THE SITE: Rancho Buena Vista Adobe in Vista
THE PLACE: Although the 163-year-old Rancho Buena Vista Adobe is considered the birthplace of Vista, many people drive by it and do not know it is there. It was a private residence until the city bought it in 1989, and it has been open to the public since the 1990s, said Beverly Fisher, its program coordinator.
The city and the Friends of the Rancho Buena Vista Adobe are making every effort to make sure everyone who wants to can see it, inside and out.
The adobe looks much as it did when it was built, and the grounds are gorgeous. Although additions have been made over the years, the early California Monterey style has remained constant.
Inside, visitors can get a hands-on history lesson about how people lived from the 1850s to the 1930s.
Items on display from those decades include furniture, clothing, toys, tools, dishes and cooking implements.
Don't miss the art gallery, and the La Tiendita Gift Shop on the premises is a fun stop for unique purchases.
LOCATION: 640 Alta Vista Drive, Vista
HOURS: Docent-led tours are conducted from 10 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays and at 10 a.m. Saturdays. The 45-minute tour includes a short video presentation.
COST: For Vista residents or seniors, $3; nonresidents, $4; students, $1; children younger than 12, 50 cents.
MORE INFORMATION: (760) 639-6164
ONLINE: cityofvista.com
SUGGESTIONS: Because of the construction of a new fire station, access to the adobe will be restricted on Alta Vista Drive. Park in the Vista City Hall parking lot and walk across the street to the entrance.
– Patty McCormac
