Modesto

Halfway between San Francisco and Yosemite National Park and surrounded by some of the state’s richest farmland, the growing city of Modesto sits at the very heart of California.

Things to Do in Modesto

From street art and big-name performances to riverside nature, Modesto offers plenty to fill a visit:

• Murals: Take a stroll around downtown to see many of the 100 colorful street murals painted by international artists invited to Modesto as part of the annual DoMo Walls festival.

• Performance arts: Nationally known musicians and touring Broadway musicals come to town for performances at the impressive Gallo Center for the Arts, which is notable for its light-filled atrium and as the home for such resident arts organizations as the Modesto Symphony Orchestra and Central West Ballet.

• Modesto Porchfest: Every May, front porches, patios, and driveways across Modesto’s La Loma, College, and Downtown neighborhoods become pop-up concert stages for Modesto Porchfest. Launched in 2017, the free, grassroots festival showcases more than 100 local musical acts. Just grab a map, wander from porch to porch, and bring some cash to tip the bands.

• Dos Rios State Park: Venture about 10 miles outside the city to the west and you’ll find Dos Rios State Park. Opened in 2024 and located at the confluence of the San Joaquin and Tuolumne rivers, it’s the first addition to the state park system since 2009.

To find more things to do in Modesto and get tips from locals, be sure to drop by the California Welcome Center Modesto, located at 1008 12th St. downtown.

MORE: Almond Joys in Modesto

Historic Attractions in Modesto

There’s also plenty of history to experience.

• Modesto Arch: Spanning I Street at 9th Street since 1912, the arch displays an illuminated motto, “Water, Wealth, Contentment, Health,” chosen in a 1911 slogan contest. Legend has it the actual winning entry, “Nobody’s got Modesto’s goat,” was rejected by city leaders.

• State Theatre: Two blocks from the State Theatre, this grand 1883 Victorian offers free guided tours.

• McHenry Mansion: Two blocks away, this grand 1883 Victorian, offers free guided tours.

• McHenry Museum & Historical Society: Housed in a stately 1912 library building, this museum brings Modesto’s past alive.

MORE: Stockton

Summer Activities in Modesto

Summer is a special time of year in Modesto. Famed Star Wars director and producer George Lucas based the 1973 classic American Graffiti on his experiences growing up in Modesto. The movie was set here, and Modesto commemorates its starring role with June’s Graffiti Summer, a monthlong celebration of cars and cruising typically held in June.

For a different kind of local tradition, enjoy summer outdoor concerts by the Modesto Band of Stanislaus County (better known as MoBand) at the Mancini Bowl amphitheater in Graceada Park. The park was designed by John McLaren, the horticulturist who also created San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.

Pet-Friendly Modesto

If you’re traveling with a furry friend, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations here—the city prides itself on being dog-friendly. Sign up on your mobile phone for a Modesto Loves Dogs passport, and you’ll get recommendations for the best hotels, parks, and restaurants to check out together.

Fresh Produce in Modesto

Throughout spring and summer you can stock up on the freshest of produce—including sweet and juicy nectarines, peaches, and melons—at popular farm stands, including: 

• Loretelli Farms
• Rodin Farms
• J&J Ramos Farms (don’t miss the peach cobbler)

Modesto is also almond country: From mid-February to mid-March you can follow the route known as the Almond Blossom Cruise to see the orchards around town showing spectacular color. Along the route, stop into the Blue Diamond Almonds Nut & Gift Shop to pick up gift baskets and treats such as dark chocolate–covered almonds.

MORE: Almond Joys in Modesto

Restaurants in Modesto

From special-occasion Italian to Mexican family recipes, downtown Modesto has several standout sit-down spots:

• Galletto Ristorante: Downtown Modesto’s go-to for a special night out has served rustic, seasonal Northern Italian cuisine since 2001, highlighting ingredients from local farms and producers alongside an extensive wine list.

• Camp 4 Wine Cafe: This 10th Street wine bar pairs a cozy vibe with small plates and pours from area vineyards, making it ideal for a more relaxed evening.

• Agave Azul Kitchen & Tequila Bar: Opened by the Lujan sisters in 2012, this local favorite serves family recipes and an impressive tequila list, a reminder of how deep Mexican food runs in the Central Valley.

For something more casual, these spots deliver big flavor and a dash of local history:

• Commonwealth: This 11th Street eatery makes flavor-packed tacos, sandwiches, and salads from scratch. It’s an easy lunch stop between downtown murals.

• Web’s Burgers: Formerly Web’s Drive-In, it’s one of a handful of Modesto eateries still operating from the American Graffiti cruising era of the 1950s and ’60s. Stop in for burgers, fries, and a side of nostalgia in George Lucas’s hometown.

Where to Stay in Modesto

For a stay in the heart of the action, these downtown hotels put you within walking distance of the city’s arts and dining scene:

• DoubleTree by Hilton Modesto: Rising 15 stories above downtown, the city’s largest hotel sits next to the convention center and close to the Gallo Center for the Arts, the State Theatre, and the DoMo Walls murals. Guests can unwind at the on-site spa and restaurant after a day of exploring.

• Best Western Town House Lodge: This budget-friendly pick on 16th Street offers an outdoor pool and free continental breakfast, just a few blocks from downtown’s main attractions.

If you’d rather be close to the freeway, north Modesto has a cluster of reliable options:

• Courtyard Modesto North: comfortable rooms with easy access to Highway 99

• Residence Inn Modesto North: apartment-style suites that work well for families and longer stays

• Spark by Hilton Modesto: a simple, wallet-friendly overnight option with complimentary breakfast