The best things to do in Stanislaus County

“Stanislaus County Fairgrounds & Event Center keeps the homegrown fun rolling with concerts across the Michelob Ultra Center Stage and the Modelo Variety Free Stage, motorsports thrills at FoodMaxx Arena, kid-approved chaos in the Kids Zone, plus livestock auctions and the Holiday Market.”

From the Turlock newsletter, October 7, 2026

“When cabin fever hits, Funworks Modesto delivers with Putt-Putt Golf, The Batting Cages, bumper boats in season, Freddy's Lightning Raceway, Freddy's GameZone arcade and Hologate VRcade, plus Highway 66 Bowling. Grab the kids, team, or your inner child and make an easy, high-energy afternoon actually happen this week.”

From the Modesto newsletter, October 7, 2026

“Between three lakes, narrow fairways, and fast greens that actually make you focus, Creekside Golf Course is a legit test for your whole bag. This week, hit the fenced range, roll a few on the big practice green, then refuel at Putter’s Grill, because birdies taste better with fries.”

From the Ceres newsletter, September 27, 2026

“Boomers Modesto is your easy button for instant fun, with high-speed go-karts, mini golf that will expose your short game, splashy bumper boats, laser tag, and an arcade stacked with classics and new obsessions. Perfect for a quick after-school victory lap or a full-on birthday-sized shindig.”

From the Modesto newsletter, October 1, 2026

“Long-running chain of recreation centers for mini-golf; some feature arcades & other attractions.”

“McHenry Mansion lets you step into 1883 with docent-led tours that spill fun stories about the original owners and life in the late 1800s. Make it a quick midweek reset, then poke around the gift store or scope the mansion as a dreamy spot for your next gathering.”

From the Ceres newsletter, October 10, 2026

“Dryden Park Golf Course winds along the Tuolumne River with mature pines, wide emerald fairways, and medium-sized greens guarded by small bunkers. Two putting greens and a driving range make it easy to tune up this week, whether you’re breaking 80 or just chasing contact.”

From the Ceres newsletter, October 11, 2026

“Round up your favorite problem solvers and test your nerves at Escape Modesto, a 60-minute, clue-stuffed adventure where teamwork, riddles, and quick thinking unlock the exit. Shake up this week’s usual dinner-and-stream routine, especially if you secretly like bossing friends around under pressure.”

From the Ceres newsletter, September 26, 2026

“Del Rio Country Club brings 27 scenic holes, top-notch practice facilities, and instruction that might finally tame your slice. Stick around for farm-to-fork plates in the Elderberry Lounge or Redwood Room, an impressive wine selection, and pickleball or bocce sessions that turn weeknights into mini staycations.”

From the Modesto newsletter, September 24, 2026

“Brenden Theatres Modesto 18 & JBX brings plush recliners, wall‑to‑wall screens, and serious sound that makes weekday movies feel like an event. Book a private rental to plug in your console for a giant-screen showdown, then slide into a new release when you’re done.”

From the Ceres newsletter, October 14, 2026

“River Oaks Golf Course and Event Center runs along the Tuolumne River in Ceres, with the front nine on the bluff and a newly redesigned back nine by Head Pro Greg N. Silva. Bring a wedge and some patience, the driving range and putting green make it an easy midweek tune-up.”

From the Ceres newsletter, October 6, 2026

“State Theatre of Modesto Inc is queuing up a killer week with new indie Olmo, the anime heartbreaker Your Name, and a Modesto Film Society screening of The Graduate, plus concerts and comedy on deck, so pick a night and make it a local movie moment.”

From the Modesto newsletter, September 26, 2026