Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Visalia
Its agricultural prosperity and well-maintained downtown make Visalia one of the valley's
convenient stops en route to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks or the Sierra Peaks.
Bypassed a century ago by the railroad, the city is 5 miles east of Hwy 99, along Hwy 198.
Its downtown has old-town charm and makes for a nice stroll.
The original Victorian and Arts-and-Crafts-style homes in Visalia are architectural gems
worth viewing on foot. Maps for many interesting
self-guided tours
are available via the
website of the
Visalia Convention and Visitor's Bureau
(
559-334-0141;
www.visitvisalia.org
;
303 E Acequia Av; 8:30am-5pm Mon-Fri)
.
Rd 182, Exeter; donation adult/child $3/1; 8am-sunset)
, about 7 miles east of town. With 324
acres of majestic oak trees, the kind that once stretched from the Sierras to (long-gone) Tu-
lare Lake in the valley, it is a gorgeous setting for easy hikes. From Hwy 198, turn north
onto Rd 182; the park is about a half-mile along on your left.
Sleeping & Eating
If you stay for grub, there are plenty of choices, including a spread of ethnic food, down
Main St between Floral and Bridge Sts
Spalding House
B&B
(
559-739-7877;
www.thespaldinghouse.com
; 631 N Encina St; s/d $85/95;
)
Spalding House offers a charming B&B experience for overnights.
Brewbaker's Brewing Company
BREWPUB
(
www.brewbakersbrewingco.com
;
219 E Main St; mains from $8; 11:30am-10pm; )
Brewbaker's Brewing Company serves up good pub grub and microbrews such as its
smooth Sequoia Red for the crowds.
Getting There & Around
