Things To Do In Fresno

29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Fresno, CA

Things To Do In Fresno, CA

 

Rich in farmland that produces a wide variety of colorful vegetables, Fresno is well-known for its agricultural industry.

But planting isn’t the only thing!

The city offers a wide range of fascinating tourist attractions, including museums, art galleries, historical sites, and natural features.

These are our choices for the top 30 enjoyable activities in Fresno, California.

 

1. Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre

Renting the Theater - Roger Rocka's Dinner Theater

Since its 1978 opening, Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre in Fresno, California, has been a popular destination for romantic evening dates, delectable cuisine, and entertaining shows of various kinds.

This venue has hosted more than 180 shows, including the Sound of Music, Bye Bye Birdie, and Guys & Dolls.

Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre is known for its delightful performances, excellent cuisine and entertainment, and overall amazing experience.

The architecture of the theater is likewise breathtakingly gorgeous.

This is a fantastic option if you’re unsure of what to do and want to do something enjoyable in Fresno!

Address: 1226 N Wishon Ave, Fresno, CA 93728, United States

2. Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church

Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church

Bobak Ha’EriCC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Being the first of its sort in America, the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church was the first to be constructed using an Armenian architectural style.

It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a consequence.

Located in Fresno, California, it is a popular destination due to its charming architecture as well as its distinctive historical significance.

Lawrence Karekin Cone, Fresno’s first Armenian architect, created the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church.

He meticulously recreated the characteristics of such buildings from the fourth to the seventeenth centuries, drawing inspiration from churches back home.

It is necessary to observe the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church’s distinctive dome in order to comprehend it.

It was once located in a sizable portion of the downtown area known as Armenian Town.

As Armenians rose in social and economic standing and left the area, the majority of the population remained Armenian until the mid-1950s.

One of the free things to do in the city is visit the beautiful Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, which is a terrific low-cost tourist destination.

Address: 2226 Ventura Ave, Fresno, CA 93721, United States

3. Downing Planetarium

Downing Planetarium

Downing Planetarium

Located on the Fresno State campus, the Downing Planetarium was constructed for the Department of Physics.

Even from a distance, the 30-foot dome is stunning, and since it opened in 2000, it has been a popular destination for Fresno visitors interested in the heavens and the cosmos.

On a clear night, you will feel as though you have been transported outside of California to observe distant astronomical objects through the planetarium telescope.

The 74-seat star theater at the Downing Planetarium uses a fun combination of a Minolta MS-10 start projector and hemispherical mirror projection to transform the entire planetarium dome into a movie screen!

Address: 5320 N Maple Ave, Fresno, CA 93710, United States

4. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

One of the must-see destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife lovers is Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

Unfortunately, Fresno does not have a park with a diverse scenery; instead, it is located an hour away in California.

Nevertheless, it is on this list of Fresno attractions since it is quite essential and well worth the short travel outside of the city!

The Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are truly remarkable due to its varied terrain, towering mountain peaks, and magnificent gigantic sequoia trees.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a strenuous adventure, the site offers a variety of hiking trails for hikers of all ability levels.

Rock climbing, animal viewing, biking, backpacking, and more are all available at Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. Do whatever it is you need to do to appreciate the natural beauty of the area!

Hiking to Moro Rock, which offers stunning sweeping views of the park and California beyond, is one of the most well-liked ways to spend time here.

Address: 47050 Generals Hwy, Three Rivers, CA 93271, United States

5. Fresno County Fruit Trail

Fresno County Fruit Trail

Fresno County Fruit Trail

The Fresno County Fruit Trail is a nice option in May if you arrive too late to visit the Blossom Trail!

It takes you past charming fruit and vegetable markets, where you may sample vibrant orchards full of fresh produce.

Along the route, there are numerous farms where you can choose to stop and try buying baked items, nuts, honey, jams, and of course, fruit.

Without a doubt, this self-guided driving trip is an excellent way to see the attractions!

There is no charge to enter.

6. The Discovery Center

The Discovery Center

The Discovery Center

Without a doubt, one of the greatest and most enjoyable locations to visit in Fresno, California, is the Discovery Center—especially if you’re taking your kids!

This science education center was established in 1954 with the goal of stimulating visitors’ interest via interactive, hands-on exhibits and educational opportunities that span a wide range of environmental and physical science topics.

There are several outdoor attractions in the five-acre park where the Discovery Center is located.

These include a dinosaur dig, a historical barn, a tortoise cage, some Miwok Indian dwellings, and the Deutsch Cactus Garden.

Magnets, space, electricity, antiquities, paleontology, the natural sciences, and even Native American basketry are among the many subjects covered in the interior exhibitions.

You and your family can discover more about electricity, botany, and dinosaurs in interesting and fun ways by taking a stroll around.

Everyone is likely to discover something that interests them, and there are so many activities that it’s difficult to become bored.

Address: 1944 N Winery Ave, Fresno, CA 93703, United States

7. Kearney Mansion Museum

Kearney Mansion Museum

Kearney Mansion Museum

One intriguing addition to the National Register of Historic Places is the Kearney Mansion Museum.

The Kearney Mansion Museum is situated on 225 acres of parkland.

For a very long time, this has been one of the best things to do in Fresno. It was once called the most beautiful park on the West Coast.

The main attraction of the palace is its architecture, which was influenced by the French Renaissance.

It is a significant location in the history of Fresno, California, and contains two main buildings: the main residence building and the servant’s quarters.

M. Theo Kearney owned and commissioned the home.

The Kearney Mansion’s pleasing appearance and feel are the result of local materials, Victorian-style stock moldings, and locally employed labor.

Although they have a simple rectangular shape and adobe brick walls, their attractiveness is enhanced by the ridgemolding, high ceilings, decorative pinnacles, dormer windows, soaring chimneys, and an exquisite roof.

The mansion’s interior features French wallpapers with intricate and colorful landscape designs, as well as Victorian-style fireplaces, trimmings, moldings, and railings.

In the Kearney Mansion Museum, about half of the original furnishings are still in place.

The replicas have been used as stand-ins for missing furniture and have been convincingly replicated.

Address: 7160 W Kearney Blvd, Fresno, CA 93706, United States

8. Fresno Blossom Trail

Fresno Blossom Trail

Fresno Blossom Trail (Andy Blackledge / flickr)

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Searching for stunning destinations in the United States?

Why not visit the Blossom Trail in Fresno?

The Fresno Blossom Trail is a testament to the tranquility and beauty of California’s springs.

As the walk leads you through the best sights of new blossoms, abundance, and lush land, you can observe the beauty and vitality of the region’s agriculture.

The Blossom Trail is 62 miles long and can be driven or biked through a variety of nut and fruit orchards.

You will see a different side of this city, one that is gentler and more welcoming, thanks to the peach, apple, and apricot trees.

The self-guided tour track is lined by vineyards, citrus trees, and other attractions.

You should plan your journey along the Blossom Trail if you want it to be one of the most romantic activities you and your significant other can undertake.

Between the middle of February and the middle of March, blooms and the most vivid hues are seen.

Simonian Farms, which established in 1901 and offers path users driving maps in addition to nuts and fruits, is a suggested stop along the trail.

Address: Fresno, CA 93725, United States

9. Meux Home Museum

Meux Home Museum

Meux Home Museum

Civil War veteran and physician Dr. Thomas Richard Meux created the title of the Meux Home Museum.

In 1889, it was constructed.

The interior of this Gothic Victorian-style palace, which has 16 rooms spread across two storeys, is exquisitely preserved.

One of the destinations for history and architectural lovers in Fresno, California, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Special tours of the Meux Home are occasionally offered nowadays, and it’s a great way to experience the vintage style.

The Meux Home Museum’s façade further displays its gaunt yet diverse form with the employment of elements including corbels, towers, string courses, Corinthian cornices, fans, cut glass, scrolls, and stained glass.

Some features, like the chimney detailing, also exhibit French Renaissance influences.

Nonetheless, finials, roofs, and other related details distinctly display the primary Victorian Gothic style.

The outside of the house is made more appealing by the various textures, particularly the more ornate elements.

On the contrary, the inside is a perfect example of Victorian style.

With mill-made details, railings, balusters, pillars, and millwork, every inch of the wall and ceiling is papered and embellished.

Historical gas lighting units typical of the time period are displayed in lighting fixtures.

Additionally, there is a stable on site with a storage room adjacent and ample capacity for buggies, phaetons, surreys, and, of course, horses.

Address: 1007 R St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States

10. Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden

Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden

Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden

Look no further than the Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden if you’re searching for locations that are both Fresno attractions and excellent places to have a nice drink.

Established in 2007, the company creates world-class craft beer for Fresno, California residents and tourists.

Additionally, the selection is always shifting and rotating.

Kevin Cox, an award-winning master of the craft, crafts all of the beers here, and they are blended with artistic and cultural elements.

The Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden is unique for more reasons than just its mouthwatering brews.

Additionally, it has been promoting awareness of the preservation and conservation of the Southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, which are located between Yosemite National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park.

This place offers a variety of games, such as foosball and corn hole, to play with other patrons while sipping ale in a welcoming and communal setting.

If you come at the proper time, you’ll be enjoying more than just a nice cup of coffee and excellent company at the Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden, which frequently holds events like food truck festivals, live performances, and even art displays.

Address: 745 Fulton St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States

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11. Fresno Grizzlies Minor League Baseball

Fresno Grizzlies Minor League Baseball

Fresno Grizzlies Minor League Baseball

Attending a Fresno Grizzlies Minor League Baseball game is one of the greatest things to do in this California city, especially in the downtown area.

Chukchansi Park, their home stadium, was finished and inaugurated in 2002.

Attending one of the stadium’s 72 home games each year is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable things to do in Fresno.

The squad has a large fan base because several of its players have made it to the Major Leagues!

Are you not a baseball or sports enthusiast?

With a stadium overlooking the city skyline and the Sierra Mountains wonderfully positioned in the back, Chukchansi Park is truly a masterpiece.

Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, you might find some value in going to a game because tickets are reasonably priced. If it’s not game season, there might be motocross or concert events!

The ballpark offers 33 opulent suites, a full-service restaurant and bar, a spa, and a swimming pool in addition to being a stadium.

Kids can also enjoy the Fun Zone, which features an inflatable slide, a carousel, and interactive baseball-themed entertainment.

All guests are also given access to delicious treats, such as ice cream, corn dogs, and churro waffles.

Address: 1800 Tulare St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States

12. Moravia Wines

Moravia Wines

Moravia Wines

Are you looking for a delicious drink in Fresno?

If you didn’t stop by Moravia Wines during your journey to the San Joaquin Valley in California, you would be losing out.

A family that has been growing grapes in the region for over 35 years has managed and controlled this winery since it first opened for business in 2012.

Moravia Wines is a great place to taste wines, and every week it hosts a variety of interesting activities and gives tours of its grounds.

To put it another way, the company’s objective when it first began was to use locally grown Fresno grapes to win prizes, and it has undoubtedly succeeded in doing so in terms of flavor and quality!

Address: 3620 N Bishop Ave, Fresno, CA 93723, United States

13. Save Mart Center

Save Mart Center

Save Mart Center

One of the more intriguing local tourist destinations is the Save Mart Center.

Located on the campus of California State University, it serves a variety of purposes and has hosted events such as boxing, wrestling, rodeo, ice hockey, and hockey.

The Fresno State Bulldogs, a basketball team, presently call it home.

Since its opening in 2003, the Save Mart Center has played host to a variety of events, including athletic competitions, touring Cirque du Soleil performances, and even live music events, including a performance by Andrea Bocelli.

See the clock tower, which is 13 floors and 37 meters high, outside the Save Mart Center’s arena while you’re here.

Address: 2650 E Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93710, United States

14. Sam’s Italian Deli

Sam's Italian Deli & Market

Sam’s Italian Deli & Market

There are several food-related attractions in Fresno, California, and Sam’s Italian Deli is among the best.

It’s a terrific location to go if you want to treat yourself and your taste buds to delectable goods, including exquisite meats, cheeses, and olives.

Sam and Angela Marziliano, who were in Canada in 1968, are the owners of the deli.

To supply their local neighborhood, which includes many people from their hometown of Bari, Italy, with fresh meats, produce, and bread, the young Italian couple chose to start a grocery store.

After fifty years, Sam’s Italian Deli has grown, offering pasta and gourmet foods in addition to its original menu.

More than 700 bottles of wine are available, along with cold cuts, homemade sausages, and imported goods of all kinds that have a true Italian flair!

Address: 2415 N First St, Fresno, CA 93703, United States

15. Island Waterpark

Island Waterpark

Island Waterpark

You can’t go wrong with Island Waterpark if you’re searching for some of the greatest things to do in California!

The Island Waterpark is situated in the northwest area of Fresno, California, close to the well-known Forestiere Underground Gardens.

With so many things to do and things to do, it’s a terrific place for family-friendly activity this weekend.

The Island Waterpark is undoubtedly one of the city’s most thrilling tourist destinations, offering over a dozen various types of waterslides, including raft, family, and solo options.

Every last trip it provides is exhilarating, with rides proudly bearing names like Mumbai Monsoon, Singapore Tsunami, and Tokyo Typhoon!

The Island Waterpark extends its hours of operation during the summer and offers night swims for all ages called After Dark Fridays.

Other year-round attractions include a wave pool, a lazy river, grassy locations for lounging, and even cabanas that you can rent!

Address: 6099 W Barstow Ave, Fresno, CA 93723, United States

16. Warnors Theatre

Warnors Theatre

Warnors Theatre

Are you trying to find something to do tonight in Fresno, California?

Visit the historic Wardors Theatre in the downtown area!

It began serving the public as the Pantages Theatre in 1928, showcasing a variety of vaudeville acts.

As the years went by, it was converted into a silent film studio, and soon after, Warner Brothers purchased it.

It will alter its name one last time in 1960.

The 2,000-seat Warnors Theatre carries on its tradition today by hosting a variety of musical acts and productions, from comedies to Broadway, from children’s shows to sold-out masterpieces!

In addition, it can be rented for private events like weddings and shows vintage films.

If you’re not a movie buff, are you looking for something to do in Fresno that involves architectural wonders?

Still, the Warnors Theatre is suitable!

This stunning building, which combines Moorish, Spanish, and Italian Renaissance Revival features, has a lot of terracotta decorations, magnificent variegated brick, and a lovely overhang with dentil course detailing and bead molding.

The Warnors Theatre’s interior is equally remarkable.

Beneath a single-ceiling dome held up by skillfully constructed arch ribs is a square designed auditorium.

The frieze has the same stenciling and ornamentation as the ceiling, while the walls are separated into panels and pilasters.

There are further details like rope molding, wrought iron, geometric motifs, and gold leaf.

Of course, you should also see the theater’s unique pipe organ, which has 14 ranks, 1,035 pipes, and 720 keys and pistons!

Address: 1400 Fulton St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States

17. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

The Millerton Lake State Recreation Area is a California state park that is worth seeing if you are looking for other locations to go for a little sightseeing and are prepared to go around 20 miles northeast from Fresno.

The area, which includes a lake and 40 miles of land, was “created” after the Friant Dam was completed in 1944.

These days, it has several routes and a wide variety of wildlife, such as mule deer, cottontails, badgers, and eagles.

A reasonably priced short vacation away from Fresno is made possible by the opportunity to camp in a variety of locations.

You may unwind or host barbecues or picnics!

Families like visiting the Millerton Lake State Recreation Area to enjoy the various enjoyable activities available, both in the summer and the winter.

Water sports like swimming, fishing, and boasting are made possible by sunny days.

Special boat tours are offered in the winter, and you can take a lake tour to observe the bald eagles that are nesting there.

Address: CA-145, Friant, CA 93626, United States

18. River Park Shopping Center

River Park Shopping Center

River Park Shopping Center

On Fresno’s north side, close to California’s expansive Woodward Regional Park, sits the River Park Shopping Center.

The River Park Shopping Center is located near California’s vast Woodward Regional Park on the north side of Fresno.

Whether you’re shopping for enjoyment or for practical reasons, it’s a great location to go, and there are plenty of other things to do.

It has been a well-liked local hotspot since it opened in 1996!

Appliances, sporting goods, clothing, furniture, and more are likely to be found at River Park Shopping Center, which is home to stores like Macy’s, REI, and Target.

There are more than thirty restaurants waiting for you to try them, and the Regal Edwards Fresno cinema is a great place to enjoy a movie.

Is the River Park Shopping Center difficult to locate?

If you’re driving, there are many of parking spaces, and the center is a regular stop for public buses.

Address: 71 E Via la Plata, Fresno, CA 93720, United States

19. Big Fresno Fair

The Big Fresno Fair

The Big Fresno Fair

The Central Valley of the municipality hosts the Big Fresno Fair each year.

Live music, cattle displays, horse racing activities, and various competitions are among the many fascinating exhibits that take place during the two-week event.

The thrill is increased by the abundance of sights to see.

Every year, more than 600,000 people attend the Big Fresno Fair.

With over 300 locations dispersed throughout the city, it serves as a modest source of income.

You won’t be hungry while you take in everything the fair has to offer thanks to delicious snack meals like funnel cakes and deep-fried Oreos.

Most years, it happens in October, so make plans appropriately!

Address: 1121 S Chance Ave, Fresno, CA 93702, United States

20. Arte Americas

Arte Américas

Arte Américas

One of the most important destinations for individuals looking for cultural education is Arte Americas.

It is the largest non-profit Latino cultural center in the Valley.

If you want to know more about this group’s history and culture, this is the place to go.

Beginning as a single-room office in 1987, Arte Americas had modest beginnings in Fresno, California’s Cultural Arts District.

It has since expanded into a 10,000-square-foot facility that houses a wide variety of works by notable Latino artists, singers, photographers, filmmakers, and poets.

Immersion in Latino culture can be enjoyed in the gallery’s several meeting, classroom, and performance rooms.

Address: 1630 Van Ness Ave, Fresno, CA 93721, United States

21. Go To A Farmers Market

Farmers Market

Farmers Market

Traveling to each of the several farmers markets in this California city is a fantastic option for activities if you’re searching for Fresno attractions.

Some of the best options for nearby farmers’ markets are listed here!

The first is the Central Valley mainstay, the River Park Farmers Market.

Fresh farm produce and inexpensive produce combine to provide a mouthwatering and striking assortment of the best the state has to offer.

The Rue & Gwen Gibson Farm Market, also called the Fresno State Farm Market & Wine Shop, comes next.

It is located on the Fresno State campus and sells a variety of goods, including cheeses, ice cream, almonds, and wine produced on campus.

Next up is the Saturday morning Old Town Clovis Farmers Market.

Although fruits and vegetables are common, there are a lot more possibilities.

Among the vendors are Ferrer Farm Fresno, Tres Bien Creamery, Busy Bees Honey Farm, Ninik’s Natural Foods, and Jams by Milissa.

The Vineyard Farmers Market, which has been going on for over 35 years, comes last.

It offers baked goods, fruits, veggies, snacks, meals, and more. It is open on Saturdays and Wednesdays.

22. ArtHop

The Fresno Arts Council established ArtHop, a distinctive attraction.

It is a compilation of exhibitions held by Californian museums, galleries, studios, and other art venues.

It’s a fantastic way to spend time downtown and find new artists.

One of the greatest things to do in Fresno for art enthusiasts is to visit ArtHop, which is also one of the free activities in the city with no admission costs.

For a taste of the real local art scene, visit on Thursday evenings.

Address: 1245 Van Ness Ave, Fresno, CA 93721, United States

23. Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park

Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park

Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park

The straightforward but charming goal of bringing stories to life and motivating children worldwide was the driving force behind the 1962 opening of the Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park in Fresno, California.

Fairy stories and well-known children’s novels are transformed into real-life exhibitions at the amusement park.

Children will discover that the Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park has an abundance of attractions.

As they engage with various showcases, kids can engage in a variety of activities, such as exploring the Fairytale Exhibits or tramping through rockets, cottages, pirate ships, and castles.

They can even attend performances by magicians, storytellers, musicians, and more at the Daniel R. Martin Children’s Theater.

The Willis B. Kyle Express Train is another option for them to experience!

Bring your children here this weekend for a fun, entertaining, and educational event!

Address: 890 W Belmont Ave, Fresno, CA 93728, United States

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24. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park

Are you open to traveling from Fresno for a day?

Going up to Yosemite National Park this weekend is arguably one of the greatest ways to spend one such trip.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans 747,956 acres from its entrances to the Sierra Nevada Mountains and receives more than 3 million tourists each year.

Few people would not be familiar with Yosemite National Park, which is widely recognized as one of the most popular tourist destinations in America.

It is well-known for its stunning waterfalls, breathtaking granite cliffs, and 800 kilometers of trails suitable for hikers of all ability levels.

Yosemite National Park offers breathtaking views of the southwestern region’s natural splendor.

You should definitely visit it if you’re in Fresno because it’s essentially a national treasure!

25. The Tower Theatre

Tower Theatre

The Tower Theatre

Initially known as a 20th Century Fox Movie House, the Tower Theatre of Fresno opened its doors in 1939.

Whether you want to see a concert tonight, just take in the breathtaking architecture, or visit the Fresno Film Festival every year, this city’s most gorgeous tourist destination is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The theater’s architecture is outstanding, featuring authentic art deco themes, historically significant glass etchings, and Italian Terrazzo flooring.

The Tower Theatre, which has three auditorium levels and 761 seats, is frequently praised as one of California’s best venues of its sort.

Due to repair efforts, it has been able to preserve its splendor over the years, and its calendar is almost always full.

Address: 809 E Olive Ave, Fresno, CA 93728, United States

26. Woodward Regional Park

Woodward Regional Park

Nightryder84CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

One of the most popular attractions in Fresno is Woodward Regional Park, which is the largest of its kind in the Central Valley.

Covering an impressive 300 acres, it offers a wealth of contemporary conveniences, interesting locations along the route, and several opportunities to enjoy breathtaking panoramic vistas.

Ralph Woodward, a longtime Fresno citizen, donated the land along the San Joaquin River in California to the city for public use as Woodward Regional Park.

Most people would concur that his wishes were granted since he had hoped that visitors would find the park to be a tranquil haven.

There are more than five miles of hiking paths in Woodward Regional Park, an urban retreat, some of which connect to the well-known Lewis S. Eaton Trail.

A beautiful redwood glen, a very remarkable lake, the Rotary Amphitheater, which frequently stages plays or concerts and has 2,500 seats, and the Woodward Mountain Bike Skills Progression Park are just a few of the many interesting places on site.

A beautiful bird sanctuary is also there!

The Shinzen Friendship Garden, a true Japanese garden full of cherry trees and decorative Japanese decorations, is one noteworthy location in Woodward Regional Park.

Other, more commonplace activities include disc golf, working out, taking dogs to the dog park, or enjoying a picnic in one of the many spaces set aside for that purpose.

Address: 7775 Friant Rd., Fresno, CA, United States

27. Forestiere Underground Gardens

Forestiere Underground Gardens

Forestiere Underground Gardens

Few visitors to California pass up the Forestiere Underground Gardens, one of Fresno’s top attractions!

Built as a pastime by a single guy who emigrated to Fresno from Sicily between 1906 and 1946—a full four decades!—it is a genuinely unusual and special place that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Baldasare Forestiere fled his native country and came to America in 1901.

Once he was settled, he spent his time digging and excavating, making a labyrinth of gardens, patios, and grottos underground.

He made decisions about what he would accomplish and how he would design each space as he went along, without planning a single room.

He only used hardpan sedimentary rock that was readily available or located nearby where he excavated.

It may surprise you to hear that Baldassare learnt how to build everything himself, including the well-supported tunnels and microclimates.

Ancient catacombs he was aware of close to his hometown in Sicily served as his inspiration.

Many of the elements may be familiar to you as having Roman influences.

Until his passing, he worked on the underground gardens.

The gardens covered 10 acres when they were “completed,” and today’s fortunate tourists get to witness it in all its splendor!

The vast array of plants, some of which are nine decades old, will be extremely appealing to botany enthusiasts!

There are even fruit trees with a profusion of oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.

The Forestiere Underground Gardens has several amenities that demonstrate the creativity of human architecture, such as a kitchen, a parlor with a fireplace, a summer bedroom and a winter bedroom, and even a fishpond.

Stone walls and exquisitely crafted archways enhance the experience’s awe and joy.

There are guided tours offered for one hour.

Address: 5021 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93722, United States

28. Fresno Art Museum

Fresno Art Museum

Gemini2525CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Fresno Art Museum, founded by local artists, is among the top tourist destinations in California.

It began as a modest community center in 1940 with the intention of showcasing and evaluating the artists’ creations.

Since its modest beginnings, the museum has developed into one of the leading locations for art and artistic expression in this California city.

It is one of the city’s proud sites of interest and is renowned around the country for its varied collection.

The permanent collection of the Art Museum consists of almost 3,600 distinct pieces, with a focus on paintings, prints, and sculptures.

Local treasures by lesser-known and diverse artists are displayed among pieces by Norman Rockwell, Ansel Adams, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Salvador Dali, Diego Rivera, Varaz Samuelian, and Clement Rensi.

Mexican and Pre-Columbian folk and modern art, primarily from the 20th and 21st centuries, are the museum’s main areas of interest.

Unique glimpses into particular aspects of art can be found in exhibits like Kenneth E. Stratton’s Collection of Pre-Columbian Mesoamerican Art: Earth, Fire & Stone and the Andean Pre-Columbian Textiles and Artifacts exhibition.

There is always something fresh to see here because the rotating exhibitions vary with the seasons.

There are also frequent events, like the wildly successful Trashique fashion and art show fundraiser.

This art museum also hosts art courses, workshops, presentations, and educational events for people of all ages and ability levels.

Address: 2233 N First St, Fresno, CA 93703, United States

29. Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Fresno Chaffee Zoo (Amanda.Champ / flickr)

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo has earned accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

After an animal-themed expedition, visitors can unwind in the zoo’s surrounding park grounds at this entertaining tourist destination in Roeding Park.

In reality, it started out as an unwanted pet home rather than a legitimate zoo, and it was so unofficial at one point that, even if the zoo had existed earlier, its first records date to 1908.

It was officially designated as a California zoo in 1929 when an amphitheater was constructed and animals were donated over time.

With nearly 190 species, the Chaffee Zoo is home to a diverse array of animals, including 94 uncommon species that are specifically included in the Species Survival Plan, the zoo’s breeding and conservation initiative.

There are tigers, lions, rhinos, warthogs, elephants, cheetahs, orangutans, and more.

Additionally, there is a stingray bay where you may feed and pet these aquatic animals!

The Chaffee Zoo has several fascinating exhibits, but the African Adventure safari, the Valley Farm petting zoo, and the Wilderness Falls are especially well-liked.

Children can “excavate” fossils of various dinosaurs at a dinosaur excavation.

You can also enjoy a variety of other activities, such as animal meet-and-greets, tours that take you behind the scenes of zoo life and care, Zoo Talks, summer camps, and a wide range of educational programs.

Remember to bring your own food to eat on the way, or at the very least, stop by one of the two on-site restaurants!

Address: 894 W Belmont Ave, Fresno, CA 93728, United States

30. Fresno Philharmonic

In case you've missed it, there's something new going on at the Fresno  Philharmonic | Fresno Bee

One of the best art organizations in the Central San Joaquin Valley of California is the Fresno Philharmonic, which is the city’s professional symphony orchestra.

It offers a plethora of live musical events and experiences during each performance season, captivating audiences of all ages and ethnicities.

The Philharmonic frequently offers educational events that give people a better understanding of music and performance art by educating them about different art forms.

This is a fantastic option for things to do in the city, regardless of whether you’re interested in these classes or seeing a performance.

Address: 7170 North Financial Drive Fresno, CA 93720, United States

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