Modesto, California - 10 Actually Fun Things To Do Here

Modesto may not look like much on the surface, but we have a vibrant community if you know where to go.

#1
Go To A Modesto Nuts Baseball Game
Take me out to the ballgame! The Modesto Nuts have regular home games every spring. Although their name has changed several times, Modesto's baseball team has been around since 1962. Fun fact: the Modesto Nuts team and mascots make frequent appearances at school and charity events.
Once a year there is also a Modesto Nuts firework show.

#2
Hike The Rivers, Lakes, Mountains & Foothills
If you get up early, you can beat the heat and explore the many trails in the foothills that surround Modesto. There are several hiking clubs that regularly meet in the area. Just outside the city is the San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge, which is an especially amazing place for birdwatching.

#3
Eat At The Taco Trucks
No matter where you are in Modesto, you're not too far from a taco truck selling delicious, authentic Mexican food. We recommend El Rey Del Taco. They have a nice shady outdoor dining area, lots of parking, great customer service and TASTY carne asada!

#4
Wander Vintage Faire Mall of Modesto
While malls elsewhere are struggling, Modesto's Vintage Faire Mall is recovering after the pandemic shutdowns. It's a great place to go beat the heat. Don't let the "vintage" fool you- this is no antique mall. Grab some ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery and wander the many shops. Chances are you'll bump into someone you know!

#5
Visit McHenry Museum
Open Friday through Sunday, the McHenry Museum is a great place to learn about the last two centuries in Modesto and Stanislaus County. Although mostly focused on white man's history, it does have a small exhibit about the native Yokuts tribes.

#6
Sweat in the blistering heat
Haha! We wish we were kidding. Wear sunblock.

#7
Gallo Center For The Arts
Established in 2007, the Gallo Center For The Arts aims to be a center of enrichment, inspiration, and entertainment. Many types of performances grace their stage, including orchestras, plays, dances, and even laser light shows.

#8
Old Mill Cafe
The Old Mill Cafe is one of Modesto's most well-established restaurants- rated 4.5 stars with almost 700 google reviews. Step into Old Mill and you'll feel like you're stepping into the past. You can expect big portions of classic American comfort food.

#9
7th Street Flea Market or Crow's Landing Flea Market
If you haven't been to a flea market before, you may be surprised to know that these two can provide all your needs for less than big box stores.
From groceries, fresh vegetables, and meat, to clothing, toys, and household items. Items may be new or used, but every vendor is friendly and has your best interest in mind. If you want to build community in Modesto and have fun dancing to live music, flea markets are the place to go.
If you want more vendors (and bigger crowds) go to Crows Landing. If you don't like crowds, check out 7th St. The 7th St market also has livestock, which can be a fun thing for kids.

#10
Attend An Event At The Plaza
There's always something fun going on in the Modesto City Plaza! Concerts, wedding expos, comic cons, Lucky Fest, and so much more- there's bound to be an event for you.
Even if you're just on your lunch break, come sit by the Plaza fountain and enjoy a cool mist in the California heat.
Plus, never worry about parking, because there is always plenty.