Fresno's attractions lean toward nature and family outings, with a few quirky surprises mixed in.
Forestiere Underground Gardens — Sicilian immigrant Baldassare Forestiere spent 40 years hand-digging this network of underground rooms, passageways, and gardens as an escape from the valley heat. There are fruit trees growing underground. One of the most unusual things you'll see anywhere in California. 5021 W. Shaw Ave.
Chaffee Zoo — A solid regional zoo in Roeding Park, with African adventure and stingray exhibits. Good for families. 894 W. Belmont Ave.
Meux Home Museum — An 1889 Queen Anne Victorian house downtown, with guided tours covering Fresno's founding-era history. Tulare and R Streets.
Old Fresno Water Tower — A Romanesque Revival brick tower from 1894, the most photographed building in downtown Fresno. Fresno and O Streets.
Warnors Theatre — A lavish 1928 movie palace on Fulton Street, now a live music and events venue. Worth attending something here just for the space.
Fresno Blossom Trail — A 62-mile driving route through stone-fruit orchards in late February and March, when the trees are in full bloom. One of California's underrated seasonal spectacles.
Yosemite Day Trip — Fresno is one of the main gateways to Yosemite, 60 miles north on Highway 41. Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks are also accessible via Highway 180 east.