25 Best Things to Do in Fresno, CA

The fifth largest city in California, Fresno was formed in 1856 after the California Gold Rush. The bustling site lies in the center of the San Joaquin Valley and is named after the collection of ash trees lining the San Joaquin River. In the 80s, Fresno flourished with an addition of more stylized architecture and electric streetcars. Many of these structures can be seen today as visitors walk down Fulton Street and explore Downtown Fresno. Other sites of interest in Fresno, CA include the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Forestiere Underground Gardens, and Warnors Theatre. Photo: Kit Leong/Fotolia

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Forestiere Underground Gardens was built by Baldasare Forestiere over a period of 40 years. The Sicilian immigrant started dedicating his time to the 10-acre man-made creation in 1906 and continued until his death in 1946.

Visitors are invited to explore the spectacular features, which include a winter bedroom, a summer bedroom, a kitchen, a parlor with a fireplace, and a fishpond. Lovers of architecture will be enthralled with the archways and beautiful stone walls. Visitors will enjoy browsing the innumerable number of plants, some of which are over 90 years old. Contact: 5021 W. Shaw Avenue, Fresno, CA 93722, Phone: 559-271-0734 Photo: tortoon/Fotolia

The Discovery Center is a science education center founded in 1954 that offers memorable hands-on learning experiences. Visitors will find themselves curious about and stimulated by the many hands-on exhibits that discuss the mysteries of physical and environmental sciences.

Visitors can explore the 5+ acre park that houses the museum as well as outdoor attractions such as the Miwok Indian houses, a historical barn, the Deutsch Cactus Garden, a Dino Dig, and a tortoise enclosure. The exhibit areas focus on electricity and magnets, paleontology, natural sciences, space, and Native American basketry and artifacts. Contact: 1944 N Winery, Fresno, CA 93703, Phone: 559-251-5533 Photo: The Discovery Center

Woodward Park is the largest regional park in Central Valley and is packed with amenities, promising visitors a wonderful outdoor adventure. A majority of the land was donated by a Fresno resident upon his death in hopes that the park would be a sanctuary to those who visited it.

Visitors will find that it has in fact lived up to its purpose; other than the expansive bird park, you can find a 2,500-seat amphitheater, a fenced dog park, an exercise course, an authentic Japanese garden, a walking trail, and picnic areas for visitors to relax in. Contact: 7775 Friant Road, Fresno, CA 93720, Phone: 559-840-1264 Photo: rck/Fotolia

Located inside of Woodward Park in Fresno, Shinzen Friendship Garden was constructed to honor Fresno's sister city Kochi, Japan and to promote cultural and educational awareness. The traditional northwestern American Japanese Garden was designed around the four seasons, and the five acres are filled with structures that focus on rock, stone, and water.

Some of the features visitors might enjoy include the Mon Gate and Entry, Ume Grove, which is filled with waterfalls and walking paths, the Double Moon Bridge, which goes over a Koi pond, and the Clark Bonsai Collection, which was donated in 2015. Contact: 114 W Audubon Drive, Fresno CA 93720, Phone: 559-840-1264 Photo: Kit Leong/Fotolia

A group of local artists initially established the Fresno Art Museum in 1940 as a place for them to exhibit and critique each other's work. Now, it is an active venue for art exhibitions as well as a host of educational programs, workshops, and artist talks. Visitors of all ages and skill level can take part in various art classes throughout the year.

Some of the spectacular exhibits found in the museum's permanent collection include Kenneth E. Stratton's Collection of Pre-Columbian Mesoamerican Art: Earth, Fire & Stone and the Andean Pre-Columbian Textiles and Artifacts. Contact: 2233 North First Street, Fresno, CA 93703, Phone: 559-441-4221 Photo: Fresno Art Museum

Families visiting Fresno will find the Fresno Chaffee Zoo to be one of the most fun-filled attractions during their vacation! There are exciting animal exhibits that are the perfect combination of adventure and education, so little ones will learn a thing or two as they make memories that last a lifetime.

The engaging environment is home to over 190 species of animals. 94 are part of the Species Survival Plan, which focuses on breeding and protecting rare animals. Visitors can get up close and personal with the animals in the African Adventure safari, the Valley Farm petting zoo, and other exhibits. Contact: 894 West Belmont Avenue, Fresno, CA 93728, Phone: 559-498-5910 Photo: Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Since its opening in 1978, the Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre has been entertaining Fresno's locals and visitors with refreshing productions of some of the nation's favorites. The theatre has only improved with time and now boasts of having over 180 productions under its belt.

Past productions include Bye Bye Birdie, Guys & Dolls, and The Sound of Music. The beloved institution is a must-visit for most as its reputation for superb shows and dining is something that must be verified in person to appreciate. Visitors will not only enjoy the food and the show, but the amazing architecture of the theatre as well. Contact: 1226 N. Wishon Avenue, Fresno, CA 93728, Phone: 559-266-9494 Photo: Roger Rocka's Dinner Theatre

Now the largest non-profit Latino cultural center in the Valley, Arte Americas started off in a modest one-room office in 1987. The organization is now an integral part of Downtown Fresno's Cultural Arts District. Visitors can enjoy exploring the center, which brings together an eclectic collection of works from Latino filmmakers, musicians, poets, photographers, and artists.

The 10,000 square foot gallery and performance, classroom, and meeting spaces provide a great place to spend the day exploring Fresno's Latino art culture. During summer months, visitors can spend their evenings in the adjoining La Plazita and enjoy a number of scheduled concerts each Friday night. Contact: 1630 Van Ness, Fresno, CA 93721, Phone: 559-266-2623 Photo: Arte Americas

Chuckchansi Park, which opened its gates in 2002, is the home of the Fresno Grizzlies minor league baseball team. The ballpark is an intricate part of Downtown Fresno and comes alive in the spring when visitors can enjoy one of the 72 home games played there annually. Visitors who are not fans of baseball would still enjoy an evening at Chuckchansi Park as it offers stunning views of Fresno's skyline against the majestic backdrop of the Sierra Mountains.

The ballpark also has a full-service restaurant and bar, 33 luxury suites, a pool and spa, and a Fun Zone for young Grizzlies fans complete with an inflatable slide, interactive pitching and batting activities, and a carousel. Contact: 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721, Phone: 559-442-1047 Photo: Fresno Grizzles Minor League Baseball - Chuckchansi Park

The Black Angus Steakhouse has been providing quality meals featuring perfectly cooked steak and prime rib since 1964. The restaurants boasts certified Angus beef and impeccably seasoned 21-day aged, all prepared using their expert flame-grilled methods.

Visitors can relax after a day of exploring Fresno with a few of the famed steakhouse starters such as the Three Cheese Garlic Bread, Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip, or their Bullseye Wings tossed in Honey-Sriracha sauce. Though Black Angus is famed for their tender, mouth-watering steak, visitors who aren't fans could opt for one of the many chicken, pork, or seafood entrees. Read more Contact: 1737 E. Shaw Avenue, Fresno, CA 93710, Phone: 559-224-2205 Photo: Black Angus

A tribute to Victorian architecture, the Meux Home Museum is a place for Fresno visitors to go back in time and understand a bit of Fresno's history. The two-story edifice is an architecture lover's dream come true; visitors can explore, in detail, the exterior walls of clapboards, shingles, and floral relief work or marvel at the skyward roof with numerous chimneys.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum is worth a visit not only because of its architectural exterior but because of the trinkets and treasures that can be found inside the home as well. Contact: 1007 R. Street, Fresno, CA 93710, Phone: 559-233-8007 Photo: Meux Home Museum

Visitors are invited to have an exciting learning opportunity at the Kearney Mansion Museum either through a scheduled educational tour or by exploring it themselves in a leisurely walk or picnic on the grounds. The Kearney Mansion is an important historical site in Fresno as it was part of the proposed architectural design of M. Theo Kearney, a pioneer in California's agriculture known as the "Raisin King."

Visitors can see 50% of the original furnishings in the house, including the art nouveau light fixtures and the wallpaper. Historic replicas have been created of any furnishings that were lost over time. Visiting the museum is a great way for people to better understand Fresno's history, and it will be a memorable day for all. Contact: 7160 W Kearney Blvd, Fresno, CA 93706, Phone: 559-441-0862 Photo: Kearney Mansion Museum

The Fresno Philharmonic, one of the leading arts organizations in the Central San Joaquin Valley, is Fresno's professional symphony orchestra, and they are going on their 63rd season. Visitors will be awed at the live musical experience that the Philharmonic offers, whether it be in the form of a performance or one of the many music education programs.

For the 2016-2017 season, the Fresno Philharmonic invited six conductors to conduct a masterworks concert and compete for the opportunity to become the next music director; it will make for an exciting concert for those visiting Fresno Contact: 7170 N. Financial Drive, Suite 135, Fresno, CA 93720, Phone: 559-261-0600 Photo: Fresno Philharmonic

You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in Fresno, CA Today" Back to Top or Weekend Getaways Vacations with Kids, Getaways near me & Tourism, Cheap things to do, Scenic places near me, What to do in, Weather, Trip finder

Rotary Storyland & Playland initially opened in 1962 as a place to inspire children by bringing the wonderful world of storybooks to life. Converting make-believe to reality, the theme park once took children on an adventure through castles and cottages and aboard pirate ships and rockets. After having closed, the theme park was renovated and reopened for Fresno residents and visitors to come enjoy with their families.

Attractions include the Fairytale Exhibits, which take visitors through the worlds of the three little pigs, Humpty Dumpty, Alice in Wonderland, Mother Goose, and much more. Other attractions include the historic WIllis B. Kyle Express Train and the Daniel R. Martin Children's Theater, which is filled with storytellers, magicians, musicians, and more! Contact: 890 West Belmont Avenue, Fresno, CA 93728, Phone: 559-486-2124 Photo: Rotary Storyland & Playland

"Top Romantic Tourist Attractions in Fresno, CA" Back to Top or More Famous Landmarks, Fish Restaurants, Bars, Cafes, Food near me, Cheap Activities, Fall Honeymoon, Cities, Downtown Wedding Venues for couples

Twenty miles northeast of Fresno lies the Millerton Lake State Recreation Area (SRA). The 40-mile stretch of land and lake came into being in 1944 when the Friant Dam was constructed. Since then, it has been a place for families to spend the day together during the summer and winter months. On warm, sunny days visitors can go swimming, fishing, boating, or indulge in a number of other water activities.

There are special boats that take visitors on tours of the lake during winter months, which is also a great time to view the nesting bald eagles. The park is great for hikers and nature enthusiasts as the trails provide an opportunity to view wildlife such as cottontails, badgers, mule deer, and bald and golden eagles. Visitors can also camp on site, on boat, or on land. Contact: 19305 Winchell Cove Rd, Friant, CA 93626, Phone: 559-994-4880 Photo: bulashenko/Fotolia

"Fun Things to Do in Fresno, CA this Weekend with Friends" Back to Top or Romantic Places to live, Tourism, December Last Minute Travel, Beach Vacations, Historic Towns, Photos and Map of Conference & Wedding Destinations near my location

Romantic Getaway, Places to Visit, things to do with kids near me & beaches near me: Things to do in San Diego, Places to Visit in Florida, Things to Do in New Hampshire, Places to Visit in Ohio, Things to do in Orlando, California vacation, Things to Do in Queens NY

The Fresno Convention and Entertainment Center is the site of Fresno's most anticipated events. The premier performing arts and convention center is located in the heart of California's Central Valley and hosts memorable concerts, professional sporting events, and hit Broadway shows.

Events and shows that have been scheduled at the Fresno Convention and Entertainment Center include the Old School Party Jam with Salt-n-Pepa, Phantom of the Opera produced by Cameron Mackintosh, and The Nutcracker presented by The Lively Arts Foundation. There are a score of events to attend throughout the year, and Fresno visitors can check the center's calendar to prepare for their visit in advance. Contact: 848 M Street, 2nd Floor, Fresno, CA 93721, Phone: 559-445-8100 Photo: Fresno Convention & Entertainment Center

" Fresno, CA Things to Do near Me Today" Back to Top or Best Restaurants near me, Family Weekend Trips, Images of Hotels, Discounts, Boutique Hotels, Excursions, Inn & Bed and Breakfasts, Must See Tourist Attractions

Free things to do near me: Things to Do in Panama City Beach, Florida, Things to Do in Sedona AZ, Day trips from Las Vegas, Day Trips from LA, Romantic Weekend Getaways in WV, Best Beaches in San Diego, Things to Do in Oakland, Costa Rica beaches, Places to Visit in Europe

The Vineyard Farmers Market has been providing Fresno residents and visitors the finest in locally grown vegetables and fruits for over 35 years. They're dedicated to providing healthy, quality products all year round and have been open every Wednesday (3pm to 6pm) and Saturday (7am to noon) rain or shine. Visitors not only get to stock up on fresh produce, but they can also walk away from the farmer's market with a range of treats from the many prepared food vendors that are there. Many of the baked goods are made from organic or locally sourced ingredients and are delightful treats! Contact: 5132 N. Palm Avenue, #359, Fresno, CA 93704, (Farmer's Market is held on the North West corner of Shaw and Blackstone) Photo: Vineyard Farmers Market

"New cool stuff to do in Fresno, CA" Back to Top or Romantic Getaways, Wedding Ideas close to me this Weekend, Honeymoon, Anniversary Ideas, Getting Married & Romantic Places around me

Vacations: Spa resorts near me, Places to Visit in NC, Places to Visit in NM, Maine vacations, Things to do in Miami, Birthday vacations, Things to do in Naples, Italy, Places to Visit in Utah, Romantic weekend getaways in Oregon, Places to Visit in Louisiana, Things to do in Montauk NY, Places to Visit in Puerto Rico

The Tower District is a world of its own located within Fresno. It consists of a collection of galleries, performing art venues, theaters, nightclubs, restaurants, cafes, bakeries, delis, and specialty shops that all offer something unique and memorable to a Fresno vacation. Renowned as the dining and entertainment district, the district invites visitors to walk the few blocks in which all the excitement takes place.

Exploring the Tower District is a great way for visitors to truly experience the vibrant nightlife that Fresno offers; they can do everything from exploring new and stunning pieces in the galleries and taking in a show to listening to a live band or purchasing a locally produced treasure. Everything can be done in this one-of-a-kind location. Contact: E Olive Ave & N Wishon Avenue, Fresno, CA 93728, Phone: 559-497-8362 Photo: Tower District

"What is There to Do with Kids in Fresno, CA" Back to Top or Places to Eat, Beautiful Excursions, Bucket list, Fun & Cheap Weekend Getaways for couples this month, Dog Friendly, What's near me, Nearby Restaurants, Activities

Singapore Tsunami. Mumbai Monsoon. Tokyo Typhoon. These sound frightening, don't they? Frighteningly fun that is! The Island Waterpark in Fresno is the perfect way for people to cool off on a hot summer day while letting the kids have a great time in a safe and fun environment.

The Central Valley water park is filled with slides, pools, water rides, and kids play areas, ensuring that there's something for everyone no matter how young they are. Open only in the summer, the park allows visitors to rent out a cabana and create a memorable experience for the entire family. Contact: 6099 W Barstow Avenue, Fresno, CA 93723, Phone: 559-277-6800 Photo: Island Waterpark

You are reading "25 Best Things to Do in Fresno, CA with Kids" Back to Top or Places near me, Threeday weekend, Solo travel, elevation, National parks, Day trip, Travel inspiration

More: Best California beaches, Places to visit in California, Romantic Weekend Getaways in California, Things to Do in California, Best California beaches, Places to visit in California, Romantic Weekend Getaways in California, Los Angeles Elevation, Mt Whitney Elevation, Things to Do in California, Big Bear Elevation, Los Angeles lunch, Best time to visit Los Angeles, California, Things to Do in Lancaster, Things to do in Glen Ellen, Things to Do in Fremont

Sam and Angel Marziliano were a young Italian couple living in Canada in 1968. They decided to open up their very own grocery business so they could provide the community with local and fresh produce, meats, and breads alongside delicious foods from their native land of Bari, Italy. Now, nearly 50 years later, locals and visitors flock to Sam's Italian Deli in search of olive oils, pastas, and specialty groceries.

The bakery holds a variety of freshly-baked breads the family makes in Old Italian style, and the deli counter has imported cheeses, fresh cold cuts, Sam's homemade sausages, and Angela's take-home pasta dinners. Visitors can leave with a bottle from the specialty and boutique wine section, which has over 700 bottles. Contact: 2415 N First Street at Clinton, Fresno, CA 93703, Phone: 559-229-9346 Photo: Sam's Italian Deli

Fun places to visit, events, facts, tours, all inclusive & photos of fun things to do near me last minute: Great Family vacations, Attractions near my location & Free Activities

Weekend getaways: Things to Do in Memphis, Things to Do in Chattanooga, Things to Do in Naples, Things to Do in Key West, Things to Do in Columbia SC, Things to Do in Asheville, Things to Do in Davenport, Things to Do in Brooklyn, Things to Do in Las Vegas, Day trips from Kansas City, Day trips from Nashville, Montana vacations, Miami weekend getaways, Things to Do in Monterey, Romantic weekend getaways in Oklahoma

Founded in 2007, the Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company has been producing world-class beers for Fresno's locals and visitors. But what they produce is more than just beer; visitors will see that the brewing company is actually creating a sense of awareness of the Southern Sierras by conserving and preserving the resources of the region in which they live.

Each bottle of fresh local craft beer, created by award winning brew master, Kevin Cox, is filled with local flavor and culture. Visitors can sit back and enjoy a chilled one after a day of exploring Fresno's many sites and attractions, or even during the many live concerts, art shows, and food truck festivals hosted at the Beer Garden. Contact: 745 Fulton, Fresno, CA 93721, Phone: 559-486-2337 Photo: Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company

"Best Attractions in Fresno, CA" Back to Top or Traveler trip finder, Air travel, Guide App channel, Live music, Art institutes, Fun places to go, Vacation spots near me

Vacation ideas: Day trips from London, Carlsbad restaurants, Things to Do in Winston-Salem, Things to Do in Okahoma, Things to Do in Wisconsin Dells, caves in Iowa, Things to Do in Mesa

No trip to Fresno is complete without a visit to the San Joaquin Valley and the many wineries found there. One that stands out of the crowd is Moravia Wines, a family-owned and managed winery that opened in 2012.

The family had been farming in the valley for over thirty-five years, but it wasn't until four years ago they decided to convert their delicious San Joaquin Valley grapes to good wine. Visitors are invited to come explore the grounds and the winery or to just relax and enjoy one of the many entertaining programs scheduled weekly. Contact: 3620 N Bishop, Fresno, CA 93723, Phone: 559-843-2140 Photo: Moravia Wines

"Best Attractions in Fresno, CA" Back to Top or Contemporary art, Spa Treatment, Watch live, Trip ideas, Beach vacations, Essential Weekend getaways, Travel inspiration

Family attractions, points of interest, weather & fun places to go near me: Hotels with private jacuzzi in room near me, Romantic East Coast resorts, Small vacation ideas, Things to Do in Alexandria VA, Places to Visit in Boston, MA & Points of Interest

Wildwater Adventure has rides and attractions for people of all ages. The GhostSlider is the park's most extreme ride, and visitors come from all over to have a go at the high speed slide that swirls in the sky and then drops visitors with a huge splash into the pool.

The 30,000 square foot wave pool is the largest in California and is a family favorite! The Adventure Bay kiddies area is perfect for toddlers and young ones as they explore the tropical paradise decorated with colorful sea creatures and children-friendly rides and slides. The rides and attractions amount to endless fun at Wild Water Adventure Park, and visitors will enjoy their time there. Contact: 11413 E Shaw Ave, Clovis, CA 93619, Phone: 559-299-9453 Photo: Wild Water Adventure Park

"Best Attractions in Fresno, CA" Back to Top or Travel tips, Hiking trails, Beach vacations, Golf courses, Arts center, Travel guide, Amusement parks, malls near me, nightlife, water park

Places to visit near me, inexpensive romantic getaways: Things to Do in Sonoma, Ice Cream, Apr, May vacations, Things to Do in Nassau, Honeymoon destinations in US, Things to Do in Plattsburgh, Washington islands, Things to Do in La Jolla

Fashion Fair Mall was built and opened in 1970 and two of the original departments stores, Macy's and JCPenney, are still available at the mall today. Other than those two, an array of children's favorites can be found at the mall from the little ones at Gymboree to the teens at Claire's.

Visitors need not worry, as adult favorites such as Sephora, Lush, Michael Kors, and Anthropologie are also available. After a tiring day of shopping, visitors can reenergize themselves at one of the many tempting food and snack outlets including Auntie Anne's, BJ's, Chipotle, Chick-fil-A, and Cinnabon. Contact: 645 East Shaw Avenue, Fresno, CA 93710, Phone: 559-224-1591 Photo: Fashion Fair Mall

"Best Underrated Romantic Things to See in Fresno, CA for Couples" Back to Top or Travel destinations, Family Travel, Summer Getaways, Travel Tips, More Unique Elopement Ideas & Sights, shopping center, nightclubs, breakfast

More places to see: Best family ski resorts, Key West honeymoon, Art Museums, Southwest family vacation ideas, Things to Do in The South, Things to Do in Olympia, Things to Do in Huntington Beach, Disney restaurants, Things to Do in Chelsea, Where to stay in Nantucket