Budget-friendly things to do for spring break? Check out 5 Modesto-area hotspots
Looking for things to do during spring break in the Modesto area?
According to the Stanislaus County Office of Education, some students began their break as early as Monday, March 23, while others won’t be off until early April, after Easter.
From scenic mountain hikes to relaxing beach days, plenty of spring break destinations are within a three-hour drive of Modesto.
However, with rising gas prices and potential grocery cost increases, staying closer to home might be the smarter choice.
If your kids are on spring break and you’re looking for ways to keep them entertained without breaking the bank, here are some budget-friendly activities around Stanislaus County:
Pottery painting activity in Modesto
Pottery Magic Modesto — 3501 McHenry Ave., Unit B6, in Modesto — makes it easy to have fun and get creative on a budget.
The studio offers a wide variety of paint-your-own ceramics, from small figurines and keychains to larger items including piggy banks and planters, with prices starting as low as $2.50 and most pieces priced under $30.
They also offer weekly deals to help customers save money.
On Mondays, the $5 studio fee is waived.
On Wednesdays, guests can get discounts ranging from a free studio fee to 20% off. Groups of four or more get half off the studio fee on Fridays.
Visit popular Stanislaus County flea market
El Rematito Flea Market is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering a full day of shopping and entertainment.
Parking is $5.
The market is family-friendly, with plenty for kids to enjoy, including pony rides, bounce houses, a sensory play area and an arcade. There is even live music on Sundays.
Shoppers can browse a wide range of vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to trendy collectibles. There’s also no shortage of food, with options including food trucks, carts, fresh produce and sweet and savory treats.
Prices vary by booth, making it easy to find something for nearly every budget.
Family-friendly fun at Resendiz Family Fruit Barn
Resendiz Family Fruit Barn, 4342 Geer Road in Hughson, has “the newest playground sensation in town,” according to its website.
The “exciting playground” features slides, bridges, tunnels and plenty of space for kids to explore. It is open seven days a week with no entry fee, according to the farm’s Instagram account.
Visitors can also enjoy a small zoo to view goats, chickens, peacocks and turtles, plus picnic tables and a scenic pond.
The barn’s shop offers a variety of treats, from fresh fruit to baked goods, with prices varying by item and size.
Explore a local bookstore in Stanislaus County
Bookish Modesto, 811 West Roseburg Ave. in Modesto, is a treasure trove for readers, with shelves packed with everything from memoirs and mysteries to fantasy and romance.
New books typically range from $12 to $40, while used titles start as low as $2.
The store’s youth section — Little Bookish — features cozy seating, activity tables and a wide selection of children’s books for all ages, from toddlers to junior high school students.
Visitors can also grab snacks such as chips, cookies and canned teas, as well as fun trinkets including bookmarks, stickers and journals.
Shop fresh, affordable finds at the farmers market
Stanislaus County farmers markets are a great spot to enjoy fresh food and local goods without overspending.
The Modesto Certified Farmers Market hosts more than 50 vendors — including MatKat Sourdough, Bloomingcamp Ranch and Chinchiolo Farms — selling their products every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Thursday market returns on Thursday,April 2, featuring handcrafted items, organic produce, refreshing beverages and fresh flowers. Prices are set by each vendor.
Many stands offer free samples, and others accept state assistance programs such as WIC and CalFresh.
The market is on 16th Street between H and I streets, right next to the Stanislaus County Library.
