Traveling Through Central California: Top Five Popular Attractions

If you're looking for a scenic drive in Central California with plenty of sights to see, the 146-mile stretch between Cambria and Clovis is the perfect road trip for you. Along this route, you'll discover a mix of beautiful natural landscapes and fascinating man-made attractions. To help you plan your journey, we've compiled a list of the top five popular attractions you won't want to miss.

Halfway Point: Kettleman City, CA

Before we get into the top five attractions, it's worth mentioning the halfway point of this journey: Kettleman City. Located approximately 72 miles from both Cambria and Clovis, Kettleman City is an ideal place to stop for a break or a meal. This small town is home to several fast-food restaurants, a gas station, and a few shops. If you're looking to stretch your legs, you can also check out the Kettleman Hills Trail, which offers a short hike and scenic views of the surrounding area.

Top Five Places to See

1. Hearst Castle

No visit to Central California would be complete without a tour of the Hearst Castle. This grand estate, located just a few miles north of Cambria, was built by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century. Today, visitors can explore the opulent rooms and grounds of the castle, which includes a huge outdoor pool, elaborate gardens, and an impressive art collection. With its stunning architecture and rich history, the Hearst Castle is a must-see attraction for anyone traveling through the area.

2. Morro Bay State Park

If you're looking for nature and wildlife, Morro Bay State Park is an excellent spot to visit. This park, located about 20 miles north of Kettleman City, covers over 1350 acres of land and sea. Visitors can hike through the park's scenic trails, go birdwatching along the bay, or take a kayak tour to see local wildlife up close. If you're lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the park's namesake: Morro Rock, a striking volcanic peak that rises above the bay.

3. Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Heading east from Kettleman City, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers. This sprawling zoo covers over 39 acres of land and is home to over 190 species of animals. Visitors can see everything from giraffes and elephants to tigers and gorillas. In addition to its animal exhibits, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo also offers a range of educational programs and interactive exhibits.

4. Forestiere Underground Gardens

Located just a few miles north of Fresno, the Forestiere Underground Gardens are a unique and fascinating attraction. These subterranean gardens were created by Italian immigrant Baldasare Forestiere over the course of several decades in the early 20th century. Visitors can tour the underground spaces, which consist of a complex network of tunnels and rooms, lined with fruit trees, flowers, and other plants. It's a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a visionary artist.

5. Discovery Center

Our final attraction is the Discovery Center in Clovis, California. This family-friendly museum offers a range of interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. You can explore the natural history of Central California, learn about astronomy and space exploration, and even watch live science demonstrations. The Discovery Center is a fun and educational way to round out your journey through the area.

Conclusion

If you're traveling from Cambria to Clovis, or vice versa, you're in for a treat. This 146-mile route offers an abundance of natural beauty and fascinating attractions. Along the way, you can stop in Kettleman City for a break, tour the opulent Hearst Castle, explore the wilderness of Morro Bay State Park, marvel at the subterranean Forestiere Underground Gardens, and immerse yourself in science and education at the Discovery Center. For a fun and rewarding journey through Central California, this road trip is hard to beat.