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Points of Interest

Modesto also has its own tribute to the city's history and art with the McHenry Mansion, a preserved residence from the past, and the McHenry Museum, both which are operated by the city.

McHenry Mansion - 906 15th Street
Built in 1883 by Robert McHenry, a prominent local rancher/banker, McHenry Mansion is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a fine example of the Victorian Italianate style of architecture. In 1976, the Julio R. Gallo Foundation purchased it and donated it to the City of Modesto for restoration and community use. The Mansion is decorated and furnished with period antiques. Mansion and gift shop hours: Sunday through Friday, 12:30 to 4 p.m. Admission is free and donations are appreciated.

McHenry Museum - 1402 I Street
Located a block away from the McHenry Mansion, this historic museum is dedicated to preserving a picture of the early life and culture of Modesto and Stanislaus County from pioneer days through the mid-20th century. Built as a library in 1912, a 1928 addition doubled it to its present size. After a new library opened, the building was restored and reopened at the McHenry Museum on July 4, 1972. Hours: Tuesdays-Sundays, Noon to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

Central California Art League Gallery
The Central California Art League Gallery, located at 1015 J Street in the Mistlin Art Gallery, supports the visual arts in Modesto by offering paintings, sculpture, graphics and selected crafts of local artists.

Southern Pacific Depot
Constructed in 1915 in Mission style, the depot's striking porticoes and long platform have been preserved as reminders of the city's early romance with the railway system. The Central Pacific Railroad started in the city of Modesto in 1870, gaining control of Southern Pacific in 1884. This facility now serves as the city's transportation center.

Lucas Plaza Statue
Providing a beautiful entrance to the downtown area at "five points" (the intersection of Downey, 17th Street, McHenry Avenue, J Street and Needham Avenue) this bronze statue, dedicated July 11, 1997, features two teenagers from the early 1960s leaning against the fender of a '57 Chevrolet. The plaza is a tribute to Modesto's "most famous son," film director/producer George Lucas, who based his first hit film, American Graffiti on his experiences as a teenager in Modesto.

McClatchy Square
With land donated by the McClatchy Newspapers and the results of a community-wide effort, this quarter-acre park, located at 15th & I Streets, is home to "The Paper Boy," a bronze statue of a young boy delivering copies of "The Bee" with a dog at his side. This statue is the work of local artist Betty Saletta. Also in the park is the Gallo Rose Garden, named in honor of the late Julio Gallo (E. & J. Gallo Winery) and his widow, Aileen Gallo.

Modesto Farmers Market
This is the only certified Farmers Market in Modesto and Stanislaus County of California. The Modesto Farmers Market provides farm fresh California produce - direct from the farmers to you. Most produce is harvested the day or hours before it is brought to the market. Farmers can only sell what they grow. Also provided are organic, Asian and European produce. Market is open every Saturday from May 5 until November 17 and every Thursday from May 10 until October 18. Hours are 7 am. to 12:30 pm.  http://www.modestofarmersmarket.com/