36 Fun & Best Things To Do In Fresno CA (California)

What are the Fun & Best Things To Do In Fresno CA? Fresno is one of the largest cities in California. The city is located in north-central California and is bordered by Merced County to the north, Tulare County to the east, Kern County to the south, and Kings County to the west. 

Top Free things to do in Fresno

With its warm weather, year-round activities, and top-tier universities and businesses, Fresno has something for everyone.  Aside from big cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles in CA, you will discover some gem places to visit.

Here are 36 fun and best things to do in Fresno!

List of 36 Things to Do in Fresno CA Today

1. Woodward Regional Park

Beautiful and well-known, Woodward Regional Park is located in Fresno, California. Visitors flock to the park because of its wonderful features and attractions.

Woodward Regional Park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and playing in the park’s various playgrounds.

Some historic places can also be found in the park. The now-defunct Woodward Dam, which was destroyed by water in 1955, can be seen by visitors.

There is a popular fishing and swimming place at the dam, which was previously a significant part of the local water infrastructure.

Aside from the magnificent environment, Woodward Regional Park is also recognized. Photographers and nature enthusiasts flock to this park on the San Joaquin River’s banks because of the area’s rolling hills and rich greenery.

Address: 14528 26 Mile Rd, Oakdale, CA 95361

Phone: (209) 847-3304

2. Fresno Chaffee Zoo – Animals

Visiting the Fresno Chaffee Zoo is a great way to spend a day with your family. Over 200 species of animals may be found at the zoo.

A roller coaster and a Ferris wheel are only two of the many attractions available.

Dr. Harry Chaffee established the zoo in 1908. With simply bears and monkeys as the only animals on display, it was a rather small facility.

The zoo has expanded over the years to its current 40-acre size. African Plains, a reproduction of an East African natural environment, and the lion display, which contains a replica of an ancient Egyptian temple, are two of the most notable aspects of the facility.

Every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the zoo is open (except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day).

Address: 894 W Belmont Ave, Fresno, CA 93728

Phone: (559) 498-5910

3. The Fresno Discovery Center – Science

If you’re looking for things to do in Fresno, CA, head to the Discovery Center. It has a long and distinguished history, dating back over a century, and is the scene of numerous significant discoveries.

The discovery of King Tut’s tomb and the coelacanth, an ancient fish thought to be extinct, were two of the expedition’s high points. In addition, there are displays on science, the environment, and human history.

Address: 1944 N Winery Ave, Fresno, CA 93703

Phone: (559) 251-5533

4. Forestiere Underground Garden

A must-see in Fresno, CA is Forestiere Underground Garden. I think it’s worth the trip because of its rich history and intriguing features.

Baldassare Forestiere, a Sicilian immigrant, spent 40 years creating the gardens. Beginning in 1906, he worked on them non-stop until he passed away in 1946.

Explore more than 100 acres of new underground passageways and cavernous sanctuaries now open to the public. Forestiere’s 12-foot-tall statue and a big pond in the middle courtyard are two of the most notable aspects of the property.

In the garden, you’ll find a number of fruit trees, which will let you examine how they develop underground.

Address: 5021 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93722

Phone: (559) 271-0734

5. Fresno Art Museum

The Fresno Art Museum may be found in the heart of Fresno, California. The museum dates back to 1927, when it was founded as the Fresno Arts and Crafts Club.

The museum hosts international art exhibitions as well as a permanent collection that includes works by Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams.

The Fresno Art Museum offers educational activities and opportunities for visitors to participate in the arts, in addition to its art displays. Additionally, the surrounding neighborhood offers numerous activities, making a visit to the Fresno Art Museum an entertaining experience for everyone.

Address: 2233 N First St, Fresno, CA 93703

Phone: (559) 441-4221

6. Fresno Blossom Trail

The Fresno Blossom Trail is a unique Fresno, California attraction. The pathway follows the course of the San Joaquin River and goes through numerous lovely flowering trees. There are numerous parks, gardens, and other attractions along the trail.

The Shinzen Japanese Garden is among the most popular aspects of the Blossom Trail. This garden contains an assortment of plants and flowers, in addition to a pond and waterfall. Throughout the year, visitors can also enjoy a variety of cultural acts in the garden.

Woodward Park is another famous sight along the Blossom Trail. This park has more than 400 acres and features nature walks, playgrounds, and a lake. The park also holds numerous annual events, including concerts and art exhibitions.

Along the Blossom Trail, there are numerous additional attractions that visitors can enjoy.

Address: 2629 S Clovis Ave, Fresno, CA 93725

Phone: (559) 600-4271

7. Kearney Mansion Museum

The Kearney Mansion Museum in Fresno, California is an impressive example of Victorian architecture. In 1876, General James H. Kearney and his family constructed the museum as their residence. It has beautiful woodwork, exquisite stained glass windows, and a spacious wraparound porch.

The museum is now available to the public and offers tours of its numerous rooms and displays. The parlor’s Tiffany stained glass window and ornately carved fireplace mantel are notable features. In addition, there is a gift shop on the premises where guests can purchase mementos.

In addition to seeing the museum, tourists can also stroll through the magnificent gardens that surround it. The gardens contain a variety of plants and flowers, such as roses, camellias, and magnolias.

Address: 7160 W Kearney Blvd, Fresno, CA 93706

Phone: (559) 441-0862

8.  Fresno Philharmonic

Fresno Philharmonic is a professional orchestra headquartered in Fresno, California. Since its founding in 1923, the orchestra has been performing concerts. From Bach to Beethoven to Brahms, the Philharmonic performs a vast array of classical music. They also perform contemporary works by Philip Glass and John Adams.

The Fresno Philharmonic, under the direction of Music Director Lawrence Kohl, performs at a variety of Fresno-area venues, including the Saroyan Theatre and the William Saroyan International Piano Competition. In addition to educational programs for students of all ages, the orchestra provides free community concerts throughout the year.

If you’re looking for a nice evening out, make sure to attend a Fresno Philharmonic performance!

9. Meux Home Museum

The Meux Museum of Art and History in Fresno, California is a wonderful site to learn about the region’s history and view great artwork. 

The museum’s displays range from the indigenous people who inhabited the area before Europeans came to more recent events such as the 1857 earthquake. In addition, there are a number of art galleries containing paintings, sculptures, and other works of varying periods and genres. 

A visit to the Meux Museum is highlighted by its enormous collection of items from the California gold rush. Visitors can view mining equipment, period attire, and jewelry. There are also a number of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to explore various elements of life during the California Gold Rush.

Address: 1007 R St, Fresno, CA 93721

Phone: (559) 233-8007

10. Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park

The Rotary Storyland & Playland Family Amusement Park in Fresno, California, is a historic amusement park. Since its opening in the early 1950s, the park has been a favorite location for families. It offers numerous rides and attractions, such as a carousel, Ferris wheel, and roller coaster. Additionally, the park contains a variety of food concessions and gift shops.

In addition to its rides and attractions, Rotary Storyland & Playland is renowned for its lovely gardens and ponds. Visitors are welcome to stroll through the grounds or feed the fish in the ponds. On the grounds is also a small zoo containing a variety of animals, including llamas, monkeys, and peacocks.

Address: 890 W Belmont Ave, Fresno, CA 93728

Phone: (559) 486-2124

11. Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden

The Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company Beer Garden is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The company, which was formed in 2010 by two friends, has since grown and currently operates out of a big brewery producing award-winning beers.

The beer garden is open every day of the week and is situated in the middle of downtown Fresno. It offers a spacious patio with enough seating, a fire pit, and games such as Jenga and cornhole. Additionally, the garden provides food alternatives such as sandwiches, salads, and pizzas.

Towering Inferno India Pale Ale, Unforgiven Amber Ale, and White Knight Hefeweizen are three of Tioga-most Sequoia’s popular beers.

12. Chukchansi Park – Fresno Grizzly Minor League Baseball

Chukchansi Park Fresno, California and has been around for over 100 years. The park is home to the Fresno Grizzlies (minor league baseball), and also offers a variety of other activities such as biking, fishing, and hiking. 

The history of Chukchansi Park is quite interesting. The park was originally built in 1899 as a gathering place for the local Native American tribes. Over the years, it has been used for a variety of purposes including a racetrack, fairgrounds, and even a prison. In 2002, the park was reopened as a recreation area and today is enjoyed by many locals and visitors alike.

Some of the features of Chukchansi Park include its large size (over 350 acres), ample parking, and scenic views.

13. Shinzen Friendship Garden

The Shinzen Friendship Garden in Fresno, California has been for over a decade and is a calm and beautiful place. It was originally designed in commemoration of Fresno and Osaka, Japan’s sister city relationship.

The garden contains a koi pond, streams, and other plants and flowers. Popular for weddings, picture shoots, and other special events. The garden is accessible to the public every day from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.

The Shinzen Japanese Garden features strolling routes, benches for leisure, a playground for children, and a tea house where guests can enjoy light snacks.

14. Moravia Wines – Wine Tour

If you want a wine tour that will transport you back in time, Moravia Wines is the place to go. This vineyard near Fresno, California, shows visitors how wine was produced in the late 1800s and early 1900s. There are also many other activities available at the winery, like hiking and biking in the surrounding countryside and visiting the on-site museum.

One of the joys of a trip to Moravia Wines is the opportunity to drink wines created here more than a century ago. Visitors can explore the vineyard’s huge collection of antique wine bottles and grape presses. There is even a tasting room where some of these unusual wines can be sampled.

15. Island WaterPark

In 2005, Island Water Park debuted in Fresno, California. The waterpark is situated on an island in the middle of Roeding Lake and provides a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. The following are some of the highlights at Island Waterpark:

-A lazy river that swirls through the park

– A gigantic water slide that looms over the lake 

-A children’s play area with a variety of splash effects.

-A heated swimming and lounging pool

In addition to a variety of aquatic attractions, Island Waterpark has seaside facilities such as picnic sites, BBQ grills, and volleyball courts. The park is open annually from April to October, making it the ideal summertime vacation.

16. Sam’s Italian Deli

Soon after Sam’s Italian Deli first opened its doors for business in Fresno, California in 1948, the establishment became an indelible part of the local landscape. Wonderful traditional Italian dishes have earned the Sam family’s deli a stellar reputation over the course of several generations.

Among these are the family-oriented business model used at Sam’s Italian Deli and the mouthwatering Italian dishes served at the restaurant.17.  Save Mart Center

The Save Mart Center in Fresno, California was constructed in 2003 as a multipurpose arena. It is home to the basketball and volleyball teams of Fresno State University.

The arena has hosted several events, including concerts, family entertainment, and sporting competitions. The Save Mart Center’s huge seating capacity and central Fresno location are two of its most notable features.

Additionally, there are a variety of restaurants and retail opportunities near Save Mart Center.

18.  Warnors Theatre – Classic Movies

The Warnors Theatre is an old-fashioned movie theater that has been operating in Fresno, California since the 1920s. It includes a diverse selection of films, ranging from brand new releases to well-known oldies but goodies.

The popcorn and candy concessions and the Art Deco architecture are two of the building’s most notable features. Catching a flick, enjoying a romantic evening, or providing an enjoyable experience for the whole family can all be accomplished at the Warnors Theatre.

19. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

The Millerton Lake State Recreation Area is a stunning location in Fresno, California, that provides visitors with a wealth of history, features, attractions, and opportunities for recreation. 

In the past, this region served as an essential water supply for the city of Fresno; today, however, it is utilized for a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, and boating. In addition, there are a number of hiking routes and picnic sites available for use.20. River Park Shopping Center

The River Park Shopping Center is a significant shopping center. It has more than one hundred stores, including department stores, specialty shops, and restaurants. The anchors of the shopping center are JCPenney, Macy’s, and Sears. It also contains a movie theater and a playground for children.

The 1966-built River Park Shopping Center had a comprehensive restoration in 2006. The refurbishment also brought more than thirty new stores to the shopping complex. River Park Commercial Center is currently one of the major shopping centers in Central California.

21. Big Fresno Fair

The Big Fresno Fair is an annual event in Fresno, California. The annual fair is a prominent attraction in the city, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists.

There are numerous activities at the fair, including rides, games, food vendors, and live entertainment. At the fair, there is also a big agricultural exhibition showcasing the most recent agricultural technologies and developments.

22. Arte Americas

The Arte Americas Museum is a museum dedicated to the art and culture of the Americas. The museum features a permanent collection of nearly 4,000 works of art from North, Central, and South America, as well as a variety of temporary exhibitions that change frequently.

Exhibits such as “Maya: The Riddle of Kings,” “Totems and Taboos: Art of the Northwest Coast,” and “Mexico: Splendors of Three Centuries” have been among the museum’s most popular. The Arte Americas Museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.

23. Vineyard Farmers Market, Fresno, CA

The Fresno, California Vineyard Farmers Market is open every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market is a terrific place to find fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, and handicrafts. In addition, there is a food court with selections for Mexican, Filipino, and Chinese cuisine. There is adequate space for strollers and wheelchairs and parking is free.

24  ArtHop

If you’re looking for a free and entertaining evening activity in Fresno, California, visit the ArtHop district. Local art galleries and businesses remain open until 8 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month so that visitors can view and learn about their work. In addition, there is typically live music or food trucks in the vicinity, making it an ideal place to take a date or meet up with friends.

25. Roeding Park

Roeding Park in Fresno, California is a gorgeous park that is excellent for spending the day at with one’s loved ones. The park offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, such as a children’s playground, a zoo, and a lake. 

In addition, the park is home to a number of eateries, including cafes and restaurants, so you will not go hungry while you are there. The park is kept in excellent condition and features a wealth of breathtaking panoramas for visitors to take in.

26. Yosemite National Park

When you hear the words “Yosemite National Park,” what comes to mind? For many, the first thing that springs to mind is the breathtakingly stunning scenery. Yosemite is, for good reason, one of the most popular national parks in the United States. The park contains glaciers, rivers, waterfalls, and skyscraping granite cliffs.

The history of Yosemite National Park is as as captivating as its natural beauty. Native Americans formerly inhabited the area and gave it the name Ahwahnee, which means “large mouth.” A group of white settlers led by James Mason Hutchings discovered the area in 1851 and were awed by its beauty. Hutchings began marketing the region as a tourist destination and ultimately persuaded Congress to designate a protected area around it.

27. Sequoia National Park & Kings Canyon National Park

Sequoia National Park & Kings Canyon National Park are two of the most breathtaking protected locations in the United States. The parks are located in the Sierra Nevada mountain region in California and are home to some of the tallest trees in the world, including the famed General Sherman tree.

Additionally, the scenery features granite cliffs, waterfalls, and alpine lakes. In the parks, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

28. LoMac Winery – Wine Tours

Since 2001, LoMac Winery, a family-owned business located in the heart of Fresno, has been creating award-winning wines. The winery is open to the public for wine tastings, tours, and the purchase of bottles and cases of wine to take home.

All of LoMac Winery’s red, white, and sparkling wines are crafted entirely from California grapes. The winery also features a restaurant serving delectable farm-to-table cuisine.

29. The Tower District Theatre

The Tower Theatre is a cozy, little theater that can seat only a few hundred people and is located in the middle of Fresno’s Tower District. It features a diverse range of performances, including stand-up comedy, musicals, dramas, and concerts, among other things. In addition, the theater serves as the venue for the annual Fresno Film Festival, which takes place during the month of November.

30. Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre

Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre is the place to go for a night out that includes delicious cuisine, entertaining performances, and a good time. Since 1988, this locally owned and run business has been offering something for everyone.

The theater offers both brunch and dinner shows, and there is always something new to see. From iconic Broadway musicals to family-friendly comedies, you are certain to love a show.

And if you’re searching for something to do before or after the performance, there are a number of eateries and bars nearby. Be sure to see Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre, whether you’re from Fresno or simply passing through.

31. Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church

Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church in Fresno is the western United States’ oldest Armenian Apostolic congregation. Reverend Aharon Melconian presided over the first Holy Mass- Badarak in 1895. The downtown Fresno church is a National Historic Site.

In 1900, the Armenian Apostolic community saw the need for their own church and administrative headquarters. As a result, on February 24, 1900, the first “General Membership” meeting was held, and a five-member Board of Trustees was chosen. On March 2, 1900, they held their first official meeting and unanimously decided to build their own church near the intersection of “F” and Monterey Streets. The name “Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church” was chosen for the church at the same gathering.

32. Downing Planetarium

If you want to learn more about astronomy and the night sky, the Downing Planetarium in Fresno, California is a fantastic location to go. The planetarium provides educational programming for people of all ages, and it is equipped with a digital projection system that can display the stars, planets, and other things that may be found in space. Every day of the year, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas, the public is welcome to visit the planetarium.

33. Fresno County Fruit Trail

If you are searching for a spot to travel that is perfect for a day trip with the kids, go no further than the Fresno County Fruit Trail. Along the path are a number of different farms, each of which offers a different set of activities; as a result, there is likely to be something that everyone will enjoy. The route is an excellent way to take in some of the breathtaking beauty that Fresno County has to offer, and it is also a fantastic place to exercise.

34. St. John’s Cathedral

The mother church of the Fresno Roman Catholic Diocese is Saint John the Baptist Cathedral, located at 2814 Mariposa Street in Fresno, California. In 1882, the parish was officially created. In 1878, the Catholic residents in the area realized that a church was needed and started raising money for one.

For his part, Bishop Francisco Mora y Borrell purchased two contiguous parcels next to those granted by the Central Pacific Railroad. Early in 1880, construction began on the sanctuary, and it was completed in November.

On May 21, 1882, the church was dedicated to St. John the Baptist by Bishop Mora. With a 90-foot (27-meter) steeple, it fulfilled the needs of the five Catholic households in the neighborhood.

35. Old Fresno Water Tower

The Old Fresno Water Tower was completed in 1894 as part of the city’s original water system. Standing at over 200 feet tall, it is the tallest structure in Fresno and one of the oldest. The tower has been used for a variety of purposes over the years, including a fire lookout, public address system, and observation deck. It is now open to the public as a historical landmark.

The Old Fresno Water Tower features a number of interesting architectural elements, including turrets, finials, and a crenellated roofline. It is also one of the few remaining examples of Victorian Gothic architecture in Fresno. The tower offers stunning views of downtown Fresno and the surrounding area.

36 Wild Water Adventure Park, Fresno, CA

There is no better place than Wild Water Adventure Park in Fresno, California, to spend a day with the family. The park’s exhilarating water slides and rides, as well as a children’s play area and a lazy river, cater to visitors of all ages. You can also eat at one of the on-site restaurants for a snack or a full dinner. Every day of the week, Wild Water Adventure Park is open!

Start Planning Your Trip To Fresno

Fresno is a wonderful destination to visit, and there are lots of things to do and see there to keep you occupied during your trip. In Fresno, there is something for everyone, regardless of whether they are interested in history, wildlife, or simply taking in the sights. Therefore, start making plans for your trip right once!

FAQs Things To Do In Fresno CA