Walk through Fresno's amazing Forestiere Underground Gardens. Designed in the style of ancient catacombs, this subterranean network showcases some of the most unique trees, shrubs and vines found in the state of California. Tours of this underground attraction are available on the hour, on a first-come first-serve basis. Bring your walking shoes and get ready to explore these unique gardens.
Embrace the wild at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. You can find all sorts of exotic animals at this accredited zoo, including large cats, birds, reptiles and the popular elephants. Located in the center of Roeding Park, this wild attraction was originally a safe haven for abandoned exotic pets. It has grown to encompass more than 18 acres since its creation in 1929 in a log cabin.
Visit Fresno County's first park. Kearney Park is 225 acres and offers picnic and outdoor sports facilities in its day-use areas. Play a game of soccer, test your skills at horseshoe, hit a few balls at the softball and baseball fields or let the children have fun on the playground. When the heat's too much, visit the Kearney Mansion Museum for some educational fun and air conditioning.
Experience Japan without leaving the States when you visit the authentic Shinzen Japanese Garden. This garden features Japanese architecture incorporated into the meticulously kept landscape. View the Cherry Blossoms in full bloom. Stop by the Tea Garden to witness a tea ceremony. Experience outdoor tranquility by the koi pond. Join in one of the many cultural festivities hosted in the garden throughout the year.
Nature lovers will not want to miss the chance to explore Woodward Regional Park. This 300-acre park is home to a number of attractions. It has a multi-use amphitheatre, an authentic Japanese Garden, an extensive trail system, three children's playgrounds, a fenced dog park and several bodies of water.
Although you will have to drive about two hours outside of Fresno to reach it, Yosemite National Park is well worth the trip. This national park encompasses 761,268 acres, with spectacular granite cliffs, waterfalls and Giant Sequoia groves. The seven square miles of Yosemite Valley are wonderful for camping, hiking, biking and even swimming. This designated wilderness is the perfect outdoor escape from urban life.