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23 Fun & Best Things to do in Fresno, California

Whether you visit Fresno or you reside in Fresno, California, you probably don’t know everything the city offers to do. Some of the best things in life and Fresno really are free. The most expensive of these fun activities cost $60 per person but most cost less than $10 per person.

Whether you need a low-cost date or a family-friendly activity for a large group, the City of Fresno offers it.

This gem of the San Joaquin Valley offers something for everyone, from museums and art galleries to professional sports games and parks. The city’s strong economic growth in recent years brought about new businesses and attractions, making this list even longer.

So, forget your honey-do list and prioritize this Fresno things-to-do list! Read on to discover the many nifty things you can do while in Fresno and reference this list when looking for things to do in Fresno this weekend.

Quality Inn Suites Fresno Northwest
1. Quality Inn & Suites Fresno Northwest Top Recommendation

Quality Inn & Suites is located in Fresno, California. The hotel offers an outdoor pool, a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi in every room. A microwave, refrigerator and coffee maker are provided in each guest room at Quality Inn & Suites Fresno Northwest. There is also a business centre with fax and copy services on site.

Hotel Piccadilly
2. Hotel Piccadilly

Hotel Piccadilly is an ideal place for the business and leisure traveller who wish to experience Fresno. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations, friendly staff and a variety of services. The hotel provide the guests with free WiFi and free parking facility.

Summerfield Inn Fresno Yosemite
3. Summerfield Inn Fresno Yosemite

Summerfield Inn is located in Fresno, California. It has a total of 43 rooms spread across 6 floors. A continental breakfast is served every morning at the hotel. Guests can also take advantage of the on-site laundry facilities and 24-hour front desk services.

TL;DR – Best things to do in Fresno, CA

  • Most significant landmark – The Tower District
  • Best park – Woodward Park
  • Best free activity -Shinzen Japanese Garden
  • Best activity for kids – Fresno Discovery Center
  • Best activity for adults – Fresno Philharmonic
  • Best food – Heirloom
  • Best nightlife – Spokeasy Public House
  • Best all-around accommodationDoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center

Fun things to do in Fresno, CA

Now, without any further ado, here’s the best that Fresno has to offer!

1. Tower District

Tower District
image by RichardHarrison is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Address: centered at the corner of Olive Ave. and Wishon Ave.

The Tower District is Fresno’s most significant landmark. It is a vibrant nightlife destination with its collection of art galleries, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

The Tower District is a culturally rich area with a strong sense of community. The district hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Fresno Film Festival, the Tower District Jazz Festival, and the Tower District Music Festival.

The Tower District began as a farming community in the late 19th Century. Fresno’s first skyscraper, the 16-story Pacific Southwest Building, was built in the district in 1928. The district continued to grow in the 1930s and 1940s with the construction of several more office buildings and hotels.

The Tower District reached its peak of popularity in the 1950s and 1960s when it was known for its lively nightlife scene. The area was revitalized in the 1990s with the opening of new restaurants and shops.

The Tower District community is proud of its history and unique character. The district is home to a diverse mix of people, including artists, musicians, students, and business professionals. It has a theater for performing arts and many art galleries.

See Related: Best California Road Trips

2. Woodward Regional Park

Woodward Regional Park
image by Management/TripAdvisor

Address: 7775 N Friant Rd Fresno, CA 93720

Fresno County’s largest park, Woodward Regional Park, measures 300 acres, offering an immense range of activities and amenities.

Home to a diverse range of activities and amenities, the park is perfect for a day of picnicking, hiking, fishing, or just exploring the great outdoors. Woodward Regional Park also has a number of features that make it ideal for hosting events like birthday parties, weddings, and corporate picnics.

Locals say it’s one of the top places to visit in Fresno.

The park is open year-round. One of the highlights of the park is the authentic Japanese garden (we’ll get onto that in just a bit).

Woodward Regional Park has something for everyone. The park’s main attraction is its huge lake, which covers nearly 60 acres. The lake is stocked with bass, catfish, and trout, making it a popular spot for fishing. There are also three playgrounds and a dog park.

For those who love to hike, there are over seven miles of trails winding through the park. The trails range from easy to difficult and offer stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

If you’re looking for a place to have a picnic or barbecue, Woodward Regional Park has several large picnic areas with tables and grills. The park also has two playgrounds, a basketball court, and horseshoe pits.

Woodward Regional Park is the perfect place to spend a day in Fresno, California. Whether you’re looking to fish, hike, swim, or just relax in the great outdoors, Woodward Regional Park has something for you.

See Related: Best Things to do in Solvang, California

3. Shinzen Japanese Garden

Shinzen Japanese Garden
image by Management/TripAdvisor

Address: 114 W. Audubon Drive, Fresno, CA 93720

Shinzen Japanese Garden is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature. The garden is free to the public and is open every day from 10 am-4 pm.

There are many benches throughout the garden where you can sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The koi fish pond is also a popular spot to take photos.

The bonsai garden is another must-see while at Shinzen. The carefully curated selection of bonsai trees is impressive and a great way to learn about this ancient art form.

The garden has a total of 24 lanterns, each with a special significance.

There is a large granite sculpture of a lantern given to the garden in 1939. The lantern is to honor the Japanese that journeyed to California and made it their home.

Another notable feature of the park is the Ume Grove. Every year, the blossoms make for an ideal photo opportunity and a peaceful hike.

There is a yearly lantern festival that honors ancestors, and the garden also partners with local public schools to help educate children about Japanese culture and history.

Shinzen Friendship Garden is designed around the four seasons and provides something different to see no matter when you visit.

Springtime is beautiful with the cherry blossoms in bloom, while summer brings vibrant green foliage. Fall is a great time to see the changing leaves, and in winter the garden is still lovely with its delicate snowflakes.

No matter what time of year you come, Shinzen Friendship Garden is an enjoyable experience for people of all ages. Fresno’s Japanese community has done an excellent job of creating a space that captures the essence of their culture and heritage. It’s one of the top things to do in Fresno for couples.

See Related: Best Things to do in Calabasas, California

4. Fresno Discovery Center

Fresno Discovery Center
image by travelingranmaFresno/TripAdvisor

Address: 1944 N Winery Ave, Fresno, CA 93703, USA

This awesome science museum is located in the Tower District of Fresno. It has exhibits on astronomy, geology, paleontology, and ecology. The museum also has a planetarium and a science store. Locals recommend it as one of the top things to do in Fresno with kids.

Children can participate hands-on with the dino dig, which recreates a fossil excavation.

Cafe Scientifique is a public program that meets monthly to discuss science-related topics over drinks and appetizers. The Deutsch Cactus Garden is home to over 200 cacti and succulents. The garden also has a gift shop and a cafe. The garden is about 90 years old.

The Garden of the Sun is a public garden that is open daily. It has walking trails, a pond, and a gazebo.

There is also a 5-and-a-half-acre park. It’s home to tortoises, and it has a picnic area.

The Fresno Discovery Center highlights Fresno’s culture and natural history. It is a great place to learn about the area and have fun. The Discovery Center hosts many other events and programs that enrich the community.

All in all, the Discovery Center is ideal for the young and young at heart. There is something for everyone to enjoy. The Fresno Discovery Center is open Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is free for members.

See Related: The Island of the Dolls: What to See & Do

5. Fresno Philharmonic

Fresno Philharmonic Perfromance
image by Fresno Philharmonic/Facebook

Address: 726 W Barstow Ave Ste. 106, Fresno, CA 93704

The Fresno Philharmonic is a professional orchestra in Fresno, California. The orchestra was founded in 1950 as the Fresno Civic Symphony and gave its first concert on October 15, 1950. The Fresno Philharmonic is the only professional orchestra between Sacramento and Los Angeles.

The current Music Director is Theodore Kuchar, who has been with the organization since 1999. Under his leadership, the Fresno Philharmonic has gained national recognition for its programming and performance standards. The orchestra performs at the Saroyan Theatre, located in downtown Fresno.

The Fresno Philharmonic offers a wide range of educational programs, including the Youth Orchestra program, which trains young musicians from ages 8 to 18.

The Young Artist Competition (which offers cash prizes and the opportunity to perform with the Fresno Philharmonic); and the Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra Academy, which provides training for adult amateur musicians.

The Fresno Philharmonic also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including the popular Pops series (featuring light classical and popular music), the Summer MusicFest series (featuring outdoor concerts), and the Family Concert series (which offers family-friendly programming).

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Ventura, California

6. Heirloom

Heirloom Interior
image by Heirloom, Fresno/TripAdvisor

Address: 8398 N. Fresno Suite 101, Fresno, California 93720 

Enjoy fresh, farm-to-table meals at one of Fresno’s best restaurants, Heirloom. The casual counter service environment and high-quality meals make it a must-visit.

The menu features a wide variety of seasonal items, so there’s always something new to try. Heirloom is also known for its excellent coffee and tea selection, perfect for enjoying with your meal or to go.

The restaurant is locally owned, and it showcases the best local produce and products. The seasonal menu means that there’s always something new and exciting to try. Heirloom is the perfect place to enjoy a casual meal with friends or family.

It showcases culinary styles from all over the world. For example, the Mushroom Taquitos features wild mushrooms, roasted poblano peppers, and avocado-lime crema.

Their market bites have options like a fig pizza with fresh local figs and goat cheese. They have many vegetarian-friendly dishes as well as the option to make the dishes vegan. They also have local meat like duck.

Their seafood menu really shines, with surf and turf specials and shrimp teppanyaki.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Fort Bragg, California

7. Spokeasy Public House

Spokeasy Public House Drinks
image by Spokeasy Public House/Facebook

Address: 1472 N Van Ness Ave, Fresno, CA 93728

Spokeasy Public House is a full-service restaurant and bar. They offer a wide variety of menu items including appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, and entrees. They also have a superb selection of craft beers and wines.

It’s a great choice for things to do in Fresno for adults.

The highlight of Spokeasy Public House is the vintage arcade. They have more than 20 classic arcade games from the 80s and 90s. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just looking for some nostalgia, their arcade is sure to please.

They also offer unique craft beers and wines that you can enjoy while playing some of your favorite arcade games.

Best Western Village Inn is the best option if you’re looking for a nearby hotel.

See Related: Best Things to do in California

8. The African American Historical and Cultural Museum

African American Historical and Cultural Museum
image by Betsy S/TripAdvisor

Address: 1857 Fulton St, Fresno, CA 93721

The African American museum opened its doors in 1993 to offer the San Joaquin Valley a cultural hub for the African American community. Its focus on local leaders and artists offers children in the San Joaquin Valley area a rare learning opportunity.

Its exhibits document the history of African Americans in the area and their contributions to government, politics, religion, education, art, sports, health, medicine, law, business, and agriculture.

Founded in 1993 by retired police officer Sergeant Jack Kelly (Fresno PD’s first black police sergeant), the museum’s collection dates back to the 1880s.

Open Wednesday to Friday each week, the museum opens at 10 am and closes at 2 pm. Entry costs $5 per person. The museum also offers a gift shop that features items related to California’s African American history.

See Related: Best Things to do in Eureka, California

9. Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Fresno Chaffee Zoo
image by Rajat_jims/TripAdvisor

Address: 894 West Belmont Avenue, Fresno, CA 93728

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is a zoo located in Fresno, California. The zoo covers over 45 acres and is home to over 190 species of animals. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Some of the animals that can be found at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo include lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and rhinos. The zoo also has a variety of birds, reptiles, and amphibians. In addition to the animal exhibits, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo also has a number of educational programs and events for visitors to enjoy.

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo has a number of different exhibits for visitors to enjoy. Some of the exhibit areas include the African Adventure, the Asian Journey, and Valley Farm. Join a private day trip to Chaffee Zoo & Millerton Lake to tour the zoo.

The African Adventure and the Asian Journey are home to a number of different animals including lions, tigers (no bears, oh my), elephants, giraffes, hippos, and rhinos. The exhibit also features a number of educational programs about the animals and their respective habitats.

The Valley Farm Petting Zoo is an exhibit that features a variety of animals that are native to the San Joaquin Valley. The exhibit has a number of educational programs about the animals and their habitats too.

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo has a number of different events for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. Some of the events include animal enrichment programs, behind-the-scenes tours, and special events such as Zoo Boo and Santa at the Zoo!

Animal enrichment programs are designed to stimulate the senses and provide mental stimulation for the animals.

These programs can include anything from food puzzles to training sessions. Behind-the-scenes tours give visitors a unique look at how the zoo operates on a day-to-day basis. Special events are held throughout the year and can include anything from holiday-themed events to live music performances.

See Related: Best Things to do in San Diego, California

10. Fresno Art Museum

Fresno Art Museum Building
image by Gemini2525 is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Address: 2233 N 1st St, Fresno, CA 93703

Founded in 1961, the Fresno Art Museum (FAM) closed temporarily during the summer of  2022 to update its exhibits.

Those who read this article and visit the art museum in Fresno, California will view never-before-seen exhibits, including a rare collection of San Francisco artist Nathan Oliveira on loan from the artist’s children.

The Oliveira children offered works from their own private collections to offer insight into the work of their father, a member of the “Bridge Generation” of the San Francisco Bay Area Figurative Movement during the 1950s.

The artist died in 2010 and this exhibit curated by his family marks the first since his death anywhere.

Other new exhibits at the Fresno Art Museum include the sculpture and collage works by Bruce Beasley. The artist’s show includes many pieces from his works in the past decade.

Finally, the museum honors the work of Fresno-based architect Arthur Dyson in an exhibit using models and two-dimensional renderings.

The FAM also offers a variety of educational programs, including classes and workshops for budding artists of any age. These include a summer art academy for children and outreach art classes in local schools.

Adults 18 years old and older pay $10 for museum entry, while students pay $7. Children aged four years and younger get in for free. Its artistic and cultural significance and low cost make it one of the best cheap things to do in Fresno.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Fairfield, California

11. Forestiere Underground Gardens

Forestiere Underground Gardens
image by harrysonpics is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Address: 5021 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93722

The Forestiere Underground Gardens are a unique network of subterranean rooms, tunnels, and passageways that were hand-built over a period of 40 years by Sicilian immigrant Baldassare Forestiere.

Despite having no formal training in architecture or engineering, Forestiere used his ingenuity and resourcefulness to create an underground oasis in the midst of the arid Fresno County landscape.

The result is a one-of-a-kind labyrinthine complex with 10 acres of grottoes, gardens, and fruit trees that have been designated as a National Historic Site.

Visitors to the Forestiere Underground Gardens can explore the maze of passages and chambers that make up this remarkable feat of human achievement. They can also learn about the man who created it, and the unique circumstances that led him to build his underground world.

The Forestiere Historical Center operates the gardens and offers tours, educational programs, and special events throughout the year. 

See Related: Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

12. Fresno Fruit Trail

Address: 33 locations throughout Fresno

The Fresno Fruit Trail is a farmers market trail that connects growers and consumers in the central San Joaquin Valley.

The Fresno Fruit Trail includes 24 fruit and vegetable growers who sell their freshest fruits and vegetables directly to the public at certified farmers’ markets.

The Fresno Fruit Trail also provides information about where and how fruit is grown, picked, and shipped from farm to table. It’s one of the most fun free things to do in Fresno.

The Fresno Fruit Trail is a great way for people to connect with local growers and learn about the agricultural industry in the central San Joaquin Valley.

The trail provides an opportunity for people to support local farmers and eat fresh, healthy produce. The Fresno Fruit Trail is also a great way to get outside and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the central San Joaquin Valley.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Glendale, California

12. Island Water Park

Crowd in Island Water Park
image by Management/TripAdvisor

Address: 6099 W Barstow Ave, Fresno, CA 93723

Established in 1984, Island Water Park offers Fresno, California visitors and residents water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and relaxing cabanas.

One of the largest water parks in the state, Island Water Park, opens on Memorial Day weekend and closes for the season following the Labor Day weekend.

Guests of the park can rent cabanas for the day. These cabanas include lounge chairs, a table, and an umbrella to shade them from the sun.

The water park also includes more than 30 rides and attractions, including man-made rivers for floating and a wave pool for surfing. Island Water Park offers three on-site restaurants, an ice cream parlor that serves funnel cakes, and a bar.

Intended as an option for all ages, it tops the list of things to do in Fresno with kids. Island Water Park offers rides, areas for relaxation, and a bevy of dining options. Entry tickets range in cost from $21.99 to $39.99. The cost of a cabana starts at $59.99 and does not include an entry ticket.

Looking for a place to stay nearby?

This cozy garden house is great for small families, or this recently upgraded number could be a great base for enjoying the water park!

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Graeagle, California

13. Fresno County Blossom Trail

Fresno County Blossom Trail
image by BeachsideMartinis/TripAdvisor

Address: 62-mile route through the San Joaquin Valley

The Fresno County Blossom Trail is a 62-mile route through the San Joaquin Valley that features over 200 varieties of fruit and nut trees in bloom. Most famous of all these blossoms are the beautiful cherry trees.

The Fresno Blossom Trail is open to the public from late February through early April and provides a unique opportunity to see some of California’s most beautiful spring flowers.

Visitors can drive, bike, or walk the trail, and there are several stops along the way where you can purchase fresh fruit and nuts. The Fresno Blossom Trail is a great way to experience the beauty of California’s agricultural heartland.

If you want to know what to do in Fresno, if the season is right, it’s the ideal spot and total Instagram candy.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Chico, California

14. Downing Planetarium

Downing Planetarium Building
image by Nightryder84 is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

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

The Downing Planetarium is part of the Fresno State Campus. The planetarium was built in 1969 and is used for Fresno State astronomy classes as well as public outreach shows. It is named after its benefactor, Donald C. Downing.

The planetarium has a 30-foot dome and a Spitz A3P star projector that can project about 5,000 stars onto the dome.

The planetarium also has a number of smaller telescopes that are used for public viewing nights and special events. The Downing Planetarium is open to the public for shows and events throughout the year.

The star theater seats 74 and offers public shows on Friday and Saturday nights. The planetarium also offers school field trips and group rates for organizations.

The mission of the Downing Planetarium is to provide an enjoyable and enlightening experience through astronomical education programs, special events, and public shows to increase scientific literacy, and inspire an appreciation for the night sky.

If you’re looking for an out-of-this-world tourist attraction, stop by the planetarium! It’s a romantic spot to take a date or to learn more about the universe.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Long Beach, California

15. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Kings Canyon National Park Scenery

Address: 47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA

Getting out into nature is definitely one of the best things to do in Fresno.

Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park are two adjacent national parks in the southern Sierra Nevada region of California. Together, they encompass over 1,200 square miles of rugged mountains, deep canyons, sprawling forests, and meadows full of wildflowers.

The parks are home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including some of the world’s largest trees (sequoias) and the nation’s tallest mountains (found in Kings Canyon). Visitors can explore the parks’ many hiking trails, scenic drives, and campgrounds or take part in ranger-led programs.

Sequoia National Park was established in 1890 and covers 404 square miles. Kings Canyon National Park was established in 1940 and covers 865 square miles.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are adjacent to each other and share many amenities, including a visitor center, campgrounds, and hiking trails. The parks are also connected by the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, a scenic drive that winds through the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Sequoia National Park Lake and Sceneries

Sequoia National Park is home to some of the world’s largest trees, including the General Sherman Tree, which is the largest tree in the world by volume. The park is also home to Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States.

Kings Canyon National Park is known for its dramatic landscape, which includes towering cliffs, deep canyons, and alpine meadows. The park is home to several major rivers, including the Kings River and the San Joaquin River.

The parks offer a multitude of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and bird watching. Visitors can also enjoy ranger-led programs, such as Junior Ranger activities, campfire talks, and nature walks.

To tour the national parks, you can take the Kings Canyon Self-Driving Audio Guide, Sequoia adventure tours, and Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks tours.

See Related: Best Things to do in Guerneville, California

 16. Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre

Roger Rocka’s Dinner Performers
image by Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre/Facebook

Address: 1226 N Wishon Ave, Fresno, CA 93728

This Fresno hotspot opened in 1979. You can eat delicious food and catch a show while you’re at it! More than 180 productions have taken place here, including The Sound Of Music, Bye Bye Birdie, and Guys & Dolls.

You can expect a high-quality, family-friendly show along with your meal. The dinner theatre offers a buffet-style meal with entrees, side dishes, and desserts. You can also order drinks from the full bar.

The theater itself is beautiful, and you can also rent it for events. If you’re looking for a fun night out, make sure to check out Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre.

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17. Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park

Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park
image by Management/TripAdvisor

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

The Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park is a family-friendly amusement park located in Fresno, California. The park features a variety of rides and attractions, as well as a number of food and drink options.

The Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park was founded in 1971 by the Fresno Rotary Club. The park was originally designed as a place where children could enjoy a variety of rides and attractions while learning about the stories behind them.

Over the years, the park has undergone a number of changes and expansions. Today, the park is owned and operated by the City of Fresno, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area.

The Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park is open year-round and offers a variety of special events throughout the year. Visitors can purchase tickets for individual rides or attractions, or purchase an all-day pass to enjoy unlimited access to the park.

Some of the popular rides and attractions at the Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park include:

  • The Carousel
  • The Ferris Wheel
  • The Dragon Coaster
  • The Pirate Ship
  • The Haunted House
  • The Merry-Go-Round
  • The bumper Cars
  • The Water Slides
  • The Miniature Golf Course

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and drink options at the park, including ice cream, cotton candy, popcorn, and hot dogs.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Plam Desert, California

18. Arte Americas

Arte Americas
image by Arte Americas/Facebook

Address: 1630 Van Ness Avenue, Fresno, CA 93721.

Arte Americas is the largest non-profit organization in Fresno that is dedicated to promoting Chicano art and culture. They have a museum, and an art gallery, in addition to offering classes and workshops. Their goal is to provide a space for people to learn about and appreciate Chicano art and culture.

Arte Americas was founded in 1976 by a group of local artists and community leaders who saw the need for a space where Latino artists could showcase their work and where the community could come together to celebrate their culture.

Since then, they have become an important hub for the Latino community in Fresno, offering a wide range of programming that includes visual and performing arts, education, and community outreach.

The museum features rotating exhibits of Chicano art, as well as a permanent collection of over 2,000 pieces. The gallery usually has around 4-5 different exhibits at any given time, featuring both local and national artists.

Classes and workshops are offered on a variety of topics related to Chicano art and culture. Some recent examples include screen printing, photography, and mask making.

Looking for somewhere to stay close by? Check out the DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center.

See Related: Most Famous Landmarks in California to Visit

19. Historic Kearney Mansion Museum

Historic Kearney Mansion Museum Building
image by Joy Burrell is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Address: 7160 W Kearney Blvd, Fresno, CA 93706

Kearney Mansion Museum is a French-style chateau located in Fresno that was built in 1886.

Kearney Mansion was the home of M. Theo Kearney, one of the most successful farmers in California during the late 1800s. Kearney came to California from Missouri in 1850 and made his fortune in agriculture, eventually owning over 12,000 acres of land in the Central Valley.

The Mansion is an excellent example of Second Empire architecture, which was popular in France during the 1860s and 1870s. The mansion has a mansard roof, dormer windows, and ornate detailing throughout.

Today, the Kearney Mansion Museum is operated by the City of Fresno and is open for tours. The Mansion is also available for special events, such as weddings and corporate functions.

See Related: Best Tourist Destinations in the World

20. Chukchansi Park

Chukchansi Park
image by YAHQQLIGAN is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Address: 1800 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721

Catch a minor league baseball game at Chukchansi Park baseball stadium in Fresno, California. The Fresno Grizzlies play here; that’s the Triple-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.

The ballpark opened on April 3, 2002, replacing Pete Beiden Field as the home of the Fresno State Bulldog baseball team. With a capacity of 12,500 individuals, the park quickly became a hub for baseball in America, hosting the College World Series in 2003.

Named in honor of the nearby Chukchansi Indian tribe, the park underwent $5 million worth of improvements in 2009 to add an HD video board and more seating. The renovation also redesigned the concourse.

This spot in Fresno also offers a terrific selfie opportunity – the two 30-foot tall statues of grizzlies at the main entrance to the ballpark. Sculpted by Benjamin Victor, bears offer a unique California sight to include in a photo.

The Fresno Grizzlies have served as the Triple-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants since 1998. The team has won five Pacific Coast League championships (1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2015) and one Triple-A National Championship (2015).

Notable former Grizzlies include Tim Lincecum, Buster Posey, Matt Cain, Madison Bumgarner, Brandon Crawford, and Joe Panik. Tickets for Grizzlies games range from $11 to $59, depending on the area of the seats.

Whether you’re a diehard fan or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, watching a game at Chukchansi Park offers an all-American way to spend the day.

Plan to dine at the park because the whole American baseball experience needs to include at least one hot dog, French fries, and a soda to wash it all down. Cotton candy makes the ideal baseball game dessert.

You can also work off the baseball meal after the game at Chukchansi Park. The multi-use facility also includes paved trails through natural scenery that offers a literal breath of fresh air. Take yourself out to the ballpark!

See Related: Things to Know Before Going to Zion National Park

21. Meux Home Museum 

Meux Home Museum Buildings
image by FresnoTravelers/TripAdvisor

Address: 1007 R St, Fresno, CA 93721

Fans of architecture have more than one museum to frequent in Fresno. The Meux Home Museum offers a well-preserved example of Victorian gothic architecture and Victorian living.

The home of Confederate surgeon Dr. Thomas Richard Meux, who relocated to California from Tennessee after the Civil War, the home re-creates traditional Southern architecture in California.

Dr. Meux, who became a prominent physician in the San Joquin Valley, had the 16-room Victorian mansion constructed in 1888. Meux and his spouse devoted their lives in California to helping low-income children and providing pro bono medical services to low-income individuals.

The museum focuses on the history of the home, its unique design, and Dr. Meux. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and programs that focus on the history of the home, its occupants, and the surrounding community.

The Meux Home Museum costs between $5 to $10 to tour. Tours of this home on the US National Register of Historic Places include the maintained Victorian gardens adjacent to the home.

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fresno Yosemite and Vagabond Inn Fresno is among the hotels close to the museum that you can book.

See Related: Best Places to Travel Alone in the World

22. ArtHop 

ArtHop Exhibit
image by ArtHop/Facebook

Address: 1415 Fulton St, Fresno, CA 93721

ArtHop is a monthly event held in Fresno, California that features local artists and art galleries.

ArtHop typically happens on the first Thursday of every month. During ArtHop, participating galleries and businesses host special receptions and exhibitions featuring the work of local artists. ArtHop is free and open to the public.

These receptions provide an opportunity for the public to meet the artists and see their work up close. Many times, the artists are also present at the receptions, which gives viewers a chance to ask them questions about their work.

ArtHop is a great way to support local artists and get involved in the Fresno art community.

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23. Cultural Arts District Park in Fresno

Crowd in Cultural Arts District Park
image by Brittany Jacob ABC30/Cultural Arts District Park/Facebook

Address: 1615 Fulton St., Fresno, CA 93721

Cultural Arts District Park is a public park located in Fresno, California. Its premier purpose is to be a local art exhibition space, but it’s also just a nice place to be.

The park features a variety of amenities including a playground, picnic tables, and a walking path. The park is also home to a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

One of the best features is the interactive lights display located in the park. It has a large multipurpose lawn and a playground for small children. There are also workout stations.

FAQ

What is Fresno known for?

Fresno is known for being the largest city in California’s San Joaquin Valley and for being one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.

The city is also known for its large agricultural industry, as well as its strong economic growth in recent years.

Is Fresno Worth Visiting?

Fresno is home to numerous cultural and artistic attractions, including the Fresno Art Museum, Tower Theatre, Woodward Park, and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, and it is definitely worth a visit!

What are some fun things to do in Fresno, California?

Great places to enjoy Fresno, California include the Children’s Museum of Fresno, the Forestiere Underground Gardens, and Roeding Park.

What is the best thing to do with kids in Fresno, California?

There are a number of great things to do with kids in Fresno, California. There are also a number of great parks and playgrounds in the area, making it a great place to take the kids for a day out.

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is a great place to take the kids to see all sorts of animals and is also a great educational experience.

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