As the COVID cases are starting to wane significantly businesses and institutions have started to reopen. We got an opportunity to visit the little towns of Avenal and Coalinga, two small towns approximately 200 miles south of the San Francisco Bay Area.

As we have a wheelchair user in our family we always love to do road trips and keep on exploring new places. And at the same time check out the accessibility of these new places we visit. 

Avenal is a quaint little town which is also known as the Pistachio Capital of the world. You can enjoy the beautiful Pistachio farms on Highway 33, Lost Hills road, and S San Joaquin Ave by driving around. This was a very wheelchair-friendly activity. You can take the inner roads to have a close look at the Pistachio trees. At the cross-section of 7th Avenue and Highway 33, you will find this beautifully Manicured sign saying “Pistachio Capital of the World”. A beautiful spot to click Pictures. Avenal’s Historic Theater is a very famous landmark of the place. This place is also famous for its Avenal State Prison.

Coalinga is the bigger town and has more hotels. It is also an agricultural town. A small and cozy downtown that pretty much covers all the business of this small town. The Series of trees lined up in the agricultural land is a spectacular sight. Serene, quiet and refreshing. We booked our hotel in Coalinga. The drive was very beautiful with greenery all around. This town is known for the famous cattle Ranch – Harris Ranch. Harris Ranch has a hotel, Restaurants, and some gift shops where travelers on I-5 stop by. This is a perfect place for a weekend getaway. If you get a chance you can make a visit to RC Baker Museum. This museum has exhibits showing the past of Coalinga. The staff is very friendly and you have to call them before going.

The whole trip was a very unique experience for us as we normally miss out on these little towns on I-5 whenever we drive to/from Los Angeles.

♿️ Wheelchair accessibility ♿️

  • Both Avenal and Coalinga are Wheelchair friendly.
  • Pistachio farms and Harris Ranch are very accessible as the ground is very leveled.
  • There are wheelchair-accessible rooms in Harris Ranch if you are planning to stay.
  • The drive on Highway 198  is very scenic and is very comfortable for a wheelchair user to enjoy.

♿️ COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS ♿️

The Shelter in Place has eased now with the reopening of many recreational activities. However, it is absolutely essential to keep social distancing and safety procedures in mind. At no point should these be compromised. 

  • Always wear your face mask if you are not vaccinated.
  • Avoid crowded areas if you are stepping out of the car
  • Always remember to carry gloves, hand sanitizer, water, food.
  • Do not forget to use the restroom before leaving your house, as it is safer to avoid using public restrooms during this period
  • Remember to wipe your crutch or mobility scooter handle or the wheelchair wheels every time you return from outdoors.
  • Do not leave your items unattended.
  • While dining outside, make sure you wipe your chairs if possible.
  • Make sure to check the updated information of the place as there might be covid restrictions
  • While walking or running, make sure to keep a distance of 6 feet.