3 Best Landmarks in Modesto, CA

“McHenry Mansion was built in 1883 as a residence for Robert McHenry, a prominent local figure. The mansion is a historic site that offers nonprofit tours of the home. This beautiful 19th-century Victorian mansion is filled with antiques. Family-friendly tours are available free of charge, and visitors enjoy the welcoming environment of the Visitors Center and gift shop. All historic home tours begin at the Visitors Center. McHenry Mansion is also a great venue for hosting holiday parties, teas, dinner parties, anniversaries, wine and beer tastings, memorial services, family reunions, and other special occasions.”

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“Great Valley Museum aims to touch hearts, open minds, and inspire action toward discovering, appreciating, and preserving the natural heritage and environment. The museum serves as a resource for educational institutions, including Modesto Junior College. It offers group tours for up to 70 individuals. The Traveling Teacher program presents over three dozen programs at local elementary schools, covering topics such as live animals, nature, various sciences, craft activities, and the history of California's Central Valley. Docent-guided tours explore the natural history and diverse habitats of the Central Valley of California. Live animal shows feature some of the dozen live animals available for group presentations. The museum also features a Discovery Room dedicated to hands-on activities and materials, including a variety of live animals such as snakes, skinks, and tarantulas.”

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“Modesto Arch was built in 1912 to welcome automobile drivers. The Arch was a project of the Modesto Businessmen's Association, intended to be a permanent, beautiful structure and an effective advertising scheme. It currently stands at the intersection of 9th and I Streets. Originally, the Modesto Arch featured 696 incandescent light bulbs. The area around the Arch has changed dramatically over the years; once thriving with hotels and businesses, it now hosts many fast-food venues. The city has experienced a nostalgic resurgence of recognition for the over 100-year-old Arch, fostering a sense of civic pride. Modesto Arch offers ample parking.”

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