People........this is not really an "attraction." A sign, and look out, it is VERY close to a very bad area!!!!!!!
We have lived in Modesto for years. I happened to be browsing trip advisor and noticed that this sign that we pass by so frequently was on here. Ok, so if you are on vacation and make any kind of a trip to see this, even if just 3 steps, its a loss. It is an old sign, with a saying that no longer reflects our community, in a run down area. Instead of going to see this, take a drive out in the country, go buy some delicious, fresh as you can get, produce at Loretelli's, see a movie at the State Theatre, or for heaven's sake...take a nap, read a book or call your mom.
The Modesto Arch has been around forever and a day. It's message is simple and captures the feeling of Modesto a century ago. For historic purposes, it's one of the few landmarks that Modesto has preserved. No particular reason to stop and gawk. Just admire it as you drive under.
The Modesto Arch is one of those landmarks that just missed immortality. It's quaint enough, light bulbs spelling out "Water, Wealth, Contentment and Health." But some of the premise is iffy these days, and I'm wistful about what could have been. The legend is that a contest was held to come up with the wording on the arch, and the winner was "Nobody's Got Modesto's Goat." The town burgers supposedly displayed the proper approbrium, and chose an also ran, the water and wealth thing.Imagine, however, if they had gone with the winner. Would that have generated more publicity and fame? You betcha. It would be like naming your minor league ball team The Modesto Nuts... So sometimes its best not to take youself too seriously.
Most cities have a sign that identifies and welcomes you. Modesto has a very unusual sign to spans the road in the downtown area near the train station. The city is justifiably proud of the sign that lights up a night. Interesting driveby attraction.
The Modesto Arch was built over one hundred years ago and is the most notable gateway to the city, It was recently refurbished and really looks nice.
if you are expecting this to be some sort of planned destination for your day trip, don't plan to leave your vehicle..drive by and take a gander. sure, it's a cool sign. but the area is ridden with trash of all types. just look...take it in and drive on to something like the freeway. I can't even believe this is listed as a trip destination. it's a sign!
Not really an attraction. But it is a landmark item. It is one of the first things you see when heading down town Modesto. It has been up for years.
A landmark that Modesto is known for. Over 100 years as it was built in 1912. Near downtown Modesto.