Fresno, California: 10 Places to Visit and 5 Places to Avoid

Fresno, California, is a city of over 500,000 people located in the San Joaquin Valley. It’s a great place to visit, with lots of fun things to do and see. From outdoor activities to cultural attractions, Fresno has something for everyone. Here are 10 places to visit and 5 places to avoid in Fresno.

1. Forestiere Underground Gardens

The Forestiere Underground Gardens are a unique attraction in Fresno. They were built by Baldassare Forestiere, an Italian immigrant who spent 40 years digging a series of tunnels and chambers beneath the ground. The gardens are filled with plants, trees, and sculptures, and are a great place to explore and learn about Fresno’s history.

2. Fresno Chaffee Zoo

The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is a great place to take the family. It features over 190 species of animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants. The zoo also offers educational programs and special events throughout the year.

3. Shinzen Japanese Garden

The Shinzen Japanese Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of Fresno. It features a tranquil pond, a bonsai garden, and a tea house. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the gardens or take part in meditation classes.

4. Fresno Art Museum

The Fresno Art Museum is a great place to explore the world of art. It features a wide range of works from local, national, and international artists. The museum also offers educational programs and special events throughout the year.

5. Kearney Park

Kearney Park is a great place to spend the day outdoors. It features a lake, picnic areas, and a historic mansion. The park also hosts a variety of events, including concerts, festivals, and sports tournaments.

6. Fresno Metropolitan Museum

The Fresno Metropolitan Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Fresno. It features a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the area’s Native American tribes and the gold rush era. The museum also offers educational programs and special events throughout the year.

7. Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra

The Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra is a great place to experience the power of live music. The orchestra performs a variety of classical and contemporary pieces, and also offers educational programs and special events throughout the year.

8. Fresno County Blossom Trail

The Fresno County Blossom Trail is a great place to explore the beauty of nature. The trail stretches from the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the Central Valley and is filled with beautiful wildflowers in the spring.

9. Woodward Park

Woodward Park is a great place to spend the day outdoors. It features a lake, picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails. The park also hosts a variety of events, including concerts, festivals, and sports tournaments.

10. Fresno Aquarium

The Fresno Aquarium is a great place to explore the world of aquatic life. It features a variety of exhibits, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. The aquarium also offers educational programs and special events throughout the year.

Places to Avoid in Fresno

1. Blackstone Avenue

Blackstone Avenue is an area of Fresno that is known for its crime and high levels of poverty. It is best avoided, especially at night.

2. Roeding Park

Roeding Park is a large park located in the center of Fresno that is known for its high levels of crime and drug use. It is best avoided, especially at night.

3. Downtown Fresno

Downtown Fresno is an area of the city that is known for its high levels of crime and poverty. It is best avoided, especially at night.

4. Bullard Avenue

Bullard Avenue is an area of Fresno that is known for its high levels of crime and poverty. It is best avoided, especially at night.

5. Tower District

The Tower District is an area of Fresno that is known for its nightlife, but it is also known for its high levels of crime and drug use. It is best avoided, especially at night.