Home to the Sequoia National Forest headquarters and hundreds of breathtaking sequoia trees, Porterville, CA is a perfect spot for your next road trip. There are so many things to experience here, from day hiking through trees as wide as your tires to learning how to cook in a Dutch oven. Check out these tourist attractions that are worthy of putting on your itinerary.
4 Tourist Attractions in Driving Distance of Porterville, CA
1. Trail of 100 Giants Trailhead
Nestled within the lush Long Meadow Grove, you’ll behold the transcendent of stunning sequoias at Co Rte 107. Stroll through the 1.3-mile path to take in the enormous beauties, which are estimated to be 1,500 years old. The trail has many loop options, and the site offers facilities including paved parking, picnic areas, restrooms, and the Redwood Meadow campground.
The dense sequoia grove boasts around 125 giants with a diameter of 10 feet or more, and over 700 with a smaller diameter. The most impressive tree inside Long Meadow Grove soars 220 feet into the sky with a diameter of 20 feet!
2. Porterville Historical Museum
Located in a restored 1913 passenger train station, the museum at 257 N D Street contains all you need to understand our beloved city’s history. The museum has gathered artifacts and relics for over 50 years and displays their findings inside and outside the building. They also host zany competitions, like the upcoming Dutch oven cook-off.
Walk the grounds to view their collection of vintage fire trucks, farm equipment, and wagons, or see historic events told through the rings of giant sequoia trees. Indoor exhibits include a vast collection of Native American artifacts and woven baskets, a native wildlife display featuring mountain lions and raptors, and much more.
3. Zalud House
As one of the few houses from 1891 that hasn’t been remodeled, the historic home at 393 N Hockett Street offers a nostalgic glimpse into decades past. The unique architecture of the old home includes a mansard roof, and the inside is entirely furnished with the original family’s belongings. The enchanting gardens are a beautiful spot for weddings and events.
If you’re looking for a scare, the Zalud house is a popular attraction for paranormal investigators. Spend an evening with experts from the Paranormal Movement Investigations for a session with an electronic voice phenomena device.
4. Centennial Park
Pile the family into your 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss and head over to 296 N Main Street to play at the park favored by locals. While the kiddos are running amuck, find a bench and admire the 18-foot-tall four-dial clock that was erected by one of our local musical icons, Frank ‘Buck’ Shaffer.
When you’ve rested up after a long day of adventuring, swing by Merle Stone Chevrolet to see what’s new!
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