Underground Gardens & Safari Adventures in Fresno
Fresno
Tips on renting in Fresno
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Fresno, California, a vibrant city where family adventures unfold at every turn. Begin your journey at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, home to over 190 species, including majestic elephants and swift cheetahs. The celebrated African Adventure exhibit has doubled the zoo’s size, creating immersive experiences that delight guests of all ages.
For a taste of local culture, explore the Meux Home Museum, a beautifully restored Victorian house dating back to 1889. Guided tours offer a captivating glimpse into Fresno’s rich history, making it an ideal stop for families with a passion for the past.
No visit to Fresno would be complete without experiencing the Big Fresno Fair, an annual October event that draws nearly 600,000 visitors. Enjoy classic carnival rides, live entertainment, and agricultural exhibits that highlight the region’s dynamic spirit. With so much to discover, Fresno promises unforgettable family moments in the heart of California.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Fresno has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the enchanting Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno, plan a 1-hour guided walking tour through the hand-built network of underground rooms, courtyards, and passageways created by Sicilian immigrant Baldassare Forestiere. The gardens are open from March to November, and visitors should dress for varying temperatures and earthen terrain. Admission fees include $25 for adults, $23 for seniors and college students with valid ID, and $14 for youth, with children under 4 entering free.
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For a seamless and enjoyable boat-launching experience at Shaver Lake, head to the Shaver Lake Launch Ramp and Sierra Marina, located at the north end of the lake in the Sierra National Forest. This primary boat launching area offers ample parking for vehicles and trailers, as well as foot traffic access to shoreline fishing, all without any fees. The ramp is open seven days a week from 7 AM to 7 PM from April to October, making it the ideal spot for your outdoor adventure.
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For a immersive desert hiking experience in Fresno, Texas, the Fresno West Rim Overlook Trail in Big Bend Ranch State Park is a standout. This 5.1-mile round-trip trail winds through cactus, sotol, and ocotillo, descending into an arroyo and back up to the Fresno Canyon rim, offering secluded and scenic desert views. Best hiked during sunset for dramatic landscapes, this trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, though it is a long drive from nearby towns.
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For a picturesque picnic spot in Fresno, consider Kearney Park, a historic gem with abundant open space and tall trees. This 225-acre park, connected by a scenic boulevard, offers various picnic facilities and a tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for a leisurely outing. Alternatively, Avocado Lake Park provides a beautiful setting with a lake surrounded by a road, perfect for picnicking and enjoying nature, especially during the warmer months.
