6 Scenic Places to Visit in Fresno, CA

Fresno may be a city, but that doesn’t mean residents and visitors have to spend all their time indoors or in the hustle and bustle of the . There are plenty of parks, gardens and outdoor spaces where people can get out and enjoy nature. When people spend time in nature, stress may melt away, immune systems may be boosted and Vitamin D can be soaked up through the sun’s rays.

Even if extreme sports aren’t for you, spending time in nature is great for everyone. From a hike, to a picnic, to a stroll through the zoo to explore animals, there are many places and ways to spend time outside. Here are six places to explore nature in Fresno.

1. Forestiere Underground Gardens

For a truly unique garden experience, the Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno spans over 10 acres with underground fruit trees and grapevines. Visitors to the underground gardens can explore the grottoes, passages and homes in this underground garden.

2. Woodward Regional Park

This large park and bird sanctuary gives people an opportunity to view wildlife in Fresno. Ponds, a dog park, playgrounds and picnic areas give visitors plenty to do at Woodward Park. Take a walk along 5 miles of trails or pack a lunch for the family and spread out a blanket by the lake. There are many ways to spend a few hours outside here.

3. Shinzen Japanese Garden

This Japanese garden features many of the traditional things people would expect in a Japanese garden: koi fish ponds, well maintained trees and flowers and paths for walking through the natural space. In addition to this, the Shinzen Japanese Garden also features a Bonsai garden, complete with sculptures and an annual Bonsai festival.

4. Blossom Trail

The Fresno County Blossom Trail blooms in February and March, bringing people out to the trail to see the orchards of fruit trees in full bloom. Featuring blooms from almonds, plums, apricots and peaches, the trail weaves through several towns, and a self-guided bicycle or motorcycle tour is how many choose to see the blossoms.

5. Garden of the Sun

This garden is smaller than some of the others on the list, but as a demonstration garden, Master Gardeners are on hand to answer visitors questions about the fruit trees, vines, vegetable garden, flowers and other plants grown here. The Garden of the Sun is a great place to learn about these plants and get inspiration to grow your own garden.

6. Fresno Chaffee Zoo

For family fun, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo has over 190 species of animals, including crocodiles, tigers, elephants and sloth bears. Take a walk through the entire zoo, or take it one exhibit at a time. You’ll get fresh air, sunshine and fun for everyone with a visit to the zoo.

Have any of these nature spaces encouraged you to create your own backyard oasis? Check out our Fresno lawn care page to see how we can help you create your dream backyard!