Discover Modesto: 5 Days of Fun & Adventure
Discover the charm of Modesto and experience the best of California.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
As a tourist in Modesto, you can explore the city's vibrant downtown area, which features unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. You can also visit the McHenry Mansion and Museum, a beautifully restored historic home that showcases the city's rich history. Lastly, take a relaxing walk through the peaceful Tuolumne River Regional Park, which offers scenic trails and picnic areas that provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Modesto, located in the heart of downtown
- Grab a cup of joe at Preservation Coffee & Tea, a cozy spot with fair trade brews and vegan pastries
- Stroll through Graceada Park and check out the impressive Rose Garden
- Lunch at Bauer's 66 1/2, a retro diner serving up classic burgers and shakes
- Visit the McHenry Museum to learn about Modesto's history
- Dinner at Concetta, a fine dining Italian restaurant with homemade pasta and an extensive wine list
- Start the day with breakfast at the funky cafe Commonwealth
- Take a hike at nearby Dry Creek Regional Park for stunning views of the surrounding hills
- Check out the art galleries and boutiques in the downtown Modesto Art Walk
- Have lunch at Skewers Kabob House for delicious Mediterranean cuisine
- Stop by the Gallo Center for the Arts to catch a show or concert
- Finish off the day with dinner at Jax on H, a hip eatery with creative cocktails and global cuisine
- Start the morning with a hot air balloon ride over the Central Valley with Above the Fog Balloon Rides
- Head to Delicato Family Wines for a scenic vineyard tour and wine tasting
- Lunch at Harvest Moon Restaurant for farm-to-table American cuisine
- Visit the Modesto Farmers Market to sample fresh produce and artisanal goodies
- Enjoy dinner at Fuzio Universal Bistro, a fusion restaurant with a modern twist
- End the day with a nightcap at Ralston's Goat, a local favorite with craft cocktails and live music
- Take a day trip to nearby Oakdale, known as the "Cowboy Capital of the World"
- Explore the quaint shops and eateries in downtown Oakdale
- Have lunch at the historic H-B Saloon and Grill, a classic Western bar and restaurant
- Check out the Oakdale Rodeo Museum to learn about the town's rodeo history
- Take a scenic drive up to Knights Ferry for a walk across the covered bridge and a visit to the old-fashioned general store
- Dinner at The Outpost Bar and Grill, with outdoor seating and live music in a rustic setting
- Sleep in and enjoy breakfast in bed with room service from the hotel
- Take a dip in the hotel pool or relax at the on-site spa
- Have lunch at the popular food truck park Food Fix, featuring a rotating lineup of local vendors
- Visit the Great Valley Museum at Modesto Junior College for a fun and educational experience
- Check out The State Theatre, a historic venue for concerts and events
- Enjoy a laid-back dinner at Camp 4 Wine Cafe, with outdoor seating and a wide selection of wines by the glass.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Modesto is by plane. The Modesto City-County Airport is the closest major airport, with connecting flights from several domestic airports.
Car
Driving is an easy way to get to Modesto. The city is located right off of Highway 99, which runs north-south between Sacramento and Bakersfield. Several major car rental companies can be found at the Modesto City-County Airport.
Train
Unfortunately there is no train station in Modesto.
Boat
Unfortunately there are no waterways that provide access to Modesto.
Bus
Taking a bus is a great way to get to Modesto. Greyhound has several daily routes that stop in Modesto, with departures from cities throughout California.