Modesto, CA

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Visit California
Photo provided by Visit California
Modesto
Photo by Mary Stason
Photo by Ashlie Thornburg Freeberg
Relive the excitement of 1960s America during the Graffiti Summer celebration or take a daytrip to Yellowstone National Park from this San Joaquin Valley city.

Feel at home as soon as you arrive in this northern Californian city, home to 200,000 residents. If there’s something eerily familiar about Modesto, it might be that you’ve seen its streets on the silver screen. Think back to George Lucas’ 1973 classic filmAmerican Graffiti, which immortalized the city’s streets.

The cozy city is surrounded by some of California’s most fertile farmland, responsible for large crops of nuts as well as poultry and dairy production. Sample California’s most succulent produce at a weekend farmers market before you set off to explore Modesto’s many sites or take a daytrip to the surrounding regions.

Modesto is conveniently located in the heart of California’s major tourism area. Drive a short distance to reach the state capital, Sacramento, the stylish San Francisco and its Bay Area, the incomparable wilderness of Yellowstone National Park and many other major attractions. Don’t feel compelled to leave Modesto, however. There’s plenty to see and do in the city itself.

If you’re staying in the downtown area, walk to reach the city’s shopping and entertainment precincts. Browse through antique stores and pick up local handicrafts before settling down for a long lunch in the sun and a glass or two of award-winning California wine.

Visit Modesto in June when the town comes alive for Graffiti Summer, a celebration of Lucas’ landmark film and one of the United States’ best-known directors, who was born in the city. Watch as classic hot rods parade down the streets and 1950s rock ’n’ roll echoes through the town.

Even if you don’t come for summer, rest assured that you’re probably in for good weather since Modesto enjoys a mild climate year-round. Revel in the chance to get outside and follow one of Modesto’s walking trails as it weaves past the city’s most cherished sites, like the McHenry Museum and the Vintage Faire Mall.

Where to stay in Modesto

Modesto featuring a garden

Downtown Modesto

If you're spending some time in Downtown Modesto, Gallo Center for the Arts and Modesto Arch are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Modesto
Growing up in Modesto one of the summer highlights was always Concert in the Park. Every Thursday from June through August at Graceada Park.

College Area

While there might not be top attractions in College Area, you can explore the larger area and discover places like State Theatre of Modesto and McHenry Museum and Mansion.

College Area
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Del Rio

While Del Rio isn't home to many top sights, Vintage Faire Mall and Boomers are some notable places to visit nearby.

Del Rio
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La Loma

La Loma might not have many top sights, but E and J Gallo Winery and Gallo Center for the Arts are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

La Loma
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Woodland West

While Woodland West isn't home to many top sights, Gallo Center for the Arts and Vintage Faire Mall are some notable places to visit nearby.

Woodland West
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Modesto

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Modesto

4 out of 5
1150 9th St, Modesto, CA
The price is NT$3,437 per night from Aug 17 to Aug 18
NT$3,437
NT$3,788 total
Aug 17 - Aug 18
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Modesto. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,069 reviews)
"Just a day get away that was relaxing and well needed. Very quiet, right next to the pool."

Reviewed on 2025/7/29

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Modesto
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Modesto

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Modesto

3 out of 5
1901 W Orangeburg Ave, Modesto, CA
Fully refundable
The price is NT$3,796 per night from Aug 10 to Aug 11
NT$3,796
NT$4,183 total
Aug 10 - Aug 11
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Modesto. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
"The kids loved it !!"

Reviewed on 2025/7/30

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Modesto
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manteca - Ripon

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manteca - Ripon

3 out of 5
1524 Colony Road, Ripon, CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NT$2,497 per night from Aug 10 to Aug 11
NT$2,497
NT$2,747 total
Aug 10 - Aug 11
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Ripon. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
"Very nice and the staff was very welcoming!!!"

Reviewed on 2025/7/25

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manteca - Ripon
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
@ Marbella Lane - Alpaca Farm House l Pool

@ Marbella Lane - Alpaca Farm House l Pool

3 out of 5
Church Street 2912, Modesto, CA
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly cottage in Modesto. Enjoy free parking, private pools, and a sauna. Popular attractions Rainbow Fields and Creekside Golf ...
@ Marbella Lane - Alpaca Farm House l Pool
4 Mi to San Joaquin River: Peaceful Patterson Home

4 Mi to San Joaquin River: Peaceful Patterson Home

3 out of 5
Patterson
Stay at this 3-star cottage in Patterson. Enjoy free parking, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Floragold Park and Patterson Westley Historical ...
4 Mi to San Joaquin River: Peaceful Patterson Home
Modesto Home w/ Deck - 2 Mi to Vintage Faire Mall

Modesto Home w/ Deck - 2 Mi to Vintage Faire Mall

3 out of 5
Modesto
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly cottage in Modesto. Enjoy free parking, in-room fireplaces, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Vintage Faire Mall ...
Modesto Home w/ Deck - 2 Mi to Vintage Faire Mall
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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