Community Corner

Explore Art, Entertainment & So Much More In Fresno

Every town has its traditions. Check out these fun facts about what makes Fresno so special.

(Photo Credit: Patch)

Fresno is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Fresno has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

  • If you're a fan of street art, Fresno has some amazing murals that are worth checking out. The Mural District is home to over 60 murals, many of which were painted by local artists. Take a walking tour to see some of the best murals, or just wander around and discover them on your own.
  • Did you know that Fresno is home to historic underground gardens? Baldassare Forestiere was a Sicilian immigrant who spent over 40 years digging tunnels and creating underground gardens filled with fruit trees, grapevines and exotic plants. Today, you can visit Forestiere Underground Gardens to see his incredible work and learn about his life. It's a truly unique and fascinating attraction that you won't want to miss.
  • Fresno is home to the largest public university in the Central Valley: California State University, Fresno (also known as Fresno State). The university has over 25,000 students and is known for its strong agricultural and engineering programs, as well as its Division I sports teams.
  • Kearney Park is a beautiful public park in Fresno that's also home to the historic Kearney Mansion Museum. But did you know that the park is also home to a Japanese Garden? The Shinzen Friendship Garden features a koi pond, a teahouse and traditional Japanese landscaping, and is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city.
  • If you're a beer lover, you'll want to check out Fresno's growing craft beer scene. There are several local breweries in town, including Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Company, Full Circle Brewing Co. and Procreations Brewing Co., that offer tastings, tours and special events throughout the year.
  • Fresno has a rich history of baseball, and the city is home to a minor league team called the Fresno Grizzlies. You can catch some great baseball at Chukchansi Park, the home of the Grizzlies, which also hosts concerts and other events throughout the year.
  • Fresno is a great place to explore the outdoors, and there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking and other outdoor activities in the area. Local favorites are Woodward Park and the San Joaquin River Parkway.
  • Fresno is home to one of the largest indoor shopping malls in California, the Fashion Fair Mall. With over 100 stores, a movie theater and plenty of dining options, it's a great place to spend a day shopping and exploring.
  • If you're interested in history, you'll want to check out the Meux Home Museum in Fresno. The museum is housed in a Victorian-era mansion that was built in 1888 and offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy in the late 19th century.
  • If you're a fan of live music, you'll want to check out the Tower District in Fresno. This artsy neighborhood is home to several live music venues, including the historic Tower Theatre for the Performing Arts, as well as a variety of restaurants, bars and shops.
  • Fresno is also home to several annual festivals and events, including The Big Fresno Fair, Rogue Performance Festival and the Grizzly Fest music festival. These events offer a chance to experience the local culture and community and are always a lot of fun.
  • The Fresno Art Museum is a hidden gem in the city that's definitely worth a visit. The museum features a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing both local and international artists, as well as a beautiful sculpture garden.
  • Fresno is also home to several historic theaters, including the Warnors Center and the Wilson Theater. These venues host a variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, concerts and comedy shows.
  • The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is a great place to visit for families and animal lovers alike. The zoo features a variety of animals from around the world, as well as educational exhibits and interactive experiences.

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