McHenry Mansion

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8 months ago

Yesterday the McHenry Mansion had free entry into the mansion as well as carriage rides and crafts at the museum/park across from the mansion. It was decorated for Christmas which is so beautiful! The staff were very nice and helpful. It was quite busy but overall a nice experience! At the museum, they had crafts that my friends and I participated in. We also walked through the museum and it wasnt as busy as the mansion! We had a good day and enjoyed ourselves! read more

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Maisie W.

Elite 26 All-Star

4

287

1836

9 months ago

Stopped by with a friend for their Halloween event that the city had for kids which was nice for kids to trick or treat and play. Fire fighters were also there w/ their trucks, which both kids and adults like. Asked a firefighter and got to snap photos of my friends kids. I feel like cops should do something similar w/ their 1 or 2 of their nice SUVs or cars, which would be cool to see. Didn't get to check out the mansion this time. read more

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Diana G.

205

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2 years ago

Such a beautiful gem! The mansion is beautifully decorated, well preserved, and has such a unique feel. I got married here and would recommend it as a wedding venue for anyone looking for a garden wedding. In terms of event planning, Laura was a sweetheart to work with and I appreciated all of her staff's support on the day of the event. The mansion itself is beautiful inside and out. There are two floors and a lower level basement. There are guest restrooms in the lower level. There is one usable restroom that is reserved for the bridal suite guests inside the mansion near the bridal suite room. Overall: Truly such a beautiful venue. read more

McHenry Mansion - Backyard that has been set up as a reception space - Museums Near Me - Modesto, California

McHenry Mansion - Bridal Suite - Museums Near Me - Modesto, California

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Bad L.

5

72

63

1 year ago

You've got to sign up for the tour in the Visitor Gift Shop before you can get into the mansion. Shout out to the docent at the museum. The tour was great. You will learn quite a bit about the guy that put Modesto on the map. The tour does include stairs, so if you don't do them, you won't get the whole tour. read more

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Araceli G.

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6

0

1 year ago

Went to attend a wedding, wedding was boring but the staff was amazing it began to rain and they moved us inside took care of the guests

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Allison O.

447

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5 years ago

Came here near closing and got a free tour from the (retired) museum curator himself! Who was in charge of all the beautiful restorations starting in the 70s. Thank you Wayne. read more

McHenry Mansion - Christmas decor, this room in the style of old Christmas cards which sometimes featured flower motif - Museums Near Me - Modesto, California

McHenry Mansion - Outside - Museums Near Me - Modesto, California

McHenry Mansion - Kitchen (you can play with the cooking tools on the table) - Museums Near Me - Modesto, California

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Jan W.

24

201

236

5 years ago

We really enjoyed our tour by Valli of the McHenry Mansion! So much fascinating history filled with colorful characters and interesting stories! There's no doubt that the McHenry family contributed to the Modesto community. They definitely did not embody the trait of one town founder who was too modest to have the town named after him. A family that wanted all the opulence and grandeur and willing to show it all off. The film at the beginning of the tour in the gift shop is really interesting, when some films like this can be drawn out and a little boring. Cute gift shop with super nice ladies who all are very knowledgeable! read more

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Brandy D.

0

8

3 years ago

When my husband and I decided to find a wedding venue, my sister recommended McHenry Mansion! I grew up in Modesto and remembered how beautiful it was. We made an appointment with Laura to check it out and fell in love right away. 13 months later, we got married! The venue coordinators were so awesome to work with, and they even had guided tours which was so special for our guests. Thank you! read more

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Dave S.

20

685

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10 years ago

Nice! Came for a wedding from out of town, who would have known. In the gut of Modesto is this sweet spot. A mansion in all it's beautiful glory. Worthy of a wedding reception. With room for maybe 150 guests outside in a nicely cared for courtyard. There's a dance floor and room for a D.J. They have tours of the mansion most day's with guides in period costume, sweet! Anyway the wedding was beautiful and the reception a picture perfect. Last words...Go find it. read more

McHenry Mansion - Circa 1898 - Museums Near Me - Modesto, California

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Mikey R.

13

27

4

2 years ago

The House is Beautiful but the staff who operate this place are Horribly rude, snotty, inconsiderate, arrogant and just plain nasty. They are only concerned with renting this old mansion out for events. I was basically thrown out of the building today and told that a private event was going on in 3 hours and could not come in. I don't know if the cranky old bag was staff or a wedding planner. But her nasty attitude was unprofessional. I live 90 miles away and won't return or donate anything to this place . read more

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Thien H.

994

1098

6175

9 years ago

I've taken two groups of out of town guests to tour the McHenry Mansion. Thanks to the Gallo Family, tours of the mansion are free and are available Sun-Fri. They are closed Saturdays. You first enter through the gift shop, which is located a bit west of the actual mansion. You watch an informational video first and then go on the tour. The two tour guides we had were both good but were very different. They focused on very different aspects of the mansion. My main critique of the McHenry mansion is that the gift shop doesn't have items for sale by local Modesto/Central Valley artists. I had a hard time finding any item unique to Modesto. They do sell some postcards of the mansion but even those should be re-done. read more

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B M.

82

19

2

7 years ago

So, McHenry mansion decided to place barricades up on the Modesto City School's Prom night to prevent kids from taking pictures. It's pretty shameful to treat the citizens of your community that way. This place is owned and operated by the City of Modesto. The city even paid to have a woman there blocking the kids who were wearing tuxedos and gowns from taking pictures. What a joke! read more

McHenry Mansion - Barricades to prevent prom pictures on prom night. - Museums Near Me - Modesto, California

McHenry Mansion - Barricades to prevent prom pictures. - Museums Near Me - Modesto, California

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Karole B.

0

3

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6 years ago

Fabulous location! I coordinate weddings and have used the mansion several times. Laura Mesa is very knowledgeable and helpful. I'm not sure why anyone would give a bad review. People forget there are liability issues with being allowed to take pictures at the mansion i.e. for the prom. As for the person that complained about insurance cost. It's all told to you up front. Laura tells you about insurance and any permits you may need for your event. There are rules that need to be followed, after all it is a historical location and rules help preserve it for all to enjoy. I highly recommend this location for garden weddings or events. It's a beautiful spot. read more

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Summer R.

Elite 12

91

237

39

15 years ago

WOW so this is like finding a needle in a haystack.. .... literally. because Modesto is just Modesto and on the surface there's really nothing to do here. i found McHenry Mansion thanks to a little wikipedia research. i typed in Modesto and pops up this picture of a huge house and some info on the place. its in the heart of downtown Modesto and they offer free tours of the mansion. inside it's beautiful. completely decorated head to toe with 1880s antiques and such, and some original items from the McHenry family. alot of interesting things and info provided by the very informative tour guides. take a random day to drive here. i thought it was a really cool find in the middle of nowheresville. read more

McHenry Mansion - McHenry Mansion! - Museums Near Me - Modesto, California

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Sunday B.

Elite 26 All-Star

31

211

675

7 years ago

Awesome tour! So detailed and thorough...learned so much! The gift shop next door has all the family history and a short video before the tour begins. Amazing it's free! read more

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Vincent I.

0

21

0

6 years ago

This is a lovingly restored bit of history. I really like the garden, but the house itself is creepy and reminds me of the haunted house at Disneyland. read more

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Steven F.

67

55

6

15 years ago

This is about renting this venue for an event. I would stronly recommend against it! They have loads of hidden costs, including the City's own special insurance requirements. They nickel and dime you with charges for every little thing...which they don't discuss up front. The venue is nice, but the added charges make it more expensive than many other better equipped and more easily managed sites with a more honest approach to telling you what they provide and what they charge for. Everything is easy, until you commit then they start in with all the limits and extra charges. The people in charge are quite good at hiding the many problems/issues with renting this venue. If you still want to do it, I would highly recommend getting EVERYTHING in writing before you pay them a dime, so they can't come back and hit you with a bunch of extra charges. read more

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Charlotte B.

13

7

0

10 years ago

I rented the mansion for my roaring 20's 50th birthday party. The venue was exquisite and the staff were absolutely magnificent. I have rented many facilities in the past, but this one by far has been the best. If you are looking for the perfect venue, this one can't be beat. read more

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Bobbie G.

274

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9 years ago

Adorable home ! With the sweetest employees/staff! You do watch a short video prior to the tour , so be ready for that . Also, the staff will not disclose any "haunts" so if you're expecting that ... you're going to be greatly disappointed . Lol read more

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Jill T.

33

2

1

6 years ago

Although I grew up around in the valley, I didn't make it to the mansion until I was there for a wedding. My four year old niece and I took at tour with Beth and it was awesome. The house itself was cool, but what really stood out was Beth and her awesome patience and personality. She engaged my niece and even let her have a seat on the fainting couch upstairs. She took her questions and answered her in a non-condescending manner and just made her feel like the belle of the ball. Thanks so much Beth for being awesome and, if you get a chance, go check out the mansion!! read more

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Michael M.

Elite 18

1571

363

1114

11 years ago

My family home. My great-great grandfather, Robert, is a direct descendant of William Brewster (the religious elder on the Mayflower) and his wife Mary Brewster who was one of only 4 women to survive the first winter at Plymouth and who helped cook the first Thanksgiving dinner. Robert was a rancher who settled an built Modesto California. Rich in history, mansion was sold to Gallo's who made it into a museum. See Wikipedia for more history. There is also McHenry library. When my great grandfather (Oramil) died my great grandmother married the then Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court. read more

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Lindsey F.

15

23

0

19 years ago

Plus four for being an absolutely gorgeous turn of the century home that has been meticulously restored and refurbished to be indicative of the Victorian lifestyle. Minus one for having weeeeird hours and never being open when I want to go. If you are in Modesto, i HIGHLY recommend a trip down to the McHenry Mansion - esp. at Christmas time as the decorations are totally beautiful!! The curators here (who are volunteers!) are highly knowledgable and friendly, and really have a passion for preserving the McHenry legacy. As one of Modesto's only REAL historic landmarks, it's a def go see! read more

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Randi F.

87

220

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12 years ago

Ladies in gift shop and tour guide was VERY friendly. I think lady was new on tour guide so sometimes didn't know questions but tried so that was great :) beautiful place. Breathtaking... Really kept up with . read more

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Lynn A.

1

14

0

10 years ago

From the minute you pull up curbside this place pulls you in. The architecture is magnificent. The surrounding grounds perfectly groomed. I could spend hours going through the rooms marveling at all of the details. Add to this the added bonus of being able to rent this jewel for private events. I was very fortunate to have recently coordinated a wedding at the mansion ( I own Magical Moments Event Planning and Coordinating). Laura, Lana and staff are over the top sweet hearts. I would love to work with these ladies any day! And the room back drops are a photographers dream for wedding shots. I highly recommend McHenry Mansion for an afternoon sight seeing as well as a private event venue! read more

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Noelle M.

Elite 8

432

372

164

18 years ago

I completely agree with Lindsey F on this one, this is definitely a "Modesto Must". Gorgeous house and very interesting museum. Gah, if only houses in Modesto still looked like this, yknow? read more

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Jessica B.

49

38

10

7 years ago

What a beautiful museum. When I was a child we went here and to the library for a field trip. When I was older(teen) I walked by and was looking in the basement window. Call me crazy I don't care but I seen a box with a bunch of papers fly off the desk along with seeing random papers fly. I could hardly believe my eyes but I didn't stop and stare! I was freaked out. read more

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Francisco G.

46

53

1

18 years ago

OK so you live in Modesto and there's nothing but paved Suburbia or farmland as far as the eye can see. Sometimes it gets a little dull. Maybe a little boring. Well, that's because you have not visited the McHenry Mansion! Plan a trip and visit Modesto's historic sites. Make a day of it, make a date of it. It's pretty amazing and hella fun. I mean it won't blow your mind but there's some good photo ops waiting to happen. When I worked at the library, I used to spend my lunches at the Mansion's gardens. Just me and a Mr. Pickle's sandwich. Now I'm a city slicker and quite frankly Modesto is like a trip to hell for me every time I'm here, but dudes. There are cool things here and you should enjoy what little of them you have. :D Make the most of it. Go to the mansion and then visit the museum. Both are super low key and entertaining. I guess sweet's the word. read more

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Heather E.

1

13

1

10 years ago

As soon as my current husband saw the McHenry Mansion, he knew that it would be a perfect place for the two of us to get married. We worked with Laura (who is a wonderful woman; so kind and helpful) to make our special day all the more special. Our friend and family loved the scenery, got to go on tours of the house, and the people who wore Victorian attire inside the house just made me so happy. I can't thank them enough for the wonderful day, and I'll never forget it. If you're looking for a beautiful place to get married in town, you can't go wrong with this beautiful wedding venue. read more

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Caroline G.

34

20

16 years ago

I love this place! The day after Thanksgiving, I had some out of town guests and took them (and myself) for a tour of Mchenry Mansion. Their Christmas decor was up and it was absolutely quaint and gorgeous. All the guides were also impressively knowledgeable and ready to entertain any question you may have about the tour. read more

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Dan P.

0

5

1

9 years ago

Stunning architecture, lovely & welcoming docents extremely informative, free admission with optional donation was amazing.

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RobbnDanica F.

89

55

52

11 years ago

We needed a place to stretch our legs after hours of driving and this was a free museum so we decided to check it out. Took our two kids 13 and 7, and we all really enjoyed it! It's beautiful, air conditioned, and the docent was very friendly and knowledgable about the history on the mansion. The gift shop is adorable too. The only issue we had was with my dad going up the stairs since he has copd. Other than that it's a great visit. read more

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Kim K.

13

15

2

10 years ago

This is a real hidden jewel. This is a must see. Our guide was a 10 on a 10!The city of Modesto has done a fabulous job restoring to the Victorian period. read more

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Alaina A.

0

13

1

7 years ago

You have to walk to the visitors center for a free tour which is literally right next to the mansion! The store has the cutest little garden on the outside and a cute shop on the inside! You sign the guest book and then walk to the back to watch a short film on the history of the mansion. All of the staff there are very friendly. The lady who gave us the tour, Sally, was so incredibly nice and made us feel very welcome! She knew so much about the history of the mansion and was sure to show us every little thing. The mansion is beautiful inside and out! read more

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Jennifer M.

32

72

21

15 years ago

Love the McHenry Mansion... especially love going during Christmas when it is fully decorated. Love taking friends and family to visit for the first time. read more

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Neil H.

4

8

7

11 years ago

We love this place. The tours, the pictures, and the Annual Dickens Fair is always fun around the mansion! Great family fun!

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Ally S.

250

6

0

11 years ago

Mchenry Mansion is Modesto gem. I love touring it and I love the history behind it. I recently had my wedding at the mansion. The setting of the mansion is beautiful for the wedding. The garden is lovely and it is strung with white lights, it is truly a magical place. Laura is extremely helpful and easy to work with. She is very knowledgeable about holding weddings at the mansion and offers great advice. Not only was the wedding held in a beautiful setting in the garden, but guests can actually tour the mansion from docents in period clothing! It was such a charming touch! My husband and I, and our wedding guests, had so much fun and were so pleased with holding the wedding at the mansion. I highly recommend it as a wedding venue and just to go explore it on your own! read more

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Paul R.

0

2

0

11 years ago

The museum has presented a number of art exhibitions tackling several different mediums, including photography, film and sculpture.

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Melissa C.

0

21

0

8 years ago

The McHenry Mansion is the house that started my love of historic homes! I always try to visit when I am in town and I would recommend a tour to anyone. It is the gem of Modesto and a great way to learn the history of the city. I wish "Cat's Meow," had a McHenry Mansion replica. read more

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Lauren M.

0

5

0

11 years ago

I recently attended a wedding reception at the McHenry Mansion and was truly impressed by the magnificence of the 10,000 square foot home and friendly staff. What a surprise to learn the history of the mansion and facts about the Victorian Era. The mansion is also beautifully decorated and sets a great ambiance for the reception. We got some really fun pictures! Guests can recline and stay cool in the formal living areas and enjoy cocktails and refreshments or take tours of the house to soak in the surroundings and history. The outdoor garden is an oasis in the middle of the city and a perfect place for a string-light lit dining area and dance floor. I highly recommend this venue and encourage anyone to take a tour on days they are available. Thank you for the history lesson and friendly atmosphere! read more

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More info about McHenry Mansion

906 15th St
Modesto, CA 95354
Directions
(209) 238-7180
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.mchenrymansion.org

Hours

What time does McHenry Mansion open?

McHenry Mansion opens at 12:00 PM on Monday, Friday and Sunday.

What time does McHenry Mansion close?

McHenry Mansion closes at 4:00 PM on Monday, Friday and Sunday.McHenry Mansion is closed on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Mon, Fri, Sun 12:00 PM - 4:00 PMTue-Thu, Sat Closed

Other Amenities

Does McHenry Mansion have free WiFi?

Yes, McHenry Mansion has free WiFi.

Review Highlights - McHenry Mansion

“We worked with Laura (who is a wonderful woman; so kind and helpful) to make our special day all the more special.”

Mentioned in 6 reviews

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Live fauna!!!

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Great place for littles and parents we had a great time. We will be visiting again soonread more

The Water Table is a fan favorite! Enjoy learning how water flows through play.

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In the cab of Sierra Railway locomotive No. 28.

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Yesterday the McHenry Mansion had free entry as well as cradts at the museum, carroage rides and…read moremore! While visiting the museum, my family and I had a wonderful time getting info on the Stanislaus Libraries in the area, looking at Modedto artifacts and making crafts! The staff were very kind and helpful! Overall, we had a wonderful time!

I had always wanted to stop in at the McHenry Museum, but I never took the opportunity to go, until…read morerecently. The museum hosted an event right before Graffiti Night to kind of kick it off. It was a free event to go inside the museum, and outside were lots of classic cars, trucks, and a few bicycles!! I included lots of photos inside and out!! Well, they had another event last Saturday night! "A night at the McHenry Museum!" What a cute and fun idea!! It was great for all ages. We received a night guard evidence log when we checked in at the front desk! Right before that, we were welcomed by a greeter who opened the door for us. They had nine exhibits with stamps from the people dressed in period or historical costumes. They each gave a little demo or speech about the exhibit they were in. They were all so friendly, and interactive. It really made the scenes come to life! One exhibit was trying to get gold out of the clay rocks, to turn into the cashier for play money, which in turn one could "buy" real candy. I had such a wonderful time. I hope they do this activity again, sometime soon. It would be fun to know about it way in advance, so I could dress up too. That would be really fun! I did not find out about it until a few days before. However, I am so glad I went!

One of the exhibits in the low rider section.

The McHenry Museum Car Show event! Saturday, June 1, 2024

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The band playing and all dressed up for a Night at the Museum.

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0.4 mi

Well as of last year the Mistlin Gallery closed permanently. It was taken over by the City of…read moreModesto and a good community of artists of all ages were left disbanded. We had a wonderful gallery with events and shows and volunteers committed to the arts. Sad to see it go........

A local treasure that many cities the size of Modesto don't have: a good-sized gallery devoted to…read moredisplaying local art, with a gift shop that sells pieces by local artists, including very affordable prints and cards. Some of the same local artists whose art you can buy also give classes in the learning space. Exhibits rotate often, and there are always announcements for the next one. Now here's the thing with a place that displays a lot of local art: the aesthetics will vary. There are artists I think are top-notch (and I buy the print versions I can afford because my current budget doesn't stretch to originals to go over the sofa). There are artists I think are.. having a great time with self-expression (so I don't buy). Regardless, it is delightful that these are my neighbors (more or less), and many are depicting the local landscape in a part of California that tends to get neglected. Where else can I buy prints of actual Modesto-area places, rather than the "more important" beauty spots elsewhere in the state? I adore this gallery and go as often as I can. Occasionally they will feed you cheese bits or whatever, in a festive way.

Diane LaCom Artist 1974 print from The Nut Tree Collection call direct at 209-540-9041

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Rhino. Cindy Davis.

Preston Castle

4.1

(139 reviews)

49.7 mi

This event was a type of searching for spirits, a ghost hunt event. As simple as it was it was also…read morea great experience a bit complex as well but also the environment really made it. The castle itself is historic with some insanely horrific history to it. I'm not going to say much more it's a great experience. The castle does all different types of events throughout the year, they're most popular is the haunt during Halloween season or throughout October. I went one year it was pretty amazing. My family has gone a few times and loved it. Look forward to this year!! Get your tickets quick because it sells out fast.

Came here for the haunted house event about a week ago and I'm not sure if I would come back again…read more Tickets were $35 each (purchased online) and you have to park and walk about 10-15 minutes to the castle or you can take the little van that drives you there which also takes the same amount of time. We took the van to the castle but they don't drop you off directly in front of the castle so you still have to walk down through security and then to the castle. Porte potty's are available right before security and once you walk up the hill to wait in line to enter the castle. There were a couple food trucks when we went, we were expecting a few based on what was said online but not sure if it depends on the time. We waited over an hour in line to enter the haunted house and if you do really believe in ghosts this place is pretty haunted. The event itself wasn't scary, the actors aren't able to touch you but there's obviously loud screaming and they may be a bit too close for comfort to get a reaction out of you. You do have to climb up and down quite a few stairs and then there's a second part lead outside and back in the castle (barely any lighting and it's a dirt road so you have to carefully walk). Many strobing lights as well so do avoid if you are triggered by that. The energy throughout the castle was not pleasant or welcoming, I was very excited for it to be over as the haunted house itself was not very good and I was mostly tired from all the walking. There's a merch truck outside at the end of the castle as well. We also decided to walk back instead of waiting for the shuttle but there absolutely no lighting and many ditches with uneven flooring so you have to be very careful. Overall experience was not my favorite and I wouldn't come back again.

The castle with the haunt ticket you receive before security.

Enter if you dare.

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The viewing walking in.

The Discovery Center

4.8

(4 reviews)

38.6 mi

Very cool spot. This place is probably best for school-aged children. They do have one wall with…read moreconnector toys for the toddlers but that's about it. It's small but a nice spot to spend under an hour. Also finding the entrance was hard because google maps takes you to the wrong main gate.

I almost got into the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory! Yes, the Lawrence Livermore National…read moreLaboratory is self-described as "a premier research and development institution for science and technology applied to national security." Because they are working with important stuff pertaining to national security, nuclear materials and other top secret stuff, they won't let the average Yelper in there. But, right outside their front gate is the Discovery Center. The Discovery Center is a small museum that gives you a brief introduction to the lab and what they do. They have hands on and interactive exhibits for children to play with. Most of the exhibits were well maintained. It is an interesting way to spend an hour. The staff, at least on the day were there, was fantastic. Since we were the only ones there, she almost gave us a personalized tour to explain some of the exhibits and talk about the lab and what they do. They have an easy scavenger hunt for children with a nice t-shirt as a prize. They are pretty generous with the scavenger hunt and let children of all ages play. The museum is priced just right for most Yelpers. It is free! It's a nice place, with not a lot of visitors.

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Castle Air Museum

4.6

(133 reviews)

29.9 mi

It was pretty nostalgic coming here with my kids. I lived in Merced for a few years as a kid during…read morethe first Desert Storm War back when this was Castle Air Force Base and they were flying b-52 bombers over Merced everyday that would shake the windows of my house. We were driving up the 99 from Fresno to Manteca and I thought it would be a fun detour for my kids to see. They were pretty pumped to see the SR-71 Blackbird and one of the old old Air Force Ones. I wish there would have been more planes available on public display without having to pay to get into the museum since we were there after hours and couldn't see any of the other ones except for through a chain link fence. Still a pretty cool experience though and worth the short detour.

As a life member and over 45 year supporter I will say this; I was embarrassed by the state of the…read moregrounds at the outside exhibit yesterday. Lots of overgrown weeds up and around the airplane displays. The walkways need tending too as well. The condition of the planes has deteriorated a bit as well. As an airplane lover I would never say don't go. The history there is considerable. The docent volunteers are devoted folks from the area and a lovable bunch at that. But present management of the overall grounds, buildings and to some degree the planes themselves REALLY needs to be addressed. I took the former chairman of the museum board with me and he was shocked at the way it looked. Come on folks. Get it together raise some funds what ever and let it shine as one of the greatest air museums on the west coast.

Former Air Force One to Carter and Reagan.

A-4 Skyhawks

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Dutch Hollow Farms

4.0

(119 reviews)

5.0 mi

Always have a great experience here whether it be picking out pumpkins, pick your own tulips or…read moresunflowers or any other event they have going on. Such a fun, family-friendly place and a nice break away from downtown Modesto. Enjoy these photos of us enjoying ourselves last fall!

This was our first time visiting the farm during the harvest season. We didn't get to do everything…read more(newborn & toddler needing a nap) but there was sooo much to do. Farmer John's really spent time and resources making upgrades to everyone's experience when they visit. One of the most noticeable improvements was the concrete paths that have been poured, circling the attractions. This makes the farm completely stroller friendly and so much easier for moms with young kids. My daughter also got to do the pony ride which was such a special treat for her. I should also note that it was only $15 to get in. We went to another pumpkin patch here in the valley that charged just as much, but had way less attractions, amenities and things to do. Thank you farmer John for always making our experiences better and better, and keeping it affordable for us moms!

Walkway going into the farm

Tracktor slide

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Tullip

Natural Orchards

4.7

(71 reviews)

12.5 mi

Best cherries around. Just wish the season last longer. Go there once or twice a week when cherie's…read moreare in season

My little is not a cherry eating person, but he sure did like picking them! He has gone apple…read morepicking and now cherry picking, and I love that my MIL has these ideas for him to venture out and try new things and experiences that I don't think of. He had a blast, got to see how they grow and we had some yummy cherries for our trip home and for snacks. He may not eat them, but we did!

They have all kinds of cherries.

Sweetest cherries!

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Cherry picking.

VanderHelm Farms

4.7

(53 reviews)

8.4 mi

This is my favorite U-Pick farm. I love the apricots , blueberries, and zucchini best. They also…read morehave cherries, strawberries, peaches, plums, and nectarines. Prices are reasonable and the layout/varieties are clearly labeled. Parking has never been a problem for me. They have wagons you can borrow to haul your fruit. They are open for several months with different offerings.

The best U-Pick farms I have ver been on! The people are nice! They have a variety of fruits for…read moreyou to pick yourself ; peaches, strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and some summer squashes. You pay by the weight of the fruit you pick.

Strawberry picking with my sister and our kids

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Daisy Creek Farms

4.9

(39 reviews)

44.8 mi

Daisy Crerk Farms is the best ORGANIC "you-pick" farms i have visited. Today I picked up 2…read morevarieties of peaches and French plums. Upon arrival you appreciate the work they put in on the farm making it a fun and bountiful experience. There's plenty of parking. They have wooden crate wagons or baskets for you to use. The staff is friendly and can point you in the right direction for what you are looking for. Overall it is easy to navigate because the way they have it set up is spacious and orgainized. They will also pick for you. You order ahead and they will have it ready for you to pick up. Thank you for picking my peaches and plums they are perfect!

Great farm with lots of fruits! They had blackberries, blueberries, tay berries, and strawberries…read more I may have missed some others. We went on a Saturday morning and were worried they would be low since lot of people visiting but there were plenty for everyone! Admission is $1 per person or $7 per person if you want to eat the fruits. Each berry has its own price per pound. Strawberries were $5/lb

Blueberries!

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Strawberries!

Lucky You Orchards - Escalon

We love Lucky You Orchards! We go cherry picking and apple picking every year with them. Can't wait…read morefor cherry picking!

Lucky You, I did not forget …read more.. We tried another trip up and arrived to find you were open. I promised myself I would remember to go back and by apples. We made it there. Bought apples and I made some very good tasty apple hand pies and some wonderful apple sauce. The apple were also eaten every day for a great snack.

All aboard!

Old blue tractor ride

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Rainer cherries

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4 reviews that are not currently recommended

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D D.

0

7

0

8 years ago

I highly recommend taking the free tour of the Mansion if visiting Modesto. The docents are knowledgable and the mansion itself is gorgeous and beautifully restored. If you're a fan of antique wallpaper this place is to die for. The adjacent gift store has a lovely selection of high end Christmas ornaments. Gift store volunteers can be a bit pretentious at times. read more

Lynne G.

26

36

3

7 years ago

Bullied kids who wanted pics, even when offered tips. Mc Henry Mansion, Modesto museum, this area was first populated by native persons and Hispanic people. When our little ones want pics with St Nick, please see that they are respected. read more

Kim W.

Elite 16

544

508

381

13 years ago

Not open on Saturdays. You can still grab fantastic photos from the outside.

Jim B.

0

3

0

8 years ago

Best venue ever! So helpful, kind and just beautiful!

McHenry Mansion - museums - Updated August 2026

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McHenry Museum

(16 reviews)

Yesterday the McHenry Mansion had free entry as well as cradts at the museum, carroage rides and…read moremore! While visiting the museum, my family and I had a wonderful time getting info on the Stanislaus Libraries in the area, looking at Modedto artifacts and making crafts! The staff were very kind and helpful! Overall, we had a wonderful time!

I had always wanted to stop in at the McHenry Museum, but I never took the opportunity to go, until…read morerecently. The museum hosted an event right before Graffiti Night to kind of kick it off. It was a free event to go inside the museum, and outside were lots of classic cars, trucks, and a few bicycles!! I included lots of photos inside and out!! Well, they had another event last Saturday night! "A night at the McHenry Museum!" What a cute and fun idea!! It was great for all ages. We received a night guard evidence log when we checked in at the front desk! Right before that, we were welcomed by a greeter who opened the door for us. They had nine exhibits with stamps from the people dressed in period or historical costumes. They each gave a little demo or speech about the exhibit they were in. They were all so friendly, and interactive. It really made the scenes come to life! One exhibit was trying to get gold out of the clay rocks, to turn into the cashier for play money, which in turn one could "buy" real candy. I had such a wonderful time. I hope they do this activity again, sometime soon. It would be fun to know about it way in advance, so I could dress up too. That would be really fun! I did not find out about it until a few days before. However, I am so glad I went!

The Cowboy Museum

4.9

(13 reviews)

Small museum with free admission, and an even smaller gift shop selling quirky stuff like…read moreleather-scented candles. Two rooms filled with interesting cowboy attire, antiques, posters, photos, books, old school tin lunch boxes, saddles, and lots of informative signs about rodeo practices and rules. We visited on a "Sip and Stroll" event day, so there was also live music out front. We didn't have much interaction with staff and just roamed around and explored at our own pace, which didn't take long due to the size of the museum.

If you have never been to Oakdale, it's the "cowboy capital of the world". Don't worry the city is…read morevery modernized. Be sure to check out the the_cowboy museum when you're in town! FREE admission to this awesome tiny museum!

Carnegie Arts Center

4.6

(9 reviews)

•$

Such a great local venue to enjoy at or to take dance class or to watch live jazz music. Such a…read morewarm welcoming quaint environment with lovely staff/docents. A great inexpensive night out in Turlock! Check out their calendar online for upcoming exhibits and events for your next date night!

If you're motoring on either I-5 or (esp.) CA-99 between Northern and Southern California and want…read morea GREAT place to get out and stretch your legs--one that is less than 2 miles from the freeway--you will really kick yourself if you miss this absolute gem of a museum. It may be small, but the works displayed are varied, and ALL are truly outstanding. And since none of the pieces are permanent, you can go back there every 2 months or so and see completely different artwork. Lisa, the curator/manager for the past 20+ years, is truly passionate about this place, and it really shows. (No, I'm not related to her; in fact, I just met her today during my first visit.) I heard about this place through the old (R.I.P.) AAA TourBooks, and this is *definitely* one of their better "finds."

Hughson Arboretum & Gardens

4.6

(8 reviews)

Highly recommend, what a surprise. Small but well kept and looking forward to returning again.read more

We came with a group to check out the Hughson Arboretum & Gardens. Our personal assignment for…read moreourselves was to take photos of every color in the rainbow. I tried my best to capture every color in nature. However there were only a few blooming trees when we went. I thought maybe if we came at a different time of the year, we might see more blooms. I'm not sure. To be honest, it was a little underwhelming, and one of my friends expressed their disappointment. It looks larger online, and we were restricted from seeing all of the plants and trees, due to the fenced-in area. However, I enjoyed the short walk in nature, and tried to capture as many beautiful photos as I could.

Hughson Fruit and Nut Festival