At the confluence of the Tuolumne River and the San Joaquin River lies Dos Rios State Park. The park encompasses 1,600 acres of restored riparian habitats and provides a home for protected species. These include the Riparian Brush Rabbit, the Riparian Woodrat, the Swainson’s Hawk and the Central Valley Chinook Salmon.
Rivers, riverbanks and recreation areas
Another focus is Woodward Reservoir Regional Park, which offers more than 3,700 acres of land and 2,900 acres of reservoir for recreation and camping. These places showcase different aspects of nature: at Dos Rios, the confluence, riverbank habitats and protected species; at Woodward Reservoir, land and water areas with opportunities for recreation and camping. At Turlock Lake Fishing Access, you’ll find parking, ADA-accessible restrooms, paths and picnic tables.
History in homes, places and fairs
McHenry Mansion is a historic home built in 1883. On guided tours, you can see Victorian architecture and furnishings and learn more about the McHenry family’s heritage. The family-friendly tours are free. Tour details may change, so check them before your visit.
The McHenry Museum tells the story of Modesto and Stanislaus County through immersive exhibits. The building that houses the museum was converted into a museum in 1972. Knights Ferry also has a clearly defined historical role: it was founded in 1849 as a mining center and trading post.
The history of the Stanislaus County Fair dates back to the 1911 Turlock Melon Carnival. In 1933, livestock shows became part of the fair with the introduction of 4-H and FFA shows. These dates offer a glimpse into different stages of its history without reducing the fair tradition to a single event.
Stages, galleries and creative classes
The Gallo Center for the Arts presents and produces events at three venues. The indoor venues include the 1,248-seat Mary Stuart Rogers Theater and the 440-seat Foster Family Theater, along with the outdoor Modesto Rotary Music Garden. Four ensembles are based at the center: Central West Ballet, Modesto Performing Arts, Modesto Symphony Orchestra and Opera Modesto.
The Carnegie Arts Center offers classes for children and adults in drawing, printmaking, painting, ceramics and creative writing. Class offerings may change from season to season. If you’re interested in a particular class, check the seasonal offerings.
Museums, markets and blossom season
The Oakdale Cowboy Museum includes the Rodeo Gallery and the Ranching Gallery. The Rodeo Gallery displays memorabilia from local cowboy rodeo champions. The Great Valley Museum’s permanent exhibits feature more than 200 taxidermy specimens and objects. Science on a Sphere uses more than 500 datasets to visualize events around the world, such as earthquakes and hurricanes. The subject matter ranges from tangible objects to the depiction of global events.
Founded in 1979, the Modesto Certified Farmers Market offers fresh produce, food and handcrafted goods. Vendors and offerings may change; if you’re interested in specific goods, check what’s currently available before your visit.
In spring, during peak bloom, miles of pink and white blossoms transform the landscape of Stanislaus County. The timing of peak bloom varies from year to year.
Discover more destinations: Modesto, Ceres, Patterson, Oakdale, Turlock, Newman, Empire, Imperial
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