August 23, 2023. South of Fresno, California
We headed over to the main visitor center of the Channel Islands early this morning. Not only were we looking for stamps for our NP Passports, and to watch their informational video but we needed advice. Harry and I were hoping it would be just a matter of days not weeks or months that Death Valley would be opened and we felt someone here might just have an inside track on their situation. We had two days planned at Death Valley, unfortunately it was made very clear to us that this park would be out of commission for longer than we had available on our agenda.
This was a very unique visitor’s center with doors open wide and just a few steps across the hall were another set of doors opening out onto the ocean. See their unique aquarium below!
We sat in our car for quite a bit researching options and trying to be wise. For better or worse, we decided to head up closer to Yosemite. Our reservations there have been on the docket for more than 8 months so it is not feasible for us to change them for earlier or longer. So, we are here in Fresno, or close to it. While passing through Bakersfield, we visited Murray Family Farms…Supposed to be the fourth most exciting things to do there with their local zoo number one.
For local people it reminded us of a blend of Fender’s farm and Troyes. So…we are her for a couple of days and will see what mischief we can get into. 🙂
hkdorr 
I really hate it for you all that you can’t see Death Valley. I know you 2 will find some exciting adventures for the next couple of days and you will have fun at whatever you choose!
Not as easy to keep occupied, as we had thought. Then we said…what are the top things to do in Johnson City…it was shocking! You don’t want to get stranded there! Yee Haw #1 thing to do and our public library #2 according to Trip Advisor!
Johnson City was #1 on a list in 2022 for being the best place in the U.S. fir outdoor activities. That included Roan Mountain, lakes, the Tannery Knob mountain biking, trails, etc. I can’t imagine Trip Adviser only has the library and Yee-Haw.
Oh, they had many things listed but Yee Haw and The library were 1 and 2. They have not been as helpful for our two unplanned days.