Blooming garden by day, beer garden by night.
Gazebo Gardens is an unparalleled Fresno County treasure. Tucked away in the charming historical neighborhood known as “Old Fig”, the nursery offers a lively multi-sensory experience. Not only does the local business house a vast assortment of plants any gardener would dig, but also presents a boutique filled with alluring housewares and a spot for coffee lovers to blend—Café Van Ness.
During the day—with latte in-hand—peruse the vast collection of blooms. Listen to the trickling fountains and rustling leaves as the breeze makes its way through the branches of the surrounding eucalyptus trees. Encounter pottery, sculptures and eclectic yard art in all shapes and sizes. Be sure not to miss out on a photo-op with the Instagram-famous life-size garden gnome and other whimsical characters.
Thursday through Saturday evenings, the garden transforms to beer garden and food truck haven complete with live music. The spacious outdoor area has plenty of intimate seating arrangements to revel in your food-truck-hopping harvest. The setting makes for a perfect family outing where everyone gets to choose their own food truck favorite (or favorites). The end-of-week scene also makes for a novel date night comprised of tasty brews and a garden stroll. For out-of-towners the evenings offer an opportunity to get a feel for the local Fresno community’s laid-back friendly spirit.
Gazebo Gardens cultivates an atmosphere to indulge in the simplest of life’s pleasures: good food, cold beer, live jams, blooming flowers and community.
Here are FresNotes from Gazebo Gardens owner Scott Miller:
Tell us about Gazebo Gardens. What should visitors expect when they stop by?
Established in 1922, we are one of the oldest continually- operating retail nurseries in the state. Approximately two acres in the geographic center of Fresno, with everything you'd need for the garden and home. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings from 5-9pm, the nursery becomes Fresno's largest beer garden- with live music, the best local food trucks, and over 100 craft beers to choose from. We are also home to Cafe Van Ness- a great place to grab a coffee and a pastry before you stroll the gardens.
Which of your items seem to be most popular right now?
In October and November, we sell thousands of flats of annual color, but beer is popular year-round.
What is most rewarding to you about your business?
The sense of community...we have third and fourth generation customers who have been coming here their whole lives.
What is a must for visitors to check out when spending time in the Fresno area?
Food trucks- we have some of the best in America right here where we live.
What is your favorite Fresno County attraction?
The Fresno County Blossom Trail.
We encourage everyone to support local restaurants—especially given their current challenges. What is your favorite local restaurant?
Irene's- can't get enough of those burgers. And the owners, Bill and Irene Saul are two of the greatest people around.