Fresno is one of those cities you’re probably aware of but don’t really know much about. It is the fifth-largest city in California and the very core of what was once the largest raisin-producing region of the United States. But to decide if you want to spend your hard-earned travel dollars exploring this rather large city, you need to figure out what there and what things to do in Fresno, CA.
You see, Fresno is the best-hidden gem in California that nobody knows about. It has something for all ages and even more events and adventures to keep all people occupied. Fresno is a unique place with beautiful scenery that you should not miss if you have never been before. And do not forget to stop by Fresno if you are looking for hot air balloon activities, Saint John Church, and places in the country.
Along with that, being a city in California, there are many Fresno attractions to enjoy and sights to visit. So, if you are one of those people planning a trip to Fresno, you will have lots of fun. There are hills, rivers, zoo and lakes which make it an attractive place to live or visit. The nearby lakes offer great places for fishing and boating for your entertainment. If you want some adventure, then you can go fishing, fairs, or hiking from the several places available in this city.
Fresno, California, and Fresno tours are plentiful. People will find various Fresno tours, including ghost tours, margarita tours, winery tours, farmers market, Yosemite National Park tours, golfing, the hot air balloon festival, and much more. Fresno’s diversity as a tourist destination is its greatest strength. So, without further ado, let us understand in detail all these glorious Fresno attractions and the various things to do in Fresno, California.
Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Once named one of National Geographic’s “25 Most Amazing Places in the World,” The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is in central California on 130 acres only a short distance from downtown Fresno, California. Fresno Chaffee Zoo is the second most amazing zoo in the world, next to the San Diego zoo.
By Flyfresno, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 894 W Belmont Ave, Fresno, CA 93728, United States | Timings: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/BPiRMSYgjfXMUo7EA | Phone number: +15594985910
Forestiere Underground Gardens
The Forestiere Underground Gardens (aka the Fresno Caves) in downtown Fresno, California — built by Baldasare Forestiere during the early to mid-20th century — is a must-see Fresno attraction for anyone visiting Fresno. Simply put the massive amount of work and specialized craftsmanship that went into building these underground caves — they lie underground the streets of one of California’s largest urban cities!
Address: 5021 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93722, United States | Timings: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/b5vszeEgXsXyme4e8 | Phone number: +15592710734
Escape a scorching hot day with Island Waterpark
If you are wondering what to do in Fresno, this is it – Island Waterpark. Located on the beautiful San Joaquin River, Island Waterpark is one of Fresno’s most popular attractions. Whether you are into water slides and wave pools or prefer to lounge in a pool in the sun, Island Waterpark has you covered for every season. Fresno is no stranger to intense heat and humidity. In fact, most years, Fresno has multiple days where the thermometer hits triple-digits.
Address: 6099 W Barstow Ave, Fresno, CA 93723, United States | Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/X7KgfLVD8eBGpy7k9 | Phone number: +15592776800
Take a trip to majestic Yosemite National Park
You don’t know what you’ve been missing unless you visit Yosemite National Park. Spending hours with the family, enjoying the lovely weather, camping, lodging, and listening to the sounds of nature as you enjoy a BBQ outdoors at the park are just a few of the reasons why you should make reservations for your next vacation in Yosemite National Park.
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Address: 9035 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, United States | Timings: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4fauDnteoXYAJETf6 | Phone number: +12093720200
Storyland
If you have ever visited Storyland or are familiar with the park, you know that this is a magical place. With cloud-covered bunnies and mermaid ponds, Storyland is wonderful for children of all ages.
Address: 890 W Belmont Ave, Fresno, CA 93728, United States | Timings: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/1nogWB1ATaMt17vk7 | Phone number: +15594862124
Catch a movie or simply shop at River Park
Fresno is having a renaissance moment, and the River Park complex is just one of the many reasons why. The five-acre destination can easily keep you busy for hours (unless you’re a movie nerd, in which case you need to make time for the Tower Theatre).
You see, River Park is an open-air lifestyle center located in Clovis, California. It has a rich history of serving the community as a farmers’ market for decades. River Park has lots of great places like the movies, bowling alley, restaurants, and shopping, just to name a few.
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By NeoBatfreak, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 71 E Via la Plata, Fresno, CA 93720, United States | Timings: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/pNfHnUQG3WhfqkDj7 | Phone number: +15594374855
Woodward Park
One of the best Fresno attractions and recreation areas in California is Woodward Park. This park is a 103-acre urban green stretch located at Fresno CA. Fresno Woodward Park sits next to Roeding Park.
By Nightryder84, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 2960 E. Bullard Avenue, Fresno, CA 93720, United States | Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/kbBD1wjfHQGr8gXQ7
Catch a baseball game at Chukchansi Park
If you are a baseball fan, especially the minor league game, you need to catch a game at Chukchansi Park. This venue is home to the Triple-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics, the Fresno Grizzlies. If you are also a big music fan, then you’ll want to make sure to catch a game during the “RandB Night” or “Elvis Night” games at Chukchansi Park.
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By YAHQQLIGAN, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 1800 Tulare St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States | Timings: 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/d2LpEMfEDxLrM8MQ9 | Phone number: +15593204487
The Big Fresno Fair
The Big Fresno Fair is an annual event in Fresno, California, at the end of summer. It lasts for 17 days and brings together a wide range of events, live entertainment, and food. Every year the fair has its own theme, which will inspire each day’s exhibits and live entertainment.
While at the Big Fresno Fair, visitors can find all sorts of entertaining events. These events vary from local people’s talent competitions to arts and crafts contests. The events change every year, but they are almost always free to enter.
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Address: 1121 S Chance Ave, Fresno, CA 93702, United States | Timings: 08:00 am to 04:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/fresnofair?share | Phone number: +15596503247
Roeding Park
One of Fresno, California’s most favorite Fresno attractions is called Roeding Park. It is one of the best things to do in Fresno this weekend – or any weekend! There are a variety of family activities to enjoy in this park. Many visitors visit Roeding Park just to play miniature golf and video games; however, there are so many more fun things to do in this wonderful place.
Situated in the heart of Fresno, California, right across from downtown, Roeding Park is a gem among parks. The park offers a disc golf course, seventeen miles of trails for walking and running, an off-leash dog area, and bridges crossing the Madera Canal.
Address: 890 W Belmont Ave, Fresno, CA 93728, United States | Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/xDXcVoX1SDmbq6nK7 | Phone number: +15596217529
Explore the Downtown Fresno
Downtown Fresno is a great little ‘nook’ of a town right in our backyard. Whether you’re one of the local people or just here for a visit, Downtown Fresno has something to offer all people. From cultural arts to mouth-watering restaurants, there is something for all people here. It’s pedestrian-friendly, free for all ages, and there’s no better way to experience Downtown than on foot. It doesn’t matter if you are here to take your kids and people to the temporary Children’s Museum or grab a bite with some people at Sunnyside Up Café – the walk will be memorable!
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Address: 845 Fulton St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States | Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WGz5on63jRShzsNG7 | Phone number: +15594909966
Save Mart Center
At first glance, the Save Mart Center is just another sports arena. Once you see how much it holds, though, Save Mart becomes a hot commodity. From concerts to sporting events to special events, there’s probably something going on at the Save Mart Center every day of the year.
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Address: 2650 E Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93710, United States | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ef5fK4HhLZXsy6qB8 | Phone number: +15592783401
Saint John the Baptist Cathedral
Saint John the Baptist Cathedral and Church is a classic example of neo-Gothic architecture. This church was built by architect William Nowland Van Powell in 1930 and has since become a historic landmark. The church’s architecture is symbolic of the past, present, and future. From the outside, the church contains many pillars that represent the past and the inside that reflects brightly polished golden walls to represent the future of the church.
By Diocesan Officials, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 2814 Mariposa St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States | Timings: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday to Friday | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/sBcPG6iVYunsjDmp7 | Phone number: +15594856210
Historic Warnors Theatre
Built in 1921, the Warnors offers rare character to Fresno hotel patrons. Originally named Warnors Theatre for its first owner, Thomas Warnors of Kansas City, it has the distinction of being the only remaining live theatre and movie palace venue in Fresno.
By Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 1400 Fulton St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States | Timings: 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/enoa421Y5bV5duXM6 | Phone number: +15592642848
Witness the lush greenery at Shinzen Friendship Garden Inc
Shinzen Friendship Garden Inc is an emerald jewel of Fresno, California, that offers peace and solitude to its visitors. Breathe in the intoxicating smell of mint plants and enjoy strolling down a garden path in the midst of bustling urban Fresno. There’s no better way to spend your afternoon than at this glorious piece of land that is home to over 800 plants, trees, grasses, shrubs, aromatic herbs, and one fish pond.
A single glance at the lush greenery of Shinzen Friendship Garden, Inc is enough to want one to spend hours there. The garden has been around since 1973, and people have maintained its charm and beauty over the years. That is why the Shinzen Friendship Garden Inc is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a spot to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of Fresno, California. Regardless of what time of year it is, this is one way to discover nature and Earth’s beauty.
Address: 114 W Audubon Dr, Fresno, CA 93720, United States | Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/5dEiSwbeuLfJ8m3m8 | Phone number: +15598401264
Walk across the scenic Fresno Blossom Trail
Fresno is renowned for many things, including its central location within California. With mountains to the north and a coastal weather pattern to the south, Fresno has it all. Within this blossoming city, you’ll find the Fresno Blossom Trail – an unforgettable walk through the rich history of this beautiful region.
The Fresno Blossom Trail has remained the city’s most popular attraction since its completion in 2002. The trail features twelve miles of walkways, a safe and secure way to enjoy Fresno’s stunning flowers and scenery.
By Andy Blackledge, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 2629 S Clovis Ave, Fresno, CA 93725, United States | Timings: 9:30 am to 5:30 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ECaFvapGXMmN4m5r5 | Phone number: +15596004271
The Discovery Center
If you are wondering what to do in Fresno, this is it. The Discovery Center. The name sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? Just a nice place where you can learn about the many aspects of California. From Fresno’s history, fun activities filled with adventure, camp, to the minerals found in our mountains; The Discovery Center is supposed to be a celebration of all things Fresno.
By David Bjorgen, CC BY-SA 2.5, Link
Address: 1944 N Winery Ave, Fresno, CA 93703, United States | Timings: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Sunday | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/YiEBGv6e8ZhQnMHJ9 | Phone number: +15592515533
Meux Home Museum
Of the many fun things to do in Fresno, this one certainly warrants a visit. The Meux Home Museum in Fresno, California, is one of the oldest homes in Fresno. Charles Christian Meux built the home in 1882. It is a Victorian home with four formal rooms on the first floor with hardwood floors and a high ceiling decorated with gold leaf.
From the moment you walk through the gates of this magnificent 2-story Mediterranean revival home, you know it’s different from all the other museums you have visited. The house includes a lovely formal dining room graced by life-sized sculptures. A grand piano greets your entrance into the cozy living room, where your eyes are drawn to a large fireplace mantel fashioned from an elephant’s foot.
Address: 1007 R St, Fresno, CA 93721, United States | Timings: 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/meuxhomemuseum?share | Phone number: +15592338007
Moravia Wines
When is the best time to drink wine? I know, I know…it’s all the time. But if you had to pick a season, then you should choose spring. Regardless of what time it actually is, Moravia Vineyards in Fresno, California, has a bit of everything for every palate.
You see, Moravia is a thriving wine destination just minutes from Fresno, California. Moravia Wines features a spectacular vineyard and winery location, an ideal setting for all of your special occasions and corporate events.
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Address: 3620 N Bishop Ave, Fresno, CA 93723, United States | Timings: 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm Saturday, Sunday | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/19nf3kHUEWVJ5waSA | Phone number: +15598432140
Kearney Mansion Museum
The Kearney Mansion Museum is a place, and a time, frozen in time. Located in the foothills of the San Joaquin Valley on 14 acres in rural Fresno County, the mansion reflects the lives of one family who lived in the mansion: the ranching, farming, military, and government family of the U.S. Brigadier General Daniel Tyler and his wife Elizabeth Beardsley Kearney Tyler and their time at the Kearney Mansion.
By R&sbwn , CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 7160 W Kearney Blvd, Fresno, CA 93706, United States | Timings: 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Saturday, Sunday | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/QsRfqvTsr9LuEXrC8 | Phone number: +15594410862
Fresno Art Museum
Fresno Art Museum is founded and run by Fresno Art Center, 8180 N. Cedar Avenue in Fresno County, California, USA. It is dedicated to exhibiting various art forms such as contemporary arts, paintings, drawings, and others.
Fresno Art Museum, known for its extensive installations’ distinctive and eclectic style, features artists from around the region, nation, and world. Watch an artist at work in the museum’s ceramics studio, see new works on view, and enjoy exhibitions built around the Fresno area with our fresh take on art and culture.
By Gemini2525, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 2233 N First St, Fresno, CA 93703, United States | Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/LcX4JoozLfQ2qpNm6 | Phone number: +15594414221
Enjoy the nightlife at Tower District
If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy the nightlife, visit Tower District. It offers a rich mix of unique dining experiences and trendy clubs. Fresno has tons of things to do but visiting Downtown Fresno’s Tower District is one of the best nights you can spend in the valley.
The Tower District in Fresno, CA, has everything from a lively outdoor atmosphere and high-end restaurants to trendy nightclubs and sports bars. The district is famous for its nightlife, so why not enjoy an evening on the town when visiting Fresno.
By RichardHarrison, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 1930 N Echo Ave, Fresno, CA 93704, United States | Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4mwLSmMvqrChtSY6A
Clovis Botanical Garden
Perhaps there really is something to be said for the therapeutic and rejuvenating power of greenery. People constantly seek a solitary respite from the clutter and chaos of their everyday lives. Clovis Botanical Garden provides that solitary respite amidst a tranquil slice of nature. One might regain focus, re-energize at a wedding, or simply sit back, relax, stretch out in a lawn chair and enjoy the masterful intertwining of color, texture, and form in the garden’s artistic landscape.
By Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 945 N Clovis Ave, Clovis, CA 93611, United States | Timings: 09:00 am to 04:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/s5BPBUjUQz3dtJUv5 | Phone number: +15592983091
Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino
There are 39 casinos in the Fresno area, but Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino will be the best one you visit. Located on the banks of the Madera River, Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, is a unique gaming center with a focus on service. The property is open 24 hours a day and features more than 2,500 slot machines.
There are various dining options at this casino, including a buffet, casual restaurant, and sports bar. There’s also a full-service steakhouse called Jackpot Junction and the H20 poolside lounge, so there are plenty of ways for guests to enjoy their time at this destination.
Address: 711 Lucky Ln, Coarsegold, CA 93614, United States | Timings: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://g.page/chukchansigoldcasino?share | Phone number: +18667946946
Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre
Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre is a place unlike any other on Earth. Well, maybe that’s pushing it a little, but it’s hard to deny that this isn’t the best dinner theatre on the planet. Located in Fresno, CA, this rockin’ dinner theatre is an awesome way to spend an evening. Whether you are a hardcore fan of rock and roll music or have never attended a rock show before, there is something for all kinds of people at Roger Rocka’s.
Address: 1226 N Wishon Ave, Fresno, CA 93728, United States | Timings: 4:00 pm to 12:00 am | Google Map Location: https://g.page/rogerrockas?share | Phone number: +15592669494
Arte Américas
Arte Americas is an award-winning, family-owned and operated art gallery. They specialize in Latin American art and American folk and outsider art from all over the world. In addition to their large collection of paintings, they also have a fantastic array of hand-carved candelabras, sculptures, ceramics, ironworks, prints, Gaudi glass, antique furniture, and textiles in the gallery.
Address: 1630 Van Ness Ave, Fresno, CA 93721, United States | Timings: 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/XhZ1y7tJiit7jkT66 | Phone number: +15592686130
Fresno Philharmonic
The Fresno Philharmonic is a cultural treasure for the Central Valley and reflects Fresno’s rich tradition. It is celebrated for its high artistic standards and a long-standing commitment to programs, that reach both the most informed fan and the uninitiated observer.
Address: 7170 N Financial Dr #135, Fresno, CA 93720, United States | Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/fresnophilharmonic?share | Phone number: +15592610600
The City of Trees: Fresno, California, nestled in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley sits this mid-sized city of over half a million. With its thriving economy and many amenities to offer, Fresno has its appeal. But at its core, where it really shines is in its diversity and affordability. From culture to shopping, Fresno is a fun place to visit and even live if you’re thinking about moving to the area. So, settle in and take these Fresno things to do list as you go about conquering all that this city has to offer.