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Visalia
Islands of trees rise above oceans of tilled earth around Visalia, an
urban center set in a busy agricultural landscape. Located on the eastern
edge of the valley, this gateway city to Sequoia National Park has a mild,
warm climate that attracted early settlers because it promised abundant
crops as well as good health. Boosters once touted its "pure air";
that's not quite as true today, but on a clear morning after a winter
storm, the ragged scarp of the Sierra Nevada—rising like a white
wave of granite surf—seems close indeed. Located about 11 miles
off Highway 99, Visalia is often bypassed by travelers. To make matters
worse, Highway 198 running through town
thoroughly cuts the city in two. But pull off, and you'll be rewarded
with the discovery of a vin-tage downtown, historic houses turned inns,
and some of the best dining in the valley.
While in the downtown area, take note of the 1,200-seat 1928 VISALIA
FOX THEATRE at Main and Encina Streets. Like the Fox Theatre in Hanford,
its Spanish colonial style evokes a massive Andalusian wedding cake with
hints of Moorish influence-perfect for a Hoot Gibson or
Errol Flynn movie An old sign that says "The Coolest Spot In Town"
dates back to the days when that claim referred to temperature not decree
of hipness. On a hot day you too. may want to experience the "cool
breezes of the Alaska air-washer". Movies, concerts, and special
events will soon take place here again; after a period of decline, the
Fox is being restored through a community-wide fundraismg effort. Several
Main Street restaurants and businesses are also part of the street's come
back. ANTIQUE SHOPPING can be rewarding in Visalia. Two worthy venues
are the Showcase Mall (26644 S Mooney Boulevard; 559/685- 1125) and Carriage
House Antique Ma11 (1584 E Mmera1 King Avenue;559/635-8818)
Once blanketed by oak trees, Visalia has preserved its original landscape
in MOONEY GROVE PARK (5 mlles south of Visalia off Highway 63 at 27000
S Mooney Boulevard; 559/733-6796), and has preserved some of its buildings
as well in the park's requisite PIONEER VILLAGE, including an unusual
cast-iron facade from an 1873 Masonic and Odd Fellows Hall. Don' t miss
the log-built boathouse set on the edge of a quiet mirrored lake. TULARE
COUNTY MOONEY GROVE MUSEUM (2700 S Mooney Boulevard; 559/733-6616) has
a classic selection of historical artifacts.
One real oddity in the region is RIATA RANCH' "Home of the Cowboy
Girls.When they're not touring the world giving trick-riding demonstrations,
these young sprites (horse-riding gymnasts, really) tram here on magnificent
Appaloosas and Paints. Tour buses and other groups stop in for an occasional
dinner show (barbecue fare by a local caterer) when the girls are in town.
Individuals tourists can also attend by calling 559/594-4288 for directions
and reservations.
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