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10 SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | MAY 2026 By Clare Mendez, Resident Are you new to this area? If so, this article might encourage you to do some exploration. I'll begin your tour with a drive eastward along Florida Avenue. On the northwest corner of Florida and Kirby, Gibbel Park is very unassuming until November when it comes ablaze with a Field of Flags, as well as a memorial in honor of our local veterans. The flags are taken down soon after Veterans Day. You won't want to miss this patriotic tribute. Continuing east on Florida, you come to the actual "downtown" area. Again, on your left at the corner of Florida and State Street, you'll see the historic Santa Fe Depot and home of the Hemet Museum. It's open Friday through Sunday from 11 am – 3 pm. It doesn't cost anything to go inside and take a look, although they do accept donations. The volunteer docents have a plethora of information on the history of Hemet. Ask away. They love inquiries. Without getting back into your car, you can walk the rest of this tour downtown. I promise to keep our walk short. A fantastic place to enjoy a bite to eat is at the Downtown Deli on Harvard Street. They have a variety of sandwiches and salads for a very reasonable price. Place your order, pay, and take a seat. They have tables, cozy chairs, and couches to choose from, and free books and magazines to peruse while you wait. The atmosphere is one of relaxation. When your order is ready, they will bring it to you. Enjoy. Ready to continue? Head back to Florida Avenue, heading east. You'll pass by Balloons and Things, a huge costume and prop store. It's fun to peruse this store and maybe get an idea or two for your next party or Halloween costume. On the same block (still on Florida Avenue heading east) you'll come to the Historic Hemet Theatre. In the summer months, they host a variety of tribute bands that are local favorites. The bands play up on the stage of the old movie theater, and there is plenty of room for dancing in the area in front of the stage. They don't just host concerts. You can look up their schedule of events and order tickets online at www.hemettheater.org. Some snacks and beverages (including beer and wine) are available for purchase and consumption on site. One last thing: from there, you can head north along Carmalita Street to Latham Avenue, and there you'll find the Hemet Public Library. With proof of residency, you can get a library card and bring home a book to read while you soak your tired feet. Time to head back to the car. There's more to explore in Hemet and the nearby attractions, towns, and mountains. In future articles, I'll tell you some of my favorites. Until next time, safe travels. Focusing on Downtown Hemet