Visalia is known as the gateway to the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. As such, it offers various venues for outdoor adventures all year round. If you’re thinking about venturing out of Merced for a day, Visalia should be the first destination on your list.
Here’s what you need to know:
Getting to Visalia
If you’re coming from Merced, Visalia is less than two hours away by car and around two to three hours by public transport. Via private car, go on California State Route 99 and take Exit 107A from Route 198 East. Head down State Route 63 North and South Court Street until you reach East Main Street.
As for public transportation, several bus and train routes are available. You can take Amtrak or the Greyhound bus. Amtrak typically offers one departure to Visalia per day. But since that route has no direct schedules, you’ll need to switch to a connecting train. Greyhound, on the other hand, has around two scheduled, direct bus trips to Merced every day. The departing bus station is at Viajes Express on 710 West 16th Street.
Exploring Visalia
- Downtown Visalia
One of this city’s most popular attractions, Downtown Visalia, isa bustling central business district. Here, you’ll find a unique blend of restaurants, shops, and entertainment outlets, as well as historically preserved buildings and recently renovated spaces. Downtown Visalia is also home to the city’s major landmark, theVisalia Fox Theatre.
- Arts Visalia
Visalia is also a haven for art lovers. Arts Visalia Visual Arts Center, a nonprofit community arts center in Downtown Visalia, has a variety of exhibits featuring the works of a whole range of artists who made a name for themselves both in local and international scenes. The community center also offers art classes for children and adults.
- Tulare County Museum of Farm Labor and Agriculture
Learn more about Tulare County’s rich farming and agricultural history at the Tulare County Museum. Located in Mooney Grove Park, this state-of-the-art building features a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits showcasing the city’s history, the ethnic groups that arrived in the area, and many more. Tulare County Museum also has an extensive collection of agriculture equipment, artifacts from the pioneer era, and Native American-made baskets.
Since you’re already in the area, feel free to visit Mooney Grove Park, as well. You’ll find an 18-hole disc golf course, a picturesque lagoon, picnic areas, and oak trees for shade.
- Recreation Ballpark
Get to watch a minor league baseball game at Recreation Ballpark. Located on 300 North Giddings Street, this newly-renovated stadium is the home of the Visalia Rawhide baseball team. Head to the team’s MILB page to learn more about their upcoming games.
- Sidewalk cafes
A trip to Visalia wouldn’t be complete without dining in one of the city’s many sidewalk cafes. Among the more notable ones are 210 Café, Component Coffee Lab, Le Boulevard, and Mavericks Coffee Company. Component Coffee Lab, in particular, offers the perfect place for you to enjoy your food and drink. The popular coffee spot is known for its high quality, single-origin coffee and hearty breakfast food.
It’s impossible to run out of exciting things to do in and around Merced, CA. Learn about what Merced and its environs have to offer by calling SoldaviRealty today at 209.975.7653. You may also send us an email at info(at)soldavi(dotted)comfor more information on Merced, CA real estate.