The San Benito County Historical Park showcases a collection of vintage vehicles and farm equipment and implements, as well as historic buildings that were relocated from various parts of San Benito County. Also known as the San Benito County Historical and Recreation Park, it offers 30 individual picnic sites on a first-come first-served basis. The park is popular with families, historian buffs and birdwatchers.
Parking and public transportation at the San Benito County Historical Park
Parking is available at the park, which is part of the gate fee. The park is not accessible by public transportation.
Best and worst time to the San Benito County Historical Park
The best time to visit is during March to early May to experience Spring in the park and the surrounding hillsides. The worse time to visit is on very hot days during June to September.
Admission to the San Benito County Historical Park
Visitors must pay a self-pay gate fee of $3. Admission to the park's historic village is free, but donations are welcome.
Must see/do at the San Benito County Historical Park
Stroll through the park's historic village to view actual buildings of local residents, businesses and public agencies that were constructed in the late 19th century. Some of the historic buildings include a dance hall, a saloon, a one-room school, a tank house and a wooden jail.
Other places to visit near the San Benito County Historical Park
Nearby is the Immaculate Conception Church, a small church built in 1892. Visitors can walk around the grounds to view the church's gardens, small grottos, the 14 Stations of the Cross, a marble replica of Michaelangelo's Pieta and several other statues, such as The Winged Victory. Behind the church is a sweeping vista of the mountains.
The 19th Hole Booze & Food, a short distance away, is a restaurant and bar favored by many locals and tourists. Having an authentic cowboy atmosphere, this once-upon-a-time saloon was built in the late 1800s.
San Benito Bene, in Hollister, is a gift shop that sells chocolates, olive oils, foods, lotions, soaps, jewelry, scarves and other products, of which many are made by local farmers, artists and artisans. The shop also offers sampling of chocolates, olive oils and other foods.
Insider tip for visitors to the San Benito County Historical Park
A Civil War Reenactment is usually held each year in September. For up-to-date information, contact the San Benito County Historical Society.
Author's bio: Susan Echaore-McDavid writes a blog about Hollister and nearby areas.