What do you get when you cross a small-town atmosphere with the arts, culture and entertainment of the big city? Modesto, California! A welcoming community with a focus on family interests and value for all ages, Modesto provides residents and visitors alike with an oasis from the city's frantic bustle, complete with a splash of big-city attractions... And that's no joke! If history, theater and a tightly-knit community sound like what you're looking for, trust Modesto to have a great experience in store for you.

One of Modesto's favorite attractions is the McHenry Mansion, located at 906 15th Street, zip code 95354. Built by Robert McHenry in 1883, the Mansion has since been donated to the City of Modesto, refurbished, and decorated with antiques from the period of its construction. A block away from the Mansion is the McHenry Museum, located at 1402 I Street, zip code 95354. Originally the city library, the museum is home to many artifacts from Modesto's early days. For a more interactive experience, the Great Valley Museum of Natural History offers exhibits of a variety of animals, plants and cultural artifacts from around the world. It is located at 1100 Stoddard Avenue, zip code 95350.

As far as artistic talent, there is no shortage in Modesto. The city is home to numerous art galleries, many of which support, display and sell the works of local artists, from sculptures to paintings. Such galleries include the Mistlin Gallery, the Chartreuse Muse, and the Anderson Gallery, all in zip code 95354, while the Big Valley Gallery in zip code 95350 displays works from California- and nationally-known artists. For musical and theatrical talents, the Gallo Center for the Arts is the newest addition to Modesto's entertainment venues, located at 1000 I street, zip code 95354. The Center is home of the Modesto Symphony Orchestra Association, the Townsend Opera Players and the Central West Ballet. The Youth Entertainment Stage Company, also known as the YES company, consists of fledgling actors, actresses and set designers, ages 12 to 18, as they create sets and costumes to put on astounding performances for the entire community. With all of this and more, you can find plenty to do in Modesto!