Los Banos: Downtown, Trails and History

Downtown and Trails

Downtown Los Banos is the city’s geographic, historic, and cultural center. The compact center is located around Sixth Street, also called Main Street, and is easy to explore on foot. Residents and visitors come together here to eat, shop, and enjoy culture.

The Rail Trail system grew out of a former railway line that was converted into an urban walking trail. It runs through Los Banos from northwest to southeast. The Rail Trail Corridor stretches from Second Street to Place Road. It is car-free, with shade trees, benches, and access to restaurants among its features. The Lindemann Family Trail runs from Place Road to Ward Road and also offers shade and views of the rural surroundings. The Page Extensions Trail runs from Page Avenue to Mercey Springs Road.

Wildlife Areas and Nature

The Los Banos Wildlife Area covers approximately 6,200 acres of wetlands and provides habitat for more than 200 bird species. Its history is also connected to the protection of waterfowl: it was the first in a series of state waterfowl refuges established to manage habitats for wintering waterfowl.

The San Luis National Wildlife Refuge covers more than 26,800 acres. Its habitats include wetlands, riparian forests, native grasslands, and seasonal vernal pools. The main entrance provides access to the visitor center and headquarters, the Tule Elk Auto Tour Route, the Waterfowl Auto Tour Route, and the associated nature trails.

The auto tour routes and nature trails are open daily year-round from half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset. Check current conditions before your visit.

City History and Murals

Los Banos’ Historic Mural Program was established by the City Council in 2012 to install historic murals on downtown storefront facades. Mural 1A depicts a livery stable. The mural was created by local muralist Anne Whitehurst and is located at 1048 Sixth Street.

The Miller and Lux Building is a classic office building from around the turn of the 20th century in the historic downtown district. City founder Henry Miller originally had it built as office space for the Miller and Lux Cattle Company. Another connection to him can be found at Henry Miller Plaza, where a memorial fountain dedicated to the city’s founder stands.

The Milliken Museum was renamed in honor of its longtime curator; it was previously called the Los Banos Historical Museum. Along with the historic murals and the office building, this history offers a glimpse into different aspects of the cityscape and its development.

Events and Regional Setting

Annual events include Egg Hunt in the Park at Oliveira Park. Movies in the Park are held in various parks during the summer. The annual Halloween Fest is scheduled for October at the AG Sports Complex; National Night Out is held annually in Downtown Los Banos. Since event details may change, check dates and details before your visit.

In the wider region, San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area offers hiking and horseback riding trails. This destination differs from the urban trails in Los Banos and adds to the options for travelers interested in trails and outdoor activity.

Explore more destinations: Gustine, Stevinson, Merced, Winton, Atwater

Go to the main travel overview: Merced.