Page 174 - 2015 Travel Guide to California

CENTRAL VALLEY CITIES
Farms are just the beginning
IT MIGHT PAY OFF to get to know where
your food comes from. California’s Central
Valley supplies as much as 45 percent of
the table food served in the United States,
and while the region packs far more into
the “greatest garden in the world,” it’s
worth spending the time to taste it all right
here—when it’s fresh. Slow the car, turn off
the highway, and treat your taste buds.
FOX THEATER, Visalia, above; water-
front cityscape of All-America City
Award recipient, Stockton, top.
Stockton and Davis
The inland port city of Stockton was once
a major supply point for Gold Rush miners.
Today, the area’s rich soil and temperate
climate make it one of the most productive
farming and wine-making areas in the
state. Take your time to find your favorite,
among the wealth of farm tours, U-pick
farms, farm cafés, produce stands and
wineries. The Lodi Wine Appellation has
more than 85 wineries just a short drive
from downtown.
Davis, a city long known for its progressive
approach and long-term commitment to its
bike-friendly infrastructure, is an ideal
172 2015 T R AV E L G U I D E TO C A L I F O R N I A
B Y J I L L K . R O B I N S O N
place to tour by bicycle, especially when
you’re enjoying the region’s wineries, olive
oil orchards and organic farms. Depending
on the season, plot your must-visit spots,
and then head out on two wheels to enjoy.
Visalia and Madera
In the foothills below the majestic Sierra
Nevada, Visalia balances experiences that
cover both tasting and learning about its
homegrown treasures. Get an education
(past and present) at the Antique Farm
Equipment Museum and AgVentures
Learning Center, and then apply your new
knowledge in visits to the local farmers
market, botanical garden, cheese factory
and wine trail.
Just up the road, take a short detour off
famous California Highway 99 to taste
delicious wines along the Madera Wine
Trail. Visitors will enjoy award-winning
wines at more than a dozen wineries that
dot the Madera County countryside—one
of the oldest grape-growing regions in the
United States.