Downtown Modesto

Live music, theater and nightlife

Experience the vibrant art and live performance scenes in the heart of Downtown Modesto. Watch orchestras and Broadway shows at the Gallo Center for the Arts, a storied cultural center reminiscent of an ancient coliseum. The State Theatre of Modesto is a historic auditorium that screens vintage films and also hosts plays and poetry readings. "It definitely has a hometown feel. We have the Gallo Center for the Arts, where there are shows and entertainment constantly. There are a ton of locally owned eateries and shops downtown," says Jessica Barrios, a Modesto local and broker at Barrios Realty Consultants.
As a center for nightlife, culinary options and unique attractions, DOMO offers a world of experience.

• Uncover the past at the historic McHenry Museum and McHenry Mansion.
• The Modesto Children's Museum has puzzles, an escape room and activities for all ages.
• Have a cocktail at the Boardroom, an upscale lounge with occasional DJ performances.
• Go dancing at Palladium Nightclub and Vault Nightclub, each with bottle service and VIP areas.

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Farmers markets and festivals, like American Graffiti

Modesto has a history of classic car culture, dating back to the 1950s. George Lucas, a former resident of downtown Modesto and renowned film creator, who did the movie "American Graffiti," showcases the city's greaser and automobile lifestyle. Today, the American Graffiti Festival features an annual classic car show, parade and festival in downtown every June. "The June events for Graffiti weekend definitely pay homage to our history," Barrios says. "A lot of locals take part, and almost everybody has a classic car. People come from all over the state to participate."

From February to October, the Downtown Art Walk showcases art galleries, live music and restaurants on the third Thursday of each month. The Modesto Certified Farmers Market has organic produce from local farms on Thursdays and Saturdays at the Stanislaus County Library.

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Getting around Downtown Modesto

Downtown Modesto is highly walkable and bike-friendly, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer to avoid frequent driving. The Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority bus system makes stops along I Street. State Route 99 is a highway that reaches multiple cities in the Central Valley, including Stockton, about 40 minutes north. San Francisco is approximately 90 miles west of Modesto on Interstate 580. Residents can fly out of San Francisco, San Jose or Sacramento. The Sacramento International Airport is approximately 90 miles north, providing international flights to Mexico and Canada. "We're the heart of California," Barrios says. "The Bay Area, Sacramento, Yosemite and the Sierra Nevadas are all within 90 miles. We're one of the largest agricultural centers in the state."

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Schools in Modesto City District

The Modesto City School District allows open enrollment applications to any school in the district, prioritizing family and staff relations. Out-of-district transfers are granted depending on space availability. Students attend Franklin Elementary School, Mark Twain Junior High School and highly rated Modesto High School. Central Catholic High School is another highly regarded option for families seeking a private school education.

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Industry and major employers

The family-owned E. & J. Gallo Winery is one of the world's largest wine producers and exporters, employing thousands of people throughout the region. The Galletto Ristorante, also downtown, serves the world-famous wine with seasonal dishes. The city is also home to multiple food manufacturing companies, including Del Monte Foods, Frito-Lay and Save Mart Supermarkets. "We have the almonds, Foster Farms and Gallo Winery. We're a hub for big-name companies," Barrios says.