Los Banos, Agricultural city in Merced County, California.
Los Banos is a small city in central California located at the edge of the San Joaquin Valley and surrounded by farmland. The built-up area stretches along the main roads, where shops, gas stations, and residential neighborhoods with single-family homes alternate.
The settlement began in the 1850s as a trading post near a creek that supplied travelers moving between coastal towns and the interior. Later, in the 20th century, irrigation projects led to the expansion of farming and the growth of the population.
The name of the city means "the baths" and refers to a natural pond that once existed in the area. Today the influence of immigrants from Europe shows up in local family names and in the choice of restaurants found downtown.
The city is reached by highway coming from the west and from the south of the state and crossing here. Water and food can be found along the through road that runs through the center and where most services are offered.
A house designed by the well-known architect from the Midwest stands on the edge of town and is occasionally shown during tours. This building attracts professionals interested in modern American architecture of the 20th century.
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