Explore Modesto, California

Modesto is in the northern San Joaquin Valley on the Tuolumne River of California. It is near the geographic center of the state. Modesto provides access to Sonora Pass in Stanislaus National Forest, the Mother Lode Country and the Big Oak Flat route to Yosemite. It is 74 miles south of Sacramento and 66 miles west of Yosemite National Park. Modesto is home of E. & J. Gallo Winery, the world's largest producer and exporter of California wines.

Visit the McHenry Mansion, which is included on the National Register of Historic Places and the McHenry Museum. See a performance at the renovated 1920's State Theatre. Also visit the George Lucas Plaza, the Modesto native and filmaker George Lucas is remembered for his movie, "American Graffiti" with a statue of two teenagers leaning against a '57 Chevrolet. The Great Valley Museum of Natural History features exhibits about Central Valley ecosystems and downtown Modesto includes a variety of restaurants.

The Xclamation Festival (X Fest) is held downtown Modesto on the third Saturday in July (except in years when there are five weeks in July, then it takes place on the 4th Saturday).