Hello, 2024! If Fresno County isn't on your bucket list, it should be. Here you'll get to see California with a different view. While we could go on and on about all the things there are to do in the area, we've narrowed it down to 24 that you don't want to miss this year.
1. Forestiere Underground Gardens
Make 2024 the year you discover these incredible underground wonder located in Fresno! Venture through hand carved tunnels that was once the home of Baldassare Forestiere. The Sicilian immigrant and citrus farmer used nothing by hand tools to card the underground gardens which include beautiful courtyards, bedrooms and even an underground aquarium. The gardens are open from March to November. Get more information here.
2. Fresno Chaffee Zoo
A wild adventure awaits you at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. The zoo is home to more than 200 species where you can immerse yourself in the state-of-the-art exhibits such as the African Adventure, Kingdoms of Asia and Sea Lion Cove. Feed a giraffe, touch a stingray, pet a tortoise and help with sea lion training during one their behind-the-scenes experiences. This is one of California's world-class zoos with ticket prices affordable for the whole family to enjoy. Get tickets here.
3. Fresno County Blossom Trail
Winter looks different in Fresno County, offering an enchanting display of pink and white petals on the landscape known as the Fresno County Blossom Trail. Stretching across 70 miles, the early bloom of stone fruits and oranges from mid-February to late March is a testament to Fresno County’s leading agricultural influence. See the full trail map here.
4. Simonian Farms
Simonian Farms is a unique stop to find fresh produce and get a taste of life in the Old West. The family farm grows nearly 200 fruits and vegetables, and produces premium dried fruits and nuts. While you're there, try their old-fashioned sodas on tap in the Old Saloon and pick up old-fashioned candies in the market. Learn more here.
5. Kings Canyon National Park
With magnificent trees, roaring falls and serene lakes, there is plenty of beauty to inside Kings Canyon National Park without massive crowds. Kings Canyon is 10,000 feet deeper than the Grand Canyon, and known as the deepest canyon in the United States. The park is also home to Hume Lake and the General Grant Tree, which was designated the nation's Christmas Tree almost 100 years ago. Find the top six trails to explore in the park here.
6. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is filled with stunning landmarks and gorgeous views sure to take your breath away. See the famous El Capitan mountain, climb Half Dome and sit beneath the giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove. It's only a 90-minute drive from Fresno and Clovis. You can also take the YARTS (Yosemite Area Transportation System) buses from Fresno in the summer. The National Park Service will be implementing a new vehicle reservation system starting in 2024. Be sure to plan ahead. Find more details about the park and the reservation system here.
7. Sequoia National Park
Home to the largest trees in the world, Sequoia National Park is a bucket list experience located less than 90 minutes from Fresno and Clovis. Stand beside the General Sherman, climb to the top of Moro Rock or trek through Crystal Cave. Find the top six trails to explore in the park here.
8. Fresno Mural District
Art lives beyond the frame in Downtown Fresno's Mural District. You'll see the pride of Fresno, portraits of legendary artists and mystical creatures painted in vibrant colors represented in these beautiful murals. This Instagram-ready district is the best spot for anyone looking to enjoy local art. Take the tour here.
9. Fresno Brewery District
Tap into some of Fresno County's best local craft beers and cocktails by visiting the Downtown Fresno Brewery District. Located along Fulton Street between Inyo and Mono, the breweries in the district are all within walking distance of each other and are serving up hops with their own unique twists. Be smart and save money on an Uber by hopping on the FresnoHop trolley. The free trolley system connects you to the heart of Fresno's electric nightlife. Find a full list of breweries and cocktail bars in the brewery district here.
10. Old Town Clovis
Old Town Clovis is a charming western-themed downtown, home to several boutiques, stores and a lively nightlife. Browse antique stores and take in the sights along the Clovis trails during the day. Stop for live music and a drink on the patio of several local restaurants. A variety of family-friendly events are held in Old Town Clovis throughout the year including a weekly farmers market. Learn more about Old Town Clovis here.
11. Tower District
Fresno's Tower District is a neighborhood with a love for the arts. Known for its entertainment scene, restaurants, bars and vintage shops, the district comes to life at night and is anchored by the 1939 art deco Tower Theatre. You'll also find a year-round farmers market every Thursday. Learn more about the Tower District here.
12. Project Survival Cat Haven
Discover the amazing world of Project Survival Cat Haven in Fresno County, where you’ll learn about the conservation efforts for some of the rarest big cats in the world Take a guided tour along a .25 mile trail to see 15 different species of cats, including jaguars, leopards, lions and tigers! They also offer special tours that include behind-the-scenes experiences. Be sure to wear walking shoes and bring plenty of water. After the tour, check out the gift shop and see where in the world some of the proceeds from your tickets are going to help preserve these cats in the wild. The cat sanctuary is located only a few miles from Kings Canyon National Park. Details here.
13. Kearney Mansion
Learn about the Raisin King of California, M. Theo Kearney, and how he developed what was then called the Fruit Vale Estate. Kearney's entrepreneurial spirit dug the roots for Fresno County's vast agricultural footprint. Tour his mansion or have a picnic and explore the remaining 230 acres of estate park full of magnificent trees and landscaping. More details here.
14. See a Fresno Grizzlies Baseball Game
Spring means the start of baseball season in Downtown Fresno. Watch Colorado Rockies Triple-A affiliate the Fresno Grizzlies at Chukchansi Park. The stadium is one of the best in the minor league, and you can always count on a great fan experience put on by the Grizzlies mascot, Parker, and the rest of the staff. Summers are warm in Fresno, but with the stadiums kid-friendly splash park, there's no excuses for baseball fans not to cheer on the Grizzlies! Opening Day is April 9. Get tickets for the 2024 season here.
15. Clovis Veterans Memorial District
In Clovis' Veterans Memorial District, you'll learn about the city's dedication to honoring veterans and how that spirit has remained engrained in Clovis' foundation since its establishment. See statues honoring our service members and stop by the Clovis Heritage Museum. With displays about Clovis' beginnings, you'll learn about the start of our cherished traditions, including the Clovis Rodeo, and how U.S. military members from out community stood up in time of adversity to make the ultimate sacrifice. Learn more about the museum here.
16. Shinzen Japanese Garden
Discover the Shinzen Japanese Garden inside Woodward Park, established to promote peace and recognize the role of Japanese immigrants within the Fresno region. Explore the beautiful Ume Grove, get a view of the Koi pond, colorful blooms and learn about more than 100 species of bonsai trees in the Clark Bonsai Garden. The garden is divided into four sections that showcase the changing seasons and ensuring you'll see something beautiful year-round. It's only $5 to enter. Details here.
17. Clovis Botanical Gardens
Walk through the Clovis Botanical Gardens where you'll see a gorgeous display of plants and learn about water conservation efforts in the area. The garden is free to visit. You'll find a wide selection of cacti, succulents and other plants. You'll also find a sensory garden where you can play music and hear wind chimes, as well as a kids garden, with play tunnels and painted pottery. Learn more about the garden here.
18. Farmers Markets
Farm fresh isn't just a seasonal thing in Fresno County. This is a top agricultural producing county, where you can get fresh fruits year-round. Farmers markets are a way for Fresno County to celebrate its farming heritage and bring the community together. Local farmers markets run every week and feature fresh produce and small local food vendors. Find a full list of farmers markets here.
19. Shaver Lake
Take a drive up the Sierra Nevada mountains to reach Shaver Lake. Located only an hour from Fresno and Clovis, spend a summer day on the lake with friends and family. You can jet ski, canoe, water ski, wakeboard or lounge by the water. If you don't have your own equipment, the area is stocked with rental businesses. If you don't feel like getting in the water, you'll also found plenty of hiking trails with a great view of the lake.
20. Clovis Rodeo
Grab your boots and cowboy hats, and head out to the Clovis Rodeo! Watch as cowboys from all over the country take part in one of the most thrilling and dangerous sports—bull riding. The competition at the Clovis Rodeo is fierce, with skilled riders hoping to make it to the top. In addition to bull riding, you don't want to leave without seeing the annual mutton bustin' competition, concerts, the Clovis Rodeo parade, or trying a delicious tri-tip sandwich. This year's rodeo runs from April 24-28. Get details and tickets here.
21. China Peak
Fresno County has snow? Yes. Yes, we do. Snow lovers can head up to China Peak Mountain Resort where there is skiing and snowboarding. The season runs from late fall to early spring, and is the perfect getaway to escape long wait times at other popular ski resorts in California. Drive up with your equipment or feel free to rent items on site. More details here.
22. Fresno Art Museum
Fresno County has an appetite for fine arts, and you'll discover work by local artists and artwork from around the world at the Fresno Art Museum. The museum preserves and protects more than 3,600 modern and contemporary pieces including works from Ansel Adams, Pablo Picasso, Norman Rockwell and others. It also hosts various exhibitions with pieces on load from other museums around the world as well as historic events reflecting on the culture of our region. Get tickets here.
23. Attend ClovisFest
Watch hot air balloons drift up into the air just after sunrise at the Clovis Rodeo Grounds. Following the launch, Clovis Fest begins! The free event is hosted by the Clovis Chamber of Commerce and spans 12 blocks and features more than 200 craft and commercial booths, live music and performances, the International Village, a beer garden, and no shortage of great food choices. This year's ClovisFest runs September 28-29. More details here.
24. Pincushion Peak
Wander the Pincushion Mountain Trail, a 2.8 mile round-trip trail located about 30 minutes from the Fresno/Clovis area near Friant, California. A favorite hike among locals, the short trail overlooks Millerton Lake and ends with a steep climb up to Pincushion Peak and a view of Fresno in the distance. You can find more hiking trails here.
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