Are you looking for fun things to do in Fresno?
If you are, you’re in luck.
I have compiled a list of the best things to do in Fresno so that you don’t have to do the hard work and research yourself.
Fresno is a beautiful town that has something to offer everyone.
There are historical museums, underground gardens, themed amusement parks, and more.
So, without further adieu, let’s find your next adventure!
1: Forestiere Underground Gardens
Do you like fairy tales? It’s going to feel as if you’ve walked into one if you visit the Forestiere Underground Gardens.
The gardens were created by a man called Baldasare Forestiere.
At the moment, the gardens are significant enough to have earned their place on the National Register of Historic Places.
Believe it or not, the gardens are so intricate that it took Baldasare Forestiere to perfect them.
After fleeing from his country in 1902, he started to make gardens, tunnels, and mazes outside his home.
His work was influenced by Roman times and currently resembles ancient catacombs.
The garden is spread over 8 acres and it is one of the most spectacular sights that you will come across in your life.
There are all sorts of flowers and trees, some of which have lemons and other fruit on them.
Botanists from all over the world have come to see the spectacle.
If you have a green thumb or like gardens, I highly recommend that you visit them too.
They’re somewhat of a modern-day version of the garden of Eden. So, don’t miss out on this beautiful sight.
Head over to the Forestiere Underground Gardens to walk into your own fairytale!
2: Fresno Art Museum
If you like art you’re going to love the Fresno Art Museum.
This is one of the best things to do in Fresno for those who are looking for some culture and serenity on their day out.
The museum was initially built in 1940 and has since become one of the top museums in the state of California.
The museum is made up of more than 3000 paintings, sculptures, and other precious works of art.
Some of the works of art have been created by famous names such as Pablo Picasso, Clement Renzi, and Salvador Dali, but there are also art pieces that were created by less popular artists.
The Fresno Art Museum is one of the most spectacular sights that you will ever witness.
There are rotating exhibits which means that you’ll see different works of art every time you visit the museum.
Do you want to be an artist? If you do, you can sign up for the museum’s art classes.
There are also workshops and educational speeches on art, all of which are led by trained professionals.
Don’t forget to attend the Trashique Art and Fashion Show Fundraiser to see even more amazing works of art while socializing with like-minded individuals.
So, visit the Fresno Art Museum and “paint” your way to a better day!
3: Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Are you looking for things to do in Fresno with your family? If you are, be sure to make a pit stop at Fresno Chaffee Zoo.
The zoo has a diverse range of animals that your little ones will love.
There is also a spacious park area where you can unwind with your family.
So, don’t forget to pack picnic baskets filled with your favorite snacks and treats.
The zoo was initially created to house unwanted pets and has since grown into being one of the largest and most diverse zoos in the state of California.
You’ll be able to see everything from monkeys and alligators to tigers and bears when you visit the zoo.
As a matter of fact, there are roughly 190 different species of animals at the zoo.
The greatest part is that roughly 90 of these animal species are rare or endangered which means that you are unlikely to see them anywhere else.
If you want to give your kids an even more exciting experience, you can take them to feed the marine animals at the stingray bay.
Otherwise, your kids can become little archaeologists and dig up fossils at the dinosaur exhibit.
The zoo also hosts summer camps and other educational programs. Family fun, here we come!
4: The Discovery Center
Here’s another one of the best family-friendly things to do in Fresno.
The Discovery Center is an educational center where your kids can learn more about the world and how it works.
The center was built in the 1900s and has grown in popularity ever since.
Environmental and physical science are the primary focal points at The Discovery Center.
There are interactive exhibits where you and your children can engage with and learn some interesting stuff.
On top of that, the center has a Deutsch Cactus Garden that you can stroll through.
There are also a few Indian huts on the premises where you can see exactly how native Americans used to live.
Your kids will love the tortoise enclosure and the Dino Dig program where they can pretend to be mini archaeologists.
The exhibits that have been set up on the inside of the facility will teach you about how electricity and magnets work and what happens in space.
Some of the exhibits display rare artifacts and others teach you about paleontology and how native American baskets are made.
You can’t go wrong by taking your family on an excursion to The Discovery Center. It’ll be an experience they’ll never forget!
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5: Fresno Blossom Trail
This one’s for all the fitness junkies out there.
Are you looking for things to do in Fresno that will help you burn some of those unwanted calories?
If you are, be sure to add the Fresno Blossom Trail to your bucket list.
The Fresno Blossom Trail is one of the most scenic hiking trails that you will find in California.
It’s a great trail for hikers of all levels, so you don’t have to be the fittest of the fittest if you want to hike here.
The path that the trail follows is filled with beautiful flowers that create a serene atmosphere.
There are nut orchids and fruit orchards where you can harvest some snacks for your expedition.
On top of that, you’ll find peach and apricot trees along the road. Yes, the Fresno Blossom Trail is somewhat of nature’s heaven.
You’ll also be hiking through citrus groves and vineyards. Is there anything this trail doesn’t have?
The blossoming flowers are probably the most spectacular sight that you’ll see on your trip.
The trail is laden with vibrant colors that will distract you from your weary feet. So, try out the Fresno Blossom Trail.
It will be a “fruitful” experience.
6: Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden
Are you looking for things to do in Fresno that involve drinking a cold glass of beer?
If you are, be sure to check out Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden.
Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden is one of the biggest breweries in Fresno.
All of the beer that is served here is freshly brewed on the premises.
You can head over to the taproom where you can buy one of the brewery’s delicious rotating beers before heading out to the spacious beer garden to unwind.
If you are in the mood for some extra entertainment you can play games such as corn hole and foosball on the premises.
Did I mention that Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden also hosts a variety of events?
Yes, you can listen to live music or watch other live performances while sipping away at your beer.
There are also art shows that you can attend and plenty of food trucks in case your stomach starts rumbling.
If you’re a beer lover, you simply have to visit this brewery. Let’s give three cheers for beer!
7: Save Mart Center
Kick, throw, and catch at one of the most epic sports centers in Fresno!
The Save Mart Center is one of the most popular attractions in the area for the sports lovers out there.
Going to the center is also one of the best things to do in Fresno if you love live events.
For starters, Save Mart Center hosts plenty of sports games such as hockey, basketball, rodeo, and wrestling.
You can pick your team and cheer from the stands while watching the players in action.
If you’re not a fan of sports, you can still visit the Save Mart Center for other reasons.
The Center also hosts a variety of live music events where you can tap your feet to the rhythm of the beat.
There are also traveling Cirque du Soleil shows for those who are interested in theater and love the circus.
So, I guess that it’s safe to say that the Save Mart Center is an entertainment venue of sorts.
The first music event that the center hosted featured none other than the famous Andrea Bocelli.
So, you can rest assured that you’ll see some of the most talented artists perform at the center’s events. Sports, music, and Cirque du Soleil? Sign me up!
8: Island Waterpark
Get ready to have a splashing adventure at Island Waterpark! This is one of the best things to do in Fresno on a hot, summer day.
There are more than a dozen slides at the waterpark that you can slip and slide on.
Some of the slides are better for the lone rangers out there, and others can take the whole family at once.
You can tube down the waterpark’s man-made river or dive head first into the cool pools.
The Singapore Tsunami is a tourist favorite, but it can be as scary as it sounds.
If the Singapore Tsunami is too much for you, you can rather slip and slide on the Tokyo Typhoon.
There is also a slide called the Mumbai Monsoon. The owners of this waterpark seem to love natural disasters if you ask me.
Don’t forget to pack your own picnic baskets in case you get hungry.
Otherwise, you can buy a delicious snack from one of the restaurants in the waterpark.
One thing is for sure, you won’t get bored at Island Waterpark. It will be a splashing adventure!
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9: Warnors Theater
This one is for all the theater junkies out there!
Are you ready to put your show boots on and to get pulled in by mesmerizing musicals and plays?
If you are, head over to the Warnors Theater for the show of a lifetime.
The theater was first opened in 1928 and has grown in size and popularity ever since.
Silent movies were the primary focal point of the theater at a stage before it was handed over to the Warner Brothers.
At the moment, the theater hosts a variety of Dramas, Satires, Musicals, live music, and other live performances.
If you are looking for things to do in Fresno that have a cultural touch, the Warnors Theater is the way to go.
You can watch some famous Broadway shows such as The Lion King, Wicked, The Sound of Music, West Side Story, Cabaret, and more.
If musicals aren’t your cup of tea you can watch comedies such as The Show That Goes Wrong.
Not all of the Warnors Theater’s performances are live. The theater also plays classical movies on a giant screen.
So get ready to grab some popcorn. As Freddy Mercury would say, “The show must go on!”
10: Millerton Lake State Recreation Area
If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Fresno, be sure to stop by the Millerton Lake State Recreation Area.
The state park stretches over 20 miles of land and has a beautiful lake with crystal clear water.
If you’re feeling lucky you might even encounter some wildlife.
A few of the animals that inhabit the area include badgers, eagles, and mule deer.
Other than that, the park is full of scenic views for you to enjoy.
There are lush trees and beautiful flowers that accompany the beauty of the lake.
As a matter of fact, the park is so beautiful that you’re probably going to want to stay for the whole day.
Just remember to pack some blankets and a picnic basket filled with your favorite treats.
There is a lovely picnic area where you can relax with your friends and family while getting some fresh air.
If you don’t feel like buying dinner for the night, you can always try your luck by going fishing in the lake.
Otherwise, in the summer, you can have a splashing adventure by taking a dip in the lake.
Boating is another popular activity at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area. Are you ready to unwind and have a good time? I sure am!
11: River Park Shopping Center
Attention all shopaholics! Are you looking for things to do in Fresno that involve spending money and buying new things?
If you are, then the River Park Shopping Center is the perfect place for you to be.
The River Park Shopping Center first opened its doors in 1996 and was an immediate hit with the general public.
The center has plenty of shops for you to browse through, each of which has its own, unique items.
You can buy anything from electrical appliances and furniture to clothes, accessories, and home decor at the shopping center.
The options are limitless. You can also buy some brand-name items from River Park Shopping Center that come from places like Macy’s and Target.
If your feet start to get tired, you can take a break and rejuvenate your energy with a delicious meal or warm cup of coffee in the food court.
There are more than 30 different restaurants to choose from. On top of that, there is a movie theater inside the shopping center.
So, if you are looking for kid-friendly things to do in Fresno, you could always take your little ones to go see a movie.
Get ready to shop until you drop by River Park Shopping Center!
12: Big Fresno Fair
Let’s go to the fair! Here is another one of the best family-friendly things to do in Fresno.
The Big Fresno Fair is one of the biggest fairs that you’ll find in the state. The fair is held in Central Valley and lasts for two weeks.
There are a lot of great things to do at the fair.
For starters, there is a diverse range of exhibits that you can browse through, each of which has its own unique elements.
Do you like gambling? If you do, you can bet on your favorite horse in the horse races that are held at the fair. Who knows?
You might even pick the winning horse and walk away with a few extra bucks.
On top of the exhibits and horse races, there are also livestock shows that you can watch.
If lady luck is on your side, you might win one of the many competitions that are hosted at the fair.
You can also tap your feet to the rhythm of the beat while you watch talented artists performing live music.
I’m not sure about you, but this sounds like my kind of fair!
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13: Arte Americas
Are you looking for things to do in Fresno that have a cultural and historical touch? If you do, be sure to give Arte Americas a try.
Arte Americas is a cultural center whose primary goal is to educate people on the Latino heritage.
This is a non-profit organization that was first established in 1987.
You can learn all sorts of interesting things about Latino culture, where they come from, and the trials that they had to face over the past few decades.
The cultural center spreads over an area of 10,000 feet and holds valuable creations that were made by important individuals in the Latino community.
Some of these creations include works of art, music, films, and poetry.
This is an excellent activity for anyone who is looking for a cultural excursion where they can learn about cultures that aren’t their own.
Arte Americas has a gallery with a few different sections.
There are exhibits, performance spaces, and classrooms where you can learn more about the Latino culture.
Out of all the things to do in Fresno, this is by far the most fruitful experience that you will have!
14: Farmers Markets
Old McDonald has nothing compared to the mind-blowing things that you will find at the farmers’ markets in Fresno.
This is one of the best things to do in Fresno for those who are looking for a fun day out where they can shop until they drop.
There are plenty of flea markets in Fresno, each of which has its own unique touch.
You can spend hours browsing through the diverse range of stalls if you want to kill some time in a fun way.
There are also plenty of interesting things that you can walk home with.
You can buy fresh produce, handmade crafts, clothes, accessories, furniture, electronics, and more.
A majority of the farmers’ markets in Fresno have vendors that sell delicious food.
They have everything from breakfast bagels and juicy burgers, to meaty dishes, and sweet treats.
Some of the food vendors also specialize in making culture-specific food.
So, you may be able to buy Mexican food, Taiwanese food, Chinese food, and, of course, traditional American food.
Most flea markets also have live performances. So, be sure not to miss out on this awesome experience! You won’t regret it.
15: ArtHop
Let your creative juices flow freely at ArtHop in Fresno. Going to ArtHop is one of the best things to do in Fresno if you are a creative spirit who loves art.
ArtHop has a wide variety of exhibits with creative elements that you can browse through.
Some of these creative items come from museums and others come from art galleries.
The greatest thing about ArtHop is that there is no admission fee to enter the premises. Yes, this activity is absolutely free!
The festivities only run on Thursday nights. So, be sure to plan your trip accordingly if you don’t want to miss out.
The artistic items that you will see at ArtHop are guaranteed to blow your mind.
You’ll see some beautiful works of art that come from galleries, as well as art and interesting artifacts that come from museums.
If you are an art lover, you simply can’t afford to miss out on this mind-blowing experience.
So hop onto a bus and head over to ArtHop for an experience that you won’t soon forget!
16: Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park
Here’s another one of the best family-friendly things to do in Fresno. Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park isn’t your average, everyday amusement park.
As a matter of fact, the park’s primary goal is to transform children’s stories into reality.
There is a wide variety of interactive exhibits for your kids to enjoy.
They can walk into the magical world of magic and fairytales, or pretend to brave the ocean at the pirate exhibit.
There are also magical castle exhibits that your little ones are bound to enjoy.
After you and your family stroll through the variety of epic exhibits, you can go to the theater area to watch a children’s theater show.
Different acts will perform every time you go to the park.
On certain occasions, your children can escape from reality by watching a magic show.
Otherwise, they can sit and listen as interesting characters tell them stories.
There are also live music performances that are specifically designed to cater to children.
There is so much excitement to find at Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park that your children are going to be exhausted by the time you leave the park.
One thing is certain, this will be a magical experience for the whole family to enjoy!
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17: Yosemite National Park
This one is for all of the fitness fanatics out there. Are you looking for things to do in Fresco that will put your fitness levels to the test?
If you are, be sure to head over to Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site that attracts locals and tourists alike.
The park is absolutely breathtaking and it’s the perfect place to burn some of those unwanted calories.
Nearly 3 million people visit Yosemite National Park. So, be prepared to run into some fellow travelers on the way.
There are plenty of hiking trails for you to explore at the park.
Some of the trails are fairly easy while others are recommended for the more experienced hikers.
Each trail will lead you through breathtaking scenery that will leave you standing in awe.
You will see majestic waterfalls, rocky cliffs, lush forests, and crystal clear lakes on your adventure.
There are roughly 800 miles worth of trails in Yosemite National Park. So, there is a trail for everybody to choose from, regardless of their skill level.
You can hike through a difficult trail if you are willing to break a sweat.
Otherwise, you can hike through one of the easier trails if you are looking for more of a casual stroll.
Visiting Yosemite National Park is an experience that you simply can’t afford to miss out on. Let’s get fit the fun way!
18: The Tower Theater
Are you someone who loves to watch movies? If you are, be sure to add The Tower Theater to your bucket list.
This is one of the best things to do in Fresco. Especially for those who are looking for a more relaxing experience.
The theater in itself is a sight to behold. It consists of beautiful architecture that you are unlikely to find anywhere else.
On top of that, there are quite a few interesting movies that play regularly that are bound to keep you entertained.
You can also watch live performances that will blow your mind.
Apart from having beautiful architecture, the theater has also been decorated beautifully on the inside.
The decor is historically significant and the theater has Italian flooring.
You’ll see a different performance every time you visit the theater which at least keeps things interesting.
Nothing goes better together than eating a warm meal after watching a breathtaking show.
If you would like your night to have all of the exciting elements that it needs, be sure to make a pit stop at Parma Restaurant.
Here, you can have a lovely Italian meal which includes authentic Italian pizza and pasta.
Dinner and a live show also sound like a pretty good date night to me if you’re looking to impress that special someone.
In general, The Tower Theater is an experience that you’ll never forget. There’s no business like show business!
19: Downing Planetarium
Do you like learning about outer space? If you do, you’re going to love the Downing Planetarium!
Learn everything that there is to know about life outside on earth’s surface and explore the unknown with the guidance of trained professionals.
You can walk through a variety of interactive exhibits that teach you about all of the planets in our solar system.
On top of that, there is a theater area where you can watch movies about the things that you’ll find in outer space.
Visiting the Downing Planetarium is one of the best kid-friendly things to do in Fresco. Especially if it’s a rainy day.
Did I mention that there is a telescope at the planetarium?
Yes, you can gaze through the telescope to get a closer view of the millions of stars that surround us.
Now, that’s something even the adults can enjoy. The planetarium is shaped like a dome that turns into a spectacle when the lights go off.
A projector is used to play educational videos about outer space that lights up the entire dome.
There are 75 seats in the theater area which means there is plenty of space for everyone.
I will be watching National Geographic on an ultra, big screen.
After your exciting day at the planetarium, you can grab a bite to eat at Sal’s Mexican restaurant.
You can enjoy some tacos, burritos, or any Mexican cuisine that your heart desires.
One thing is certain, there’s no space for boredom in outer space!
20: Fresno County Fruit Trail
Are you ready to go on a “fruitful” expedition? If you are, put on your hiking boots and head over to the Fresno County Fruit Trail.
This is one of the best things to do in fresco for those who want to burn some unwanted calories.
The trail that you’ll be taking is moderately easy to hike through. So, you don’t have to worry too much about breaking a sweat.
You’ll be surrounded by awe-striking scenery and lush trees for the entire hike. So, what makes Fresno County Fruit Trail so special?
Well, for starters, there are fruit trees on the trail where you can help yourself to some juicy citrus fruit.
The best part is that you don’t have to pay for any of it. On top of that, there are also a few farmers’ markets along the trail.
You can make a pit stop whenever you want to buy some fresh produce and other goodies that can be found at a farmers market.
This is an activity for lone rangers and families to enjoy.
The fruit that grows on the Fresno County Fruit Trail is some of the juiciest fruit that you will find in the state.
So, don’t miss out on this exciting hike with a twist. Head over to Fresno County Fruit Trail and get your taste of Fresno’s fruity goodness!
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Conclusion
That concludes our list of the best things to do in Fresno. Have you found the activity that you are looking for?
If you find it hard to decide on only one activity, you can try out a bunch of them. Fresno has something for everyone to enjoy.
From theaters and planetariums to hiking trails and world heritage sites. There’s no time for boredom in this town!
