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CENTRAL VALLEY CITIES Beyond the buffet table IT MAY SUPPLY as much as 45 percent of the table food served in the United States, but the Central Valley isn't only about farms. While there's plenty to please the palate, cities of the Central Valley also offer Gold Rush history, access to a variety of outdoor pursuits and flat-out family fun. Slow the car, turn off the highway, and sample these central cities. From River to Farm » STROLL, EAT, PLAY, RELAX. Central Valley Tourism Association visitcentralvalley.com 176 2013 travel guide to c al i fo r n ia The inland port city of Stockton was once a major supply point for Gold Rush miners. Today, its more than 1,000 miles of delta waterways make it ideal for recreation—from fishing to water skiing. Even a stroll along the waterfront is enough to soak in the sights. Foodies drawn to the wealth of produce from the Central Valley's "greatest garden in the world" can enjoy the fresh taste of spring at the Asparagus Festival. Wander along Asparagus Alley for samples of deep-fried asparagus, asparagus burritos and even asparagus ice cream. Playground of National Parks Nestled in the foothills below the majestic Sierra Nevada, Visalia is the gateway to Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. The city's charm and strong community welcome visitors year-round for an experience filled with live entertainment, stunning art, rich history and restaurants by jill k. robinson that feature farm-to-fork flavors. Savor the city's fresh cuisine at one of many sidewalk cafés, take a stroll in the quaint downtown district and tour the richest agricultural region in the United States. Just up the road, take a short detour off famous California Highway 99 to taste delicious wines along the Madera Wine Trail. Visitors will enjoy award-winning wines at more than a dozen wineries that dot the Madera County countryside. From here, travelers are nearly at Yosemite National Park's doorstep. The Best of Both Worlds Vacaville's pastoral setting, vibrant downtown and world-class shopping make it a perfect getaway or home base for your Central Valley California vacation experience. Set against the rolling hills just west of Sacramento Valley, Vacaville is a special place to live, work, play and visit. The city's central location and affordable lodging are only a short drive from such major cities as San Francisco, Oakland and Sacramento. However, if you're looking for some great local fun, you'll love the historic downtown area, scenic parks, performing arts venues and the legendary Nut Tree, which has been a staple of Northern California road trips and overnight stays for decades. CA CENTRAL VALLEY TOURISM ASSOCIATION FARMERS markets are popular in the Central Valley, above; Vacaville Ballet Company, below.