Top 5 Things to Do Outdoors in Fresno, CA [Must-See]

Looking for things to do while you're in Fresno? You're in luck. Fresno and its next-door neighbor, Clovis, have something for everyone to enjoy, no matter your interest.

Fresno is located within the San Joaquin Valley, California's biggest wine region. Best of all, the city is just a short drive from three national parks, so whether you're staying in the area for a few days or a few weeks, you'll have plenty of places to explore.

Do something family-friendly

Fresno Chafee Zoo

Fresno Chafee Zoo is the perfect place to visit if you're an animal lover. The zoo has over 50 acres of exhibits, including animals in their natural habitats, a drive-through safari park, and interactive animal encounters.

Fresno Discovery Center

The Fresno Discovery Center has fascinating exhibits and interactive, hands-on activities. In addition, it has a variety of educational programs offered year-round, such as expeditions, nature walks, star gazing, and bird watching.

Island Waterpark

Island Waterpark in Fresno is the place to be if you want to find a cool activity on a hot day. The waterpark has something for everyone, including adrenaline-pumping rides like the Caribbean Corkscrew and Shark Attack and more chill attractions like the Buccaneer Bay Lagoon and the Splash Island Wave Pool.

Woodward Reservoir Regional Park

Woodward Reservoir Regional Park has scenic drives, miles of trails for cycling and hiking, and water activities such as swimming, water skiing, and fishing. You can also enjoy a picnic under the shady trees or relax on the beach. Check out the Big Wet Waterpark for those who prefer something more adventurous.

Attend a local event

When you come to Fresno, you won't want to miss any of the San Joaquin Valley's biggest events. Every year, thousands of people come to Fresno and Clovis to participate and compete in sporting events, agriculture fairs, and much more.

Some of the biggest draws in Fresno include:

• The Big Fresno Fair.
• Fresno Annual Dog Show.
• Vintage Days.
• Clovis Rodeo.
• Clovis Fest.
• Big Hat Days.
• Hmong Cultural New Year.
• Clovis Vintage Market and Antiques.

Want a cheap place to stay in Fresno? Try booking a full-hookup RV campsite at the Fresno Fairgrounds. The campground is the closest and easiest place to stay if you're participating in or attending an event in Fresno County.

Don't have an RV? No problem. Have an RV delivered and set up for you at the Fresno Fairgrounds, and use the trailer or motorhome as a convenient and comfy on-site hotel.

Visit a national park

Three of California's national parks and a national forest are located within a 90-minute drive from Fresno. Visit a national park or forest to experience everything from giant sequoia trees and scenic drives to camping, fishing, and hiking.

• Yosemite National Park.
• Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park.
• Sierra National Forest.

Check out RV Camping in National Parks for everything you need to know about reserving a site and camping in a national park.

Go on a walking or driving tour

Fresno County Blossom Trail

If you visit Fresno in the spring, you won't want to miss the Fresno County Blossom Trail. The trail has over 20 miles of orchards and vineyards blanketed in a sea of white and pink blossoms. It's a perfect way to experience California's vibrant agricultural heritage while taking in views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and experiencing the events along the trail.

Forestiere Underground Gardens

Forestiere Underground Gardens is a unique attraction that Baldassare Forestiere, an immigrant from Sicily, built. The gardens consist of underground rooms and tunnels covered with fruit trees and other plants.

Shinzen Friendship Garden

The Shinzen Friendship Garden features a variety of Japanese, Chinese, and American gardens where visitors can explore winding pathways lined with bamboo forests, ornamental waterfalls, and other natural elements. Its vibrant colors, lush vegetation, and flowing waterways create a peaceful atmosphere that invites visitors of all ages to linger and relax.

Kearney Mansion Museum

Tour Kearney Mansion Museum, a Victorian-style mansion built in the late 1800s, to learn what life was like for the wealthy residents of Fresno during that era.

Visit a local winery or brewery

Fresno is located in the heart of California's wine country, and it has the most breweries in one area than any other city in the Central Valley.

A few of the best Fresno wineries and breweries include:

San Joaquin Winery

The San Joaquin Winery specializes in red, white, and sweet wines. Stop by the winery to visit the tasting room, take a guided tour, or place an order online for a curbside pickup.

Moravia Wines

Moravia Wines is a family-owned winery that dates back to the late 1890s. The winery participates in Fresno's Wine and Chocolate Weekend, hosts private events, and is open for wine tastings every weekend and by appointment.

Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company

The Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company is an award-winning brewery that gives a portion of its proceeds back to local organizations to help promote and support the area's natural resources. Stop by the brewery to sample one of the beers on tap, hang out in the beer garden, or order beer to go.

Pine & Palm Brewing

Got a dog? Take your pooch to Pine & Palm Brewing, a pet-friendly brewery known for its IPA and porters. Not only is the brewery a great place to socialize with your dog, but it also has food provided by a local vegetarian restaurant.

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