Coalinga, California: A Hidden Gem in the Central Valley

Coalinga is a small city located in the heart of the Central Valley of California. This unique city is known for its hot springs, natural beauty, and great weather. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or just a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city, Coalinga has something for everyone.

Places to Visit

1. Harris Ranch Inn and Restaurant

If you love great food, be sure to check out Harris Ranch Inn and Restaurant. This popular steakhouse is known for its delicious beef and farm-fresh ingredients. Don’t forget to try their famous milkshakes!

2. Coalinga Mineral Springs County Park

With its natural hot springs, Coalinga Mineral Springs County Park is the perfect place to unwind and relax. Spend the day soaking in the naturally heated pools or take a dip in the cooler swimming pool.

3. Fossil Discovery Center

Located just outside of Coalinga, the Fossil Discovery Center is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in prehistoric fossils. It features an impressive collection of fossils from the Miocene epoch, including giant sloths, horses, and whales.

4. R.C. Baker Memorial Museum

If you’re a history buff, be sure to check out the R.C. Baker Memorial Museum. This small museum features exhibits on the local history of Coalinga, including exhibits on Native American culture and the oil industry.

5. Panoche Hills Ecological Reserve

Located just outside of Coalinga, the Panoche Hills Ecological Reserve is a beautiful natural area that is home to a variety of plant and animal species. It is a popular spot for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing.

6. Keck’s Clock

This iconic clock is a landmark in Coalinga and has been a part of the city’s history since 1925. The clock’s design is based on the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition clock tower in San Francisco, and it continues to keep perfect time even after all these years.

7. Coalinga Carnegie Library

If you’re a book lover, be sure to visit the Coalinga Carnegie Library. This historic library was built in 1923 and is now home to a large collection of books and other materials.

8. China Alley Historic District

The China Alley Historic District is a unique area of downtown Coalinga that is home to a variety of historic buildings and landmarks. It is a great place to take a walk and learn about the city’s past.

9. Coalinga Cinema

If you’re in the mood for a movie, be sure to check out the Coalinga Cinema. This historic movie theater has been showing films since the 1920s and still has its original art deco-style architecture.

10. Horned Toad Derby Festival

Every year, Coalinga hosts the Horned Toad Derby Festival, a celebration of the city’s unique culture and history. The festival features a parade, live music, a car show, and of course, the world-famous horned toad races.

Places to Avoid

1. Pleasant Valley State Prison

Pleasant Valley State Prison is a maximum-security prison located just outside of Coalinga. While the prison is an important part of the local economy, it is not a tourist attraction and should be avoided.

2. East Side Park

While East Side Park is a popular spot for locals, it can be overrun with homeless people and is not safe for tourists.

3. Chain Restaurants

Coalinga has many great locally owned restaurants, so there is no reason to eat at a chain restaurant.

4. Coalinga Bowl

The Coalinga Bowl is a small bowling alley that can be noisy and crowded on weekends.

5. Coalinga Municipal Airport

The Coalinga Municipal Airport is a small airport that only serves private planes and should be avoided by tourists.

Overview of Coalinga