as well as a variety of exhibitions throughout the year.
One of their most popular exhibits is the Student Art Show, which showcases the work of local student artists in its on-site art gallery.
The Modesto Art Academy is located in downtown Modesto and is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm, and Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Admission to the academy is free, making it a great activity for family fun on a budget.
10. John Thurman Field
Address: 601 Neece Dr, Modesto, CA 95351
If you’re a fan of America’s pastime looking for fun things to do in Modesto, you’ve come to the right place. The Modesto Nuts, Modesto’s minor league baseball team, play their home games at John Thurman Field. The team is a part of the California League, and they’re affiliated with the Seattle Mariners. When visiting Modesto, a visit to John Thurman Field is a must!
Catch a game during the summer months to enjoy some delicious ballpark food and root for the home team! Nothing’s better than munching on some peanuts and Cracker Jacks while watching a game on a warm summer night. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it a great activity for groups of all ages.
You can find the Modesto Nuts’ schedule on their website, and tickets start at just $9. The team typically plays from April to September.
Whether you’re a baseball fan or just looking for Modesto things to do on a summer evening, John Thurman Field is a great option. The stadium also sells Modesto Nuts merchandise, so you can take home a souvenir of your trip.
11. Visit one of the city’s many parks
Modesto is home to a number of different city parks, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the most popular parks in Modesto include Graceada Park, Freedom Park, and the Legion and Mancini parks. Graceada Park is a shaded park with a large playground, wide pathways for walking or bike-riding, tennis courts, and even picnic areas.
Founded in 1907 and known as the oldest city park in Modesto, Graceada Park has been a staple of the community for over a century. The park often hosts special events throughout the year where you can enjoy live music, food trucks, and more.
Freedom Park, on the other hand, is a great spot for things to do in Modesto with kids. The park includes a splash pad, playgrounds, picnic tables, and BBQ grills. The park also has a walking path, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a morning jog. Legion and Mancini parks are two of the newest parks in Modesto; they feature walking paths, picnic areas, and basketball courts.
Elk Park is a dog park in Modesto that offers a place for your furry friend to play and socialize.
No matter what type of park you’re looking for, Modesto has a variety of different options to choose from. So get out and enjoy the fresh air at one of the city’s many parks while visiting Modesto!
12. ESCAPE Modesto
Address: 912 11th St, Modesto, CA 95354
If you’re looking to have some fun indoors, an escape game Escape Modesto is the perfect place to go. Escape Modesto is an escape room, which is a physical adventure game in which players solve a series of puzzles and riddles to escape from a locked room. It’s perfect for groups of friends or family looking for Modesto attractions that are both challenging and fun.
Escape Modesto has lots of different themed rooms to choose from, including a pirate-themed room and a haunted house-themed room. The experience is immersive and interactive, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone in your group.
An escape game is a great way to pass the time with family or friends, and it’s a unique activity that’ll challenge your mind at the same time!
So if you’re looking for things to do in Modesto, CA that are both mentally and physically challenging, an escape room is definitely the place for you!
13. Take a day trip to Yosemite National Park
Address: Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Another popular choice when it comes to things to do near Modesto is to take a day trip to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite is one of the most popular national parks in the country, and it’s just a short drive from Modesto. The park is home to towering mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and forests, making it the perfect place to enjoy nature.
There are plenty of things to do in Yosemite, including exploring one of the many hiking trails, biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing. You can also go swimming in one of the park’s many lakes or rivers, or go fishing in one of the streams. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something to do in Yosemite National Park.
If you’re looking for something adventured-filled to do near Modesto, a day trip to Yosemite is definitely the way to go. It’s about 2.5 hours by car from Modesto to Yosemite National Park, so it’s the perfect distance for a day trip. You could even rent a cabin in the park and stay overnight to make it a weekend getaway, which is something I recommend doing.
There’s so much to see and do in Yosemite National Park, so staying there for a few days is definitely the best option to be sure to have time to see everything Yosemite has to offer.
14. Aquatic Dreams Scuba Center Inc
Address: 1212 Kansas Ave, Modesto, CA 95351
The only full-service Scuba and aquatic center in the Central Valley, Aquatic Dreams is the perfect place to go for an underwater adventure. They offer scuba diving lessons, equipment rental, and even scuba-themed birthday parties! Aquatic Dreams is a great place to learn about a new hobby or sport, and it’s also a great place to meet new people.
Scuba diving is a great way to explore the underwater world, and it’s a perfect activity for those who love adventure. Aquatic Dreams offers scuba diving lessons for all levels, so it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they’re always happy to answer any questions you may have.
If you’ve always wanted to go scuba diving but never had the chance, Aquatic Dreams is the perfect place to start!
15. The State Theatre of Modesto
Address: 1307 J St, Modesto, CA 95354
This classic community theater has been entertaining the valley since 1934, showcasing the talents of local actors, directors, and playwrights. The State Theatre is a great place to see a play, and it’s also a great place to support the arts. The theater offers a variety of different plays throughout the year, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.
The State Theatre offers everything from cultural, educational, film, and live-performance-based shows. It’s the only historic, non-profit theatre still operating in Modesto today.
The State Theatre is a great place to go for an evening of entertainment, and it’s also a great place to support the arts in Modesto. If you’re looking for things to do in Modesto that are both fun and educational, The State Theatre is definitely the place for you!
16. Boomers!
Address: 4215 Bangs Ave, Modesto, CA 95356
If you’re in search of what to do in Modesto with kids, look no further than Boomers! This family-friendly amusement park offers a variety of things to do, including go-kart racing, laser tag, bumper cars, and arcade games. Boomers is the perfect place to spend a day with the family, and it’s sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.
One of the best things about Boomers is that it’s affordable fun for the whole family. Admission to the park is reasonably priced, and prices for activities and games start at just $5, and there are even some things that are free to do. So if you’re looking for cheap things to do in Modesto that won’t break the bank, Boomers is definitely the place for you!
Some of the most popular activities at Boomers include go-kart racing, laser tag, and bumper cars. But that’s not all! Boomers also offers an arcade with over 100 games, a café serving up delicious food, and a retail store where you can buy souvenirs. There’s something for everyone at Boomers, so it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family while visiting Modesto.
17. Go olive oil tasting at Sciabica’s
Address: 2150 Yosemite Blvd, Modesto, CA 95354
The Sciabica Family Tasting Room is a great option for things to do in Modesto, CA – especially if you’re a fan of olive oil. Sciabica’s is the oldest family-owned and operated olive oil producer in California, and they offer a variety of different olive oils to taste.
They also offer balsamic vinegars, gourmet foods, and cooking classes. Sciabica’s is a great place to learn about olive oil production, and it’s also a great place to find some unique gifts.
One of the best things about Sciabica’s is that they offer free olive oil tastings! This is a great way to try a variety of different olive oils, and it’s also a great way to learn about the different flavors and styles of olive oil. They’ve even got a list of free recipes on their site that you can use with their oils, as well as cooking gear and even e-Gift cards for sale online.
Sciabica’s is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for Modesto things to do that are both educational and delicious!
18. Stanislaus River
On a hot day in Modesto, everyone is looking for things to do to cool off. And what better way to beat the heat than by rafting down the Stanislaus River? Rafting is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, and it’s also a great workout. The Stanislaus River offers a variety of different rafting options, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.
If you’re looking for places to visit in Modesto that are both active and fun, rafting down the Stanislaus River is definitely the activity for you! There are a variety of different companies that offer rafting tours, so you can find one that fits your budget and your group size. And if you’ve never been rafting before, don’t worry! There are plenty of beginner-friendly options available.
So if you’re looking for things to do in the Modesto area that are both active and fun, rafting down the Stanislaus River is a great option for you!
19. Board and Brush Creative Studio
Address: 3020 Floyd Ave suite 309, Modesto, CA 95355
Board and Brush is a creative and fun wood workshop, and it’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking for fun things to do in Modesto that are both creative and unique. At Board and Brush, you can paint your own wood sign or other home decor item. They have a variety of different designs to choose from, or you can create your own! And the best part is that no experience is necessary.
One of the best things about Board and Brush is that they make it easy for you to create a beautiful and unique souvenir. All of the materials and supplies are included in the price of your project, so all you need to bring is yourself!
And if you’re not sure what design to choose, don’t worry. The staff at Board and Brush are always happy to help you come up with the perfect design for your souvenir.
So if you’re looking for stuff to do in Modesto that are both creative and unique, be sure to check out Board and Brush! It’s a great option for those looking for lowkey Modesto activities or things to do with kids in Modesto.
20. Skewers Kabob House
Address: 821 L St, Modesto, CA 95354
Skewers Kabob House is a great place to go for a delicious and healthy meal in upscale private dining rooms. But it’s also a great place to go for a sweet treat! Skewers Kabob House is family owned and operated and offers Persian-inspired dining at their Modesto location. In addition to their Saffron Chicken, Lamb Kabob, and King Prawns, Skewers offers a variety of different desserts, including baklava, kulfi, and ras malai. And if you’re looking for something a little lighter, they also offer fruit salads and yogurt.
One of the best things about Skewers Kabob House is that they use all-natural ingredients in their desserts. So if you’re looking for a healthier option for places to eat while here, Skewers Kabob House is a great choice. And if you have a sweet tooth, you’ll definitely want to try their baklava! It’s made with phyllo dough, nuts, and honey, and it’s absolutely delicious.
So if you’re looking for what to eat in Modesto or things to do in Modesto that are both healthy and delicious, be sure to check out Skewers Kabob House!
21. Take a day trip to San Francisco
San Francisco is just a short drive away from Modesto, and it’s the perfect place to go for a day trip. There’s so much to see and do in San Francisco, and you can easily fill up an entire day (or more!) without ever getting bored. Some of the must-see attractions in San Francisco include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Golden Gate Park, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
And of course, no trip to San Francisco would be complete without a visit to Chinatown. Sports fans in San Francisco should visit Oracle Park, the famous baseball stadium in San Fran where the San Francisco Giants play.
There’s truly something for everyone in San Francisco, and it’s the perfect place to go for a day trip from Modesto. So if you’re looking things to do outside of Modesto, be sure to add San Francisco to your list!
22. E. & J. Gallo Winery
Address: 600 Yosemite Blvd, Modesto, CA 95354
Gallo Winery is one of the most popular places to visit in Modesto, and it’s no wonder why. Founded in 1933 by brothers Ernest and Julio Gallo, the Gallo wine company is now the largest family-owned winery in the world. And their Modesto location is a must-see for anyone interested in wine. At Gallo Winery, you can take a self-guided tour of the grounds, visit the onsite museum, and taste a variety of different wines.
One of the best things about Gallo Winery is that they offer a variety of different wine tours. They have a tour for beginners, a tour for those who are looking to learn more about wine, and even a tour for those who just want to enjoy the scenery. And if you’re not sure which tour is right for you, the staff at Gallo Winery are always happy to help you choose.
Gallo offers a variety of different wine tours, tastings, and events, so there’s sure to be something for everyone.
So if you’re looking for things to do that are both educational and enjoyable, be sure to check out Gallo Winery!
23. Contentment Brewing Company
Address: 208 Campus Way, Modesto, CA 95350
There’s nothing better than a cold, crisp beer on a hot day. And if you’re looking for things to do in Modesto that are both delicious and refreshing, look no further than Contentment Brewing Co.
Founded in 2017, Contentment Brewing Co is a family-owned and operated brewery specializing in small batch, artisanal beers. They also offer a variety of different events, including live music and trivia nights. And the best part? They’re located right in the heart of downtown Modesto.
Contentment Brewing Co offers a variety of different beers, including IPAs, pale ales, stouts, and more. Some of the best flavors they offer include the Chocolate Thunder stout, the Summer Pilz, and the passionfruit-flavored Sour Passion. But if you’re not sure which beer to choose, don’t worry! The staff at Contentment are always happy to help you find the perfect beer for your taste.
24. Go on a walking tour of Modesto
The best way to see everything Modesto has to offer is by taking a walking tour. And if you’re looking for things to do in Modesto that are both educational and fun, look no further than the Modesto Walking Tours.
The Modesto Walking Tours are led by local experts who know all the best places to see and things to do in Modesto. They offer a variety of different tours, including a historic downtown tour, a mural tour, and even a food tour. And if you’re looking for something a little more unique, they also offer a ghost tour! Modesto is an old town with a lot of history, and the walking tours of the city are the perfect way to learn all about it.
A walking tour of Modesto is a great way to see all of the city’s highlights in one go. And if you’re looking for things to do in Modesto that are both informative and enjoyable, this is definitely the option for you!
25. Take a day trip to Sacramento
Sacramento is the capital of California, and it’s only a short drive from Modesto. So if you’re looking for cities to visit in the Central Valley that are near Modesto, consider taking a day trip to Sacramento. Since it’s the state’s capital city, it’s a great place to explore the many museums and learn about the rich history of the Golden State of California.
There are a lot of things to do in Sacramento, but some of the best things include visiting the California State Capitol, taking a riverboat cruise, and exploring Old Sacramento. And if you’re looking for things to do that are both family-friendly and educational, be sure to check out the Sacramento Zoo and the California Museum.
Sacramento is also home to many delicious restaurants, for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to taste some of Sacramento’s famous craft beer while you’re there!
A day trip to Sacramento is a great way to see all of the city’s highlights in one go. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, and you could easily spend a couple of days exploring Sacramento alone. For an extended visit, consider staying in one of the hotels in downtown Sacramento.
I recommend the Citizen Hotel, which is located in the heart of the city and offers a variety of different amenities.
Where to stay in Modesto, CA
Modesto offers a variety of different hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations.
And no matter what your budget is, there’s sure to be a hotel in Modesto that’s perfect for you.
Budget
If you’re looking for things to do in Modesto that are both family-friendly and budget-friendly, I recommend staying at the Hampton Inn & Suites Modesto. The Hampton Inn is located near all of the best things to do in Modesto, and it offers a variety of different amenities, including an outdoor pool and a complimentary breakfast.
Mid-range
If you’re looking for things to do in Modesto that are both romantic and luxurious, I recommend staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto. The DoubleTree is located in the heart of downtown Modesto and it offers a variety of different amenities, including a rooftop pool and a spa.
No matter what your budget is, there’s sure to be a hotel in Modesto that’s perfect for you. And if you’re looking for things to do at night, staying in one of the city’s many hotels is definitely the way to go!
Thanks for reading!
Thanks for reading about things to do in Modesto! I hope you found this article helpful and that it gave you some ideas for things to do during your visit.
Have you ever been to Modesto? What are your favorite things to do in the city? Let me know below!
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Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!